Kashmere Gate Delhi – A Gateway to Old Delhi's History

Kashmere Gate is one of the original 14 gates of the walled city of Old Delhi, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. It faces in the direction of Kashmir — hence its name. The gate holds special historical significance as the site of a daring British assault during the Siege of Delhi in the Indian Rebellion of 1857.

Today Kashmere Gate area is one of Delhi's busiest transportation hubs, home to the massive inter-state bus terminal (ISBT). The gate itself is a protected monument maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Kashmere Gate's most dramatic historical moment came on 14 September 1857 during the Siege of Delhi, when a small group of British and Indian sappers and miners blew open the gate under heavy fire, allowing the main assault force to enter the city. The men who accomplished this were awarded the Victoria Cross, Britain's highest military honour.

A plaque on the gate commemorates this event. The gate has been preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India and stands as a reminder of Delhi's turbulent colonial history.