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Akshardham Temple

Places to Visit in Delhi

Places to Visit in Delhi

Akshardham Temple

If you were to visit Delhi, you would be surprised to see a city that is both historically rich and commercial success. Among tourist places in Delhi you will see monuments that have stood witness to some of the most significant historical movements that changed the world as we know. Then again, you will see skyscrapers that establish the city as a thriving industrial and commercial center of the world. As a tourist, there are multiple places to visit in Delhi. So, if you are planning to do justice to your trip to Delhi, you should plan and organize your trip accordingly. 

While planning your trip to Delhi; along with places to visit in Delhi, you must try to keep a day aside to explore the city and go shopping. If you do not keep a day aside to explore the city, then you will not be able to imbibe the beauty and culture of this beautiful city. Old Delhi and New Delhi have numerous street markets that are the best places to go if you want to feel the vibe of a versatile city like Delhi. If you are looking for bargain buys, then a visit to the markets like Janpath Market, Chandni Chowk, Dilli Haat, and Sarojini Market is a must. These markets will also give you an idea as to how energetic, lively, and vibrant the city of Delhi is. 

Planning your Delhi trip will require careful outlining of the places that you would like to visit. Here you can visit numerous historical spots, religious sites, and even art galleries and museums. Hence, careful planning is essential to ensure that you visit all the must-see sites in Delhi. Some of the most famous tourist places in Delhi are as follows:

1.Red Fort

Red Fort, famous place in Delhi

Among the places to visit in Delhi, Red Fort or Lal Qila forms the central tourist attraction. It is the most famous place in Delhi, and no trip to the capital is complete without a customary visit to the Lal Qila. The Red Fort was built in the year 1639 by Shah Jahan. With the building of the Red Fort, the establishment of Delhi as the capital of India was completed. The Red Fort is an architectural splendor and an engineering marvel. The imposing structure is made of red sandstone and was considered to be impregnable. Considering the immensity, grandeur, and the architectural brilliance of the structure, UNESCO has designated the Red Fort to be a heritage monument. The safeguarding and maintenance of the Red Fort is the responsibility of the Archaeological Survey of India.

When you visit the Red Fort, you will be amazed primarily by the vastness of the structure. The Red Fort beautifully represents the creativity of Mughal architecture. The two most important parts of the Red Fort are the Diwan-i-Aam and the Diwan-i-Khas. Legend has it that the Diwan-i-Aam is where the emperor would carry out the day to day activities, and the Diwan-i-Khas was reserved for a private audience. The Red Fort was also the place where once the famous Peacock Throne and the Kohinoor Diamond were kept. Thus, a visit to the Red Fort would take you back in time, when India’s history was rich and full of splendor. This is one of the popular tourist places in Delhi.

Things to do at the Red Fort

  • Take a walk around the Fort and explore the entire structure
  • Take time to admire the architectural grandeur of the Fort
  • In the evening, a light and sound show is held depicting the Mughal history. If you can manage then, the show will give an insight into the period.
  • Visit the individual structures in the Fort like Lahori Gate, Chhatta Chowk, Delhi Gate, Naubat Khana, Nahr-i-Bihisht, Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, Mumtaz Mahal, Khas Mahal, Rang Mahal, Hammam, Moti Masjid, Baoli, Hayat Bakhsh Bagh, Hira Mahal, and the Princes Quarter
  • Each of the structure as a definite place in history and an architectural wonder

Thus, a visit to the Red Fort will give you a chance to relive history. You will also be amazed at the architectural and engineering skill and brilliance of the architects during the Mughal rule. The Red Fort also stands tall, signifying India’s struggle for Freedom, because it was from here that Jawaharlal Nehru the erstwhile Prime Minister of India declared our country to be free. The Red Fort holds a place of pride and significance in the heart of every Indian.

2. Humayun’s Tomb

Humayun's Tomb, Humayun's Tomb

Amongst the many tourist places in Delhi, Humayun Tomb is one of great importance because of its historical significance and architectural magnificence. The mausoleum is the place where the second emperor of the Mughal dynasty, Humayun, finally rested. He died in the year 1556. The tomb was commissioned to be built by Bega Begum, the empress during 1569 to 70. The monument lies in the middle of the beautifully manicured gardens covered with beautiful flowering plants.

The extensive gardens also have numerous trees, sprawling lawns that surround the tomb from all four sides, making the entire place all the more incredible. It is one of those unusual tombs that were built within a garden. History has it that the tomb was conceptualized by the Persian architect Mirak Mirza Ghiyas and hence, there is evident Persian influence in the architecture of the monument. The tomb also has an apparent influence of Indo-Mughal architecture. The unique history and architectural significance of the tomb have earned it a position UNESCO’s list of heritage monuments. Hence, when you plan your trip to Delhi, a visit to Humayun’s Tomb is a must. It is good to keep it in your list of places to visit in Delhi.

Things to do at Humayun’s Tomb

  • Take a walk around the Mughal gardens. You will find that the entire garden has been laid out like a quadrilateral. The geometric shape of the gardens is the unique feature of the grounds surrounding the tomb.
  • Visit the structures within the grounds like the mosque and tomb of Isa Khan, Afsarwala Tomb, Bu Halima’s Tomb and Garden, Arab Serai, Nila Gumbad, and the Barber’s Tomb. Each of these structures is unique and has inscriptions as to when these were built.

Thus, Humayun’s Tomb is rich in history and architectural splendor. A visit there and the adjacent gardens will give you numerous opportunities to take pictures and make the holiday memorable.

3. Qutub Minar

Qutub Minar, historical places in Delhi

Of all the historical places in Delhi, Qutub Minar is one of the best places to visit in Delhi. This ancient minaret stands witness to the ravages of time and history. The splendid structure has survived, even though India has seen numerous political turmoil and has been attacked by invaders many times. The Minar seems to have withstood the test of time. This architectural splendor is the best example of Persian and Arabic art and sculpture. Qutub-ud-din-Aibak started the building of the minaret.

When you enter the Minar grounds through the Buland Darwaza, you will come across a stone plaque on which the details about the size and dimensions of the Minar is mentioned. Another unique feature of the Minar is that on the grounds you will find the ruins of twenty-seven Jain temples, the remains of which can still be identified. A visit to the Minar will take you back to the rich history of ancient India. The Qutub Minar is an example of India’s precedence in architecture, even during the early twelfth century. The ancient architecture has been declared a heritage site by UNESCO.

Things to do at the Qutub Minar

  • Explore the entire grounds surrounding the Minar.
  • You can take pictures of the beautiful sculptures and stone architecture of the Minar
  • When the weather is good, the complex around the Minar is often a preferred picnic spot of people living in Delhi. If you have time on hand, you too can take your family on a picnic near the Qutub Minar.

Thus, when you plan for places to visit in Delhi, ensure that you take some time to spend at the Qutub Minar.

4. Akshardham Temple

One of the foremost in the list of best places to visit in Delhi isthe Akshardham Temple. This magnificent Temple epitomizes Hindu culture and spirituality. This superb Temple is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan. The Akshardham Temple is also known as the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple. The Akshardham Temple is the most comprehensive Hindu Temple. In the Temple complex, there are nearly twenty thousand other deities along with the main deity of Lord Swaminarayan. The Temple has gained a place in Guinness Book of World Records as the World’s Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple.

When you visit the Temple, you will be left amazed by the intricate sculptures adorning the entire structure. The carvings and the architectural splendor of the Temple are both ornate and elaborate. Amongst the twenty thousand deities, you will also find idols of numerous sages and spiritual leaders who have changed the course of Hindu philosophy and thinking in the Temple. A visit to the Akshardham Temple will be one of the most spiritually uplifting experiences of your life. Really, its among most serene tourist places in Delhi.

Things to do at the Akshardham Temple

  • The Garden of India is another attraction of the Akshardham Temple. The beautifully manicured lawns and lovely bronze sculptures of the spiritual, cultural and political leader of India will leave you feeling morally uplifted
  • The Temple has a beautiful lake called the Narayan Sarovar, which you will find to be captivating. Spend some time beside the lake.
  • The Temple also houses India’s most massive step, where water shows are also held. If you can make it during one such show, then stay back and watch the entire show.
  • Take the Sanskruti Vihar boat ride. This is a twelve-minute boat ride that will take you India’s ten thousand years of a glorious heritage. You will see the rise of India from the Vedic Age to Modern India with the help of robotics.

Thus, a visit to the Akshardham Temple will uplift you spiritually, morally, and psychologically.

5. Jantar Mantar  

Jantar Mantar, places to visit in Delhi

If you are looking for places to visit in Delhi,then you could consider paying a visit to Jantar Mantar. The most important feature of the Jantar Mantar is the world’s largest sundial. This sundial is a fascinating instrument and shows the brilliance and ingenuity of our ancestors. It was constructed Maharaja Jai Singh of Jaipur in the year 1724. The Jantar Mantar is indeed an architectural feat. It consists of astronomical instruments that can be used even today. And thus, considered as one of the best places to visit in Delhi.

There are four separate instruments in the Jantar Mantar. When you visit the Jantar Mantar make sure you see the following instruments and identify their distinct functions:

  • Samrat Yantra: This is the primary sundial of the Jantar Mantar
  • Jay Prakash Yantra: This is used to determine the position of a star
  • Rama Yantra: This is used to determine the altitude of a star based on the latitude and longitude of the Earth
  • Misra Yantra: This is a combination of five separate instruments. This instrument is used to determine the longest and shortest day of a year.

Thus, a visit to the Jantar Mantar will help you understand the intelligence of our ancestors. As early as the eighteenth century, they were able to devise instruments to study the position of the stars and their distance from the Earth. Indian astronomers were trying to evaluate the movement of the Earth, the Sun, and understand the weather. When you visit the Jantar Mantar, you will be able to get as to how advanced the engineering and knowledge regarding astronomy of our forbearers were.

6. Lotus Temple

 Lotus Temple, best places to visit in Delhi.

The Lotus Temple is a modern but unique structure that forms a major attraction amongst tourists visiting Delhi. In a city that is full of historical architecture and one that is rich in historical and cultural heritage, the Lotus Temple symbolizes modern architecture. Dedicated to Baha’i faith, the Temple resembles a magnificent lotus slowly blooming. The entire Temple is made of white marble. The beauty of the unique architectural marvel is only enhanced by the perfectly manicured gardens and lawns surrounding the Temple.

The Temple also represents religious and social tolerance as it is open to all irrespective of religion, class, creed, or gender. The Temple is open to all who wish to enter and meditate in peace. The Temple was designed by Canadian architect Fariborz Sahba and was completed in the year 1986. The Temple represents the achievement of modern engineering and architecture. It has gone on to receive numerous awards, and one of the best places to visit in Delhi.

Things to do at the Lotus Temple

  • You take a slow, meditative walk up the garden to the Temple
  • You can sit and meditate in the central hall of the Temple
  • Soft singing and gentle recitation of religious writing is allowed within the Temple premises
  • When you are inside the Temple imbibe in the beautiful architecture of the Temple
  • Spend some time beside the water body of the Temple

Thus, a visit to the Lotus Temple is a must if you want to spend some time relaxing and meditating. The tour can also prove to be quite spiritually uplifting.

7. Lansdowne

Lansdowne, Lansdowne

If you are thinking for places to visit in Delhi nearby, if you are looking for a weekend getaway from Delhi and you prefer going to a hill station, then you could consider going on a trip to Lansdowne. This unique hill station is tucked away in the Pauri district of Uttarakhand. It used to be a favorite haunt of the British. It has been named after the then Viceroy of India, Lord Lansdowne, who had served as the Governor-General of India from 1888 to 1894. Lansdowne is one of the hill stations near Delhi because it is only six hours drive from Delhi. The hill station is situated at the height of about one thousand seven hundred meters above sea level. The entire area surrounding the place is picturesque, with lush green mountains. On a clear day, you can even spot snow-capped mountain tops.

You can also see the structure of the British era that will remind you of the grandeur of the period. The remoteness of the hill station has still left it untouched, and hence, you will find the place to tranquil and not overcrowded with tourists. The place is also famous for the Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, where the special Shivalinga receives several devotees throughout the year. The Gouri Kund situated thirty-nine kilometers from Lansdowne is also a famous pilgrimage spot. Two other temples that you should visit during your stay at Lansdowne are Durga Devi Temple and Jwalpa Devi. Durga Devi Temple is the oldest Siddha Pitha. These are the nearest pilgrim spots in this region. During your stay in Lansdowne, you could consider exploring the places around it. It’s one of the most attractive tourist places in Delhi nearby.

Things to do in Lansdowne

  • This is the best place to relax and unwind
  • You can go on a pilgrimage to the local holy places
  • Pay a visit to the Kanavasram. Legend has it that this was the ashram of the ancient sage Rishi Kanva. It is also the ashram where Shakuntala gave birth to Bharat after being deserted by Dushyanta. It is from Bharat that India has been called Bharata.

Thus, a visit to Lansdowne will not only help you connect with nature and with yourself, but also help you gain an insight into Indian history. So if you are looking for a weekend getaway, you can consider going on a short trip to Lansdowne.

8. India Gate

India Gate, tourist places in Delhi

India Gate is one of the most important tourist places in Delhi. Your trip to Delhi will be incomplete without the customary visit to the India Gate. The All India War Memorial, which we also know as the India Gate, is an imposing structure on the Rajpath in Delhi. Sir Edwin Lutyens designed the structure in the memory of soldiers who had served in the First World War and the Third Anglo-Afghan War.

On the premises of the India Gate, you will also find the Amar Jawan Jyoti, which was built in 1971 after the Bangladesh Liberation War. The flame continues to burn, representing the sacrifice of the soldiers serving in the Indo-Pakistan War. The area surrounding the India Gate is also beautiful with manicured lawns, and hence, it is one of the favorite picnic spots of the people living in Delhi. It is considered as one of the attractive places to visit in Delhi.

Things to do at the India Gate

  • Take a walk around the India Gate
  • Take your time and read the inscriptions on the structure
  • Visit the Amar Jawan Jyoti
  • If you have time on hand, you can also consider arranging a picnic for your family and friends near the India Gate

Thus, a visit to the India Gate is a moment of pride for every Indian. You will be able to see a magnificent structure and the place where the Republic Day Parade is held every year.

9. Teen Murti Bhavan

Teen Murti Bhavan, best places to visit in Delhi

Another among best places to visit in Delhi is Teen Murti Bhavan. This was the residence of the first Prime Minister of India, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru. Robert Tor Russell designed it. The erstwhile Prime Minister of India had lived there for sixteen years until his death in 1964. After that, it was converted into a memorial and a museum. When you visit Teen Murti Bhavan, you will get to see the office of Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, the furniture he would use and many such artifacts. The Bhavan also houses an extensive library that has an exhaustive resource on modern Indian history. The Bhavan also has a Planetarium that is of great interest to children. In the Planetarium, you can see exciting science shows and sky theatres. To attend one such show, you must plan your visit during one such show time.

Things to do at Teen Murti Bhavan

  • Explore the grounds
  • See a show at the Planetarium

Therefore, your itinerary list of tourist places in Delhi should contain Teen Murti Bhavan. A visit to the Teen Murti Bhavan will be an exciting experience for you and the children in your tour group.

Thus, places to visit in Delhi are many and a visit to Delhi will be one that will be culturally and historically enriching. If you want to make maximum use of your time, choose to stay in one of the resorts near Delhi so that you don’t spend time traveling. This will help you make most of your stay in Delhi.  tourist places in Delhi

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