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Old Delhi Attractions
Old Delhi, also known as Shahjahanabad, is a historic and vibrant part of Delhi, India's capital city. It is characterized by its narrow lanes, bustling markets, and architectural marvels.
1. Red Fort (Lal Qila)
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Red Fort is an iconic landmark in Old Delhi. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan, it served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors. The fort's impressive red sandstone walls and intricate architecture are a testament to the grandeur of Mughal architecture.
Tourist Information of Red Fort
- Location: Netaji Subhash Marg, Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi
- Opening Time: Daily except Mondays (9:30 AM to 4:30 PM)
- Entry Fee: Foreign Tourists: ₹350 (approx. USD 4.30). Additional charges apply for the light and sound show
- Suggested Duration: 2-3 hours including time for the light and sound show
- How to Reach: The nearest metro station is Chandni Chowk on the Yellow Line. From there, you can hire a cycle rickshaw or walk to the Red Fort
Highlights of Red Fort
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Architecture: The Red Fort is an architectural marvel, featuring a blend of Persian, Timurid, and Indian architectural styles. Its imposing red sandstone walls stretch for about 2 kilometers, enclosing an area known as the Red Fort Complex.
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Diwan-i-Am: This is the Hall of Public Audience, where the Mughal emperors would address the public and listen to their grievances.
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Diwan-i-Khas: The Hall of Private Audience, adorned with intricate marble carvings, was used for private meetings and receiving special guests.
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Rang Mahal: The opulent palace within the fort, known as the Palace of Colors, housed the royal women and was decorated with vibrant frescoes and mirrors.
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Light and Sound Show: In the evenings, the Red Fort hosts a mesmerizing sound and light show that narrates the history of Delhi and the Mughal Empire. The show brings the fort's history to life through a captivating audiovisual experience.
2. Jama Masjid
Located opposite the Red Fort, Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan, it showcases stunning architecture and can accommodate thousands of worshippers. Visitors can climb the minarets for panoramic views of Old Delhi.
Tourist Information of Jama Masjid
- Opening Time: Opened everyday except prayer times
- Entry Fee: Free,but a small fee is charged for using the camera.
- Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours
- How to Reach: The nearest metro station is Jama Masjid on the Violet Line. From there, it's a short walk to the mosque.
- Entry and Etiquette: Visitors should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the mosque. Modest attire is provided at the entrance for those who need it.
Highlights of Jama Masjid
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Architecture: Jama Masjid is an architectural masterpiece and one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture. The mosque is constructed with red sandstone and white marble, with intricate patterns and calligraphy adorning its walls and domes.
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Courtyard: The mosque's vast courtyard can accommodate thousands of worshippers during Friday prayers. It offers a serene atmosphere for contemplation and prayer.
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Minarets: Jama Masjid has two towering minarets that are 40 meters high. Visitors can climb one of the minarets for panoramic views of Old Delhi.
3. Chandni Chowk:
One of the oldest and busiest markets in Old Delhi, Chandni Chowk offers a sensory overload with its narrow lanes, bustling bazaars, and aromatic street food. It's a paradise for shopaholics, featuring a diverse range of stores selling textiles, jewelry, spices, and more.
Tourist Information of Chandni Chowk
- Location: Old Delhi, near the Red Fort and Jama Masjid
- Opening Time: Early morning until late evening.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Suggested Duration: 2-3 hours or more
- How to Reach: The nearest metro station is Chandni Chowk on the Yellow Line. You can easily access Chandni Chowk by walking or hiring a cycle rickshaw.
Highlights of Chandni Chowk
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Cycle Rickshaws: Exploring Chandni Chowk on a cycle rickshaw allows you to immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance, witness the sights and sounds up close, and navigate the bustling lanes with ease. It's a charming and authentic way to experience the heart of Old Delhi's bustling markets.
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Shopping: Chandni Chowk is a shopaholic's paradise, with a wide range of shops and markets selling textiles, jewelry, spices, electronics, and much more. It is famous for its traditional Indian wedding attire and is a great place to experience the vibrant street markets of Delhi.
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Street Food: Chandni Chowk is renowned for its delectable street food. Try popular dishes like parathas, kebabs, chaat (savory snacks), and sweets like jalebi and rabri. Karim's and Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi Wale are popular spots to savor these culinary delights.
4. Raj Ghat
Raj Ghat is a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation in India. The memorial consists of a simple black marble platform with an eternal flame and is surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens. It is a place of reverence and reflection for visitors.
Tourist Information of Raj Ghat
- Location: Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Ring Road, Delhi.
- Opening Time: Everyday.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Suggested Duration: 30 minutes to an hour
Highlights of Raj Ghat
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Memorial: Raj Ghat is a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. It is located on the banks of the Yamuna River. The memorial consists of a black marble platform marking the spot where Gandhi was cremated after his assassination in 1948.
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Peaceful Ambience: Raj Ghat offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere, with lush green lawns, beautiful gardens, and shaded trees. Visitors can pay their respects to Mahatma Gandhi by placing floral tributes on the platform and observing a moment of silence.
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Gandhi Memorial Museum: Adjacent to Raj Ghat, there is a museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi's life and teachings. The museum displays photographs, personal belongings, and exhibits that highlight Gandhi's principles of non-violence, simplicity, and equality.
New Delhi Attractions
New Delhi, the capital city of India, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan metropolis that seamlessly blends modernity with rich historical and cultural heritage.
5. Humayun's Tomb:
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Humayun's Tomb is a magnificent mausoleum constructed in the 16th century. It is the final resting place of the Mughal Emperor Humayun and showcases Mughal architecture at its finest. The tomb's intricate marble work, Persian-style gardens, and symmetrical layout make it a visual delight. The surrounding gardens provide a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Tourist Information of Humayun’s Tomb
- Location: Mathura Road, Nizamuddin East, New Delhi.
- Opening Time: Daily (except Mondays) from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Entry Fee: Foreign Tourists: ₹500 (approx. USD 6.10)
- Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours
- How to Reach: The nearest metro station is JLN Stadium on the Violet Line. From there, you can take a short auto-rickshaw ride to Humayun's Tomb.
Highlights of Humayun’s Tomb
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Architecture: Humayun's Tomb is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and serves as a precursor to the renowned Taj Mahal. The tomb is built of red sandstone and showcases intricate marble inlays, arches, and Persian-inspired geometric patterns.
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Charbagh Garden: The tomb is surrounded by a charbagh, a traditional Persian-style garden divided into quadrants by water channels. The symmetrical layout and well-manicured gardens create a serene and picturesque setting.
6. India Gate
Located at the heart of New Delhi, India Gate is a renowned war memorial and an iconic landmark of the city. It was built in memory of Indian soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. The grand structure stands at a height of 42 meters and is surrounded by lush lawns. It serves as a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. The nearby Rajpath, a ceremonial boulevard, leads to the Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Residence) and the Parliament House.
Tourist Information of India Gate
- Location: Rajpath Marg, Near Connaught Place, New Delhi.
- Opening Time: India Gate is open to visitors throughout the day and night.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours
- How to Reach: The nearest metro station is Central Secretariat on the Yellow Line. From there, it's a short walk to India Gate.
Highlights of India Gate
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Architecture: India Gate is a majestic archway made of sandstone and stands as a symbol of national pride. The arch is adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions honoring the soldiers who sacrificed their lives.
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Amar Jawan Jyoti: At the center of India Gate, there is a perpetual flame known as Amar Jawan Jyoti, which symbolizes the immortal spirit of the Indian soldiers. It serves as a tribute to the unknown soldiers who lost their lives in various conflicts.
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Evening Atmosphere: India Gate is particularly enchanting in the evenings when it is illuminated. The surrounding gardens provide a pleasant setting for leisurely walks and picnics.
7. Rashtrapati Bhavan
Rashtrapati Bhavan, also known as the Presidential Palace, is one of the most significant landmarks in New Delhi. The building showcases a blend of Indian and Western architectural styles, designed by renowned British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens. It is an architectural marvel with intricate details, sprawling gardens, and impressive interiors.
Tourist Information of Rashtrapati Bhavan
- Location: Raisina Hill, near Rajpath, New Delhi.
- Opening Time: Rashtrapati Bhavan is open for public visits on specific days and timings. The Mughal Gardens within the premises are open to the public during the spring season (usually from February to March) for a limited period.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours
Highlights of Rashtrapati Bhavan
- Architecture: The building showcases a blend of Indian, Mughal, and European architectural styles. It covers an area of 330 acres and has a total of four floors, including the ground floor and three additional levels.
- Gardens and Mughal Gardens: Rashtrapati Bhavan is surrounded by vast gardens, including the famous Mughal Gardens. These gardens are meticulously landscaped and feature a variety of flowers, plants, and trees. The Mughal Gardens are open to the public during a specific period in spring, showcasing a stunning display of colorful blossoms.
8. Akshardham Temple
Akshardham Temple, also known as Swaminarayan Akshardham, is a magnificent temple complex dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan. It is known for its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and beautiful gardens. The temple showcases Indian culture, spirituality, and art through its exhibitions, multimedia shows, and boat rides. It is a popular tourist attraction that offers a blend of religious devotion, educational experiences, and visual grandeur.
Tourist Information of Akshardham Temple
- Location: Noida Mor, Pandav Nagar, New Delhi.
- Opening Time: Daily (except Mondays) from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Suggested Duration: 2-3 hours
Highlights of Akshardham Temple
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Architecture: Akshardham Temple is a remarkable Hindu temple complex known for its stunning architecture and intricate craftsmanship. It showcases a blend of ancient Indian architectural styles, with influences from Rajasthani, Gujarati, and Mughal traditions.
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Main Mandir: The centerpiece of the temple complex is the Akshardham Mandir, dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan. It is built entirely of pink sandstone and white marble, featuring detailed carvings, ornate domes, and impressive sculptures.
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Exhibitions and Shows: Akshardham Temple offers a range of exhibits and shows that provide insights into Indian history, spirituality, and culture. The Sahaj Anand Water Show, a multimedia fountain show, is a popular attraction that combines music, light, and water to narrate ancient Indian stories.
South Delhi Attractions
South Delhi, a prominent district of Delhi, offers a mix of historical sites, green spaces, upscale neighborhoods, and cultural attractions.
9. Qutub Minar:
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Qutub Minar is a towering minaret that dates back to the 12th century. It is the tallest brick minaret in the world, standing at a height of 73 meters. The intricate carvings and architectural elements reflect a fusion of Indo-Islamic styles. The Qutub Minar complex also houses several other notable structures, including the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Alai Darwaza, and the Iron Pillar.
Tourist Information of Qutub Minar
- Location: Mehrauli, South Delhi, New Delhi.
- Opening Time: Daily except Mondays (7:00 AM to 5:00 PM)
- Entry Fee: Indian Citizens & SAARC/BIMSTEC Countries: ₹30 (approx. USD 0.35), Foreign Tourists: ₹500 (approx. USD 6.10), with additional charges for photography.
- Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours
- How to Reach: The nearest metro station is Qutub Minar on the Yellow Line. From there, it's a short walk to the monument.
Highlights of Qutub Minar
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Architecture: The Qutub Minar complex showcases splendid Islamic architecture, featuring intricate carvings, verses from the Quran, and geometric patterns. The minaret is divided into five distinct stories, each marked by a projecting balcony.
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Iron Pillar: Within the complex stands the famous Iron Pillar, an impressive metallurgical marvel that dates back to the 4th century. Despite being exposed to the elements for centuries, the pillar has not rusted or corroded significantly.
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Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque: Adjacent to the Qutub Minar, you'll find the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in India. It displays a blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural elements, including reused Hindu temple pillars and intricate calligraphy.
10. Lotus Temple:
The Lotus Temple, also known as the Bahá'í House of Worship, is a stunning architectural marvel. It is shaped like a lotus flower and welcomes people of all religions to meditate, pray, or simply enjoy the tranquil ambiance of the serene surroundings.
Tourist Information of Lotus Temple
- Location: Kalkaji, Near Nehru Place, South Delhi.
- Opening Time: Daily except Mondays (9:00 AM to 6:00 PM)
- Entry Fee: Free.
- Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours
- How to Reach: The nearest metro station is Kalkaji Mandir on the Violet Line. From there, it's a short distance to the Lotus Temple.
Highlights of Lotus Temple
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Architecture: The Lotus Temple is a striking architectural marvel known for its unique lotus-shaped design. It is a Bahá'í House of Worship and welcomes people of all faiths. The temple is made of white marble and features 27 delicate, petal-like structures that converge to form the lotus shape.
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Serene Environment: The Lotus Temple is renowned for its serene environment, promoting peace, silence, and meditation. Visitors can sit in the prayer hall, which has no idols or religious symbols, and experience a tranquil ambiance conducive to reflection and introspection.
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Gardens and Surroundings: The temple is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, providing a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling city. The gardens offer a picturesque setting for visitors to relax, take a stroll, or engage in quiet contemplation.
How to Plan a Delhi Tour with the Top Attractions?
For most tourists visiting India, Delhi is often the first stop on their itinerary. It is a city steeped in rich historical and cultural heritage, adorned with ancient monuments and modern architectural marvels. Delhi is also renowned for its vibrant and colorful markets, making it an ideal starting point for an adventurous journey through India. Typically, spending 2-3 days in Delhi allows visitors to explore the city's highlights in depth. However, even a day in Delhi can provide a glimpse of its unique charm if time is limited.
Day 1: Arrive in Delhi and head for the Red Fort Sound and Light Show
- Arrive in Delhi and check into your accommodation.
- In the evening, head to the Red Fort to witness the Sound and Light Show. The show highlights the history and significance of the Red Fort through a captivating audio-visual experience.
Day 2: Delhi day tour from old Delhi to New Delhi
- Start your day in Old Delhi by visiting Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. Explore its stunning architecture and soak in the spiritual ambiance.
- Take a rickshaw ride through the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk, a vibrant market known for its narrow lanes, shops, and street food. Indulge in some local delicacies during your visit.
- Proceed to India Gate, a prominent war memorial. Take a leisurely walk around the area and appreciate the monument's significance.
- Afterward, head to Qutub Minar, a towering minaret and UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at its intricate carvings and historical significance.
- Next, visit Humayun's Tomb, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the stunning Mughal architecture and explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the tomb.
- Conclude your day tour and return to your accommodation.
This itinerary covers prominent historical sites, architectural marvels, and cultural landmarks, allowing you to experience the charm of both Old Delhi and New Delhi.
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