Delhi, the capital of India has a fascinating history and
a stimulating present. Delhi is fine amalgamation of old and new. The old
city, built by Shah Jahan in the 17th century, stands today as an epitome of
the whole history of Indo-Islamic architecture. New Delhi, designed and
constructed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker is a mixture of East
& West. Old Delhi presents old world charm whereas New Delhi reflects
the new world extravaganza. If you tour in the Old Delhi you will come
across old fashioned narrow alleys with small and big shops of various
items.
Sightseeing
In Old DelhiRed Fort : Built in Red Sand stone between 1639
- 1648 AD, this imposing fort is 3 kms in perimeter with the height of the
wall fluctuating from 18 to 30 m at places. In the evening the Delhi Tourism
Department organises a light and sound show which narrates the history of
Delhi in context of the Red Fort. The light & sound show organised here
is worth seeing.
Chandni Chowk : Located just opposite to
Red Fort, this is the place where you can enjoy the old world charm. The
hurrying crowd, the shouting vendors and overcrowded shops are the real
charm of this place. You can find all types of items starting from textiles,
jewelry, home furnishings, spices, household items to electronics,
chemicals, ceramics, electrical, etc. Though, very crowded and congested ,
it is worth visiting.
Jama Masjid : Jama Masjid built in
1650 AD by Shah Jehan (the Vth Mughal Emperor) is one place in Delhi which
is a must visit. One of the Architectural beauty of the past, Jama Masjid is
one of the largest mosques not only in Delhi but in India. Completed in 1658
this Mosque has three gateways, Four angle towers and two 40 m high
minarets. From the top of minarets you can have a birds eye view of Delhi.
Raj Ghat :Along the banks of the river Yamuna is located
the place where the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, was cremated. The
Raj Ghat is one of the most visited Ghats. A simple square platform of black
marble marks the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated after his
assassination in 1948.
Sightseeing In New Delhi -
Qutab Minar : Qutub Minar is the most recognised landmark
of Delhi. In 1199 AD, Qutbuddin erected the Qutub Minar either as a victory
tower or as a minaret to the adjacent mosque. From a base of 14.32 mtrs. it
tapers to 2.75 mtrs. at a height of 72.5 mtrs. Even today, it is the highest
stone and one of the finest stone towers in India. Completed by the Sultan's
successor and son-in-law, Iltutmish, Qutub MInar is the finest Islamic
structures ever raised. The tomb of Iltutmish, which he himself built in
1235 AD, is located nearby. The Lotus Temple : Completed in 1986, the Lotus
Temple or the Bahai temple is set amidst pools and gardens, and adherents of
any faith are free to visit the temple and pray or meditate silently
according to their own religion. The structure is in lotus shape so it often
called the lotus temple. The view of the temple is very spectacular just
before dusk when the temple is flood lit.
The Lotus Temple :
Completed in 1986, the Lotus Temple or the Bahai temple is set amidst
pools and gardens, and adherents of any faith are free to visit the temple
and pray or meditate silently according to their own religion. The structure
is in lotus shape so it often called the lotus temple. The view of the
temple is very spectacular just before dusk when the temple is flood lit.
India Gate : India Gate is a 42 mtrs high stone arch of
triumph. It bears the name of the 85,000 Indian Army Soldiers who died in
the campaigns of World War I. Below the arch is the memorial to the unknown
soldier. India Gate is surrounded by green grass lawns and trees. A place
you should not miss.
Jantar Mantar : Close to Connaught
Place is a strange collection of astronomical instruments. Built by Maharaja
Jai Singh this structure is actually an observatory. The astonishing part of
these observatories is that they can calculate many astronomical movements
very accurately.
Old Fort : It is believed that the
Pandavas had built their capital, Indraprastha at the place where the old
fort stands today. This fort, now in ruins, was the seat for administration
for many emperors. The legendary Prithviraj Chauhan ruled from here till he
was defeated by Abdali in the battle of Panipat. A new light & sound
show is held by the Department of Delhi Tourism every evening.
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.