Recreational Boating Resurfaces at Delhi's Ancient Fortress, Purana Qila, After Year-Long Absence
After a decade of stillness, boating has made a welcome return to Purana Qila, one of Delhi's oldest monuments. Trial runs began in June 2025, and the full reopening is planned for early September 2025.
The revival of boating at Purana Qila offers Delhiites a chance to rediscover a more serene and picturesque aspect of the city's Mughal heritage. Initially, a small fleet of 4 paddle boats, including two and four-seater options, is available for rides in the moat that surrounds the fort. By September, this is expected to increase to 20-25 boats, including 10 four-seater and 10 three-seater boats.
Safety is a priority, with lifeguards, trained boating staff, and onboard insurance in place. The boats purchased from a different manufacturer now satisfy safety requirements, and life jackets are provided to all riders. The ticket price ranges from INR 125 to INR 150 per person.
Boating will be available from 8 am to 7 pm in the summer (April to September) and until 6 pm in the winter months (October to March). Entry for boating is from Talaki Darwaza, and the moat, originally a military boundary, has been cleaned and restored for boating.
Upcoming improvements include parking and access upgrades by mid-July 2025, a cafeteria near the boating area, evening illumination around the water, floating kiosks planned for winter, and enhanced security with guards stationed throughout the day. The initiative is a collaboration between the Sabhyata Foundation and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
The Foundation has also upgraded guest amenities, including proposals for a café, new ticket desk, hygienic restrooms, and waiting places with shade. The return of boating not only adds recreational value but also encourages visitors to connect with the city's rich Mughal heritage. Purana Qila transforms into Delhi's only central water-based recreation area following the 2010 termination of boating activities at India Gate's Children's Park.
Visitors have had positive experiences, with one student from Udaipur describing it as a "good experience" and enjoying the scenic and cultural vibe of the area. The Sabhyata Foundation, responsible for maintaining the monument and overseeing the water activities, emphasizes the importance of public engagement and cultural conservation for the preservation of monuments. They caution that such initiatives must be handled with care to avoid compromising aesthetics or overcrowding the site.
In conclusion, boating at Purana Qila is now operational on a trial basis with full services expected by September 2025, featuring reasonable ticket prices, extended hours, and new amenities designed to enrich visitor experience while preserving the site's historical and environmental integrity.
Visitors can expect an expanded offering of boats for rent by September, creating opportunities for various group sizes to enjoy outdoor-living experiences on the moat, enhancing the home-and-garden-like atmosphere of Purana Qila. With the addition of a cafeteria, improved parking facilities, and evening illumination, this revival not only redefines Purana Qila as Delhi's primary water-based recreation area but also encourages travel enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the city's rich Mughal lifestyle and heritage.
