Delhi’s famous sight-seeing spots

Delhi, a multi dimensional metropolis that’s home to a junta which speaks mostly Hindi, English and Punjabi, is sprinkled with vibrant bazaars, museums, stunning entertainment hubs and some of the swankiest restaurants, this part of Asia. But what overwhelms you the most are its striking monuments. A stay in Delhi is truly incomplete without experiencing the majestic charm and captivating beauty of these sparkling masterpieces.

The Old Delhi allure
Red Fort and Jama Masjid
This side of the city flaunts two gems: the Red Fort and Jama Masjid that bring a twinkle to every beholder’s eyes with their sheer size, aesthetics and beauty. To this day, these grandiose displays convey the pomp and power of the bygone Mughal era with such finesse, that they leave you stunned. While exploring the expansive Red Fort built entirely in red sandstone, don’t miss out on the Sound and Light show which is breathtaking to say the least!

As for the Jama Masjid, this three domed Mughal mosque houses an open courtyard that invites plenty of pigeons that add to the exotic aura, creating a sight to behold! The unparallel view, from the top of the southern minaret, of the Jama Masjid, Connaught Place and Sansad Bhavan, also ropes in many visitors as well as photography aficionados. Here, women are allowed entry, only when accompanied by a male.

Quaint charm of New Delhi
India Gate
In New Delhi, India Gate is a must visit, not only for its awesome architecture but also for its historical background. It marks the eastern end of Rajpath (King’s way) while at the western end is the Rashtrapati Bhavan. A 42 m high All India War Memorial stone arch, India Gate pays tribute to around 90,000 Indian army soldiers killed in World War I and North West Frontier. Histories apart, visit the place to stroll through its well lit lawns and enjoy some ice-creams treats by night – makes for a memorable urban experience!

Qutub Minar
A fine example of early Afghan architecture, it’s one of the most popular landmarks of Delhi. It is a 73m high commanding structure built on the orders of Qutubuddin Aibak in 1193, after the defeat of the last Hindu kingdom in Delhi. The tower has five storeys. The first three are made of red sandstone and the top tow of marble and sandstone. Entry into the top tiers of this structure has been banned today for security reasons.

Jantar Mantar
If astronomy appeals to you, then Jantar Mantar is a must-visit. Comprising of terracotta red structures, it flaunts a huge sun dial along with other instruments, which plot the course of heavenly bodies, with an accuracy that’s baffling. The Jantar Mantar observatory was masterminded by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur in the 18th century under orders of the Mughal rule.

Humayun / Safdarjung Tombs
These tombs are fine examples of Mughal architecture. The Humayun Tomb (off Mathura Rd.) is a complex of many smaller monuments such as Nai ki Gumbad, Arab ki Sarai and others reminiscent of the bygone era. The formal gardens and architectural splendour, make them worth a visit.

Tughlaqabad
This stone fort, built by Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq as protection against Mongol attacks, flaunts the extensive use of red sandstone and marble. Its strong ambience and medieval charm easily transport you back to a forgotten era. Today, art galleries, restaurants and a few shops have cropped up within this fort, which add an undeniable urban charm to this quaint fort.

National Zoological Garden
Favoured by families, the zoo provides a tranquil retreat from the bustling cityscape. The place is very well maintained and houses some rare birds and beasts such as the great Indian hornbill and white tigers. What makes the visit more interesting are the numerous tombs, minars and ruins from the Mughal period, that you come across, while here.

Chattarpur Temple
The temple is worth visiting for its architecture as well as the sheer beauty of the structures and a serene ambience. About 4 km drive from Qutub Minar, its white marble buildings and lush greenery, instantly cast a divine spell on you. It is popular among both devotees and the not-so-religious. The rush at this temple, during Navratras and Durga Puja, is a sight to behold!

The Bahai House of Worship
Built by the growing Bahai community of the world, this house of worship is called the Lotus Temple in keeping with the shape of its prayer hall. The serenity and universal tolerance of this place of worship leaves a lasting effect on every visitor. What adds to the exclusive appeal of the Lotus Temple is the fact that it is the only Baha’i temple in Asia.

Swami Narayan Akshardham Temple
This mammoth temple complex is built by the Swaminarayan sect. Its elaborate pink sandstone and white marble architecture boasts of exquisite domes and pillars and brags of 20,000 carved deities! Apart from the main temple, you can enjoy exhibitions on spiritual topics, shows on Bala yogis which are shown on giant screens, as well as a boat ride through the history of ancient India, complete with gardens, lawns, historical figures, et al. And if hit by hunger pangs, dig into some lip smacking Indian fare at Premwati Restaurant.

Well, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Scrape further and you’ll truly discover Delhi in all its glory! Have fun exploring!