An architectural marvel par excellence, the glorious India Gate is an emblematic jewel of New Delhi. It is a majestic structure that stands at the end of Rajpath, amidst manicured lawns and water fountains carved in sandstone. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, it was originally known as the All India War Memorial. This structure was built in honor and memory of the scores of Indian soldiers who laid down their lives as part of the British Indian Army between 1914-1921 in battles across the world. Beneath its arch burns the eternal flame, or Amar Jyoti, which has been alight since 1971. The area is especially breathtaking in the evenings when India Gate and the sprawling lawns are dramatically lit. Drawing its architectural nuances from that of a triumphal arch, this is one of the most beautiful localities in the city.
The Eternal Gandhi Multimedia Museum which was the Gandhi Smriti is the place where Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated on January 30, 1948. It was his residence at that time and was converted into a museum soon after his death. It displays an extensive collection of Gandhi's photographs and personal items. There is also an interesting exhibit of small doll houses and terracotta dolls portraying the major events of Gandhi's life. The bare room, where he resided, is kept just as it was in his time. His last footsteps, from the house into the garden (where he was shot) are marked out in cement.
A trip to Delhi would amount to much less if The National Museum were not on your itinerary. Built in 1960, this repository stores an endless and spectacular collection of Indian antiquities. The collection is truly fantastic and extraordinary; there are treasures from pre-historic times and from the time of the birth of Indian civilization. Priceless pieces of art and sculptures from the Indus Valley civilization, can also be found here. That's not all, the museum houses rare miniatures, Buddhist and Jain relics and an extensive collection of artifacts from the Chola Era. If you are interested in decorative arts; this museum exhibits those too.
The tranquil Lodhi Gardens are as historic as they are picturesque. Mottled with a tracery of manicured lawns, verdant foliage and mammoth trees, the gardens are steeped deep in both, natural magnificence and antiquity. The Bara Gumbad sits right in the heart of the garden, and gives way to a spectacular three-domed mosque, whereas the Shisha Gumbad carries within itself remnants of an ancient family. The tomb of Muhammad Shah looks nothing short of a palace, while the tomb of Sikandar Lodi features a majestic walled enclosure. These tombs, with their sharp arches, glazed tiles and structural domes, are a testament to the sheer genius of Mughal architects. The garden is further enriched by a tracery of water features, including trickling rivulets, and a placid lake. Considered a favourite among picnickers, joggers and families, the garden is located in close proximity to Humayun's Tomb.
Built as a solemn commemoration to emperor Humayun by his wife Bega Begum in the 16th Century, this structure, resplendent in red sandstone, is considered to be the next best thing after the Taj Mahal in Agra. The tomb is awe-inspiring, nestled amid lush green lawns on three sides and a meandering river on the fourth. There are other tombs within the premises as well, those of Humanyun Baber's and Isa Khan's. Stirring semblances of Mughal and Persian architecture are entrenched in the tomb's facade, whereas the well-pruned Charbagh, adorned with four water courses, adds to its ethereal aura. Bearing a tapestry of latticed windows, finely-carved mirhabs, sharp archways, beams as well as elegant minarets, the tomb is considered to be first garden-tomb in the country, and is known to have defined the architectural course of several monuments, including the Taj Mahal. Having found its due place on the UNESCO World Heritage List, the tomb is not only frequented by tourists, but also has its loyal local admirers who throng here in hordes.
National Science Centre Museum, situated at Pragati Maidan, is a fascinating place that houses a collection of scientific instruments and models. Inside the museum, the Human Biology Gallery and the Dinosaur Gallery are the most frequented corners. Some other displays include a section on India's contribution to the field of science and technology. The museum holds regular science exhibitions and workshops as well. Whether you're interested in astronomy, physics, biology, or any other facet of science, this museum provides an exciting and educational experience. With interactive exhibits, engaging displays, and hands-on activities, this museum is a fantastic destination for visitors of all ages.
World Bank works in association with the local and central governments on a number of development projects in India. The office in Delhi is situated in the Lodi Estate. The building made of beige and pink sandstone is a spectacular sight to watch. The architecture is reminiscent of the Mughal past and still keeps its contemporary appeal intact. The place is worth a visit for sheer architectural brilliance.
The Jagannath Temple in Delhi is dedicated to Jagannath, a Hindu deity and form of the god Vishnu. The oldest and most famous form of the deity is in Orissa and Oriya community of Delhi built this temple in honor of the same. Worshipers visit the temple all round the year but the temple is busiest during the festival of Rathyatra. Held in June, this festival commemorates the deity Jagannath's annual journey to his aunt's home and is celebrate world over.
From far, the beautiful golden dome of this Gurdwara, catches your attention. Situated in North Delhi, Gurudwara Nanak Piao is a proud landmark that stands alone on the Grand Trunk Road, attracting its devotees. Mainly visited by Sikhs, this Gurudwara is dedicated to the first guru of Sikhs, Guru Nanak Dev. Not only is it beautiful, but the story behind its construction, is quiet intriguing. So step in here, to know the interesting history or simply to offer your prayers and enjoy the tranquility of this place.
On one side of the Mehrauli road, on top of a small hill is Ahinsa Sthal. It is a large statue of Mahavir, which was put up in the 1980s on what used to be a a small lighthouse in the 19th century. The area around the statue has been made into a beautiful park called the Ahinsa Sthal or the area of peace. It is also considered to be a Jain place of worship. The best times to visit are early evenings; the place is surrounded by flower vendors and buzzing with visitors.
This gurudwara (temple) stands where once there was a neighborhood of stirrup-makers. It was built in 1732 by Lakkhi Banjara, the man who performed the last rites of the martyred Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur. The style is characteristic of Sikh gurudwaras. With typical arrogance, the team of Edwin Lutyens, the famous architect of Delhi, could only describe the building as 'a Sikh shrine impossible to remove.' It is visited by thousands of devotees everyday.
Located in Chandni Chowk, Gurudwara Sis Ganj, is built in the fond memory of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth guru of the Sikhs, who was executed here by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The peaceful environment surrounding this place welcomes you, as you enter this beautiful gurudwara. Throughout the day, the religious hymns called Gurbani are played and you can also eat at their community kitchens called Guru ka Langar.