Delhi

Delhi Imposing monuments with traditional architecture, amazing eating places and bustling markets - Welcome to the vivacious city of Delhi!!

Introduction

Delhi, the heart of India, is a rich amalgamation of culture, religion and architecture. Since time immemorial, this imperial city has been the first choice for many great emperors. Delhi, a vibrant city located on the banks of River Yamuna, boasts of its massive colonial buildings, monuments, museums, malls, skyscrapers, galleries and gardens. The city witnessed the rise and fall of many dynasties, and the ruins of those eras bespeak their glory. This makes this city an ideal and most coveted tourist destination. Delhi is also renowned for its lip-smacking food and lively markets. For a traveller, there are lots of things to do in Delhi, and you need at least 3-4 days to explore its main tourist spots.

Places to explore

Qutub Minar

The 72.5 m high minaret with 14.32 m diameter at the base and 2.75 m on the top is the highest tower in India. Qutbu'd-Din Aibak (of Slave or Mamluk Dynasty) commissioned its construction in 1199 AD which was completed by Shamsu'd-Din Iltutmish, his successor and son-in-law. Listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site, the five storey minaret projecting balconies is made of red and buff sandstone and is surrounded by lush green garden. It has various inscriptions in Arabic and Nagari characters in different places. The compound of the Qutub Minar consists of Quwwat-us-Islam mosque, the 7-metre-high iron pillar, the tomb of Iltutmish, Ala’i-Darwaza and Ala’I Minar.

Humayun’s Tomb

Hamida Banu Begam, the widow of India’s second Mughal ruler Humayun, commissioned the construction of the tomb in 1569, fourteen years after his death. The tomb is built in Persian style and flaunts the finest example of architectural brilliance designed by Persian architect Mirak Mirza Ghiyath. Arched alcoves, corridors and the high double dome depict the Persian influence while the touch of Indian traditions is clearly visible on its kiosks. It was the first garden tomb on the Indian subcontinent which has the graves of various Mughal rulers. Designated under UNESCO World Heritage Site, this was the place where last Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar had taken refuge during the revolt of 1857. The monument has been a hot favourite for Indian filmmakers where the shooting of many films have taken place.  

Red Fort

Built under the aegis of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the Red Fort once served as the palace for Mughal emperors for more than 200 years. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the fort derives its name from the red stone used in its making. The construction of the Red Fort commenced in 1639 after Shah Jahan shifted his capital from Agra to Delhi and laid the foundations of Shahjahanabad in 1638. It took nearly 9 years for its completion. The magnificent edifice is built in Indian, Persian and European style, giving it a unique touch. The complex of the Red Fort comprises audience halls, imperial apartments, main gates, walls and ramparts. Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audiences), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), Rang Mahal (Palace of Colors) and Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque).

Jantar Mantar

Constructed in 1724, this observatory with masonry instruments was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur on the order of Mughal Emperor Muhammad Shah. It was used to compile astronomical tables and to predict the times and movements of the sun, moon and planets. The observatory has three instruments - Samrat Yantra, Jai Prakash Yantra and Misra Yantra. Its relevance still exists, and till today modern day scholars use the observatory to determine the exact position of astral bodies in the universe.

Lotus Temple

Also known as the Baha'i Temple, the Lotus Temple was designed by Furiburz Sabha. The temple is shaped like a lotus flower with 27 petals.  It has won many awards  for its unique and artistic design. The temple welcomes people from all religions and beliefs. It is made up of white marble and has nine pools. Be it natural or electric light, these pools, when come in contact with these lights, create an extremely dazzling view. One can meditate, pray or chant in the temple according to one’s belief. A visit to the temple is a peaceful and spiritual experience.

 

India Gate

At a height of 42 metre, India Gate was built under the supervision of the Duke of Connaught in 1921. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, the foundation of this monument was laid in order to commemorate the 70,000 Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives while fighting for the British Army during the World War I. There are names of over 13,000 Indian and British soldiers inscribed on this war memorial who were killed in the 1919 Afghan war. Surrounded by lush green lawns, it is a very popular spot among domestic and international tourists. The evenings and nights at India Gate become lively when people in huge number visit these lawns. Here, you can also enjoy boating at the famous boat club.

Rashtrapati Bhawan

Formerly known as Viceroy's House during the British Empire, the Rashtrapati Bhawan (Presidential Palace) is an architectural marvel located opposite to the India Gate. The edifice is the official residence of the Indian president sprawling in a floor area of 200,000 sq. ft having four floors with 340 rooms. Designed by world famous architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, it saw its first occupant Viceroy Lord Irwin on January 23, 1931. It was renamed Government House after India got independence in 1947. It was only in 1952 when it got its new name Rashtrapati Bhavan. The back of the Rashtrapati Bhavan is decked with Mughal Gardens, a group of breathtaking gardens built by the Mughal emperors. These gardens, one of the top attractions in Delhi, are open for public in February every year.

Luxury hotels

Delhi boasts of many luxury hotels, which offer top-notch services. These hotels speak of luxury and comfort with unparalleled hospitality.

Taj Mahal Hotel

The hotel is a replica of Mughal architecture with immaculate gardens and awe-inspiring ambience. The welcoming hotel staff, outstanding services and its prime location set it apart from its rivals. Its 292 luxurious rooms and grand suites provide you with stupefying aerial views of Delhi’s rich heritage. Dotted with world class facilities, the hotel comes with five restaurants, two bars, beauty centre, gym, female butlers and six banquet halls.

 

The Leela Palace

An impressive luxury hotel with magnificent architecture. Its legendary hospitality and quality services assure guests a royal stay and proximity to famous monuments makes it an idyllic hotel. Here, the rooms are classy and spacious with contemporary amenities. Spa, lobby lounge, meeting rooms, multi cuisine restaurants, library, swimming pools and modern gym are main features of the hotel.

ITC Maurya

It is a lavish hotel with 438 elegantly-designed rooms and opulent interiors. The hotel is recognised for its exemplary hospitality and high-end facilities. For more than 30 years, it has been the first choice for heads of state, royalty and business leaders across the world. Its unmatched safety and security arrangements, far-famed restaurants especially Bukhara, splendid suites and rooms, spa and wellness centres provide the guests with exceptional experience.

 

Hyatt Regency

It is a premier luxury hotel which talks of warm hospitality, and is ideal for both business and leisure travellers. Its 507 suites and rooms are best in style and elegance. The seven floors of the hotel offer a beautiful panoramic view of embellished gardens and the glorious city. Dotted with contemporary facilities, this five-star hotel with commendable facilities promises you an extraordinary stay. In addition, Le Meridien, Jaypee Vasant Continental, JW Marriott and The Oberoi are other prominent hotels renowned for their unmatched luxury.

Luxury trains

The fascination of visiting Delhi increases with various luxury train tours being operated from here. Palace on Wheels, Indian Maharaja Express, Maharaja Express, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, Royal Orient Train and Fairy Queen Luxury Train are some of the luxury trains that recreate the magic of royalty soaked in elegance. The heritage tours offered by these trains are high on luxury with aristocratic services. Ethnic interiors and gracious hospitality in these trains create a majestic splendour. Relive the bygone era and explore the true essence of Indian culture with a journey on these luxury trains.    

Shopping: Delhi offers multiple options when it comes to shopping. For a shopaholic, Delhi is a perfect place with exceptional shopping markets. Shopping in these markets is complete fun for one and all. The open air markets of Delhi Haat at INA Market, Janakpuri and Pitam Pura are famous for their handloom and handicraft items, gems, beads, footwear and drooling delicacies of Indian states complemented by various cultural activities which often take place here. Janpath market deals in accessories, apparels, artificial jewellery and decorative products, etc., and is a hit among foreigners. If you are particular about leading international brands, the shops at Greater Kailash, Connaught Place and South Extension markets are the best choices. Khan Market, among the most expensive markets in the world and costliest in India, draws elite class with its ethnic apparels, home appliances and sports goods. The markets of Sarojini Nagar and Lajpat Nagar are famous for trendy clothes, accessories, latest footwear, bags, kurtis and saris available at reasonable rates.

Cuisine: Delhi is a paradise for foodies. Being a multicultural city, one gets huge variety of food. From street foods, snacks to main courses - Delhi is a place to delight your taste buds. Paranthe Wali Gali in Chandni Chowk is famous for its variety of paranthas (stuffed breads). Butter chicken, kebabs, chole bhature, biryani, nihari, rolls, momos, chaats and desserts are the most famous foods in Delhi. The locals of the city fondly relish Punjabi, Rajasthani, South Indian and Gujarati cuisines consisting of lip smacking dishes.  

Preferable time to visit: The multifarious aspect of Delhi is best witnessed from October to March when the weather remains pleasant and cool.

How to go

By Air: Nearly all major airlines have their international and domestic flights operating from Indira Gandhi International Airport. The domestic travellers can also land at the Palam Domestic Airport.

By Rail: New Delhi Railway Station, Old Delhi Railway Station and Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station are important railway stations in Delhi.

By Road: Inter State Bus Terminus (ISBT) at Kashmiri Gate, Sarai Kale Khan and Anand Vihar are main bus stands in Delhi.

Delhi -  A hub of diversity

Carrying the shadows of its glorious past, Delhi reflects the rich legacy of India making it one of the greatly desired cities.