Historic Red Fort To Welcome Visitors Every Day After ASI Ends Monday Closure

New Delhi : The historic Red Fort in New Delhi will now welcome visitors every day, including Mondays, ending a long-standing practice of closing the centuries-old monument one day each week. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) issued an order dated February 13, which has already taken effect, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site reopened to tourists on February 16 under the new schedule, officials told news agency PTI.

Previously, the fort built in 1639 by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan after he moved his capital from Agra to Delhi was closed on Mondays to manage conservation needs and routine maintenance. With the ASI directive now in force, that weekly closure has been abolished, allowing visitors uninterrupted access throughout the week.

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Under the revised operating schedule, the Red Fort will open daily from sunrise until 9:00 pm. Entry remains free for children under 15, while visitors from SAARC and BIMSTEC member countries will be charged ₹50 per person (₹35 if paid online). Other international travellers are required to pay ₹600 (₹550 online). Transit options for visitors include the nearby Lal Qila Metro Station on the Violet Line and the Chandni Chowk Metro Station on the Yellow Line.

Enclosed by imposing red sandstone walls shaped in an irregular octagon, the fort features notable structures such as the Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience), the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), Rang Mahal, Hammam (royal baths), Hayat-Bakhsh-Bagh gardens and the Moti Masjid, later added by emperor Aurangzeb. The famed Peacock Throne once graced the Diwan-i-Khas before being taken by Persian ruler Nader Shah in the 18th century.

Recognised as one of Delhi’s most frequented historical attractions, the Red Fort also holds national significance as the site from which the Prime Minister of India raises the national flag and addresses the nation on Independence Day.

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