Red Fort (Lal Qila), Delhi, India

The sandstone walls of the Red Fort (Indian Rs 11/ foreigner US $2, Monday closed) extend for 2 km and vary in height from 18 m on the river side to 33 m on the city side. Shah Jahan began construcion of the massive fort in 1638 and it was completed in 1648. Shah Jahan never completely moved his capital from Agra to his new ciy of Shahjahanabad in Delhi because he was deposed and imprisoned in Agra fort by his son Aurangazeb.

The Red fort dates from the very peak of Mughal power. The Mughal reign from Delhi was short one, however; Aurangazeb was the first and the last great Mughal emperor to rule from here. Tickets to the fort are available at the main entrance of the fort - Lahore gate. The fort has Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audiences), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audiences), Khas Mahal, Rang Mahal, Royal baths, Shahi Buruj, Moti Masjid and gardens.

The nearby attractions are Jama Masjid, Chandini Chowk, Digambara Jain temple, Fatehpuri masjid, Sunehri masjid and Raj Ghat.

Delhi Metro operates from Barwala to Shahdara. A second line is operational from Delhi University to the ISBT and to the Central secretariat. The work is expected to be completing by 2010. Tickets are available at Metro stations, more info visit www.delhimetrorail.com

Cycle rickshaws are best way of short distance cheap travel in the city.