Delhi, the proud capital of India, with a deep rooted history is the
second largest metropolis of India after Mumbai. Situated on the banks of
river Yamuna, Delhi is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the
world. The city is very much dipped in rich culture, diversity and
architecture. Both New and Old Delhi, boasts of a beguiling charm that it
leaves on the visitors. Snaking through the labyrinthine lanes of Old Delhi,
one actually can really feel like being carried to that Golden era, which
once existed.
From shopping to sightseeing, forts and monuments, the capital of Delhi has
many things to put at display before the tourists.
Main Attractions
Attractions in Delhi are many and all of them will leave you spellbound
with their sheer architectural variety. Imprints of aristocracy and grandeur
of the pre-independence period can be witnessed in every brick of Delhi.
Some of the worth visiting attractions of Delhi are:
Red
Fort - This monument is popularly called as Lal Quila and is the
largest fort built by the Mughal empire. It was constructed by Mughal
Emperor Shah Jahan from 1618 AD to 1647 AD. Every year the fort becomes the
centre of attraction for many tourists as it becomes the venue for the
Independence Day on 15th August. There are many places within the Red Fort
that you ought to see including Dewan-i-Khas, Diwan-i-Aam, Nawab Khana, Rang
Mahal, Hammams (baths), Pearl Mosque, Chatta Chowk and Musamman Burj.
Qutub
Minar - Built by Qutub-ud-Din Aibak of the Slave dynasty in 1199
AD, Qutub Minar is a worth seeing monument of Delhi. However Aibak was not
able to complete the entire construction work which was later commenced by
Iltutmish. Qutub Minar is one of the tallest structures of India at 72.5m of
which the first three storeys are built from red sandstone and the upper two
floors are made of marble and sandstone. There are 379 steps to the top of
the minar. Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Iron Pillar and Alai Darwaza are other
places around Qutub Minar, which are a must see.
Humayun's
Tomb - This mausoleum was built under the patronage of Humayun's
wife Haji Begum from 1562 to 1572 AD. It boasts of being the first garden
tomb of India with water channels and paths separating the gardens in to 36
equal parts.
Jama Masjid - Jama Masjid is the largest mosque in
India built in 1656. Though the non-Muslims are restricted from entry but
still they can enjoy the architectural splendour of the mosque.
Akshardham Temple - Dedicated to Lord Swami Narayan,
Akshardham temple boasts of a massive structure. The temple is beautiful
spread in a vast area. Inside the premises one can find a huge statue of
Swami Narayan. The complex is adorned with a number of captivating gardens
and splendid architecture. One can enjoy the exhibition related to Lord
Swami Narayan's life, which is very interesting. In the evening the whole
atmosphere of the temple complex is brightened with the musical fountain
show, which is a major crowd puller here.
Bangla Sahib Gurudwara - Bangla Sahib Gurudwara is a
pilgrimage spot for both the Hindus and the Sikhs. The Gurudwara has a
wonderful architecture adorned with the shimmering water of the pond here.
ISKON Temple - ISKON Temple is dedicated to Lord
Vishnu and has a vegetarian restaurant and a fine library.
National Museum - The National Museum of Delhi is no
less than an International museum. Here you can get the glimpses of India's
historical past both from ancient and medieval periods.
A must visit at the National Museum is the section devoted to artifacts
recovered from the Harappan and Mohenjodaro that belong to the Indus Valley
Civilization - one of the four great civilizations of the world
Delhi Zoo - The zoo of Delhi is rich with a variety
of wild animals. The zoo is a perfect place of enjoyment for the tourists
from various places, specially for children.
Shopping Destinations in Delhi
Connaught
Place - This is one of the major shopping areas in Delhi famous for
fashion accessories and other trendy garments.
Janpath and Palika Bazaar- Close to Connoaght Place
lies these two wannabe shopping spots, which are famous for goods of all
kinds and prices.
Lajpat and Sarojini Market - These two shopping
destinations of Delhi are an ultimate paradise for the shopaholics. From
trinkets to hand loom items, you name it at they offer you all.
Dilli Haat - What better place to see the rich
cultural and art & craft heritage of India than Dilli Haat. The Haat is
a prime hub for the outbound tourists, who get to buy and relish,
innumerable Indian handicrafts items.
Chandni Chowk - The age old traditional labyrinthine
lanes of Chandni Chowk takes to you the traditional India, specializing in
bridal wears.
Shopping Malls
Sky scraping Shopping Malls are the specialty of Delhi. The malls are
flooded with shopaholics anytime of the week. Some of the famous shopping
malls of Delhi are:
- Shipra Mall
- Pacific Mall
- Centre stage Mall
- Spice World
- Shoprix Mall
- Ansal Plaza
- The Great India Place/ Entertainment City Mall
