Detailed History
Feroz Shah Kotla Fort is one of the oldest historical forts in Delhi, built by Sultan Feroz Shah Tughlaq of the Tughlaq dynasty in 1354. When Feroz Shah Tughlaq decided to shift his capital from Mehrauli to the banks of the Yamuna River due to a lack of land routes and water scarcity, he laid the foundation of a new city named ‘Ferozabad’. Feroz Shah Kotla served as the royal citadel of this historic city.
A major historical significance of this fort is that it houses one of the great historical pillars of Emperor Ashoka. Sultan Feroz Shah Tughlaq was so fascinated by this 3rd-century BCE Topra pillar, discovered near Ambala (Haryana), that he brought it to Delhi with extreme care on boats via the Yamuna River. After weathering the passage of time and numerous wars, the fort stands in ruins today, yet its historical and mystical charm remains intact.
Detailed Architecture
The architecture of Feroz Shah Kotla Fort is an excellent example of the simplicity and strength of the Tughlaq period, constructed using local rough quartzite stones.
- Exterior :– The fort was once surrounded by high and sturdy defensive walls, of which only a few remnants survive today. The main attraction of the fort is the ‘Ashoka Pillar’, which stands at the top of a three-story pyramid-like sandstone structure (similar to the madrasa structure in Hauz Khas). This polished sandstone pillar shines like gold in the sunlight and features Ashoka’s inscriptions engraved in the Brahmi script.
- Interior :– Inside the fort complex lie the ruins of the ‘Jami Masjid’, which was one of the largest mosques of its time. Timur Lang also offered prayers here in 1398. Additionally, the complex features a unique circular ‘Baoli’ (stepwell), which is completely distinct from other stepwells in Delhi due to its perfectly round shape. Its secret underground corridors and chambers add to its mysterious architecture.
Travel Guide & Routes
If you are planning to visit this historical and mysterious fort, the complete guide below will be helpful.
- Tickets and Entry Fee :– The entry ticket for Indian citizens is approximately ₹20 to ₹25 (discounts may apply for online bookings), while the ticket for foreign tourists is around ₹300. Entry is completely free for children under 15 years of age.
- Visiting Time :– The fort is open on all days of the week from 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM. Visiting here during the winter season is most pleasant.
- How to Reach :–
- By Metro :– The nearest metro stations to reach here are ‘Delhi Gate’ (Violet Line) and ‘ITO’ metro station. From there, you can easily reach the fort gate by walking or taking an e-rickshaw.
- By Road :– The fort is located near Vikram Nagar on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg in Central Delhi. You can reach here directly from any corner of Delhi via DTC bus, auto, e-rickshaw, or cab.
Photography Spots, Local Food, and Nearby Markets :-
- Photography Spots :– The ‘Ashoka Pillar‘ standing atop the three-story pyramid structure, the ancient arches of the Jami Masjid, and the setting sun visible through the broken fort walls are perfect locations for photography and beautiful reels.
- Local Food :– Near the fort in the ITO and Daryaganj areas, you will find excellent stalls serving Delhi’s street food like Chole Bhature, Kachori, and Chaat. If you want to relish the traditional flavors of Old Delhi, the nearby Jama Masjid area and Chandni Chowk are famous for non-veg lovers as well as sweets like Shahi Tukda and Kulfi.
- Nearby Markets :– If you visit on a Sunday, the famous ‘Daryaganj Sunday Book Market’ (now shifted to Mahila Haat) nearby is a paradise for book lovers. For general shopping, you can head towards the famous ‘Chandni Chowk’ or ‘Meena Bazaar’.
Interesting Facts :-
- The Abode of Jinns :– According to local beliefs and folklore, ‘Jinns’ reside in the Feroz Shah Kotla Fort. Every Thursday, a large number of people visit to write letters to the Jinns, light candles, and offer flower petals to get their wishes fulfilled.
- The Journey of the Ashoka Pillar :– To safely transport this heavy Ashoka Pillar from Topra to Delhi, it was wrapped in silk cotton, loaded onto a special 42-wheeled carriage, and then brought here via the river route.
- Historic Cricket Ground :– Located right next to this fort is the famous Arun जेटली Stadium (formerly known as the Feroz Shah Kotla Cricket Stadium), which has hosted many historic cricket matches.
Important Questions and Answer :-
Question 1:- Who built the Feroz Shah Kotla Fort and when?
Answer:– This fort was built by Sultan Feroz Shah Tughlaq of the Tughlaq dynasty in the year 1354 as a part of his new capital city, ‘Ferozabad’.
Question 2:– What is the history of the Ashoka Pillar located in this fort?
Answer:– This pillar was originally erected near Ambala (Haryana) by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. Sultan Feroz Shah Tughlaq brought it safely to Delhi via a river route in the 14th century.
Question 3:- Is Feroz Shah Kotla Fort safe for tourists?
Answer:– Yes, it is a protected historical site under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). However, due to the mystical beliefs and stories of Jinns, a large crowd of locals gathers here to pray every Thursday.
“Feroz Shah Kotla is not merely a ruin of stones, but an unmatched link connecting the grandeur of Delhi’s sultans, the messages of Emperor Ashoka, and mystical beliefs that still beat today.”