With the multi-culture, multi-ethnicity and modern adoptions, Delhi is truly a cosmopolitan in the real sense of the term. Being the national and cultural capital of the country, Delhi is indeed the best holiday option you can think of. The diverse prehistoric ruins seen in the city are the silent witnesses to its magnificent history. Even though Delhi has evolved over the years, the splendid past of the city continues to hold an impeccable mark through its historical architecture and traditions. With its elaborate streets, elegant forts, monuments and bazaars, Delhi speaks volumes about its outstanding past. A tour to Delhi is the only way to experience the versatility of this amazing city. With a plethora of tourist attractions to visit, Delhi truly sums up as a treasure pot of surprises and is rightly called the tourist’s paradise. Explore the article to know more about the places to visit in Delhi.
Delhi Sightseeing
Red Fort
The Red Fort or Lal Quila, the rambling fort of red sand stones built along the river Yamuna, is surrounded by a wall of about 2.4 km in circumference. This fort was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan between 1639 AD to 1648 AD. The Red Fort in Old Delhi is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Delhi and till date continues to top every tourist must-see list. On visiting this place, you can also get the opportunity to indulge in some retail therapy in the Chandni Chowk bazaar.
Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid, located near Sadar Bazaar in old Delhi, is the largest and the most glorious architecture of Mughals. This mosque is perhaps one of the most extravagant constructions of the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan. Built in the year 1656 AD with the help of nearly 5000 artisans, Jama Masjid stands tall as an architectural wonder. During the Islamic festivals, the Muslims gather in the courtyard of this mosque to offer prayers. The spectacular view of Delhi from the top of the minarets makes for a great sight. The mosque is open to tourists on all the days.
ISKCON Temple
ISKCON temple is located in New Delhi at Hari Krishna Hill in the East of Kailash. With a beautiful garden and an enigmatic art gallery to boast of, this temple indeed ranks high as one of the most beautiful Hindu temples in India. Built by the Hare Rama Hare Krishna religious group, ISKCON temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple has a large air-conditioned hall, which can accommodate nearly 1500 people at a time. The walls of the temple are adorned with paintings by Russians artistes portraying the events related to Hindu mythology. The temple is open for visitors on all seven days of the week from 4.30 am to 12 am and from 4 pm to 9 pm.
Lotus Temple
Lotus Temple, which is often compared to the Sydney Opera House, is the most gorgeous temple of Bahai faith. Located 12 km to the southeast of Connaught Place, this temple has emerged as one of the most popular tourist’s attraction in Delhi. This distinctive temple, which stands out from the rest of the constructions, is better described as Mecca for the visitors. So if you plan to visit Delhi, then don’t forget to take a trip to this incredible house of worship.
Shankar’s International Dolls Museum
The famous Dolls museum in Delhi is an absolute paradise for the kids. The credit behind this spectacular museum goes to the renowned political cartoonist, K Shankar Pillai. Located at the Children’s Book Trust building in Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, the Dolls Museum in Delhi provides you the glimpse of gorgeous dolls not only from India but from all over the world. The museum is divided into two halves - one section displays the dolls from the European countries, USA, Australia etc. while the other section displays the dolls from the Asian countries.
Janpath
Janpath in Delhi is a popular shopping area at Connaught Place. In this bazaar, you can find almost everything, right from bags, jewelry, clothes, paintings, furniture, electronic goods and more. Close to Janpath, there is a State Emporia, which offers attractive handicrafts from almost every corner of the country. Located in the heart of Delhi, Janpath is a perfect place for bargaining. Whether you are good at bargaining or a person who like to have a glimpse of the items, Janpath is indeed the place to go.
Qutub Minar
Qutub Minar, the popular Indo-Islamic architecture is the major tourist’s attraction of Delhi. This red sandstone structure is noted for its minaret, which is 72.5 meters tall and is covered with engraved verses from Quran. Another interesting art of Qutub Minar is the Ashoka Pillar, which dates back to the 5th century. This pillar is said to make all your wishes come true, given that you hold the pillar by standing backwards to it while making a wish. Other popular structures inside Qutub Minar are Alai Minar, Quwwat-ul-Islam and the tomb of Iltutmish.
India Gate
India Gate, an important monument of Delhi, stands at the eastern end of Rajpath. This 42 meters high arch, designed by the famous architect Edwin Lutyens, was built in commemoration of more than 70,000 soldiers who were killed during World War I. Not only the monument but the entire surrounding area, which leads to the parliament house, makes for an impressive sight. Beautifully illuminated fountains near India Gate further adds to its ambience.
Rajghat
Set amidst the lush green lawns, Rajghat is the place where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated. A memorial to the father of nation, Rajghat is a must visit place in Delhi. This simple square platform, with black memorial stone, is located 4 km away from the Janpath and is adjacent to Feroz Shah and Delhi Gate. This famous memorial, flanked by lawns on both sides, is simplistically done and has a perpetual flame burning on one hand ceaselessly. Your visit to Delhi is incomplete without paying homage to Rajghat.
Humayun’s Tomb
Humayun’s tomb, built in the year 1565, is the greatest monument in the history of Indo-Islmaic architecture. Humayun’s widow, Haji Begum, is said to have initiated the construction of this magnificent Humayun's Tomb. Located on the Mathura Road, near the crossing of Lodi Road, the tomb is built on a large stone platform and the deep green lawns around the place makes the tomb the perfect blend of Persian architecture and Indian tradition. The place is planned according to Islamic paradise gardens and is known to have inspired the Taj Mahal and many later Mughal tombs. If you visit Delhi then don’t forget to visit the historical Humayun’s Tomb.
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