Red Fort Archaeological Museum
Photo: Own work — CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Located in New Delhi’s Red Fort, this museum displays Mughal-era artifacts, paintings, and items related to India’s independence movement.
Planning your visit
The Red Fort was Shah Jahan's palace-fortress, built from 1639 when he moved the Mughal capital from Agra to Delhi, and it remained the imperial seat until the British deposed the last emperor after the 1857 rebellion. India's prime minister addresses the nation from its ramparts every Independence Day.
The archaeological museum inside holds Mughal-era material: manuscripts, calligraphy, textiles, arms and armour, paintings and objects from the court.
A separate museum covers the Indian National Army, Subhas Chandra Bose's force that fought alongside Japan against the British — and whose officers were court-martialled in this fort in 1945, trials that produced such public anger they accelerated the end of British rule.
Much of the fort's original interior was demolished by the British after 1857, which the site acknowledges.
Allow two hours for fort and museums. Bookable options include guided tours with entry. Current availability is shown below.
Before you book
Where is Red Fort Archaeological Museum?
Red Fort Archaeological Museum is in New Delhi, India. The map on this page marks its exact location.
How long should I allow for Red Fort Archaeological Museum?
Allow two hours for fort and museums. That is the time the collection itself takes at an unhurried pace, before any queue.
Do I need to book Red Fort Archaeological Museum in advance?
Guided tours run to a fixed schedule and small group sizes, so they are usually booked ahead.
