The national capital of India, New Delhi, is a major political and business hub. Moreover, it is also one of the major travel gateways to other tourist spots of northern India. Delhi nestles many different cities and culture within itself. It is a perfect fusion of ancient and modern, as it can be classified largely into New Delhi, Old Delhi and Outer Delhi.
New Delhi, the imperial city created by the British Raj, has a spacious and planned outlook. It is composed of spacious, tree-lined avenues and imposing government buildings. In contrast, the old Delhi was inhibited by Muslim rulers and was made in 17th and 19th century. It is full of formidable mosques, monuments and forts. It's a lively area of colorful bazaars, narrow streets and terrific traffic lines. On one hand, where you can see dashing examples of modern architecture as skyscrapers in Connaught Place, Nehru Place and other areas; on the other hand, there is a rich legacy of ancient palaces, forts, temples, mosques and monuments.
Delhi is the most dazzling and happening city of India, being the political hub of India. It houses the Parliament and is the governing seat of the country. A large number of historic monuments and heritage sites of India are located in New Delhi. And now in the growing age of globalization, one can see big city shopping malls flashing major brands from all over the world.
Delhi is a city with magnetic attraction and extensive glorious past. Every nook and corner of the city of Delhi seems like narrating the incidents of the bygone era. Thus, Delhi deserves to be your first destination if you want to understand both India and Indians truly.
Delhi offers its tourists a treasure of new-age tourist attractions. Visit world-renowned ancient and colonial monuments, beautiful gardens, lively suburb shopping malls, pubs, nightclubs or discotheques in this modern city.
Tourist Attractions in Delhi
India Gate
A high-arched memorial in tribute to the soldiers martyred in the Afghan War, it has the names of all these heroic men inscribed on it. India Gate hosts the parade of the Indian Republic Day on 26th January each year. It is also a nice tourist spot teeming with children, vendors and both Indian and Foreigner tourists. Quite pleasant, especially in evenings and nights when the whole edifice gets light up.
Lotus Temple
Lotus Temple, a beautiful white marble building and a place of worship for Bahai's are two temples worth visiting for those in search of spiritual rejuvenation.
For peace and spirituality, you can surely visit Kalkaji temple, ISKCON temple, Raj Ghat and the Lakshmi Narayan temple (Birla Mandir). Other amazing places to visit are Purana Qila, Delhi Zoo, Fun Park Appu Ghar, Jama Masjid and many more.
Red Fort/Lal Quila
This fascinating red sandstone fort is an example of the rich Mughal architecture. Red Fort is a venue to the Independence Day parade of India. The magnificent Red Fort, which is also the venue for India's Independence Day celebrations, takes you to a journey back in time to the era of mighty Mughal ruler, Shahjahan.
Qutub Minar
This 240 ft tall tower is the tallest monument in India ushered in the new Indo-Islamic style of architecture, which was a fusion of the Indian and Mughal styles. A 7m (23ft) high iron pillar stands in the courtyard of the mosque. It's said that if you can encircle it with your hands whilst standing with your back to it, your wish will be fulfilled. However, a fence now protects the pillar.
Connaught Place
Connaught Place is the most happening place in New Delhi. It is the central business district of New Delhi. A shopper's paradise- Connaught place is one of the most famous shopping destinations of India. It houses some of the best restaurants, discos and hotels of the city.
Rajghat
A simple open platform inscribed with the Mahatma's last words, 'Hey Ram' (Oh God) is set in a garden with fountains and a variety of exotic trees.
The mortal remains of Mahatma Gandhi were cremated on this spot on the west bank of the river Yamuna on the evening of January 31, 1948.
Humayun's Tomb
The first mature example of Mughal architecture in India, Humayun's Tomb was built by the emperor's grieving widow, Haji Begum, in 1565 AD.The mughals brought with them a love for gardens, fountains and water.
Constructed with red sandstone and ornamented marks the beginning of a new tradition of ornate style which culminated in the Taj Mahal of Agra.
Designed by the Persian architect, Mirza Ghyas, Humayun's Tomb shows a marked shift from the Persian tradition of using coloured tiles for ornamentation.
Located in the midst of a large square garden, screened by high walls, with gateways to the south and west, the tomb is a square tower surmounted by a magnificent marble dome. The dome stands 140 feet from the base of the terrace and is topped with a copper pinnacle.
In addition to the remains of Humayun, the complex also houses the grave of many other distinguished members of the Mughal dynasty.
Shopping in Delhi
Delhi is the right place to shop for all those who love shopping. Delhi has numerous massive shopping complexes. Starting from Connaught Place, South Extension, Chandni Chowk to Sarojini Nagar, Karol Bagh, Janpath and Lajpat Nagar. You can find all types of items in these markets from cheapest to expensive one. All these places are popular hangouts of the Delhites in the weekends and evenings.
