Tughlaqabad Fort

Putting up with the ravages of time, the Tughlaqabad Fort is a sheer existing symbol of the strength of the Tughlaq Dynasty. The fort was built between 1321-1325 AD by Ghiyas-Ud-Din Tughlaq, who was then called Ghazi Mallik. The Fort is located near the Okhla industrial area and is one of the most beautiful specimens of Islamic architecture. It took four years to construct the fort, and 15 years later, it was abandoned. It is said that Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya cursed Tughlaqabad as a punishment for the arrogance of Ghiyasuddin. The fort is believed to be haunted by djinns

Tughlaqabad Fort was established during 1321-1325 AD by the first ruler of the Tughlaq dynasty named Ghiyas'-Ud-Din Tughlaq. He was the Prime Minister of Alauddin Khilji and the Tughlaqabad Fort was his most ambitious work. During those times, the Delhi Sultanate was under constant attacks by the Mongols, therefore, the fort was constructed primarily as a stronghold for defensive purposes against the ever-invading Mongols rather than an architectural establishment.

The Tughlaqabad Fort is the most beautiful specimen of pure Islamic architecture and has a touch of the Sultana. The Military style of architecture can also be seen here as the Fort was built to serve the purpose of protecting the city. The entire fortification is made of granite and stands on a perimeter of roughly 6 kilometers. Once a majestic fort, Tughlaqabad Fort is now could be seen in ruins, scattered in bits throughout the way.

According to history and folklore, it is said that the Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya cursed the Tughlaqabad Fort on the accounts of a dispute with Ghiyas-Ud-Din Tughlaq. He said, “Either lived inhabited or will live Gujjars”. The saint was very angry with the ruler for engaging all the workers for the Fort construction due to which the work of his stepwell got delayed. This clash between the royal and the saint became a legend in India and this clash was responsible for the downfall of the Tughlaq dynasty. People nowadays claim that the ghost of the emperor haunts the place.

• The Fort had 52 gates, out of which only 13 remain today. These gates are said to have beautiful designs and carvings on them.
• The Fort offers a scenic view from the top. You can witness the beautiful premises, adjoining modern settlements, and the royal tomb.
• There was a vast artificial water reservoir in the south of Tughlaqabad. You can witness all seven remains of man-made rainwater harvesting tanks inside the Fort.
• Witness the underground passage which was one of the creative features of this Fort. The underground passage that also had chambers and was connected to the palace area.
• The fabulous architecture of this Fort gives an idea about the Military style of architecture and also the beauty of Islamic designs.
• The entire fort is in ruins, however, there is one fort that is complete and also a roof which you can visit.
• The grave of the king which is inside the fort campus is a must-see as it is made of red sandstone, slate, and marble slabs.

• Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary : Located on the interstate border of Delhi, Faridabad, and Gurgaon in South Delhi, Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary is the home for numerous birds and animals belonging to different species. It was established in the year 1986 in Tughlaqabad and spreads over an area of 6,874 acres.
• Adilabad Fort : The Adilabad Fort was constructed by Sultan Muhammed Bin Tughlaq, son of Sultan Ghiyās-Ud-Din Tughlaq between the years 1325 and 1327. The Fortress of Adilabad was designed to imitate the Fort of Tughlaq. It lies on the southeastern part of Tughlaqabad on the Mehrauli-Badarpur road in Delhi.
• Lotus Temple : The Lotus Temple is one of the prime tourist attractions in Delhi. Its architectural marvel is awe-inspiring. Also known as the Bahai House of Worship, the Lotus Temple was constructed in 1986. This temple seeks to propagate the oneness of the Almighty and is open to all regardless of their nationality, religion, race, or gender.
• Khirki Masjid : The Khirki Mosque or “The Mosque of Windows” was built by Khan-i-Jahan Junan Shah, who was the prime minister of Feroz Shah Tughlaq of the Tughlaq Dynasty. The premises of the mosque contain around 85 domes which add to its beauty and uniqueness. The Khirki Masjid is the only historical architecture in Northern India that is a blend of both Hindu and Muslim architecture.

Just like any other tourist attraction, the visit to Tughlaqabad Fort is also best to be enjoyed during winter between the months of October and April.

• Wear comfortable shoes - Tughlaqabad Fort is a massive structure with uneven terrain, so wearing comfortable shoes is important to navigate the fort and avoid any discomfort.
• Carry water and snacks - The fort is quite expansive, and it can take several hours to explore, so it's advisable to carry water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized throughout your visit.
• Hire a guide - To fully appreciate the historical significance of Tughlaqabad Fort, it's recommended to hire a guide who can provide you with interesting facts and stories about the fort's history and architecture.
• Visit during cooler months - The fort can get quite hot during the summer months, so it's best to plan your visit during the cooler months of October to March.
• Respect the historical site - Tughlaqabad Fort is a protected historical site, so visitors should be respectful of the surroundings and avoid damaging any of the structures or littering.
• Plan for a day trip - Tughlaqabad Fort is located on the outskirts of Delhi, so it's recommended to plan for a day trip to explore the fort and nearby attractions such as Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, and Humayun's Tomb.

Being situated in the capital of India, Delhi, Lotus Temple is well connected by the bus and Metro. The nearest metro station is the violet line, Kalkaji station. One can take hail an auto or even walk down for 15 minutes (1 km).