Popularly known as Pandavon-ka-qila, the Purana Qila stands on a mound which may possibly mark the site of the town of Indraprastha of the Mahabharat. The standing ramparts and other building were, however built by Sher Shah Sur (1538-45 CE) after demolishing and remodeling Dinepanah, a city founded by Humayun in about 1533 CE
Three of the gates still survive todaty
Bada Darwaza
This western entrance to the fortress was most probably built under Humayun, as it is part of the main fortifications. It is a triple storied structure, 20 meters high, on either side of it are bastions which, along with the curtain wall beyond, have arrow / gun slits. Kanguras (merlons) would originally have run along the top of the entire length of the wall, but have now completely disappeared except at the top of one of the bastions. The surface ornamentation of the gate consists of inlay patterns in sandstone and marble, some stone carving and tile work. Jharokhas (cantilevered, enclosed openings) and chhatris (pavilions) also serve a decorative purpose.
Humayun Darwaza
Though called the Humayun Darwaza, this gate is attributed partly to Sher Shah based on a fading Inscription in ink that was found in one of the rooms on the upper storey. There are two entrances, one on top of the other. The lower one opened at the level of the water in the moat, while the upper would have been approached by a drawbridge or causeway across the moat, Decorations include inlay work and carving in sandstone, marble, and tile work. The decorative merlons on top originally existed over the other gates of the fort too.
Talaqi Darwaza
The northern gate of the fort is a tall and imposing structure, with the central archway itself measuring 17 meters in height. It has entrance ways on two levels, the lower originally being at the level of the water. The upper entrance way seems to have been the main way in, as it is more ornamented. If so, a drawbridge or causeway must have connected it to the land on the other side of the moat that encircled the fort. Decorative features include sandstone and marble inlay, carving, tile work, Jharokhas (cantilevered enclosed opening) and Chhatris (pavilions). There is no credible explanation for the origins of the name of the gate, which literally means ‘forbidden gate’.
Pura Qila is best visited early morning at 6 am when the gates open. There is no crowd and you can enjoy the sights in peace. However do buy tickets online before because the ticket counter does not open that early. You can easily reach here by your own vehicle or a cab or auto. There is ample parking space as well. Clean well maintained washrooms are there.
