Located in Delhi, one of the largest and most populous cities of India, Khooni Darwaza has been a witness to various historical events that occurred in the country. Also known as Lal Darwaza or Kabuli Darwaza, this architectural masterpiece is one of the 13 gates still standing in Delhi. Another historical site near Delhi Gate, which must be visited by lovers of history and people interested in mysteries, is the Khooni Darwaza on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, across from the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium.
About Khooni Darwaza
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Khooni Darwaza – also called Lal Darwaza or Kabuli Darwaza – is a 50-foot-high quartzite stone built by the first Mughal emperor, Sher Shah Suri, in the 16th century. Situated at Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg in Delhi, this gate has a very dark past associated with it. Initially, it was a route for caravans to Afghanistan, and it was given the appellation ‘The Bloody Gate’ during the Mughal period. Emperor Jahangir killed Abdur Rahim Khan-I-Khana’s sons here and allowed their corpses to decompose. Later on, Aurangzeb beheaded his brother Dara Shikoh, who was a pretender to the throne and exhibited his head. It was at this gate in 1857 that British officer Captain Hodson massacred the sons and grandson of Bahadur Shah Zafar and left their dead bodies to rot. Khooni Darwaza was another site that was stained with blood during the partition of India in 1947.
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Places To Visit Near Khooni Darwaza
If you are planning to visit Khooni Darwaza, then here is a list of a few other places near Khooni Darwaza that you can visit:
1. Feroz Shah Kotla
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Close to Khooni Darwaza is Feroz Shah Kotla, an ancient fortress constructed by Sultan Feroz Shah Tughlaq in the fourteenth century. This monument, known locally as Kotla Feroze Shah, contains the well-known Ashokan Pillar brought from Topra by Feroz Shah. The ruins in the fort complex contain a mosque, a Baoli (stepwell), and the remnants of palace structures and provide insight into the Tughlaq dynasty’s architectural and engineering achievements. It is the best place for historians and photographers because of its calm environment and archaeological treasures. Also, many legends are connected with the fort, and some people believe it is a magical place, so residents leave offerings for the djinns who live there.
Location: J6MV+X3P, Balmiki Basti, Vikram Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi, 110002
Distance from Khooni Darwaza:400 M
2. Jama Masjid
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Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, represents the grandeur of Mughal architecture and the buildings’ religious importance. The mosque was constructed between 1650 and 1656 by the fifth Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and can accommodate more than 25000 people in its courtyard. Among them are three large doors, four domes, and two forty-meter-high minarets made of strips of red sandstone and white marble. The architecture of domes and intricate arches with inscriptions and engravings depict the rich and diverse heritage of Mughal architecture. Locally produced foods and souvenirs sold in markets within and around the mosque also add to the experience of visiting this mosque.
Location: Jama Masjid, Old Delhi, Delhi, 110006
Distance from Khooni Darwaza:2.8 KM
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3. Red Fort
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Red Fort is a world heritage site in Delhi and is considered one of India’s most important history and heritage sites. The most famous example of Mughal architecture is this immense fort built in 1648 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to house his royal court. The fort’s massive red sandstone structure measures over 2 kilometres and houses several magnificent structures, such as the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), and the breathtaking Rang Mahal (Palace of Colors). There is also a sound and light show in the evening, which depicts the history of the Mughal dynasty. It is a trendy place to visit because every Independence Day, the Prime Minister of India unfurls the Indian national flag here.
Location: Netaji Subhash Marg, Lal Qila, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi, 110006
Distance from Khooni Darwaza:3.1 KM
4. India Gate
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India Gate, a war memorial situated in New Delhi, was built in memory of the 82,000 soldiers of the Indian Army who died in World War I and the Third Afghan War. This 42-meter-high arch was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and was inaugurated in 1931. It is a red and pale sandstone and granite structure with the names of the soldiers carved on it. At the base of the arch is the Amar Jawan Jyoti – the flame of the unknown soldier. India. By the evening, the monument is well-illuminated, and it is a lovely sight to see. India Gate is one of the finest examples of commemorating lost lives and is a popular attraction in Delhi.
Location: Kartavya Path, India Gate, New Delhi, Delhi 110001
Distance from Khooni Darwaza:3.7 KM
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5. Chandni Chowk
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The bustling Chandni Chowk, one of the oldest markets in Delhi, gives an exciting and dynamic feel of the city’s cultural essence. Dating as far back as the 17th century when Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan constructed it and later designed by his daughter Jahanara Begum, this market was once a grand road with a canal in the middle of the market, which reflected the moonlight, hence the name “Chandni Chowk”, or “Moonlight Square”. Nowadays, it is a busy market specializing in clothing, jewellery, electronics, and spices. In addition, The small street is packed with old buildings, eateries, and souvenir shops, which are located next to such attractions as the Paranthe Wali Gali, famous for its hot stuffed parathas, and the Sis Ganj Gurudwara, an important Sikh shrine.
Location: Delhi Central, New Delhi
Distance from Khooni Darwaza:4.6 KM
How To Reach Khooni Darwaza
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Khooni Darwaza, which is situated in the capital of India, is easily accessible by road, rail and airways. Here is how you can reach the Khooni Darwaza:
By Rail: The nearest railway station is New Delhi, which connects the place to other parts of the country. To reach Khooni Darwaza, which is located on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, one can either hire a taxi or board a local bus from the station.
By Road: Khooni Darwaza can be visited by road transport through different means of transport. If you are driving, proceed to Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg in Delhi. Auto-rickshaws, taxis and local buses are also available from other parts of Delhi to this historical place.
By Air: The nearest airport to Khooni Darwaza is Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) which is about 18 kilometres away. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or can use booked cab services like Uber, and it will take around half an hour to forty minutes to reach Khooni Darwaza.
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Entry Timings & Entry Fee To The Darwaza
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Khooni Darwaza is open for visitors, which means that one can visit Khooni Darwaza at any time of the day. However, the best time to visit is between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. Weather in the morning is relatively better than in the afternoon, and the crowd is comparatively less, which makes it more comfortable and enjoyable while moving around this historic monument. This period also provides the most favourable sunlight for photography, especially capturing the features of Khooni Darwaza. Visiting Khooni Darwaza remains free of charge hence allowing all history lovers to visit the site.
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Khooni Darwaza, historically stained with blood and beauty, is an eloquent symbol of the city’s history. Besides providing a glimpse into the city’s violent past, this historical gate also tells the story of perseverance and the spirit of the people of this land. Be it history, photography, or mystery, Khooni Darwaza is one place that will offer a unique experience and provide you with something to ponder upon. So, the next time you are on your trip to Delhi, plan and unveil the adventure and mystery it holds.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Khooni Darwaza
Historically, what is the importance of Khooni Darwaza?
Sher Shah Suri constructed Khooni Darwaza and has a very dark history where many people lost their lives for different reasons including being executed by the Mughal emperors and killings during the uprising of 1857, that is why Khooni Darwaza is an important historical building of Delhi.
Are there any charges that one has to pay to pay a visit to Khooni Darwaza?
Well, there is no entry fee charged for entering Khooni Darwaza. It is accessible by anyone and is free of charge.
When is the best time to get to Khooni Darwaza?
Khooni Darwaza is open all year round and at any time of the day but the best time to visit is during the morning between 10:00 a. m. – 12:00 p. m.
Can we make arrangements for any guided tour in the Khooni Darwaza?
Yes, there are heritage walks and guided tours available for those who wish to get more detailed information about the structure and its significance.
Is it permitted to take photographs of Khooni Darwaza?
Yes, photography is allowed in Khooni Darwaza however, the right time for shooting during natural light is supposed to be during the early morning between 10 and 12.
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