Forts and Monuments
Humayun's Tomb
Humayun's tomb is an architectural marvel of India, and a very
substantial example of the magnificence of Mughal culture. The tomb was
built by Humayun's senior widow, popularly known as
Haji Begam. It
is the first relevant form of the Mughal architecture, with high arches and
double dome. Although some tombs had already been sited within gardens, it
is also the first mature example of the idea of garden-tomb, which
culminated in the
Taj Mahal at Agra.
India
Gate
India gate is perhaps one of the most impressive structures built in Delhi,
with lush green lawns in the backdrop. This historic monument was built as a
memorial, to commemorate the 90000 Indian soldiers killed in the First World
War. This wonder monument also houses the
Amar Jawan Jyoti the
eternal flame, a gesture in the memory of the Indian soldiers, who laid down
their lives in 1971 war with Pakistan.
Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory with masonry instruments,
built in 1724 by Jai Singh, the mathematician and astronomer king. It houses
a sun dial, and five other instruments that show the movements of the sun,
moon etc.
Old Fort
The Old Fort is one of the most visited tourist places of Delhi. At the
foot of the fort is a lake, where the Delhi Tourism has arrangements for
boating, and also a sound and light show.
Red Fort
As is evident from the name, it has been made of red sand stone. The Red
Fort is one of the most magnificent palaces of the world. Indian history is
also closely linked with this fort. It was from here that the British
deposed the last Mughal ruler,
Bahadur Shah Zafar, marking the end
of the three century long Mughal rule.
Qutab
Minar
Qutab Minar is not only an important tourist spot in New Delhi,
rather it is an exquisite example of the Mughal architecture. What the
Leaning Tower is to Pisa or the Eiffel Tower to Paris, is the
Qutab
Minar to New Delhi.
Qutab Minar is the highest stone tower in
India, as well as one of the finest Islamic structures ever raised. The
famous monuments around the
Qutab area form the
Qutab
complex that can be visited by the tourists.
Places of Worship
Birla Mandir
The Birla Mandir or the Lakshmi Narayan Temple is one of the most popular
holy places in Delhi. Truly, it is one of the most graceful spiritual zones
of the city, an escapade into the world of inner freedom; a destination
where spirituality perpetuates, and the life-spring of devotion flows with
the divine passion, to purify the soul.
Jama Masjid
Located opposite the Red Fort is the majestic Jama Masjid, which is a
masterpiece of architecture. Also known as the grand monument of Old Delhi,
the Jama Masjid or the Friday Mosque is the largest mosque in India. The
sprawling esplanade also houses a fascinating leisure ground.
Lotus
Temple
The beautiful architecture of this temple of peace inspires the growth of
spiritual self. The outside structure of the house of worship is constructed
into three ranks of nine petals. Nine arches that provide the main support
for the superstructure ring the central hall. Nine reflecting pools surround
the building on the outside, their form suggesting the green leaves of the
lotus flower.
Amusement Parks and Museums
Appu Ghar
Often referred to as the Disneyland of Delhi, it's a major crowd-puller for
the people residing in Delhi and neighbouring cities. The ideal location of
this amusement park makes it easily accessible for tourists and also ensures
great fun.
The
National Museum at Janpath is the premier repository of
antiquities. Built in 1960, it has an extraordinary collection representing
the entire span of Indian civilization from the Indus Valley Civilization,
till today.
The
Rail Transport Museum is a must-see for rail buffs. Its vintage
displays include the oldest locomotive in the world that's still working,
the Dining Car (1889), and the Prince of Wales Salon (1876). Children can
enjoy a ride on the miniature rail track.
The
Nehru Memorial Museum is at the Teen Murti House, where
Jawaharlal Nehru, independent India's first Prime Minister, lived for 16
years till his death in 1964. Its special charm is the vintage rooms that
have been preserved as such. Not far from here is the Indira Gandhi Memorial
Museum, where one gets the glimpse of the late Prime Minister of India.
Pragati Maidan
Pragati Maidan was founded in 1982, on the eve of the Asian Games.
Various trade fairs are organized here throughout the year. There are
different museums set up here, such as the crafts museum which has
collections of handicrafts and metal products.
