Boating at Delhi’s iconic Purana Qila is back! Launching September 1, the revamped experience offers scenic 20-minute rides
A Heritage Revival: Boating Returns to Purana Qila After Nearly a Decade
Purana Qila Boating – After a nine-year hiatus, the tranquil waters surrounding Delhi’s Purana Qila (Old Fort) are once again ready to welcome visitors. Thanks to a collaborative effort between the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the Sabhyata Foundation, boating services are officially set to resume on September 1, 2025.
The artificial lake, once a popular weekend retreat for Delhiites, had fallen silent since 2016 due to maintenance issues and administrative delays. But now, with extensive restoration and infrastructure upgrades, the lake is ready to host 20 boats– 10 with four seats and 10 with three seats each. The route begins at Talaki Darwaza and covers a 640-metre stretch that once served as a protective moat for the Mughal-era fort.
The revival is part of a broader initiative to reinvigorate Delhi’s heritage sites with engaging public experiences. The Sabhyata Foundation, operating under the government’s ‘Monument Mitra’ scheme, has also introduced new amenities like toilets, a café, and enhanced security to elevate the visitor experience.
Ticket Prices, Timings & What to Expect from the New Boating Experience
Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a peaceful escape, the new boating setup at Purana Qila promises a blend of leisure and legacy. Here are the key details:
- Ticket Price: ₹125-₹150 per person for a 20-minute ride
- Timings:
- Summer (April–September): 8 AM to 7 PM
- Winter (October–March): 8 AM to 6 PM
- Entry Fee to Fort Complex: ₹50 for Indian nationals; discounted rates available online
- Boating Entry Point: Near the Mathura Road gate, adjacent to Delhi Zoo
The boats are pedal-powered, offering a quiet, eco-friendly ride with panoramic views of the fort’s ramparts mirrored in the water. The lake’s horseshoe shape and lush surroundings make it a perfect spot for photography, picnics, or a romantic outing.
Security personnel will be stationed throughout the day, and life jackets are mandatory for all riders. A trial run is currently underway through August, allowing early visitors to preview the experience before the official launch.
More Than Just a Boat Ride: A Cultural and Emotional Homecoming
For many Delhiites, the return of boating at Purana Qila is more than just a recreational update it’s a nostalgic homecoming. The lake has long been a cherished memory for generations who visited the fort during school trips, family outings, or lazy monsoon weekends.
Writer and historian Rakhshanda Jalil, who grew up in Nizamuddin East, recalls stopping by the lake en route to Delhi Zoo: “We’d see the colourful boats tethered at the edge, and it was always the highlight of our day”.
The initiative also reflects a larger cultural shift one that values interactive heritage experiences over passive sightseeing. By combining historical storytelling with immersive activities, sites like Purana Qila are being reimagined as living spaces, not just relics of the past.
The Sabhyata Foundation’s CEO, Ajay Verma, emphasized that the project aims to “connect people emotionally with their heritage” while ensuring world-class visitor facilities. With plans for a light and sound show, curated exhibitions, and guided tours, Purana Qila is poised to become a flagship model for heritage-led tourism in India.
Final Thought:
As the boats glide once more across the still waters of Purana Qila, they carry not just passengers but memories, stories, and a renewed sense of connection to Delhi’s timeless soul. Come September, it won’t just be a ride, it’ll be a journey through history.
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