Day 2 2/24/2023
India - Delhi
Frank's Trip
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The Red Fort Complex...
The fort complex begins my adventure in India. I did have somewhat more ambitious sightseeing plans, but the trip wore on me a lot. After the fort, a rather leisurely strictly sightseeing tour through part of old Delhi in a bicycle rickshaw allowed me a glimpse into the alleyways where business goes on pretty much as it has for many hundreds of years.
The Red Fort Complex
Named for its massive enclosing walls of red sandstone, the Red Fort, also called Lal Qalʿah, is a historic fort in the city of Delhi, overlooking the Yamuna River. It served as the main residence for the rulers of the formidable Mughal dynasty for almost 200 years until the British took over in 1857. Like the Taj Mahal, it was commissioned by Shah Jahan in 1638 who decided to move the Mughal capital from Agra to Shahjahanabad, in present-day Old Delhi. The construction took ten years and the fort is octagonal in shape, covering an area of 254 acres of land.
Naubat Khana
The Naubat Khana is at the entrance of the palace complex and drums were played here announcing the arrival of the Emperor or other dignitaries. Most royal palaces have a building such as this. Music was played 5 times a day at specific hours.
Diwan-i-Am
The hall of public audience is where the general population could come to have their grievances heard. The Emperor's throne was here under the elaborate canopy (a Bengal Roof)
Rang Mahal
The Palace of Colors was painted on the interior (giving it its name)and was one of the largest of the royal apartments.
Khas Mahal
The Emperor's private palace where animal fights, such as between lions and elephants, were organized below this palace for entertainment. There is also an area for the Emperor's private worship, a sleeping chamber, sitting room.
Diwan-i-Khas
Also known as the "Shah Mahal" this was used by the Emperor for receiving selected courtiers and visitors. It consists of a rectangular central chamber surrounded with arches.
Moti Masjid
This burial chamber has largely succumbed to the ravages of time and humidity Moti Masjid or The Pearl Mosque was built by Aurangzeb for his personal use. It would take just a short walk from his bedchamber to worship - anytime day or night. It was also used by the ladies of the harem.
Bhadon and Sawan Pavilions
Two identical marble pavilions stand in the north and south of the Hayat-Bakhsh Garden. They are named after the 2 months of the rainy season in the Hindu calendar.
Rickshaw Ride Through Old Delhi Markets
Some beautiful architecture dating to the British Colonial era and some buildings dating back hundreds of years.
See the video below the pictures
Shri Gauri Shankar Mandir
800 year old temple
Gurudwara Sis Gng Sahib
This Sikh Temple dates to 1783
Chandu Garden
Video: Riding Through Part of Old Market in Old Delhi
The number of shops EVERYWHERE is flabbergasting! Riding through a lot of it on a rickshaw is amazing. And the small guy doing the pedaling - wow, what a job!