Delhi, the capital of India, is not only famous for its modern political status as Indian capital, but also renowned for its historical aspects. They say that this city was built seven times, and many old cities are buried beneath the current city. If one wants to feel the real historical Delhi, s/he should understand the political ups and down some of which date back to the Mahabharata era, when this was the seat of the Pandava power, the newfounded city of Indraprastha. When capital shifted to Delhi, a village named Inderpat existed within the Purana Qila complex. Excavations took place earlier and are taking place right now, which point towards antiquity. But the current Purana Qila was built by the last of the Pathan Sultan standing, Sher Shah.
The Tomar dynasty ruled this part of India from the Lal Kot, which was later taken over from them by the Chauhan king Prithviraj, and the fort was rechristened Qila Rai Pithora. Even today the remnants of its outer wall can be seen on one’s way to Qutub Minar. But that area is considerably older than the Tomars or Chauhans. The Yogmaya temple in the adjoining Mehrauli (comes from Mihiravali, named after ancient Indian astronomer/astrologer Varaha Mihir) complex dates back to the Gupta period, and Goddess Yogmaya might have been the ruling deity in this city. And this Mehrauli area became the first seat of the Muslim conquest, when the older temples of Mehrauli were destroyed to build the Might of Islam mosque. This was the time of the first Mamluk Sultan, Qutub-ud-din Aibak, who grandly lends his name to the Qutub Minar.
The year was 1192. Muhammad Ghori defeated Prithvi Raj near Tarain and captured the power of Delhi Today we will discuss only about Delhi Sultanate which identifies the late Ghori and early Mughal period, from Mamluk Dynasty to Lodi Dynasty. According to historians, Mamluk Dynasty (1206-1290), Khilji Dynasty (1290-1320), Tughlaq Dynasty (1320-1414), Sayyid Dynasty (1414-1451), Lodi Dynasty (1451-1526), Suri Dynasty (1538-1556) all together are called Delhi Sultanate. One can start this historical journey according to map but here I have arranged my discussion through time frame.
- Qutab Minar
We can start our journey from Qutub Minar, the sculpture of Mamluk Dynasty. It opens at 7 am. Qutub Minar is in Mehruli, southern part of Delhi. In this Qutub complex Quwwat ul-Islam Mosque is situated. There also a unfinished minar, named Alai Minar.
Nearest Metro Station- Qutub Minar (Yellow line)
- Siri Fort
Siri fort is another historical site of Delhi. It was built by Alauddin Khilji. The ruins of fort bears witness of Khilji Dynasty. Today, the area around Siri Fort is a residential and commercial neighbourhood in Hauz Khas, South Delhi. The Siri Fort Sports Complex, which includes sports facilities like tennis courts, swimming pools, and a golf course, is also located in the vicinity.
Nearest Metro Station- Hauz Khas (Yellow Line)
- Tughlaqabad Fort
Thughlaqabad is also a fort, built by Ghiyas Ud-din Thughlaq. The fort is associated with the rise and fall of the Tughlaq dynasty. Today, Tughlaqabad Fort is a popular historical site in Delhi and attracts visitors interested in exploring the architectural and historical legacy of the Tughlaq dynasty.
Nearest Metro Station- Tughlaqabad (Violet Line)
- Lodi Garden
Lodhi Garden is a historic park in New Delhi, India, spread over 90 acres. It houses the tombs of the Lodhi dynasty rulers. The garden is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s a great place for walking, jogging, picnicking, or simply enjoying the lush greenery and historical architecture.
Nearest Metro Station- Jorbagh (Yellow Line)
- Purana Qila
Purana Qila is known for its impressive architecture, which reflects a blend of Hindu and Mughal styles. Inside the fort complex, you can find several notable structures, including the Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque, which is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture, and the Sher Mandal, a double-storeyed octagonal tower. Here is a small museum that showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of Delhi.
Nearest Metro Station- Pragati Maidan (Blue Line)
Informative and helpful.
Thanks a lot