Tickets, Timings & Tips

Where is the Red Fort located?

Nestled on Netaji Subhash Marg, the majestic Red Fort (Lal Quila) sits between the Chandni Chowk neighborhood and the Vijay Ghat.

The Yamuna River's course has shifted over time, but historical records reveal that the fort was originally designed to gracefully overlook its western bank.

What is the nearest metro station?

The Lal Quila metro station on the Violet Line provides the most direct access to the Red Fort via exit gate #4. However, for those heading straight to the Red Fort Ticket Centre, the Jama Masjid station, just one stop further, is slightly more convenient.

Interestingly, this section of the Delhi Metro, connecting significant historical sites like Jama Masjid and Delhi Gate via an underground passage, is fondly known as the Delhi Metro's "Heritage Line".

Is there parking available? 

If you plan to drive, the Red Fort offers an official parking area conveniently located near the Sunehri Masjid.

Alternatively, you can find parking at the Ramlila ground parking in Chandni Chowk, which is within reasonable proximity.

What are the opening hours?

The Red Fort is closed on Mondays and open on all other days from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The various museums housed within the Red Fort complex also adhere to the same opening hours.

What is the best time to visit?

According to a Ministry of Tourism report, the Red Fort attracted an impressive 2.8 million visitors in FY 2023-24, ranking it as the fourth most popular site for tourists in India.

It can take up to 2.5 hours to see the Fort. To enjoy a more peaceful and unhurried visit, we highly recommend arriving early and aiming to conclude your exploration before 12:00 PM.

Where can I buy tickets for my visit?

The Red Fort Ticket Centre is situated near the Delhi Gate of Red Fort, close to the Sunehri Masjid.

However, it’s far more convenient to book your ticket online through the ASI website. This not only provides a small discount but also helps you bypass long queues. You will receive your ticket instantly with a QR code that the security personnel will scan for verification at the entry gate.

Caution: Be wary of unofficial websites and apps claiming to sell tickets for the Red Fort or other monuments. To ensure you purchase legitimate tickets, always use the official ASI online portal.

What are the ticket prices?

The price tiers of the online ticket are:

Note: The ticket for the museums needs to be purchased separately. The ASI portal lets you choose.

What amenities are available inside the Fort?

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Red Fort offers several facilities:

• Shopping Arcade & Souvenir Shops: Located right at the fort entrance, these offer a variety of souvenirs and memorabilia.

• Eateries: You'll find various eateries within the complex providing refreshments and meals.

• Wheelchair Accessibility: While full accessibility may be limited, efforts have been made to provide wheelchair access to some areas. Inquire about specific accessible routes upon arrival.

• Washrooms: Public restrooms are available at designated locations.

• Drinking Water: Drinking water facilities are accessible throughout the site.

• Cloakroom: A facility for storing bags and belongings may be available; confirm upon arrival.

  
  

Light and Sound Show 

An engaging light and sound show narrating the history of the Red Fort is often held in the evenings, usually with two showings after 7:00 PM. 

You can check exact timings and ticket availability separately through event partner sites like BookMyShow.

How does one enter the Red Fort?

You would typically approach from the west and enter through the Lahori Gate, named so as it faced the city of Lahore, an important one for Mughals. This gate has historically served as the main public entrance to the fort and continues to be the primary entry point for visitors today.

However, the Red Fort also has another significant gate on its southern side, known as the Delhi Gate, named so because it faces the city of Delhi, then called Shahjahanabad. It was used by the nobles and dignitaries for ceremonial processions and private entry into the fort complex.

This distinction continues in a modern context. On India's Independence Day (August 15th) and Republic Day (January 26th), the Prime Minister of India enters the Red Fort through the Delhi Gate to address the nation from its ramparts.