Although planning a trip alone isn’t very interesting, it can certainly be more absorbing. It takes a lot of efforts to identify the right tourist destination that would give you all that you expect on a holiday. Once you have the destination decided, you need to further your research to find out the important tourist places in the destination. Then comes the travel plan and arrangements for accommodation. If your plan is to visit Delhi during your holidays, here are some suggestions that would help you with your plan. Given below are 7 important places to visit in Delhi which you are not supposed to miss during your stay.
1. Red Fort
Red Fort symbolizes the era of Mughal rule in India. The Fort, built in 1638, is a magnificent monument that captivates your attention and exhibits the show of architectural splendor of Mughals. The 33m high walls of Red Fort were built with a view to prevent invaders. Sound and light show is conducted here in the evenings. The one-hour long show recreates historical events associated with Red Fort. The Fort is closed for visits on Mondays.
2. Humayun’s Tomb
Built in the year 1570, Humayun’s Tomb is a monument built by Queen Haji Begum, widow of Humayun. The monument displays the inspiration of Persian architecture. The world famous Taj Mahal bears resemblance to this monument constructed during early Mughal rule in India. It is open on all days for visits. The best time to view Humayun’s Tomb would be in the late afternoon.
3. Qutab Minar
The tallest tower in India, Qutab Minar, is said to be constructed to commemorate the victory and the beginning of Mughal era in India. The 73-meter tall tower was built by Qutab-ud-din Aibak after the last Hindu Kingdom was defeated. However, some say that it was built to serve as a minaret to call those faithful to prayer. Qutab Minar has five storeys and every storey is marked by a projected balcony. While red sandstone was used in the construction of first three storeys, marble and sandstone were used to construct the last two storeys. India’s first ever mosque, Quwwat-ul-Islam is at the foot of Qutab Minar.
4. Bahai (Lotus) Temple
Bahai Temple is famously known as Lotus Temple owing to its resemblance to lotus flower. Lotus symbolizes four religions namely Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism and Jainism. Out of the seven major Bahai temples constructed around the world, the one in Delhi was constructed last. The structure was completed in the year 1986 and pure white marble was used in the construction. The place is serene and is open for prayers and meditation by people who follow any religion. The nine pools of water around the petals is a sight to watch at dusk.
5. Lodi Gardens
If you want to have a quiet day to escape the crowd and the busy life, this is where you need to be in Delhi. Lodi Gardens was built in 1936 by British around the tombs of the rulers of 15th and 16th centuries. The 90-acre Garden is an excellent place to relax, walk, jog and enjoy the beauty of nature. The National Bonsai Park situated in the Gardens is yet another attraction.
6. Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple
Whatever faith you may be following, you could take your time to visit Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, the world’s largest Hindu Temple. The 42 meter tall construction was completed in the year 2005. Apart from using concrete for the foundation, the entire construction was made using granites and marbles from all parts of the world. The structure stands proof of architectural excellence. In the 12 acres of land, you will find the temple, museum, several parks and a huge cultural center that throws light on the traditions and customs followed in India. You can go boating in the water canals here.
7. India Gate
India Gate was constructed in the year 1931 as a war memorial for over 70,000 soldiers killed during First World War and Afghan War. The names of the soldiers are inscribed in the walls of India Gate. It was earlier known as “All India War Memorial”. Situated on Rajpath, India Gate looks stunning in the evening lights. The lawn throughout Rajpath’s stretch is frequented by people as the atmosphere is pleasant.
