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.