Attractions in Delhi

India Gate

India Gate is the national and historic monument of India. It is constructed as a memorial and was built in the memory of 90,000 soldiers who lost their lives during Ist World War and the Afghan war in early 1900s. It is one of the biggest war memorials in India and originally known as All India War Memorial.

The monument is 42 metre tall and was designed and constructed by the famous architect Edwin Lutyens. The building is made of red stone that rises in stages into a huge moulding. On the top of arch, INDIA is written on both sides. India Gate is truly unique as each martyred soldier’s name is inscribed in its walls in whose memory it is built. Under it’s arch burns the eternal flame of ‘Amar Jawan Jyoti’ (the flame of the immortal warrior); burning since 1971. It is in the form of a flame that burns day and night under the arch to remind the nation of soldiers who perished in the Indo-Pakistan War of December 1971.

India Gate is usually the first stop in a traveler’s journey. It is a majestic structure, which stands high at the end of Rajpath amidst plush, green manicured lawns and water fountains carved in sandstone. The lush green lawns, Children Park and the famous boat club around the place make it a perfect picnic spot. It attracts a large number of tourists from all places.

The area is especially breathtaking in the evenings when India Gate and the sprawling lawns are dramatically lit with floodlights. Just behind the main structure of India Gate is a canopy made in sandstone. In front of it the magnificent Rashtrapati Bhavan, the residence of the President of India. The beautifully lit up monument provides a memorable background against the darkening sky. Even in daylight, the stretch between India Gate and the Rashtrapati Bhavan offers a splendid view. This is one of the most beautiful localities in the city and is favorite spot for picnics and outings all year round.

Every year on 26th January India gate stands witness to the Republic Day parade where latest advancements of defence technology is displayed. Before joining the annual parade at the Rajpath, the Prime Minister pays homage to the soldiers along with Heads of Armed Forces.

Lal Quila (Red Fort)

The Red Fort (well known as Lal Quila) is a masterwork of architecture and one of the most haunting spots for travelers from abroad as well as India. It is a 17th century fort complex built by the Mughal emperor Shahjahan in the walled city of Old Delhi. The Red Fort has walls extending up to 2 kilometers with the height varying from 18 meters on the river side to 33 meters on the city side.

The massive fort lies along the Yamuna River. Mughal Emperor Shahjahan started construction of this fort in 1638 and completed in 1648. The fort includes all the expected trimmings of the centre of Mughal rule; halls for public and private audiences, domed and arched marble palaces, lush private apartments, a Pearl mosque and elaborately designed gardens. The other attractions enclosed within this monument are the hammams or the Royal Baths, the Shahi Burj, which used to be Shahjahan’s private working area, and the Moti Masjid or the Pearl Mosque, built by Aurangzeb for his personal use. The Rang Mahal or the ‘Palace of Colors’ housed the Emperor’s wives and mistresses. This palace was crowned with gilded turrets, dexterously painted and decorated with an intricate mosaic of mirrors, and a ceiling overlaid with gold and silver that was reflected in a central pool in the marble floor.

The Red Fort with thick red sandstone walls, bulging with turrets and bastions is one of the largest and oldest monuments in Delhi India. It is one of the important building complexes of India which encapsulates a long period of Indian history and its arts. It is relevant as a symbol of architectural brilliance and power. Even before its notification as a monument of national importance in the year 1913, efforts were made to preserve and conserve the Red Fort, for posterity.

The entry to this marvelous fort is from the Lahori Gate or the Chatta Chowk. Lal Quila is now a busy market place called the ‘Meena Bazaar’. This bazaar has an excellent collection of antiques, miniature paintings and skillfully crafted artificial jewellery. The bazaar also sells some fabulous carpets beautifully woven.

The Red Fort is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Old Delhi, attracting thousands of visitors every year. The fort is also the site from which the Prime Minister of India addresses the nation on 15 August, the day India achieved independence from the British rule.

A Sound and Light show that recreates the Red fort’s history is held every evening inside the Red Fort. There are shows in English and Hindi, and tickets are available from the Fort. The English seasons are from November to January at 7.30 p.m., in February to April and September to October at 8.30 p.m. and from May to August at 9 p.m.

Even today, the Lal Quila is an articulate reminder of the glory of the Mughal era and its magnificence leaves many wonder-struck and breathless. It is still a calm haven of peace, which helps one to break away from the anxious pace of life outside the walls of the Fort and transports the visitor to another era of time.

The Qutub Minar

The Qutub Minar (also written as ‘Qutb Minar’ or ‘Qutab Minar’) is one of the most popular tourist spot in Delhi, the capital of India. This majestic cylindrical shaped tower is 72.5 meters (237.8 ft) tall and prominent as world’s highest brick minaret. Its construction was started by India’s first Turkish Muslim ruler Qutb-ud-din Aibak in the year 1193 and completed by Firuz Shah Tughluq in the year 1386. The Qutub Minar is notable for being one of the earliest and most prominent examples of Indo-Islamic architecture.

Many historians consider that the Qutub Minar was named after the first Turkish ruler, Qutb-ud-din Aibak as he built it but some argued that it was probably named in honor of Sufi Saint Qutb-ud-din Bakhtiar Kaki, who had greatly inspired Sultan Iltutmish (Ruler after Qutb-ud-din Aibak).

The Qutub Minar is tall and was built in cylindrical shape. Its columns made of red sandstone tapers from a base of 14.3 meters in diameter to its top measuring 2.75 meters in diameter and made with 379 steps leading to the top of the tower. Surrounding the tower, there are many fine examples of Indian and Islamic artwork. The Tower includes numerous superposed flanged and cylindrical shafts that are separated by small balconies which are seen with intricate stalactite designs.

The nearby Iron Pillar is one of the world’s foremost metallurgical curiosities, standing in the famous Qutub complex. It is believed that if anyone who can encircle the entire column with their arms and with their back towards the pillar and made a wish, the wish would get fulfilled. But the authorities felt that it was more important to conserve the heritage and save the pillar from the sweat of visitors, the government has built a fence around it for safety. It also houses a Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Alauddin Khilji’s Madarsa, Alai Darwaza, Imam Zamim’s Tomb, Alauddin Khilji’s Tomb, and Iltutmish’s Tomb.

There are large open spaces in the Qutub Complex and walking on the lawns is a pleasing experience. The ground is uneven and there are ups and downs on the walking track. As you go round the walking track you can see the monuments from varying distances and heights and, in the process, see some delightful sights.

The Qutub Minar is surrounded by other ancient and medieval monuments and skeletons which include an ancient mosque and tombs, collectively known as ‘Qutub complex’ which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is opened on all 7 days from sunrise to sunshine with an entry fee of Rs. 10/- per person for Indian nationality and Rs. 250/- per person for foreign nationality. Photography and Video camera are charged at an extra rate of Rs. 25/-.

Akshardham Temple

Akshardham, Delhi, in India is the largest and unique Hindu temple complex in the world. It is also known as Delhi Akshardham or Swaminarayan Akshardham. This grand complex brilliantly showcases the magnificence and essence of India’s ancient architecture, traditions and timeless spiritual messages.

The temple, which attracts most of all travelers who visit Delhi, was officially inaugurated on November 2005. It is located on the banks of River Yamuna adjoining to the proposed 2010 Commonwealth Games village. The extensive pink sandstone complex, which is spread over 100 acres, has become an imperative landmark and tourist attraction in Delhi. In addition to the main Akshardham temple which is an architectural masterpiece equivalent in grandeur to Taj Mahal or any of the other India’s tourist attractions.

The main temples architecture is absolutely amazing and something for everyone to admire as it is carved from stone with the most defined detail. The temple offers a variety of activities to the visitors. The temple is surrounded by fantastic gardens and ponds. The most exciting of these include a 12-minute enthralling boat-ride experience sailing through the caves of Ajanta-Ellora and showcasing 10,000 years of India’s glorious heritage; A 15-minute captivating and colorful musical fountain show; A film depicting on a giant screen from the life of an 11-year-old child-yogi Swaminarayan and the history of India.

The temple is closed on every Monday and it is open from 9 am to 7 pm (April to September) and 9 am to 6 pm (October to March). The musical fountain show begins at 7 pm in April to September and 6:45 pm from October to March.

Bahai Temple (Lotus Temple)

India is well-known as a country of hundreds of religions and communities, and the Bahai Temple (usually known as Lotus Temple located at New Delhi) is an icon of such tolerance and respect. It was built in 1986, in the shape of a white lotus. It is an architectural landmark of the modern Delhi and it reminds of the famous Sydney Opera House in Australia.

This temple was built by the followers of the Bahai faith is designed to make people conscious of the beauty of life and the unity of God, mankind and all religions. It is surrounded by nine crystal blue pools of water and lush green lawns. Inside of the temple is very simple and there is no divinity and it spread out an atmosphere of sublimity, peace, and calm. The idea is to create an illusion of a white lotus floating in water. This building welcomes worshippers, believers and non-believers from all over the country and the world. It strives to create a space of calm and positive energy. If not for the religious aspect of it, thousands tourists come everyday to view and enjoy the enormous lotus structure built out of marble with the red sandstone pathways.

The Lotus temple is open from 9:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. in summer (1 April to 30 September) and from 9:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. in winter (1 October to 31 March). There is no admission charge and the parking is also free of cost.

Iskcon Temple

Iskcon Temple, also known as Hare Rama Hare Krishna Temple, is one out of the 40 temples in India which are dedicated to Lord Krishna and are built by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. Iskcon Temple was constructed by Hare Rama Hare Krishna cult in 1998 to disseminate the message of Lord Krishna as recorded in the Indian Mythological scripture, Srimad Bhagwad-Gita 3000 years ago. The cult is a part of the Hare Krishna Movement started by Acharya Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. The temple is simply yet beautifully made and the decoration of the interior walls of the temple is carried out by Russian artists which depicts different phases of life of various deities including Radha-Krishna and Sita-Ram.
The main attraction of the Iskcon Temple is that it represents the technological connotation of ‘Dharma’ via robotic manifestations. There are three robots in the temple that are disguised as Krishna, Arjuna and Srila Prabhupada. This exhibits the yesterday and today of this grand temple by using a hi-end expertise which is controlled by 3 computer set-up jointly and coupled with a remote control. The temple has a museum that shows Indian epics Ramayana and Mahabharata through multimedia and it celebrates Janmashtmi festival (birthday of Lord Krishna) with much fervor. Iskcon temple is located near East of Kailash and it is easily accessible from all parts of the city through Delhi Metro, bus, cab or auto rickshaw. It takes around 45 minutes to reach the temple from Indira Gandhi International Airport and around 25 minutes from Nizammuddin Railway Station while it takes 15 minutes from Kailash Colony Metro Station.

Birla Temple (Birla Mandir)

birla mandir delhi, birla temple in delhi, attractions in delhiThe Birla temple, also known as Laxmi Narayan Mandir, is the first temple built by the famous business tycoon family of Birlas and it is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi. The temple was built by B D Birla in 1938 and it was inaugurated by the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi on the condition that people from all castes including untouchables will allowed in the temple. Subsequently, a plaque was placed at the gate, mentioning the pledge that people of all faiths and classes are welcome. The temple is most famous for Janmashtmi (birth of Lord Krishna) which is celebrated with much fervor and goodwill.

Designed in the Orissan style, the temple has tall curved towers and the highest tower is around 165 feet while others are of 116 feet high. The Geeta Bhavan in the temple has beautiful paintings depicting scenes from Indian Mythology while the other gallery paintings are designed by artists from Jaipur in Rajasthan. It also has shrines for Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga. The Birla temple has accommodation for out station tourists especially for foreigners who are pursuing study in Sanskrit or in Hindu Mythology. The Birla Temple is located on Mandir Marg near central location in the national capital, Connaught Place and it takes around 15 minutes from Connaught Place to reach the temple in bus, auto rickshaw or cab but the drive also depends on the traffic in this area. But one can also travel by Delhi Metro till R K Ashram Marg station; from there the tourist can take auto or cab to the temple which is only 2 km away from the Metro station.

Jantar Mantar

Jantar Mantar is located in Delhi, India. It is an astronomical observatory with masonry instruments, built by Maharaja Jai Singh II in 1724. The Jantar Mantar in Delhi was one of five such instruments built in Jaipur, Ujjain, Mathura and Varanasi. There are four different instruments within the observatory of Jantar Mantar in New Delhi: the Samrat Yantra, the Ram Yantra, the Jayaprakash Yantra, and the Mishra Yantra.

The main purpose of the observatory was to accumulate astronomical tables, and to predict the times and movements of the sun, moon and planets. Some of these purposes these days would be classified as astrology. Showcasing the scientific and astronomical knowledge of prehistoric India, the observatory consists of fourteen major geometric devices for measuring time, predicting eclipses, tracking stars in their orbits, ascertaining the declinations of planets, and determining the celestial altitudes and related ephemerides. Built of local stone and marble, each is a fixed and ‘focused’ tool. The Samrat Jantar, the largest instrument, is 90 feet (27 m) high, its shadow carefully plotted to tell the time of day.

The name is derivative from yantra, instrument, and mantra, for formula or in this context calculation. Therefore, Jantar Mantar means literally ‘instrument and formula’. It lies in the heart of Delhi, Connaught Place, and easily accessible from any corner of the capital city by local transportation. The observatory today has become a well-liked tourist attraction. It has always attracted architects, historians and scientists from all over the world. Students of astrology still use it for their research work.

Jantar Mantar is one of the most significant places to visit, for anyone touring Delhi. About 700 tourists come in every day to see the marvel monument. The Jantar Mantar was affirmed a national monument in 1948.
Humayun’s Tomb

Humayun Tomb delhi, humayun's tomb in delhiOne of the most remarkable Mughal structure Humayun’s Tomb is situated in Delhi city, the capital of India. It was added to Unesco’s World Heritage List in the year of 1993. It was built in 1565 A.D. by Haji Begum, the widow of Humayun, the second Mughal Emperor and designed by the Persian architect, Mirza Ghyas.

Humayun’s tomb is the major attraction for every visitor. The Taj Mahal and various other Mughal structures are inspired from Humayun’s tomb. The monument is surrounded by many new buildings but still the structure has the importance of its own and still can be seen upright and bright. Just close to the monument, there is a shrine of Nizamuddin which is very consecrated among Muslims.

Humayun’s tomb is constructed with red sandstone, but white and black marble have also been used to relieve the uniformity in the structure. The mausoleum stands majestically at the center of the enclosure and rises from a platform faced with a series of cells with arched openings.

In brief, the tomb is situated amidst avenues of trees, watercourses and flowerbeds. A splendid example of superior early Mughal architecture, the structure harmoniously blends with the nature.
Jama Masjid : The Architectural Monuments

Jama MasjidJama Masjid is the largest mosque in India, where thousands of Muslims offered their prayers. Jama Masjid is located opposite the Red Fort and surrounded by a large number of shops, which specializing in a variety of goods. The great mosque of Old Delhi is the final architectural extravagance of Shah Jahan with a courtyard can hold 25,000 worshipers.

Jama Masjid was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in 1656 AD and ended six years later and the total construction cost is around one million rupees. Located near to Chandini Chowk (a busy shopping area of Delhi) and the colossal Red Fort, the mosque receives many visitors who come to Delhi.

A work of religious art, the Jama Masjid mosque is also known as ‘Masjid-i-Jahan Numa’. Masjid-i-Jahan Numa means “the mosque commanding a view of the world”. Designed as the Emperor Shah Jahan’s main mosque, the mosque is built by red sandstone. White marble has also been used widely, especially in the three domes and has appealed to black.

The large paved courtyard is a rectangle of about 75 by 66 meters. The space above the western part is a large hall, standing on 260 pillars all carved from Hindu and Jain traditions. The central courtyard is accessible from the east, although there are three ways on the other side too. Built by a workforce of 5,000 people, the mosque has three gateways, four towers and two minarets are testimony to the fine architecture of that period.
Old Fort (Purana Quila) of Delhi

old fort delhi, delhi old fort, purana quila delhi, purana quila in delhiThe Old fort of Delhi is also known as ‘Purana Quila’. It is believed that the place where the fort is built used to house the capital of Pandavas, of the great Hindu Epic Mahabharata. Old fort has served as the seat of administration for several emperors who have ruled over Delhi. Even though the citadel is now in ruins, but its splendor is still not fully lost.

It was constructed by the great ruler Sher Shah Suri in the 16th century A.D. It is believed that the construction of the fort was started by Humayun, one of the greatest Mughal rulers of his dynasty. But later on Sher Shah Suri defeated Humayun, took over the citadel and completed the construction. The citadel is a great example of Indo-Islamic style of architecture. The corners of the Old Fort of Delhi, along with its western wall, have strong fortresses. Its fortifications are around 2 km in length and are flanked by three double-storied main gates the north, south, and west, with ‘chhatris’ on top. The fort is made up of red sandstone along with the contrast of marbles and the walls of the fort are 18 meters high.

The Old Fort has three majestic gates: The Humayun Darwaza, the Bara Darwaza, and the Talaqi Darwaza. But only the Bara Darwaza is opened for entry. The all three gates are double storied and built with red sandstone. The Old Fort houses a number of amazing buildings which include ‘Quila Kuhna Masjid’ and the ‘Sher Mandal’. Both were built by Sher Shah Suri in a majestic style. The masjid is built in a blend of marble and sandstone. There is a prayer hall in the masjid and has five doorways with horse shoe shaped arches. The Sher Mandal is now an observatory. It was designed for entertainment purpose. The structure and style of the building suggests its architectural magnificence.

There is a museum at the gate of the Old Fort which houses significant artifacts belonging to the Mughal era. You must not miss the Sound and Light Show at the Old Fort. The show presents the history of the Delhi Old Fort which dates back to 5000 years. The most amazing part is that the nine pools of water come alive in the light which is fascinating!

The Old Fort is located quite close to Zoological Park, Humayun’s Tomb, and India Gate. Also there is a small lake near the Old Fort which provides to the boating facilities for the tourists.
The National Zoological Park of Delhi

delhi zoo, zoological park in delhi, chidiyaghar delhiThe National Zoological Park of Delhi is located next to Old Fort (Purana Quila) near Pragati Maidan. It is popularly known as ‘Delhi Zoo’ and ‘Chidiyaghar’ among the residents of Delhi. It was established in the year 1959 and reckoned as one of the finest and largest zoos in Asia. It was designed by Major Weinmann, Director of the Ceylon Zoological Garden, Colombo and Carl Hagenbeck, owner of the famous Animal Park at Hamburg, West Germany.

The Delhi National Zoological Park is spread out over an area of 214 acres and house of more than 2000 animals, reptiles, and bird species from different parts of the world like United States of America, Africa, Australia, and Asia. The Delhi Zoo is a peaceful place for these animals and birds. Apart from these, there are more than 200 tree species. All the species of trees are properly maintained and there is a description for each of these. There are a number of varieties of flora also to be seen in Delhi Zoo.

There are many animals in the zoo like Tigers, Gir Lion, Spider Monkeys, Zebras, Ziraf, and Chimpanzees. You will also have the opportunity to see innumerable reptiles and birds. The reptiles like King Cobras and Pythons have special underground caves. It also has almost all varieties of deer found in the country. The white tiger from Rewa, the elephant, and the leopard, are some of its attractions apart from the many rare species of India seen in the park. Leopard cat, Indian Rhinoceros, Hippopotamus, Black Buck, Indian Gazelle and Lion-tailed macaque are some other animals you should especially see on your visit.

Along with the wildlife, the Delhi zoo also features a library on the right side which is a storehouse of information on animals, birds, plants and many other common species. The zoo offers fine travel facilities to the visitors and there are open roof mobile vans that can be hired for a complete tour of the National Zoological Park. It is an ideal picnic spot, especially in winters, the tranquility and the greenery offers a pleasant respite from the humdrum of the city life. It will be a wonderful animal watching experience for you.

So, if you need to get the feel of nature by seeing the wildlife at large, Delhi Zoo is a most suitable choice to explore at its best.
National Museum in Delhi

National Museum Delhi, attractions in delhiNational Museum in New Delhi is not only Nation’s pride but matter of glorious experience for Delhites as well. Situated on Maulana Azad Road and the Corner of Janpath, it was established in the year 1947. It undoubtedly, is the only Museum in India, showcasing vast and varied articles of prehistoric era and of modern times, under the same roof. More than 5,000 years of our heritage that represents Indian culture at its best, is evident from over 2, 00,000 pieces of most beautifully awesome work of art, displayed on ground, first and second floor of the Museum. Various collections represent Buddhist Art, Archaeology, Harappa Civilization, Indian Miniature paintings, how the coins and scripts of India have acquired their modern face; over a period of time, Textiles weaved from Indian yarn, art of the West in its earlier days, splendid carving done in wood, instruments that create tuneful rhythms, etc.

Special student fee is only Rs. 1/- and timings are from 10 AM to 5 PM, all days except Monday. Indian and foreign visitors can carry cameras by paying Rs. 20/- & Rs. 300/- respectively, for each. Audio tours and guided tours to all galleries are conducted free of cost every day. There are film shows in the auditorium, all days of the week. To be able to understand India it its right perspective and, to comprehend its evolution, it is imperative to visit this National Museum. It offers extensive information; on rich social, cultural and traditional heritage of India.
Airforce Museum Delhi, attractions in delhi, places to visit in delhiAir Force Museum in Delhi

The Indian Air Force Museum in Delhi is a matter of pride and honor for all Indians. Situated within the Palam Air Force Station, premises, this glorious museum invites everyone to come and appreciate the Air might of India, on all days from 10 am until 5 pm, barring Mondays and Tuesdays. Every Indian’s head stands high , with pride that the Air Force Museum exudes, even from the outside; speaking of the Indian Air Force valorous deeds , in fact of the courageous acts of the entire Military Aviation in India.

The indoor gallery displays history with pictures and images that give you an insight into the various aspects of Air Force, its evolution and its courageous deeds, now turned into history for all to applaud. The uniforms, memorabilia, personal weapons the countless mementoes, souvenirs, some actual aircrafts and some other models, are indeed majestic evidence of the most breathtaking moments experienced by The Indian Air Force. Looking at the Anti Aircraft Guns, Vehicles, Ordinance Equipment and other assorted item, gives you sense of power and strength that come with these hi tech machines. War trophies, Radar Equipment, and Vehicles that have been taken into possession from the enemy, surely stimulate your patriotism and commitment to your nation. Many of those, who come to witness this Air Force Museum, and also want to take back home with them a chip of the Air force History, can buy souvenirs and other gift items sold there.