Tughlaqabad Fort is also named as the Ruined Fort and is considered to be a symbol of strength for Tughlaq dynasty. Built in 1321-1325 AD by Ghiyasu'd-Din Tughlaq, this fort is said to be his dream even before he was the ruler. He wanted to build a city where his people could live in harmony and feel protected by the presence of the fort. Tughlaqabad Fort is most beautiful specimens of pure islamic architecture and has a touch of the Sultana's.
From the walls to domes and carvings everything was on point and It can be witnessed on the 13 entry gates of this fort, each one of them have amazing designs. Tughlaqabad Fort was famous for its greatness but still it got abandoned not long after it was built. There are many stories which claim that the place is cursed and is haunted.
Legends says that a Sufi saint cursed the place and it led to the downfall of Tuglaq dynasty. Today this place has become home to many other stories which adds to its existence. It is cursed or not, but this place will not fail to amuse you as you can enjoy the breathtaking view of the capital from the top of the fort and can capture the scenic beauty this place offer in your frame.
History of Tughlaqabad Fort
After Alauddin Khilji's death, his successor proved incompetent to rule over the entire Sultanate and very soon was replaced by Khusro Khan. Ghazi Malik was a feudatory and bannerman of the Khilji's and he, with the help of the forces of Multan and Sindh, overthrew Khusro Khan to become the new emperor of Delhi Sultanate assuming the nameGhiyas-ud-din Tughlaq. He established the famous Tughlaq dynasty and built the fort of Tughlaqabad within four years, from 1321-25. The fort was constructed primarily as a stronghold for defensive purposes against the ever-invading Mongols rather than an architectural establishment.
Architecture of Tughlaqabad Fort
The ancient fort had two clear distinctions in its architecture - one was the portion with the citadel and the palatial residences, the other was the old city to the north. The entire fortification is made of granite and stands on a perimeter of roughly 6 kilometers. The southern part of the Tughlaqabad fort with the palace, royal, residences and public halls still stand, but the city is now entirely in ruins. However, parts of it have been refurbished and now encroached with the modern settlement, especially near the lake regions.
Best Time To Visit Tughlaqabad Fort
It is advisable to not visit the Tughlaqabad fort during summer of rainy months. The extreme heat will be too much to walk around the premises and enjoy the attraction to its fullest. Winter or spring is the ideal time, from the month of October to April.
How To Reach Tughlaqabad Fort
Tughlaqabad Fort is located on Mehrauli-Badarpur Road in the main city of New Delhi, and thus easily commuted with local bus routes, auto rickshaws, and cabs. The nearest metro stations are Govindpuri and Saket metro stations on two opposite sides. Tourists can take public transports from these metro stations to reach the Tughlaqabad fort. If you are being hesitant about taking public transportation in a new city, just hire a private car, and the driver will take you to the gates of the fort.
