Feroz Shah Kotla Fort

Feroz Shah Kotla Fort
Feroz Shah Kotla: A Pyramidal Structure showcasing an Ashokan Pillar
Feroz Shah Kotla Fort
A Pyramidal Structure showcasing Ashokan Pillar at Feroz Shah Kotla Fort, Delhi

Location: Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi

Architecture is one of the most enthralling gifts from history to us. Ancient rulers have relegated a number of monuments and structures that have amplified the beauty of India. One such monument is the fort of Feroz Shah Kotla in Delhi. Built by the Mughal king Feroz Shah Tughlaq in 1354, this fort is one of the oldest monuments in Delhi. A narrow lane on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg leads to this fortress which is enclosed by high walls.

As history reveals, Feroz Shah Kotla Fort was built when the Mughals decided to shift their capital from Tughlaqabad to Ferozabad due to the scarcity of water in that region. The fort was built along the Yamuna River to solve the purpose. Beautiful gardens, palaces, mosques and madrasas were constructed inside the fort which was the royal citadel of the capital. The fort served as the symbol of the reign of the third ruler of the Tughlaq Dynasty.

The entrance has a huge iron gate with a board that bears the name of Feroz Shah Kotla. The boundary walls of the fort, built as a stone masonary, are as high as 15 metres. Inside the fort you will find a number of ruined structures, of which the Mosque and the Baoli (step well) are still recognizable. One thing that will draw your attention is the Ashokan Pillar which stands tall on the top of a pyramidal three-tiered structure. The 13 metres high pillar, which was brought by Feroz Shah Tughlaq from Ambala to Delhi, bears the edicts of Ashoka’s principles.

Though the fort remains merely as a ruin, it is still regarded as one of the important edifices of historical importance. On Thursdays, a number of locals can be sighted appeasing the Djinns and the spirits that are said to reside there, by lighting candles, incense sticks and offering milk and grains. For the lovers of history, who are passionate about ancient architectures and dynasties, this place has enough archaeological importance. Visit the fort for a stupendous insight into history!

How to reach: The fort is easily accessible by bus, auto, taxi or metro. The nearest metro station is that of Pragati Maidan.

Entry Fee: For Indian citizens and SAARC members the entry fee is Rs. 5. For others the ticket costs Rs. 100. Free entry for children up to 15 years of age.

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