After years of silence, the tranquil moat surrounding Delhi’s iconic Purana Qila is alive again, with gentle ripples, paddle strokes, and the chatter of delighted visitors. Boating has officially returned to this historic setting, nearly a decade after operations were suspended in 2016. Once again, Delhiites and travellers can enjoy this unique heritage-linked leisure experience, set against the dramatic backdrop of one of the capital’s oldest forts.
Initially introduced in 1991, boating at Purana Qila offered a rare opportunity to float alongside centuries-old walls. But after a lapse in agreements between Delhi Tourism and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the service came to a halt and the moat gradually dried up. Despite sporadic efforts to revive the space, it remained inactive until now.
In June 2025, trial runs quietly resumed under the stewardship of the Sabhyata Foundation and ASI. Starting with four paddle boats in two- and four-seater formats, the 20-minute rides begin near Talaqi Darwaza and run between 9 AM and 6 PM. Prices range from INR 125 to 150 per person, with life jackets, lifeguards, and trained boating staff in place. A full fleet of 20 boats is expected by September, when the service officially launches.
This revival is more than just a scenic joyride, it’s part of a wider movement to reconnect people with heritage. The Sabhyata Foundation, which maintains the site under ASI’s “Adopt a Heritage” programme, is also enhancing visitor amenities, including plans for a lakefront café, shaded seating, clean restrooms, and a revamped ticketing desk.
Photographer and heritage champion Amit Pasricha puts it best: a boat ride may just be the gateway to deeper cultural appreciation. And with careful attention to aesthetics and environmental care, this renewed experience promises to blend leisure with legacy beautifully.
