Red Fort Tours
A true representation of Mughal architecture, the imposing Red Fort had a great significance on the history of Delhi.
Discover this red-stone complex of marble palaces, intricate pavilions and landscaped gardens as part of one of our popular India tours. Not to be confused with the Amber Fort near Jaipur, the Red Fort was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century in order to prevent invaders gaining access. It took ten years to construct and is said to have the bodies of prisoners left in the walls for good luck. In spite of the efforts the Emperor Shah Jahan had taken in founding the fort, he actually never fully moved in; his son Aurangzeb had him imprisoned in Agra Fort before he had the chance to do so.
A popular addition to our Golden Triangle & Shimla tour, Red Fort visits include the chance to see buildings and monuments such as the Royal Apartments, the Diwan-e-Khas, where the Mughal emperors received courtiers and state guests, and the Royal Baths. On entering the complex, visitors are greeted by the Meena Bazaar, or Chatta Chowk, a covered bazaar dating back to the 17th century that today sells a range of trinkets and souvenirs.
Our featured trours of the Red Fort
Discover the Red Fort on one of our unforgettable tours to India.
- 12 Excursions Included, 22 Meals Included
- Flights Included - 3 Airports
- 41 Dates - Jun 2024 - Dec 2026
- 14 Excursions Included, 27 Meals Included
- Flights Included - 1 Airport
- 5 Dates - Sep 2025 - Nov 2026
- 19 Excursions Included, 38 Meals Included
- Flights Included - 1 Airport
- 6 Dates - Oct 2024 - Nov 2025
Things to see and do at the Red Fort
Imposing and iconic, Delhi's Red Fort nods its head to India's past whilst embracing many new modern additions, such as museums and light shows. Take a look through some of our top things to do at this fantastic spot.
Enjoy the Red Fort's museums
Housed in the site of the complex's former British barracks, the Red Fort's museums cover everything from India's fight for independence to rare and historical pieces of art, making them a worthy stop on your Red Fort tour.
Wander through the Meena Bazaar
Previously known as Chatta Chowk, the Meena Bazaar is home to a variety of shops selling handicrafts and other goods including bags, jewellery and crockery.
The Hall of Audience
The Diwan-i-Aam, or Hall of Audience, was where the emperor heard the grievances of the public. The large amber-coloured pavilion, with its ornate columns and arches, is still a grand sight.
Red Fort Light Show
On an evening visit to the Red Fort, Delhi's history can be discovered through a viewing of the stunning sound and light show. Featuring a range of images and sound effects, it narrates the city's history from the Murghal and the construction of the fort.
Food and drink at the Red Fort
A visit to one of the nearby restaurants is a great way to refuel after your Red Fort tour and explore Delhi's fascinating flavours.
Among the most popular options are Lakhori, an elegant hotel restaurant serving modern Indian cuisine, and Delhi-6 Foods, a more humble street-food style eatery offering flavourful Mughlai dishes.
When you visit the Red Fort, India's ample street food delicacies can be enjoyed from one of the local vendors. In Delhi, look out for delicious bites like butter chicken, chickpea curry, kebabs and parathas. Don't be fooled by the small scale, these street stalls offer up some of the best food in the country.
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