The Kashmiri Gate, or Kashmere Gate, is a gate in Old Delhi located in the UT of Delhi (India). It’s the northern Gate of the walled historic city of Old Delhi. The Gate was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and is named after the fact that it marks the beginning of the road leading to Kashmir.
It is now known as Old Delhi in North Delhi and as a road junction since the Red Fort, ISBT, and Delhi Junction Railway Station are all nearby.
The Kashmiri Gate is one of fourteen original gates that still exist. It has a square plan with double openings on each side, one for entry and the other for exit. The road that passes through it leads to Kashmir. In this article, we cover Kashmiri Gate, ISBT Kashmiri Gate, Kashmiri Gate Delhi, and Kashmiri Gate Bus Stand!
History
The Gate, which faced Kashmir, was situated around the North Gate of Delhi’s walled city and led to the Lal Quila Fort, or Red Fort. During the British Raj, it was called Kashmere Gate. It is still possible to see the monument. Delhi Gate is the southern Gate of the walled city.
The British began settling in Delhi, India in 1803. They found that the walls of Old Delhi City, Shahjahanabad, needed repair, particularly after the siege in 1804 by Maratha Holkar. The British gradually built their estates around the Kashmere gate area, where Mughal palaces and the homes of the nobility once stood. The Gate gained national prominence during the Mutiny in 1857. The Gate was used by Indian soldiers to fire cannonballs at the British and to strategize fighting and resistance.
The British used the Gate to stop the mutineers from entering the city. Damage to the city walls (probably cannonball-related) proves the struggle is still ongoing. The British Army launched an important attack on Kashmiri Gate during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. On the morning of September 14, 1857, the bridge and left leaf of the Gate were destroyed with gunpowder. This was the beginning of the final assault against the rebels at the end of the Siege of Delhi.
After 1857, the British moved from Civil Lines to Kashmiri Gate, which became Delhi’s commercial and fashionable center. This status was lost in 1931 when New Delhi was created. In 1965, the Kashmiri gate was partially demolished to facilitate vehicular traffic. It has been a protected ASI monument since then.
Unique architectural features of the Kashmiri Gate
The architectural style of the Kashmiri Gate is a fusion of Mughals with influences from Central Asian, Persian and British aesthetics. The focal point of the Gate is a central arch flanked by smaller arches to either side. Together, they form a harmonious composition.
Its intricate carvings, floral patterns, and calligraphy show off the craftsmanship of the artisans. The Kashmiri gate is red sandstone and features Mughal proportions and symmetry. It has an attractive look.
The parapet on the top of the Gate is a testament to British engineering prowess. The British built navy structures and administrative offices near the gates to help colonial administration and the functioning Delhi.
The Kashmiri Gate: Features and Specifications
A Buzzing Atmosphere
This place is teeming, and you get the impression of being crowded when you arrive at the Kashmere Gate Metro Station. This place is always crowded because of the Inter-State Bus Terminal and Metro Station. Daulat Ram and Sons, a machinery company located opposite the building, is a landmark.
Star Attraction
The old British building has been next to St. James Church for over 100 years. The building still contains banks and shops, such as Bata Armoury, Tej Armoury and Garg Armoury. In the same neighborhood, you will also find The Ritz Guest House. This place is now known for the Automobile Market, which has about 4,000 auto shops from Mori Gate to Lothian Road.
As one passes through this place, the grandeur of past times is evident. It’s a charming place with a rich history; just waiting to explore it!
What is inside the Kashmiri Gate?
Lothian Road is the road that runs in front of Kashmiri Gate. It’s a great place to walk and explore Mughal architecture, old monuments, and other interesting things.
Dara Shikoh built an opulent house and a private book near Kashmiri Gate, with fascinating features such as carvings, patterns and artistic details. Dara Shikoh, like his father Shahjahan, showed a keen interest in architecture.
The Museum Department of Archeology of the Government of Delhi Museum is housed in a part of the library, which is now located on the campus of Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University.
The British Magazine is another prominent structure located on Lothian Road. It houses ammunition, guns, and weapons. The Telegraph Memorial is a solemn monument with gray-pillared columns adjacent to the British Magazine. It marks where the last telegraphic communication was sent in the 1857 revolt.
St. James Church and Nav Yuvak Ramlila Community are also significant. Nicholson Cemetery is another. These monuments are a tapestry of history that weaves a remarkable story and offers glimpses into Delhi’s colonial past.
See also: The Sabarimala temple in Kerala
Kashmere Gate Location & Distance
The Location of Kashmere Gate: Kashmiri Gate is also known as Kashmere Gate and is a prominent gateway. The Kashmere Gate is located in Old Delhi, India. It was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Its name comes from the fact that it leads to the magical land of Kashmir.
Nearby Destinations
- New Delhi Station to Kashmere Gate is about 3 km since Kashmere Gate Metro Station can be reached in 6 minutes (420 meters).
- The distance between ISBT Kashmere Gate and ISBT Kashmere gate is 991 meters or a 13-minute walk.
- Distance between Kashmere Gate and Chandni Chowk: 5.8 km in 21 minutes.
- Connaught Place to Kashmere Gate is approximately 11.5 km and takes approx 30 minutes.
Ways To Reach Kashmiri Gate
This magnificent landmark, located in the capital’s heart, is easily accessible by various means of transport.
Delhi Metro is renowned for its connectivity and efficiency. It offers a direct route to Kashmiri Gate. The Red Line stops at Kashmiri Gate, easily accessible for locals and tourists.
Delhi’s extensive public transport system is another option to reach Kashmiri Gate. Taxis and Autos are also available, which offer greater flexibility and connectivity to different parts of the city.
When is the Best Time to Visit Kashmiri Gate?
Delhi’s weather fluctuates between hot summers and cold winters. This affects the best time to visit historical landmarks. The best time to visit Kashmiri Gate is between October and March. Early morning or late evening temperatures are mild and provide a pleasant atmosphere for visitors.
The Important Places Near Kashmiri Gate
Its strategic location allows visitors to explore the city’s vibrant offerings easily.
Red Fort: The Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just a few minutes from Kashmiri Gate. The majestic architecture of the fort, its ornate designs, and expansive grounds will transport you to the Mughal period.
Chandni Chowk: This bustling market is a short distance from Kashmiri Gate and is known for its vibrancy, historical relevance, and vibrant atmosphere. It is a wonderful experience to explore its narrow streets, sample the local street food and shop for traditional clothing.
Jama Masjid: The Jama Masjid adjacent to the Red Fort is India’s largest Mosque. The distance from Kashmere Gate Station is only 1.9 km.
Raj Ghat: Raj Ghat is a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, and it’s nearby. (3.6 km away from Kashmere Gate).
Fatehpuri Masjid: You will also find the Fatehpuri Mosque, another architectural marvel in the area.
