Zafar Mahal is last monumental structure built as a summer palace during the fading years of the Mughal era. The building has two parts-The palace which was built first by Akbar Shah II in the 18th century, and the entrance gate called Hathi gate that was reconstructed in the 19th century by Bahadur Shah Zafar II. Bahadur Shah Zafar wished to be buried in the precincts of the Zafar Mahal but was deported by the British to Rangoon, after the First War of Indian Independence in 1857, where he died of old age.
Ruins of the Palace
Dalan over Naubat Khana of ruined palace
A masjid called the Moti Masjid built by Bahadur Shah I was a private mosque of the royal family, which has now become part of the palace compound. The mosque is a small and unique three-domed structure made of white marble. The austere mosque has the mihrab on the west direction of prayer but is unusually not embellished, except for little border of floral carving on the south at the top edge.
Hathi gate is so called because a full decorated elephant with the howdah could pass through it. An inscription on the main arch credits building of the gate by Bahadur Shah II in the eleventh year of his accession as Emperor in 1847-48 AD. A broad Chhajja built in the Mughal style is a striking feature of the arch. At the entrance gate, there are small projecting windows flanked by curved and covered Bengali domes. On both sides of the arch, two ornate medallions in the form of large lotuses have been provided. The gateway also depicts a classic tripolia or three-arch opening.
The monument even though is under ASI is not well maintained. The locals don’t care about the heritage. It is a good 20 minute walk from the Mehrauli metro station. Best is to come by own car or a hired cab or auto . There is limited parking space near the police station.
