“Barber’s Fort”. Does that pique your interest? I’m about to tell you the tale of Nai Ka Kot. This intriguing fort stands as a testament to Delhi’s rich history.
Nai Ka Kot is one of Delhi’s hidden gems. It is often overlooked by tourists. But its story offers a unique glimpse into the past. This fort and the nearby Adilabad Fort are close to the massive Tughlaqabad Fort. Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq erected that fort.
Muhammad ibn Tughlaq built Nai Ka Kot. He was the son of Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq. Nai Ka Kot literally means the Barber’s fort. But sadly little is known about the barber. We don’t know who he was or why he was important. It is unknown why Muhammad bin Tughluq built this fort for him.
It is not uncommon for Delhi royals to dedicate monuments to their favorite barbers. The Barber’s Tomb is located inside the Humayun Tomb complex. It likely houses the remains of an emperor’s favorite barber.
Nai Ka Kot sits on a small hill. It overlooks a clearing where cargo containers are now stored. The fort has two entrances. One is on the south side and the other is on the north side. The south entrance has a small arch. Today only the perimeter wall of Nai Ka Kot remains. The interior is overrun with plants and used by locals.
Adilabad Fort is located less than a kilometer west of Nai Ka Kot. It was a part of Jahanpanah. Jahanpanah was the fourth city of Delhi. Muhammad bin Tughlaq built Jahanpanah. The name means Refuge of the World in Arabic.
Adilabad Fort’s layout is similar to Tughlaqabad Fort. It is smaller but comparable in size. Unlike Nai Ka Kot, the Adilabad Fort is well maintained. You will find beautiful gardens and lawns inside. The Archaeological Survey of India has designated it as a protected monument. A section of the interior serves as a nursery.
Little remains of the inner structures of Adilabad Fort. The exterior walls remain. They feature bastions, battlements, and a few entrances. The arched gate at the southeast corner has bastions and guardhouses. It is still used as an entrance and exit for visitors. The less magnificent gate to the southwest is maintained and secured.
Short flights of stairs lead to several bastions. These bastions offer great views of the surroundings. You can see the urban metropolis and the forested landscapes. The views extend to Tughlaqabad Fort and Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq’s tomb. The tomb includes a dome made of milk-white marble.
To reach Nai Ka Kot and Adilabad Fort, take the Metro Violet Line to Tughlaqabad station. Buses and autos are available outside the metro station. The bus stop for Nai Ka Kot is on MB Road. The Adilabad bus stop is at Kaya Maya Hospital. Starting at Nai Ka Kot and moving towards Adilabad is recommended.
Visiting Nai Ka Kot offers a unique experience. It allows you to step back in time and imagine the lives of those who lived here. While much of the fort is in ruins, its historical significance remains. Nai Ka Kot serves as a reminder of the eccentric people and stories that have shaped Delhi.