Red Fort (Lal Qila)

The Red Fort is the symbolic heart of India. Built by Shah Jahan in the 17th century as the palace-fort of his new capital Shahjahanabad, its massive red sandstone walls enclose a world of marble palaces, halls of audience and gardens. It's from its ramparts that the Prime Minister addresses the nation every Independence Day.

Inside, the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) and the marble Diwan-i-Khas — once home to the fabled Peacock Throne — hint at the Mughal empire at its peak. The fort anchors Old Delhi and pairs perfectly with a wander through Chandni Chowk next door.

• ›The Lahori Gate and the grand Diwan-i-Aam.
• ›The marble pavilions and the Nahr-i-Behisht (Stream of Paradise) channel.
• ›The evening sound-and-light show on the fort's history.

Closed on Mondays. Security is tight — travel light. Combine with Chandni Chowk and Jama Masjid for a full Old Delhi day.