The national capital of India is a place every traveller should visit. It offers monuments, shopping complexes, bars, forts, and galleries. Home to one of India’s well-known monuments, Feroz Shah Kotla, located between Old and New Delhi, the Feroz Shah Kotla Fort was built in 1354 by Sultan Feroz Shah Tughlaq during his rule from 1351 to 1384. This fort, built by the Mughal king, is also one of the oldest structures in Delhi. If you wish to escape the city’s chaos and experience isolation, this should be on your bucket list.
History of Feroz shah kotla
The Mughals constructed the Feroz Shah Kotla fort when they decided to move their capital from Tughlakabad to Firozabad due to water shortages in the former region. Situated along the Yamuna river, the fort was built to address this water scarcity. Inside the fort, they established madrasas, palaces, beautiful gardens, and mosques, making it a symbol of power during the reign of the third Tughlaqabad dynasty ruler.
Architecture of Feroz Shah Kotla:
Feroz Shah Kotla Fort, also known as Khusk-i-Feroz, had an irregular polygon shape with the Yamuna river to the east. It was designed by Malik Ghazi and Abdul Hakk. Although much of the fort is now in ruins, it remains a popular tourist destination. The entrance and exit gateways have deteriorated over time.
Sultan Timur was impressed by the fort’s design. It was abandoned in 1490 after the fall of the Tughlaq dynasty, but some monuments like the Ashokan Pillars, Jami Masjid, and Baoli still stand.
Ashokan Pillar:
Located north of the Jami Masjid, the Ashokan pillar was originally built by King Ashoka of the Mauryan Empire between 273 and 236 BC in Topra, Ambala. Feroz Shah Tughlaq relocated the pillar to the fort. It stands at 13 metres in height and is supported by a pyramidal structure with three stories, constructed using black and white stones. The pillar, known as Minar-i-Zarin, features inscriptions in Prakrit and Brahmi scripts, including the Ten Commandments of Buddha, contributing to the spread of Buddhism during the Mauryan period. The pillar is particularly stunning when the sun’s rays directly illuminate it.
Baoli
The fort includes a three-tiered Baoli filled with water, connected to several pipelines. During the Tughlaq period, the river flowed beneath the ramparts, and cisterns connected to the river supplied water to the Baoli through these pipelines.
Hawa Mahal:
The Hawa Mahal is a pyramid-shaped palace with linked private rooms. It has three stories and a corner staircase leading to the building’s terrace.
Jami Masjid:
The Jami Masjid, situated near the Ashokan Pillar, is one of the oldest mosques still in use today. It was constructed using quartzite stone and lime plaster. The mosque featured a large courtyard and a prayer hall used by royal women, but the prayer hall has now deteriorated. Emadul Mulk, a Mughal Prime Minister, assassinated Mughal Emperor Alamgir Sani in this mosque in 1398. Timur, upon visiting the mosque, was so impressed by its design that he replicated it in Samarkand, Iran.
Some horror connotations
Local legends suggest that this fort is believed to be inhabited by djinns, and those who hold this belief often visit the place to seek solutions to their life issues. Some also perform exorcisms to free those they believe are under the influence of evil spirits.
In Islamic tradition, it is believed that while light created angels and clay gave rise to humans, djinns were brought to life by smokeless fire. People who believe in supernatural powers come to this place to write letters detailing their problems and leave them behind, entrusting these supernatural forces to provide assistance.
According to myths, djinns are thought to have long lifespans and the ability to start families, much like humans. Whether you believe in these stories or not, a visit to Feroz Shah Kotla Fort is still worth it.
Whether you accept these stories or not, they are widely circulated throughout Delhi, adding an intriguing element to this monument.
The authenticity of these tales cannot be explained, but there are accounts of girls with open hair supposedly experiencing unexplained forces. This story is rumoured throughout Delhi.
How to reach feroz shah kotla?
Feroz Shah Kotla is a historical site located in Delhi, India. To reach Feroz Shah Kotla, you can use various modes of transportation:
Delhi, the national capital, is connected to all major cities across the country, as well as to national and international airports around the world.After reaching to Delhi you can take suitable mode of transportations according to your location.
Following are the different ways of reaching Feroz shah kotla
By Metro: The nearest metro station to Feroz Shah Kotla is the “Feroz Shah Kotla Metro Station” on the Blue Line. You can take a metro to this station and then walk to the monument.
By Bus: You can use Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses or other public buses that have routes passing near Feroz Shah Kotla. Check with the local bus service for specific routes.
By Taxi or Ride-Sharing Services: You can hire a taxi or use ride-sharing services like Uber or Ola to reach Feroz Shah Kotla. Just enter the destination in the app, and the driver will take you there.
By Auto-rickshaw: Auto-rickshaws are a common mode of transportation in Delhi. You can hire one and ask the driver to take you to Feroz Shah Kotla.
By Car: If you have your own vehicle, you can use GPS or navigation apps to reach Feroz Shah Kotla. There is parking available nearby.
Make sure to confirm the location and directions before starting your journey, as Delhi traffic can be quite busy, and it’s always a good idea to plan your route in advance.
Where to stay?
Delhi is a hub of resorts, 5-star hotels, and affordable accommodations. You can book them according to your budget and preferences.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit, in my opinion, is during the months of October and November. This season enhances the beauty of the monument and provides an aesthetically pleasing ambiance for photography
Some special tips
Historical Background: Familiarise yourself with the historical significance of the site. Feroz Shah Kotla is an ancient fortress built by Feroz Shah Tughlaq in the 14th century. Knowing the history will make your visit more meaningful.
Opening Hours: Check the opening hours and entry fees in advance. It’s generally open from sunrise to sunset, and entry is often free. However, these details can change, so verify them before you go.
Guided Tour: Consider hiring a local guide who can provide insights into the history and architecture of the site. They can help you discover hidden gems and understand the stories behind the structures.
Architectural Features: Take time to admire the architectural elements, including the Ashokan pillar, Jami Masjid, and the Baoli (stepwell). These structures are remarkable examples of medieval Indian architecture.
Exploring the Baoli: If you’re feeling adventurous, explore the Baoli (stepwell) inside the complex. It’s an interesting piece of architecture and offers a cool respite on a hot day.
Respectful Dress Code: Since this is a historical site, dress modestly and respectfully. Cover your shoulders and knees to show consideration for the cultural and historical significance of the place.
Photography: Photography is usually allowed, but it’s a good idea to confirm this with the authorities. Capture the beauty of the ruins and the surroundings, but be mindful not to disturb other visitors.
Evening Visit: Feroz Shah Kotla has an eerie charm in the evening. Many people believe it’s haunted, and ghost stories are associated with the place. Visiting in the evening can be a unique experience, but make sure you leave before it gets too dark.
Beware of Monkeys: The area around Feroz Shah Kotla has a sizable population of monkeys. Be cautious with your belongings and food to avoid any unwanted interactions with them.
Accessibility: Be aware that the site may not be wheelchair accessible and might involve some uneven terrain. Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Local Street Food: After your visit, you can explore the local street food in the vicinity. There are several vendors offering delicious snacks and drinks.
Weather Conditions: Delhi can be extremely hot during the summer months. Carry water, wear sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Remember to soak in the historical aura of Feroz Shah Kotla and appreciate the unique blend of history and architecture it offers.
Final thought
The story of jinns associated with this monument enchanted my mind, and I packed my bag, took the metro, and arrived at the most magnificent moment of my life. The intricacies and peculiarities of the place created a glamorous aura. The eerie legends and the mingling of people who have faith that their problems will be solved by the jinns intrigued me. This destination is far from ordinary; it has a mysterious charm with ostentatious modifications. If you are a history enthusiast or someone who enjoys encountering spooky and eerie experiences, then this exquisite monument should be on your bucket list.
