DELHI
ABOUT DELHI:-
The Indian capital is a striking modern metropolis blending modern with contemporary finesse. It is bordered by Haryana on three sides and by Uttar Pradesh to the east. A gracious contrast to Old Delhi's winding streets, the grand avenues and stately buildings of New Delhi are rich with history and culture, from Gandhi's Delhi home (and the site of his assassination) to the tomb of Humayun,. Delhi is of great historical significance as an important commercial, transport, and cultural hub, as well as the political centre of India.
Best Time to Visit Delhi: October to March
Major Tourist Attractions of Delhi:-
Red Fort
Red Fort symbolizes the era of Mughal rule in India. Now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is also an enduring symbol of political authority. The Fort, built in 1638, is a magnificent monument that captivates your attention and exhibits the show of architectural splendor of Mughals. The 33m high walls of Red Fort were built with a view to prevent invaders. Sound and light show is conducted here in the evenings. The one-hour long show recreates historical events associated with Red Fort. The Fort is closed for visits on Mondays.
Humayun’s Tomb
Humayun’s tomb is sublimely well proportioned, seeming to float above its symmetrical gardens. Built in the year 1570, Humayun’s Tomb is a monument built by Queen Haji Begum, widow of Humayun. The monument displays the inspiration of Persian architecture. The world famous Taj Mahal bears resemblance to this monument constructed during early Mughal rule in India. To the right as you enter the complex, Isa Khan’s tomb is a fine example of Lodi-era architecture, constructed in the 16th century. Further south is the monumental Khan-i-Khanan’s tomb, plundered in Mughal times to build Safdarjang’s tomb. It is open on all days for visits except Friday.
Qutab Minar
The tallest tower in India, Qutab Minar, is said to be constructed to commemorate the victory and the beginning of Mughal era in India. The 73-meter tall tower was built by Qutab-ud-din Aibak after the last Hindu Kingdom was defeated. However, some say that it was built to serve as a minaret to call those faithful to prayer. Qutab Minar has five storeys and every storey is marked by a projected balcony. While red sandstone was used in the construction of first three storeys, marble and sandstone were used to construct the last two storeys. India’s first ever mosque, Quwwat-ul-Islam is at the foot of Qutab Minar. The Qutb Festival of Indian classical music and dance takes place here every October/November.
Lotus Temple
Bahai Temple is famously known as Lotus Temple owing to its resemblance to lotus flower. Baha'i Temples wed “two essential, inseparable aspects of Bahá’í life: worship and service.” Lotus symbolizes four religions namely Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism and Jainism. Out of the seven major Bahai temples constructed around the world, the one in Delhi was constructed last. The structure was completed in the year 1986 and pure white marble was used in the construction. The place is serene and is open for prayers and meditation by people who follow any religion. The nine pools of water around the petals is a sight to watch at dusk.
Lodi Gardens
Lodhi garden is located beside India International Center which is just 3 kilometers away from Humayun's Tomb. Lodi Gardens was built in 1936 by British around the tombs of the rulers of 15th and 16th centuries. The 90-acre Garden is an excellent place to relax, walk, jog and enjoy the beauty of nature. The National Bonsai Park situated in the Gardens is yet another attraction. There is a Bara Gumbad and Sheesh Gumbad in the center of Lodhi Garden in Delhi which speak of the architectural glory of that era.
Swaminarayan Akshardham
Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, the world’s largest Hindu Temple, 'Akshardham' means the divine abode of God. It is hailed as an eternal place of devotion, purity and peace. The 42 meter tall construction was completed in the year 2005. Apart from using concrete for the foundation, the entire construction was made using granites and marbles from all parts of the world. The structure stands proof of architectural excellence.
India Gate
At the centre of New Delhi stands the 42 m high India Gate, an "Arc-de-Triomphe" like archway in the middle of a crossroad. India Gate was constructed in the year 1931 as a war memorial for over 70,000 soldiers killed during First World War and Afghan War. The names of the soldiers are inscribed in the walls of India Gate. It was earlier known as “All India War Memorial”. Situated on Rajpath, India Gate looks stunning in the evening lights.
Jantar - Mantar
Constructed in 1724 by Maharaja Jai Singh of Jaipur, Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory. Fascinating for their ingenuity, the instruments at Jantar Mantar can no longer be used accurately because of the tall buildings around. However, a visit to admire the science of Indian astronomy makes it one of the most visited tourist attractions in Delhi.
ISKON TAMPLE
ISKCON is a spiritual institution founded by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada in 1966. You can see the beautiful visual presentations of Bhagavad Gita with colourful lights that create wonderful effect on the huge screen. They also organize beautiful robotics and Mahabharata show during the evenings. Opening hours: 4:30 am to 8:30 pm
National Rail Museum
With an exotic collection of over hundred exhibits of trains from Indian Railways, National Rail Museum is one of the coolest must visit places in Delhi. Static and working models, signaling equipment, antique furniture, historical photographs, Prince of Wales’ Saloon, Maharaja of Mysore’s Saloon are the major attractions. A mono toy train is the star attraction among kids. Closed on Mondays and national holidays.
Parks & Nature Spaces:
Lodhi Garden – Blend of nature and tomb architecture, ideal for walks & yoga
Garden of Five Senses – Thematic gardens and sculptures, great for couples and families
Mehrauli Archaeological Park – Offbeat ruins and greenery near Qutub Minar
Yamuna Biodiversity Park – Great for bird watching and nature trails