Delhi may best be described in one word: "experience." It does fit the atmosphere of the city. Delhi is enticing, seductive, challenging, wonderful, and nutritious at the same time. Delhi is appropriately referred to as "Bharat ka dil" since it is in the middle of the country. There are items available in this city that you would not discover elsewhere. A career may be made or broken by it. The producer is the government. An entrepreneur, among other things, is what it is. Delhi is all about living life the right way.
A unique blending of tradition and modernity, culture and commerce, history and modernity, and, most of all, a place where all religions are valued equally. The culture and style of life in Delhi are unique. Chandni Chowk and old Delhi are good places to see traditional ways of living, while Vasant Kunj and South Extension may give you a feel for modern Delhi.
The nation's newest and greatest apparel is first seen on Delhi's streets. The ideal place to go if you're a foodie is in the country's core. On the one hand, you may eat delicious street food that is also really cheap, and on the other, you can eat some of the most expensive foreign dishes in city restaurants.
In a nutshell, if you want to witness a wild but wise side of life, travel to Delhi at least once in your lifetime.
Here is a list of places in Delhi that you really must see if you want to feel the energy of the city. Explore it.
1. India Gate
This 42-meter-tall, "Arc-de-Triomphe"-like archway in the middle of Delhi is far taller in Indians' hearts. The All India War Memorial, today known as India Gate, was built to remember the 70,000 British Indian soldiers who died between 1914 and 1918 while serving in the First World War.
The India Gate was constructed as a battle memorial, but due to its striking architectural features, the monument seems to represent the height of triumph. Sir Edward Lutyens designed India Gate, which is strikingly similar to the Arch of Constantine outside the Colosseum in Rome.
India Gate has a new addition in the form of a black marble pedestal with a reversed rifle and a soldier's helmet on top during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971. This edifice, underneath the memorial archway, is encircled by flames on its four eternal sides. Amar Jawan Jyoti is the name of this. India Gate is one of the most significant war memorials in the country.
We are all aware of India Gate's importance in Indian history, but many of us might not be aware of how important the memorial is to Delhi residents. Whether there is a time of need or a reason to celebrate, India Gate is the perfect setting for that.
People who are traveling with their families to spend time together visit the area. Spending time with family and friends is made much more delightful by the nearby food booths.
2. Red Fort
Red Fort, also known as Lal Quila, is the source of national pride. Located in the heart of the city, it is an old fort. The Mughal Emperors who ruled the city for around 200 years spent much of their time in Lal Quila. Up until 1856, the Mughals lived in Lal Quila. The historic building served as the Mughals' political center as well.
The Red Fort was built in 1639, during the reign of Shah Jahan, a Mughal emperor. It was modeled after Shah Jahan's palace in Shahanabad, his fortified capital. It was referred to as the Red Fort because of the huge red stone walls that surrounded it. In addition to showcasing Shah Jahan's inventiveness, the palace offers a decent illustration of Islamic architecture from the time.
In the heart of Delhi, Lal Quila, are a number of pavilions and museums. At Lal Quila, every pavilion is a striking reminder of the majesty and magnificence of the Mughal Empire.
The architectural design of Lal Quila combines Timurid and Persian traditions to produce a unique Mughal building. However, the fort sustained significant damage from both the attack by the Mughal Emperor Nadir Shah in 1747 and the British invasion during the Revolt of 1857.
The Red Fort, though, continues to sparkle. It still occupies a prominent place in the political and cultural landscape of the country. On August 15, Independence Day, the Indian Prime Minister addresses the nation while raising the flag of his country. The Red Fort was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2007.
The Red Fort is a well-liked tourist attraction for visitors to the city all year long. Tourists may purchase souvenirs in the neighborhood market Chatta Chowk, which features a dome-shaped arcade. One may reach Lal Quila's main complex after passing via Chatta Chowk.
One amazing edifice houses the Drum House, the Hall of Public Audiences, the Hall of Private Audiences, the Pearl Mosque, the Royal Baths, and the Palace of Color. One of Lal Quila's biggest draws is the nightly Light and Sound show. The show reenacts India's historic history each evening.
3. Chandni Chowk
Chandni Chowk sometimes referred to as "Moonlight Square," is one of the Mughal Empire's enduring legacy that Delhi still adores. One of the busiest and oldest markets in the country, Chandni Chowk draws both tourists and local entrepreneurs to the city. Chandni Chowk was designed and built in 1650 by Shah Jahan's favored daughter, Jahan Ara Begum. 40 yards wide and 1520 yards long made up the market.
The origin of the location's name is intriguing. In the center of the Chandni Chowk's square design is a pool. The pool radiated moonlight at night, creating a mesmerizing scene. This could be where Chandni Chowk got its name from.
Chandni Chowk is renowned for a number of other things in addition to being one of the biggest and oldest markets in the country. This part of Old Delhi is home to several historical and religious attractions. Chandni Chowk is not far from Red Fort, the pride of India.
In addition, Chandni Chowk is home to a number of temples. There go people of many religions. Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir, Gauri Shankar Temple, Shri Shiv Navgrah Mandir Dham, Central Baptist Church, Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, Sunehri Masjid, and Fatehpuri Masjid are a few of the sites of worship near Chandni Chowk. Each of these places is not just religious but also has a past.
Chandni Chowk continues to rank among the major marketplaces in the country. In actuality, it's the biggest wholesale market in the country. There are shops in the little lanes of Chandni Chowk, and you can get some of the most amazing deals there.
In addition to the countless shops selling traditional Indian apparel for both men and women, the wholesale market for hardware, hotel kitchen supplies, industrial chemicals, silver and gold jewelry, spices, dried fruits and nuts, and herbs is a particular lure for travelers.
Your visit to Chandni Chowk would be incomplete if you didn't eat at one of the eateries there. This area is well-known around the world for its delectable food. Parathe Wali Gali, located in Chandni Chowk, is well-known for its extensive assortment of parathas. Your taste buds will be begging for more after sampling the variety of parathas available here, from the traditional Aloo ka paratha to the incredible Bhindi paratha. Additionally, you will have a better experience at places like the Gole Hatti, Natraj's Dahi Bhalle, Chaatwallah, the Jalebiwala, and others.
Chandni Chowk has also appeared in motion pictures. This region of Delhi's beauty has been beautifully represented in a number of films, including Chandni Chowk to China, Delhi 6, Black and White, and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham.
4. Humayun’s Tomb
The Humayun's Tomb, commonly known as the Mughal Emperor's Tomb, was built in Delhi between 1569 and 1570. The construction of the mausoleum was commanded by Empress Bega Begum, Humayun's first wife and principal consort.
The Begum had chosen a few Persian architects, together with Mirak Mirza Ghiyas, his son Sayyid Muhammad, and themselves, to design it. Nizamuddin East is home to Humayun's mausoleum, the first garden mausoleum in the Indian subcontinent. It was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1993.
The compound that houses Humayun's Tomb also houses the graves of Dara Shikoh, the grandson of Emperor Humayun and son of Emperor Shah Jahan, as well as Bega Begum, Hamida Begum, and Hamida. The mausoleum's structure is an excellent example of how Mughal architecture evolved.
Along with the main building, the Charbagh Gardens of Humayun's Tomb are is a key feature. These gardens were built using traditional Persian architecture and serve as a rest area for visitors.
The Humayun's Tomb structure is situated in Delhi's Nizamuddin district. Due to its proximity to Nizamuddin Dargah, the shrine of Sufi Saint Hazrat Nizamuddin, this location was chosen.
The architecture of Humayun's Tomb is incredibly beautiful. This captivating architecture embodies the Persian influences on Islamic architecture. 47 meters in height and 91 meters in breadth make up the tomb. The monument has a straightforward, symmetrical façade. The dome of Humayun's Tomb is a distinctive aspect. Therefore, when you visit Delhi, make sure to cross that place off your list.
5. Connaught Place
Connaught Place is one of the largest financial and commercial centers in the country and the globe. The corporate headquarters of some of the biggest companies are found on the site, also known as CP. It is also a well-known destination for fashion. The showrooms of some of the most well-known worldwide corporations are located in Connaught Place.
It is vital to note that Connaught Place is home to some of the most expensive real estate in the whole globe. The greatest accomplishment of Lutyens' Delhi was referred to as CP. Because of its excellent structure and architecture, Connaught Place is recognized as one of the city's top heritage sites and the pride of the country. The area is named in memory of Prince Arthur, 1st Duke of Connaught and Strathearn. The marketplace, which was built between 1929 and 1933, is now considered a standalone work of art.
Bath's Royal Crescent served as an inspiration for Connaught Place's Georgian design. Connaught Place is built in a circular shape and has two levels. Housing was supposed to be located on the top store and retail space on the ground floor.
Two concentric circles are used to divide CP into the inner circle, middle circle, and outer circle. The three rings are connected by the seven roads that branch out from the inner center park.
The government's plan to build the New Delhi Railway Station in CP was thwarted by a lack of space. Therefore, the Paharganj neighborhood, which is near Connaught Place, is where the station was built. In addition to its historical structures and architectural value, Connaught Place is widely renowned for its theatres and restaurants.
Traders used to come from the Kashmere gate area to this market. But with time, it changed into an entertainment hub for the wealthy. The Regal Cinema, the first movie cinema in Connaught Place, used to host favorite concerts, ballet performances, and theatrical organizations. The Odean and Rivoli theatres were then mentioned.
Another highlight in Connaught Place is Wenger's, the city's first pastry shop started by a Swiss couple. Today, the bakery is still operating.
Connaught Place gained Palika Bazaar, the city's first underground bazaar, after independence. It was constructed in the open area that was below the inner circle. Now that the Bazaar has stretched its wings, it is moving closer to the outer circle.
6. Qutub Minar
You can refer to it as Qutab Minar, Qutb Minar, or Qutub Mina. Whatever spelling you like, use it. While spelling may differ from historian to historian, people have always found architecture to be lovely. The 73-meter height of this minaret is made up of five stories. It's noteworthy to notice that the building has a base diameter of 14.3 meters and a top diameter of 2.7 meters.
The Qutub Minar was built with influence from the Afghan Minaret of Jam. The Delhi Sultanate's founder, Qutab Ud-din Aibak, is reported to have started construction on the minaret in about 1192. He is credited with building the first floor of the five-story minaret. The project was taken on by Iltutmish, Aibak's son-in-law and heir, who completed it in 1220 by adding three more stories to the tower.
But the Qutab Minar as it is now was built by Firoz Shah Tughlaq. Iltutmish built the upper floor, which was destroyed in 1369 by lightning. Tughlaq completed the building by putting another deck on top and fixing the damaged floor. Sher Shah Suri erected another addition to the building while Humayun was banished. He added a doorway within the minaret as well.
The complex of minarets' attractions is not limited to the Qutub Minar. In the nearby area, there are a lot of historical sites. The Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, which is situated on the same property as the actual minaret, is equally old. There is a famous and ancient iron pillar.
Let's talk about the minaret's structure. Afghanistan Minaret of Jam provided inspiration for the designers, as was already said. Given the garlands, lotus borders, and looping bells that it possesses, the carving on it has a decidedly local flavor. The Qutub Minar has endured through rulers and ages. The place is definitely worth visiting.
7. Lajpat Nagar Market
Delhi is a shoppers' paradise because of places like Lajpat Nagar market. It is a commercial and residential neighborhood in Delhi. The area is well-known in markets across the nation and was given its name in commemoration of Lala Lajpat Rai, regarded as the Lion of India.
The four divisions that make up the region are Lajpat Nagar I, Lajpat Nagar II, Lajpat Nagar III, and Lajpat Nagar IV. Well-known residential communities including Amar Colony, Dayanand Colony, Double Storey, Vikram Vihar, etc. are all included in Lajpat Nagar. The region is known for being a retail mecca, though.
The lady's salwar suit market in Lajpat Nagar is well-known worldwide. For diversity, there is just no place like it. The clothes and textile shops in Central Market are also wonderful. You may get the most cutting-edge and unique fabrics at the lowest costs.
Lajpat Nagar was established as a result of the influx of refugees from Pakistan, which had just gained independence. Hindus and Sikhs each received government-provided dwellings and land on which to build their own residences. Today, it is a well-liked vacation spot for travelers from the Middle East, Afghanistan, and Africa who travel to India for medical treatment or study.
8. Lotus Temple
One of Delhi's most well-known landmarks is the Lotus Temple. The location, which resembles a lotus flower, is a Baha'i House of Worship. After construction, which had cost around $10 million, the Lotus Temple's accessibility to the general public was completed in December 1986. The fame of the temple goes beyond its artistic worth. Visitors from all over the world flock to Lotus Temple because of its peace and tranquility.
This temple is open to everyone, regardless of religion, caste, or creed, which is wonderful. It remains a popular tourist destination, but solely in terms of the architecture.
In actuality, it has received several honors. In April 2014, the Baha'i House of Worship was visited by 100 million individuals, according to information made public by the Government of India. It is one of the most recognizable structures in the entire world. Many of the visitors that fly in to witness this architectural wonder and admire its beauty are architecture lovers.
9. Purana Quila
Purana Quila, an old yet beautiful fort, is situated amidst the glitz and grandeur of Delhi. Purana Quila is around two km long and is shaped like a rectangle. The monument was built during the era of Afghan Sher Shah Suri and Humayun, according to history.
The fort has walls that are 18 meters high and three arched entrances. The Bada Darwaza (Big Gate), which faces west, is still open. The Humayun Gate, which is situated south of the monument, is known by that name since Humayun himself built it. From that gate, one can view Humayun's tomb. The third gate is the Talaqi Gate, sometimes referred to as the Forbidden Gate. Each gate is decorated with blue tiles, white inlays, and colored marble inlays.
The intricate chattris and jharokhas, or pillared pavilions, and overhanging balconies, or jharokhas, on the gates, give off a lovely impression of Rajasthani architecture. As fascinating as the outside buildings are, the internal ones are equally fascinating.
Two noteworthy buildings located inside the Purana Quila that need notice here are the Shermandal, erected by Sher Shah, and the Qila-i-Kuhna mosque.
The pre-Mughal Qila-i-Kuhna mosque, with its single dome, was built in 1541. The mosque has five horseshoe-shaped entrances and is a great example of pointed arch architecture, which was later used in many Mughal monuments.
The Sher Mandal, named for Share Shah, is a red sandstone, double-story, octagonal tower on the opposite side. Sher Shah had begun the structure, but Humayun completed it after retaking the fort.
Locals and visitors to Delhi who are searching for a picnic or sightseeing venue frequently visit Purana Quila right now.
10. Akshardham Temple
The Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, also known as Akshardham, is one of Delhi's most important social, religious, and cultural landmarks. BAPS was responsible for building the temple. It was produced by Pramukh Swami Maharaj and was Yogiji Maharaj's inspiration.
At least 70% of all visitors to the region are attracted to the Akshardham Temple, which was formally inaugurated on November 6, 2005, by Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam. The Akshardham Temple in Delhi, which replaced the Akshardham Temple in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, was built in line with Panchatantra Shastra and Vastu Shastra.
The main shrine of the temple is its focal point and main attraction. The building features a variety of superbly constructed and cutting-edge display rooms.
A few of the complex's notable features include the Sahaj Anand water show, an Abhisheka Mandap, a themed garden, and three exhibitions: Sahajanand Darshan (Hall of Values), Neelkanth Darshan (an IMAX film on the early life of Swaminarayan as the teenage yogi, Neelkanth), and Sanskruti Darshan (a cultural boat ride).
The Akshardham Temple has beautiful architecture. It showcases a diversity of architectural styles from around the country. It has 234 ornately carved pillars and nine wonderfully made domes. 20,000 murtis of sadhus, acharyas, and worshippers are also present. At the temple, there are statues of Swami Narayana, Shiv Parvati, Radha Krishna, Sita Ram, and Lakshmi Narayan.
11. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
No matter what faith you follow, you should visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib in Delhi. One of the most well-known Sikh Gurdwaras in the country as well as the city. Due to its connection to Guru Har Krishan Singh, the eighth Sikh Guru, it is well-known.
Sikh General Sardar Baghel Singh built the humble Gurudwara Bangla Sahib at Connaught Place, New Delhi, in 1783. The area is easily recognized from a distance by its golden dome and Nishan Sahib, a huge flagpole.
It's important to keep in mind that Raja Jai Singh originally possessed and called Jaisingh Pura Palace the home that is now Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. Guru Har Krishan Singh is claimed to have lived at the house during his stay in Delhi in 1664.
There was a cholera and smallpox outbreak in the city. He assisted several patients and gave them water from a little well within the house. Later, he had the ailments himself, and on March 30, 1664, he perished dead. Raja Jai Singh constructed a small tank that is still standing on top of the well.
Since it is believed to have medicinal properties, people from all over the world bring the water from the tank with them. On the Gurdwara complex are a hospital, a library, a higher secondary school, and the Baba Baghel Singh Museum.
12. Lakshmi Narayan Temple
Lord Lakshmi Narayan is the subject of the Birla Temple, often called the Lakshmi Narayan Temple. The name is Lakshmi Narayan comes from the fact that Lord Vishnu is also known as Narayan when he is with his wife Lakshmi. While it is a Hindu temple, it is open to people of all castes and religions.
Baldeo Das Birla and his sons, a businessman, erected the temple, which Mahatma Gandhi inaugurated on the condition that it be open to people of all religions. Between 1933 and 1939, Delhi's first significant Hindu temple was built.
The Birla Temple is located on 7.5 acres of land and has a large garden, a shrine, fountains, and a lecture hall named Geeta Bhawan. The temple draws a large number of tourists and locals on special occasions like Janmashtami and Diwali.
The design of the temple is clearly influenced by modern Indian architecture. Sris Chandra Chatterjee, a well-known advocate of the "Modern Indian Architecture Movement," was in charge of its design. Over a hundred gifted artists from Benaras created the idols for the temple, which was constructed in the Nagara style of temple building.
The idols of the Hindu kings were carved out of marble stone from towns like Jaipur. The architects utilized Kota stone from Makrana, Agra, Kota, and Jaisalmer to construct the temple grounds. A lot of the campus's artificial scenery and plants are welcome and soothing. When you next visit Delhi, be sure to tick it off your list.
13. Hauz Khas Complex
Hauz Khas, a fascinating hotspot for young people in Delhi, is home to a vintage charmer by the name of Hauz Khas Complex. A water tank, a tomb, a mosque, an Islamic school, and a number of pavilions are among the fascinating elements of the Hauz Khas complex, which is located in the southern part of the city. A good representation of Delhi Sultanate rule during the thirteenth century may be seen at the Hauz Khas Complex.
The Hauz Khas Complex maintains a traditional appeal while being one of the nicest communities and business districts in the city. For instance, the water tank was built during the reign of Alauddin Khilji to meet the needs of the newly built fort at Siri in terms of water supply.
At this moment, the tank's size has drastically shrunk as a result of encroachment and siltation. Even yet, it has been preserved fairly well in its present state. Actually, the Delhi Development Authority makes a lot of effort to maintain the tank.
Another reason to visit the Hauz Khas Complex is the Firoz Shah Tomb. It is common knowledge that Firoz Shah Tughlaq made major historical contributions to Delhi. He battled a chronic illness during the years of 1385 and 1388, dying at the age of 90. It's noteworthy to note that within the limits of Hauz Khas, Firoz Shah built a tomb for himself in the shape of a dome.
Many Islamic professors and students who came for their Islamic education congregated in the Madrasa in the village of Hauz Khas. It has been referred to be the Mediaeval Centre of Learning in India by certain well-known historians.
14. Dilli Haat
For everyone who wants to quickly and thoroughly experience Delhi, a visit to Dilli Haat is a must. The aromas of cooking and shopping fill Dilli Haat. A food court and an open-air aircraft market are located in the southern part of the city. The Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation is in charge of running Dilli Haat, which has a paid admission policy.
Dilli Haat is a year-round market, as opposed to a conventional weekly market. However, some vendors do move around in the market on a weekly basis. Some of the unique items you could find are sculptures made of rosewood and sandalwood, embroidered camel leather shoes, beautiful linen and drapery, gems, beads, brassware, metal crafts, and silk and wool textiles. Exhibitions are held at the haat's exhibition hall to promote handicrafts and handlooms.
Due to its advantageous position, Dilli Haat is easy to reach from all modes of transportation. Be sure to bargain for the price if you intend to buy something from Dilli Haat. Dilli Haat functions as both a family picnic area and a shopping area. Families from the community go there to have fun and hang out with one another. College students use it as a gathering spot, especially female students.
There are a number of incredible food vendors that have set up shop in Dilli Haat. You may experience some regional delicacies as well as food from other states. Similar to handicrafts, the food served at Dilli Haat offers an excellent feeling of the local culture
Spend as much time as possible exploring Sarojini Nagar market and other nearby areas. Delhi's Sarojini Market is a little, fantastic, and relatively economical market, similar to Lajpat Nagar. Young people go to the Sarojini market, which is close to Dilli Haat, since it offers fashionable apparel and accessories at very low prices.
15. Raj Ghat
In Delhi's historic district, The Raj Ghat is a nice and peaceful spot. At Raj Ghat, a memorial created in his memory, the nation's founding father is celebrated. A podium made of black marble was built on the location of Mahatma Gandhi's cremation. It was built on January 30, 1948, the day after he passed away. Inside the memorial, which is still kept open to the sky, a never-ending flame blazes.
On Mahatma Gandhi Road, there is a place called Raj Ghat that is close to the Yamuna River. It is widely recommended by politicians, nobles, and historians alike. One must remove their shoes before reaching the Raj Ghat's fortifications. There is a grassy space outside the walled structure with some natural plants.
When you visit the Raj Ghat to salute Gandhiji, don't forget to stop by Shantivan, the Samadhi of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first prime minister. Shantivan lies on the northern boundary of Raj Ghat. K. R. Narayana, the country's tenth president, was cremated there in 2005; it is situated close to Shantivan.
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