Delhi, the capital of India, is distinguished by historical architecture and cultural attractions. Due to the fact that the city is close to transport interchanges, Delhi is a popular holiday destination for tourists. India is a very cheap travel destination in Asia, making a trip to Delhi suitable for most travelers, even on a budget and on a rented car.
This is the oldest and busiest part of the city. This place used to be a shopping market, but over the years it has turned into a gourmet paradise. This place is well known for its cultural and gastronomic tours. If you can’t decide which eateries to visit, the Old Delhi food tour around Chandni Chowk is a fun way to experience the city’s cuisine. Dishes include local delicacies such as chole bhature, a type of fried bread, and aloo chat, spiced fried potatoes. Many sweets are also on offer, including jalebi and lassi drinks.
This world-famous attraction is located near the Red Fort. This structure was built by Shah Jahan between 1644 and 1656 and took over 5,000 workers to build. This majestic mosque with a huge courtyard is a prime example of architectural extravagance. The white marble and red sandstone mosque consists of three ornate gates, two 40-meter minarets and four towers.
Red Fort
The Red Fort, also known as Lal Qila, is located on the banks of the Yamuna River. The fort was built in 1638. It served as the residence of the Mughal emperors for over 200 years until 1857. Today you can admire the architecture and visit local museums.
Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar is the most famous astronomical observatory in the country. It was built in 1724 AD at the request of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II to collect astronomical tables. These tables predicted the times and movements of various celestial bodies such as the sun, planets, and moon. The monument is an impressive testament to the technical and scientific concepts that were used in the Middle Ages. The sundial found here, one of the largest in the world, is used to accurately determine the time with an accuracy of half a second.
Sri Lakshmi Narayan Temple
Just two and a half kilometers from Jantar Mantar is this stunning temple which was built between 1933 and 1939. It was opened by Mahatma Gandhi, who insisted that people of all castes be allowed to enter the temple. This three-storey temple is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu.
Raj Ghat
This is a memorial that is dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, the famous figure who helped India gain independence. It is located on the banks of the Yamuna River. The memorial is also Gandhi’s resting place and the site of his cremation after his assassination in 1948. Vanu G. Bhuta designed the monument aiming to reflect the simplicity of Gandhi’s life. Raj Ghat has received numerous awards for its architectural design. The memorial is located in the middle of a beautiful garden with numerous trees and fountains, which you can walk around after visiting the monument. The memorial is a black stone platform with Gandhi’s last words “Hey Ram”. An eternal flame also burns at one end of the platform.
This is a huge mausoleum made of red sandstone and white marble. Humayun’s tomb is located on the banks of the Yamuna River and is nicknamed “The Hostel of the Great Mughals”. It got its name because more than 160 people are buried here. However, Humayun has his main burial site right under the dome of the octagonal chamber. Not only that, but Humayun’s tomb has also been the site of numerous key events in history. Here the last Mughal king surrendered to British forces in 1857. In 1947, the surrounding garden was a refugee camp for families displaced during the partition of India. Today it is one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture.
Gateway of India
This attraction is a war memorial. It is dedicated to the 70,000 British and Indian Army soldiers who died between 1914 and 1921 during the Anglo-Afghan War and World War I. It is the most significant war memorial in the country, engraved with the names of over 13,000 soldiers. This attraction is surrounded by lush gardens that have become a popular picnic spot in the city.
Lodi garden is a famous historical site in New Delhi. It is also a park used by walkers, joggers and yoga enthusiasts. In addition, this attraction is a popular picnic spot due to the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. You can also see some of the 50 species of birds and butterflies that live in this park. In addition to the lush green landscape, the garden is adorned with 15th century mausoleums, mosques, bridges, lakes and a beautiful bonsai park. Historical features include the tomb of Muhammad Shah and the tomb of Sikandar Lodi.
National Museum of India
This museum is home to an extensive collection of over 200,000 artworks from Indian and international artists. It is noteworthy that the National Museum of India boasts relics dating back to the 4th and 5th centuries BC, the time of the Harappan civilization and the Buddha. As you explore, you’ll find a variety of stunning items, from paintings and murals to sculptures, wood carvings, and textiles.
Lotus Temple
This temple was built in the shape of a blooming lotus flower. It is one of the seven temples in the world that are dedicated to the Bahá’í Faith. The beautiful temple is surrounded on all sides by lush green gardens. This shrine was conceived and completed in 1986 by Canadian architect Fariborz Sahba. The Lotus Temple is open to everyone, regardless of religion, race, gender or nationality.
The Akshardham Temple, sometimes referred to as the Swaminarayan Temple, is another iconic cultural site in Delhi. It is also the fourth largest Hindu temple in the world. The word “Akshardham”, dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, literally translates as “the abode of the supreme ruler.”
The temple is a fine example of Hindu architecture, traditions and spiritual messages. The temple was opened in 2005 by the President of India. A notable event worth seeing at the temple is the musical fountain show. This event takes place at sunset and depicts the cycle of life and death.
