One of Delhi’s most charming heritage experiences is making waves again—quite literally. After a 10-year hiatus, the boat rides at Purana Qila, the historic 16th-century fort nestled near the Delhi Zoo, have finally returned, much to the delight of heritage lovers and tourists alike.
The revival marks a new chapter for one of the capital’s most scenic and historically rich locations. From July 1, 2025, trial runs of boating services began on the Purana Qila moat, setting the stage for a full-fledged reopening by September this year. The effort is spearheaded by the Sabhyata Foundation under the Adopt a Heritage Monument scheme in collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
The Purana Qila moat, stretching approximately 640 meters between the Talaqi Darwaza and Bada Darwaza, offers visitors a tranquil, immersive experience around the ancient fort walls. Boating was once a major attraction at the site, drawing over 2,000 visitors on weekends before it was shut down in 2016 due to licensing and operational issues.
Over the past decade, the moat had gradually deteriorated. But with renewed focus on urban heritage, restoration work began in earnest in 2018. The canal has since been cleaned, repaired, and restructured to support boating once again.
Visitors can now enjoy 20–25 minute paddle boat rides, priced affordably at ₹125–₹150 per person. Both two-seater and four-seater paddle boats are available, allowing families and couples alike to enjoy the serene waters. The trial period features 5–6 boats, but the plan is to expand the fleet to 20–25 boats by the grand reopening in September 2025.
Pair your visit with a walk inside the fort, a trip to the nearby Delhi Zoo, or a picnic by the rejuvenated moat.