To experience the subtle blend of centuries-old Mughal legacy and urban development on your next holiday destination, you must zero in on Delhi-NCR. In this post, I have listed some places to visit in Delhi.
From splendid architecture and flea markets to tempting food and vibrant nightlife, the capital of India, along with the National Capital Region (NCR), has a lot to offer whether you are on your solo trip or traveling with family and friends.
In addition, there are many opportunities for adventure junkies too. So, read on to know more about the popular places to visit in Delhi-NCR.
This post is long, so click on the list below to jump to the desired section.
Places to Visit in Delhi (How to reach, timings and nearest metro)
- Akshardham Temple
- Azad Hind Gram
- Birla Mandir
- Dilli Haat INA
- Dilli Haat Pitampura
- Dilli Haat Janakpuri
- Garden of Five Senses
- Guru Tegh Bahadur Memorial
- Humayun’s Tomb
- India Gate
- Iskcon Temple
- Jama Masjid
- Jantar Mantar
- Kalam memorial
- Lodi Tomb
- Lotus Temple
- National Police Memorial
- Parliament House
- Purana Quila
- Qutab Minar
- Rashtrapathi Bhavan
- Red Fort
- Safdarjang Tomb
Akshardham Temple
- Location: On NH 24, Akshardham Setu
- Nearest Metro Station: Akshardham Metro Station (By Walk – 200 meters / 7 min.)
- Timings: First Entry: 9:30 AM, Last Entry: 6:30 PM
- Exhibition Tickets: 10 AM to 5 PM
- Complex Entry: Free | No Ticket
- Exhibition Fee / Ticket:
- Adults : 170
- Senior Citizen: 125
- Child (4-11 yrs) : 100
- Child (Below 4 yrs): Free
- Musical Fountain Fee / Ticket:
- Adults: 30
- Senior Citizen: 30
- Child (4-11 yrs) : 20
- Child (Below 4 yrs): Free
- Day Closed: Mondays
- Photography: Not allowed
- Not Allowed (Cloakroom Available):
- Mobiles & Electronics (Mobiles, Camera, Pen Drives, Hands-Free, etc.): Not allowed
- All Bags
- Purses (Shoulder Strap / Hanging)
- Food & Drinks
- Toys
- Tobacco & Alcohol Products
- All Personal Belongings
- Allowed:
- Shoes
- Belts
- Wallets
- Ladies Purses (Handheld)
- Jewelry
- Passports
- Infant Baby Food
Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi epitomizes 10,000 years of Indian culture in its breathtaking grandeur, beauty, wisdom, and bliss. It brilliantly showcases the essence of India’s ancient architecture, traditions, and timeless spiritual messages. The Akshardham experience is an enlightening journey through India’s glorious art, values, and contributions to humanity’s progress, happiness, and harmony.
The Akshardham complex was built in only five years through the blessings of HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) and the colossal devotional efforts of 11,000 artisans and thousands of BAPS volunteers. Heralded by the Guinness World Record as the World’s Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple, the complex was inaugurated on 6 November 2005.
What to Experience
Akshardham Mandir
A traditional mandir (temple) dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan that reflects the beauty and spirituality of India’s ancient art, culture, and architecture
Nilkanth Varni Abhishek
A hallowed spiritual tradition in which prayers are offered for world peace and continual peace for oneself, family, and friends with the water of 151 holy rivers, lakes, and ponds of India.
Exhibitions
Hall 1 – Hall of Values (50 mins)
Experience enduring human values through films and robotic shows that depict the ideals of nonviolence, honesty, family harmony, and spirituality.
Hall 2 – Giant Screen Film (40 mins)
Discover India through the incredible story of an eleven-year-old yogi named Nilkanth, that brings to life the culture and spirituality of India’s customs, the majesty of its art and architecture, and the unforgettable sights, sounds, and power of its awe-inspiring festivals.
Hall 3 – Cultural Boat Ride (15 mins)
Sail through 10,000 years of India’s glorious heritage. Learn about the discoveries and inventions of the rishi scientists of India, see the world’s first university of Takshashila, sail through the caves of Ajanta-Ellora and discover India’s contributions to humanity through the ages.
Musical Fountain – Circle of Life (Evenings at Sunset – 15 min.)
A spectacular musical fountain show depicts the cycle of birth, life, and death as described in Indian philosophy.
Garden of India
Sixty acres of lush lawns, gardens, and exquisite bronze statues honoring India’s child heroes, brave warriors, national patriots, and great women personalities who inspire values and character.
Lotus Garden
A lotus-shaped garden echoing spirituality as expressed by philosophers, scientists, and leaders throughout history
Azad Hind Gram
- Location: Tikri Kalan, NH 10, Rohtak Road, Near Delhi Haryana border
- Nearest Metro Station: Mundka
- Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM
- Days Closed: National Holidays
- Entry: Free
- Photography: Permission Required
Azad Hind Gram Tourist Complex at Tikri Kalan is a project developed by Delhi Tourism to honor Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and create quality leisure space and wayside amenities for the citizens. Located within two kilometers of the Delhi Haryana border on NH-10, the project’s architecture is inspired by North Indian architectural style and the traditions of Indian craftsmanship.
The elaborate mosaic domes surrounding the museum and the memorial are the focus of the complex, offering extensive plazas, an amphitheater, a tourist information center, souvenir and garden shop, food kiosks, a restaurant, public toilets, drinking water, public telephone, and convention facilities.
Birla Mandir
- Location: Near Gole Market, Mandir Marg, Connaught Place
- Nearest Metro Station: R.K. Ashram Marg
- Timings: 4:30 am to 1:30 pm & 2.30 pm to 9.00 pm. (best to visit during morning and evening aarti)
- Entry: Free
- Photography, Mobiles, and cameras: Not allowed in the Temple.
Laxmi Narayan Temple, also known as Birla Mandir, is one of Delhi’s major temples and a major tourist attraction. They were built by the industrialist Sh. J.K. Birla in 1939, this beautiful Temple is located west of Connaught Place.
The Temple is dedicated to Laxmi (the goddess of prosperity) and Narayana (The preserver). The Temple was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi on the condition that people of all castes would be allowed to enter the Temple.
Dilli Haat INA
- Location: Dilli Haat, INA
- Nearest Metro: INA on Yellow Line
- Open: INA would be open from 10:30 am to 10:00 pm; 1st March 2022 to 30th November 2022
- Entry:
- 30 (Adult)
- 20 (Children)
- 100 (Foreigner)
The artisans who are registered with D.C.Handicrafts are the ones who are eligible to find a place here. The stalls selling handicrafts are allotted on a rotational basis to artisans who come from all corners of India’s vast & varied land at the nominal payment for 15 Days. This ensures that visitors buy authentic wares at prices that high maintenance costs have not inflated.
You can also savor the inimitable flavors of the delightful local foods from the various regions of India, be it the momos from Sikkim or the Bamboos hot chicken from Nagaland, Kahwa & Kebabs from Jammu, Pooranpoli from Maharastra, or the Gujrati Dhokla. The food stalls offer you a variety of foods that are Eco friendly.
The DILLI HAAT provides the ambiance of a traditional Rural Haat or village market, but one suited for more contemporary needs. Here one sees a synthesis of crafts, food, and cultural activity.
This Food and Craft Bazar is a treasure house of Indian culture, handicrafts, and ethnic cuisine; a unique bazaar in the heart of the city permanently displays the richness of Indian culture.
Step inside the complex for an altogether delightful experience by buying unique ethnic wares, savoring the delicacies of different states, or simply relaxing with the entire family in the evening.
DILLI HAAT transports you to the magical world of Indian art and heritage presented through a fascinating panorama of craft, cuisine, and cultural activities.
While the village haat is a mobile, flexible arrangement, it is crafts persons who are mobile here. The DILLI HAAT boasts craft stalls selling native, functional, and ethnic products from all over the country.
An ambitious project, set up jointly by Delhi Tourism and NDMC, D.C. (Handicrafts) & D.C. (handlooms), Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India & Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India. It aims at encouraging needy artists from all over the country to sustain and preserve the rich heritage of India.
While allowing free interaction between buyers and sellers, the organizers favor a check on prices to keep them moderate.
Different and appealing, DILLI HAAT is located in one of the most important commercial centers of South Delhi, opposite the INA market. The 6 acres of land on which this sprawling complex is situated was salvaged as part of a reclamation project and transformed into a magnificent dream plaza. Extensive foundation work, small thatched-roof cottages, and kiosks with a village atmosphere have made the place into multiple attractive centers.
Haat refers to a weekly market in rural, semi-urban, and sometimes even urban India.
DILLI HAAT is not just a marketplace; it has been visualized as a showpiece of traditional Indian culture- a forum where rural life and folk art are brought closer to an urban clientele.
Here, the crafts persons find an opportunity to demonstrate their artistic skills to thousands of visitors every day.
Since its inauguration in March 1994, Dilli Haat has been home to thousands of handicraft and handloom artisans.
The complex is not only artistic but also recreational, where the entire family can have a good time.
It is where one can unwind in the evening and relish a wide variety of cuisine without paying exorbitant rates.
Stalls are dishing out sumptuous delicacies from different States and Union Territories, an Exhibition Hall; a Souvenir shop selling an assortment of small gift items; an open stage for cultural programs, and a playing area exclusively earmarked for children.
Architecture
The architectural features of the complex have been specially designed in the traditional north Indian style, with brickwork jails (lattice) and stone roofs.
A hall in the complex specifically caters to exhibitions of handlooms and handicrafts. A souvenir shop also displays attractive ethnic products.
The small thatched roof cottages and kiosks without concrete structures provide a village atmosphere.
The shops are set up on platforms, which act as a link in the Bazar design. The courtyards between the shops are paved in stone and interspaced with grass to retain a visual softness.
The area’s landscaping incorporates colorful flowering shrubs and trees. Thus, the entire complex is in harmony with the environment.
Dilli Haat Pitampura
- Location: Dilli Haat, Pitampura
- Open: 11.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m
- Entry: 20 (Adult),
Dilli Haat, as always, is considered a destination of all seasons. The complex is set up on an area of 7.2 acres. There is an unmatched culture and a mosaic of diversity associated. As times have changed, Delhi Tourism came up with this Haat, all enveloped with a crisp and contemporary feel, ready to celebrate the shades of moods, events, legends, and festivals of India; Dilli Haat Pitampura is located on a strategic point that is easily accessible from various centers in the city.
The Haat has 108 craft stalls, an Amphitheatre with a capacity of 450 persons, three air-conditioned halls for exhibitions/ kitty parties, conferences/workshops/ seminars/ school functions, performing art/ music, and dance shows. The Haat has a lot of landscaped areas with terraced roof gardens. The basement parking of Haat can accommodate nearly 250 cars and as many two-wheelers.
In addition to regular activities, festivals are organized in the Haat from time to time.
The fabulous concept of the Haat at an excellent location, just near the Netaji Subhash Place Metro Station, is a boon for Art and Craft lovers among Delhiites.
Dilli Haat Janakpuri
- Location: Dilli Haat, Janakpuri
- Nearest Metro: Tilak Nagar and Janakpuri East
- Metro Station on Blue Line
- Open: DHJP would be open from 11.00 am to 10:00 pm. (Jan to Dec)
Delhi got its third Dilli Haat on 13 July 2014. DHJP is more spacious than the other two Dilli Haats at INA and Pitampura. Dilli Haat, Janakpuri is spread over a sprawling area of 8.00 acres. This new venue showcases the country’s craft and cultural tradition. It is an open-air shopper’s paradise, a one-stop destination for art, craft, music, and food lovers. Delhi Tourism has developed this Dilli Haat for Rs. 120 Crore.
Dilli Haat has a provision of 100 Nos. of typical craft stalls, 74 Nos. Open platform shops, 46 Nos. of A.C Shops. These stalls showcase ethnic and exotic products and materials exclusive to India. There are endless shopping opportunities for the visitors as it brings India’s old rural tradition of open market space to contemporary and modern Delhi.
Dilli Haat, Janakpuri gives ample opportunity for food lovers to savor delectable lip-smacking food as there are 14 Nos. of food stalls set up where one can savor the flavors from across the country and 15 food stalls serving cuisines from around the world.
Architecture
A sprawling Exposition Hall spreading over 960 Sqm. has been set up at Dilli Haat, Janakpuri, where various exhibitions, seminars, events, etc., take place and are available for rent to the general public. The outer walls of the exposition halls are covered by creepers, providing a green rooftop.
This new Dilli Haat will be fully equipped with an A.C Auditorium with 800 seats. This auditorium will have the latest technology and equipment and will be the most prominent modern auditorium in West Delhi.
An Amphitheatre with 820 seat capacity is another unique feature at the Haat, which not only encourages art and culture and is a one-stop destination for various cultural events.
Some unique features of the Haat are – A huge dormitory with 80 beds,5 Nos. of public toilets with energy-efficient fittings and light fixtures, 24 x 7 Power backup, Proper sewage treatment plant, water treatment plant, rainwater harvesting, and three garbage dumping spaces have also been constructed to keep the Haat clean and eco friendly.
DHJP has been developed with several eco-friendly features and is fully disabled-friendly. Lifts, ramps, and escalators are installed for the convenience of differently-abled persons and senior citizens.
Keeping in mind the security of the general public, CCTV cameras have been installed at the venue, which provides proper surveillance. There are provisions for parking in the basement and surface area. More than 240 cars and three buses can be parked at the surface area, and almost 55 vehicles and 120 two-wheelers can be parked in the basement parking area.
Garden of Five Senses
- Location: Said-ul-Ajaib, Mehrauli-Badarpur Road,
- Metro Station: Saket
- Open: Daily
The Garden of Five Senses is not just a park but a space with various activities, inviting public interaction and exploration. The project, developed by Delhi Tourism Transportation Development Corporation, was conceptualized to answer the city’s need for leisure space for the public, for people to socialize and unwind. Such areas add atmosphere and life to a city and cater to all sections of society.
The twenty-acre site, located at Said-Ul-Azaib village, close to the Mehrauli heritage area in New Delhi, is spectacular. The Garden was inaugurated in February 2003. Majestic rocks stand silhouetted against the sky; others lie strewn upon the ground in a casual yet alluring display of nature’s sculptural genius. It was the ideal ground to realize the concept of a public leisure space that would awaken a sensory response and thereby a sensitivity to the environment.
Soaring stainless-steel birds mounted on slate-clad pillars welcome you into the park. An expansive plaza, set on the site’s natural slope, invites you up the spiral walkway. Across, a troop of elephants, cut in stone, regaling in a water bath, tempts exploration.
The Garden itself is divided into distinct areas. On one side of the spiral walkway is the Khas Bagh, a formal garden patterned on the lines of the Mughal Garden. Slow-moving water cascades in channels along its length while flowering and fragrant shrubs and trees line its paths. The Central axis leads to a series of fountains, some lit by fiber-optic lighting systems. Encapsulating the expression here is the sculpture of ‘A Fountain Tree”.
The food and shopping court are secluded from the heart of the Garden, on the other side of the walkway. A series of terraces provided with seating arrangements face the food court.
The heady Trail of Fragrance leads away to a rocky ridge to the north, where elevated amongst the rocks, a sculpture in stainless steel, inspired by a pin-wheel, dances in joyous abandon.
Wander down the meandering paths to Neel Bagh, a pool of water lilies encircled by pergolas covered with climbing plants of different colors and textures.
Overhead, hundreds of ceramic chimes, whispering secrets to the breeze, teasing you with their gentle laughter.
There are Colour Gardens – beautiful compositions of flowering shrubs and ground covers that have you looking at familiar plants with new eyes. The Courts of Specimen Plants display not so frequently seen species – of bamboo, for instance, or cacti, or herbs.
Nestled amongst the site’s natural slope is the arena with sandstone blocks to serve as seating. At the rear of the Garden is an open exhibition area for displaying art and holding art workshops.
Almost two hundred varieties of plants are introduced. In addition, there are large areas where the existing vegetation, consisting mainly of trees such as the local Kikar and the thorny Ber bush, has been left untouched.
The Garden has been designed to the imagery suggested by the name Garden of Five Senses. Colour, fragrances, texture, and form all come together in an evocative bouquet that awakens the mind to the beauty of life and invokes a grateful prayer for the gift of sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste.
Nature Walk
The Garden is designed to stimulate one’s sensory responses to the environment. An amalgamation of color and fragrance, texture and form evokes the awareness of touch, smell, sight, sound, and taste. Most works of art are dynamic, making them more interactive to the visitors. About 25 different sculptures and murals have been set up in the Garden, making it one of the country’s largest collections of public art. This Garden is located near the first city of Delhi, i.e., Qila Rai Pithora. While following the approach road to the Garden from the T point of MB Road, one can see the massive walls of this fort. The Garden of Five senses depicts the architecture of the first city, including the stones used in the construction of boundary walls and a dome-shaped office complex. The walk begins with a description of trees planted in the Garden’s outer area, i.e., from the steps you take to move into the garden complex.
Guru Tegh Bahadur Memorial
- Memorial Entry
- March to October – Timings: 10.00 am to 6.00 pm
- November to February – Timings: 8.00 am to 5.30 pm
- (Timings are subject to change without prior information)
- Ticket Adult – Rs.10/- Child – Rs.5/- (Below 12 years)
Intending to beautify all the entry points of Delhi, the Government of NCT of Delhi has set up Guru Tegh Bahadur Memorial near Singhu Boarder (G.T.Karnal Road) National Highway-1. Delhi Tourism and the Government of Delhi are presently maintaining it.
This complex has been constructed on 11.87 acres with a 24-meter high central tower with petals at the base representing the Guru & his strength. The three “C” arches denote his three followers, and the monoliths represent the 10 Sikh Gurus with their sayings inscribed.
Guru Tegh Bahadur Memorial complex, set up as a tourist attraction, is dedicated to the ninth Guru of Sikhism, Guru Teg Bahadur. In the tranquil landscape background, the 24-meter-high central pylon with petals at the base represents the Guru and his strength.
The following facilities are available at Guru Teg Bahadur Memorial for the visitors:
- Green lawns for a picnic
- Conference Room [AC/Non-AC] with a capacity of 100 person
- Cafeteria
- Venue for Birthday Parties
- Day outing for children
- Religious Functions
Notice: Sound & Light Show is not functional due to renovation
Sound & Light Show
Delhi Tourism operates the Sound & Light Show at GTB Complex, a respectful, informative, and entertaining spectacle using installation art as a medium. The Show is themed around “Panchtatva” – the five elements (Void, Fire, Air, Water, and Earth) and is a tribute to Guru Teg Bahadur’s indomitable personality as an inseparable part of the city’s history.
The duration of the Show (English/Hindi/Punjabi) is for approx.26 minutes.
Humayun’s Tomb
- Location: Opp. Dargah Nizamuddin, Mathura Road
- Metro Station: JLN Stadium
- Open: Daily
- Timings: Sunrise to sunset
- Entry Fee:
- 40 (Indians),
- 600 (foreigners)
- Photography Charges: Nil
- (’25 for video filming)
- “Disable friendly”
Located near the crossing of Mathura road and Lodhi road, this magnificent garden tomb is the first substantial example of Mughal architecture in India.
It was built in 1565 A.D., nine years after the death of Humayun, by his senior widow Bega Begam. Inside the walled enclosure, the most notable features are the garden squares (Chahar bagh) with pathways and water channels, a centrally located well proportional mausoleum topped by a double dome.
Several Mughal rulers’ graves are located inside the walled enclosure. From here, in 1857 A.D, Lieutenant Hudson captured the last Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah II.
India Gate
- Location: Near Rajpath
- Metro Station: Pragati Maidan
- Timings: Morning to Night
- Entry: Free
- Days Closed: None
- Photography Charges: Nil
At the center of New Delhi stands the 42 m high India Gate, an “Arc-de-Triomphe” like archway in the middle of a crossroad. Almost similar to its French counterpart, it commemorates the 70,000 Indian soldiers. They lost their lives fighting for the British Army during World War I. The memorial bears the names of more than 13,516 British and Indian soldiers killed in the Northwestern Frontier in the Afghan war of 1919.
The foundation stone of India Gate was laid by His Royal Highness, the Duke of Connaught, in 1921, and Edwin Lutyens designed it. The monument was dedicated to the nation 10 years later by the then Viceroy, Lord Irwin. Another memorial, Amar Jawan Jyoti, was added much later after India gained independence. The eternal flame burns day and night under the arch to remind the nation of soldiers who laid down their lives in the Indo-Pakistan War of December 1971.
The arch stands on a low base of red Bharatpur stone and rises in stages to a massive molding. The cornice is inscribed with the Imperial suns, while both sides of the arch have INDIA, flanked by the dates MCMXIV (1914 left) and MCMXIX (1919 right). The shallow domed bowl at the top was intended to be filled with burning oil on anniversaries, but this is rarely done.
During nightfall, India Gate is floodlit, and the fountains nearby make a lovely display with colored lights. India Gate stands at one end of Rajpath, and the surrounding area is generally referred to as ‘India Gate.
Surrounding the imposing structure is a large expanse of lush green lawns, a popular picnic spot. One can see hoards of people moving about the brightly lit area and on the lawns on summer evenings.
Iskcon Temple
ISKCON stands for the International Society for Krishna Consciousness and has over 650 Temples and centers of Vedic Value Education across 6 continents of the world. Delhi-NCR alone has nearly 10 active temples other than the main ISKCON temple at Sant Nagar, East of Kailash, which attracts visitors in lakhs annually.
Housing the World’s Largest Bhagavad Gita -Astounding Gita stands 2.80 X 2.00 meters tall, weighing 800 Kg at ISKCON’s Glory of India Museum and Vedic Cultural Center, and was inaugurated by the Honourable Prime Minister of India.
Tourists and visitors are thrilled by the half-hour dramatic light and sound show through multiple high-tech displays depicting the concepts of reincarnation, divine nature, eternal time, yoga, and the universe at our Museum and Vedic Cultural Center. Visitors also enjoy pure vegetarian food at their Govinda Restaurant, which offers a blend of traditional Indian, Continental, Chinese and other cuisines.
Jama Masjid
- Location: Off Netaji Subhash Marg, west of Red Fort
- Metro Station: Chawri Bazaar
- Open: All days of the week
- Timings: 7 am to Noon, 1.30pm to 6.30pm.
- Tourists are not allowed during prayer hours
- Entry Fee: Free
- Photography: 300
This great mosque of Old Delhi is the largest in India, with a courtyard capable of holding 25,000 devotees. It was begun in 1644 and ended up being the final architectural extravagance of Shah Jahan, the Mughal emperor. He built the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort.
The highly decorative mosque has three great gates, four towers, and two 40 m-high minarets constructed of strips of red sandstone and
white marble. Travelers can hire robes at the northern gate. This may be the only time you get to dress like a local without feeling like an outsider, so makes the most of it.
Jantar Mantar
- Location: Parliament Street, Connaught Place
- Metro Station: Patel Chowk
- Open: All days
- Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
- Entry Fee: 25 (Indians), 300 (foreigners)
- Photography Charges: Nil (’25 for video filming)
Jantar Mantar (Yantra – instruments, mantra – formulae) was constructed in 1724. Maharaja Jai Singh of Jaipur, who built this observatory, created other observatories in Ujjain, Varanasi, and Mathura. Jai Singh had found the existing astronomical instruments too small to take correct measurements. So he made these more extensive and more accurate instruments.
The instruments at Jantar Mantar are fascinating for their ingenuity. Still, accurate observations can no longer be made from here because of the tall buildings.
Kalam Memorial
- Dilli Haat, INA Sri Aurobindo Marg, Opposite INA Market,
- Entry from Gate No. 2
- Timings of the Memorial: 11:00 am to 07:00 pm.
- Open every day (Monday Closed)
- ENTRY FREE
A BRILLIANT PERSONALITY INSPIRING MILLIONS WITH HIS ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Born on October 15, 1931, in the village of Dhanushkodi, Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu, Dr. Kalam will remain one of the finest human beings to have ever lived. He had an illustrious and successful life, and as he said, If you want to shine like a sun, then first burn like a sun.
Some of his achievements are as under:
- India became a significant military power after the successes of Agni and Prithvi under his leadership.
- Developed a low-cost Coronary stent. It was named “Kalam-Raju Stent.” In 2012, a rugged tablet PC was designed for health care in rural areas called “Kalam-Raju Tablet.”
- In 1998, the Pokhran-II tests cemented Indias nuclear prowess. Dr. Kalam played a pivotal role in the project.
- He wrote 34 books that envisioned his dream of India as a superpower, with Indians as innovative and unique in their thinking.
KALAM SIR’S JOURNEY CONTINUES AS WE CARRY FORWARD HIS ILLUSTRIOUS LEGACY
Kalam Memorial was inaugurated at Dilli Haat, INA, on July 30, 2016, to keep the legacy of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam alive in the heart of every Indian. This memorial is a fitting testimony of our undying love for the ‘People’s President’ as he was fondly called. Dedicated to Kalam sir and every child of India, the memorial continues to inspire a score of visitors, especially young minds.
PAVED THE WAY FOR THE YOUNG GENERATION TO PURSUE THEIR DREAMS
Dr. Kalam’s life has been the joyous culmination of his beliefs. While documenting his life and themes, this museum takes you through the different roles that he played- as a scholar, a scientist, and finally as the President of India. Other aspects of his personality were his immense humility, belief that education can transform lives, and that hard work is the key to success.
Various belongings of Dr. Kalam, like books, spectacles, pens, clothes, writing pads, unpublished papers, audio visual, souvenir shop, etc., are kept on display which will continue to inspire youths around the world in the coming years.
A MAN AHEAD OF HIS TIME GIVES US MEMORIES OF A LIFETIME.
There are very few people who can change the times in which they live. And Dr. Kalam was one of them. This memorial constructed in his honor is a fitting reminder to us of his inspiring story. Also, he is a source of inspiration for generations that should live by his ideals.
Lodi Tomb
- Location: Main Lodi Road, Beside India International Centre
- Metro Station: JLN Stadium
- Open: Daily
- Timings: Morning to Evening
- Entry: Free
- Photography Charges: Nil
The old Lady Willington Park, now known as Lodhi Garden, is dotted with monuments of the Sayyid and Lodhi Periods, including tombs, mosques, and bridges.
Muhammad Shah and Sikandar Lodhi’s tombs are good examples of octagonal tombs. Shish and Bara Gumbad are square tombs with imposing domes, turrets on corners, and facades, giving a false impression of being double-storeyed.
It is a favorite point for early morning walkers from the posh south Delhi colonies.
Lotus Temple
- Location: Near Kalkaji Temple, East of Nehru Place
- Nearest Metro Station: Kalkaji Mandir
- Open Tue-Sun; Monday closed
- Timings: 9 am to 5:30 pm
- Entry: Free
- Photography: Permission required
East of Nehru place, this temple is built in the shape of a lotus flower and is the last of seven Major Bahai temples built around the world. Completed in1986, it is set among the lush green landscaped gardens.
The structure is made up of pure white marble. The architect Furiburz Sabha chose the lotus as the symbol common to Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Islam. Adherents of any faith can visit the temple and pray or meditate.
Around the blooming petals are nine pools of water, which light up in natural light. It looks spectacular at dusk when it is flood-lit.
National Police Memorial
- Nearest Metro station: Lok Kalyan Marg (Yellow Line)
- NATIONAL POLICE MEMORIAL COMPLEX
- Opening Hours: 8.00 am – 8.00 pm
- (All days except Monday and National Holidays)
- NATIONAL POLICE MUSEUM
- Opening Hours: 9.30 am – 5.30 pm
- (All days except Monday and National Holidays)
On October 21, 1959, ten valiant Policemen laid down their lives in an ambush laid by heavily armed Chinese troops while defending the integrity of our motherland at Hot Springs (Ladakh). Chinese troops had violated Indian territory in the Aksai Chin area.
As per the heads of all Police Organizations participating in the 1960 IGsP/DGsP Conference, October 21 is a Day of Remembrance for Police Officers who made the supreme sacrifice while discharging their duties. In the memory of gallant martyrs, a memorial was dedicated at Hot Springs, where a Police Team comprising representatives of various State/Central Forces visits to pay homage in August/September every year.
The National Police Memorial (NPM), erected at Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, was dedicated to the nation by the Hon’ble PM on Oct.21, 2018, in recognition of sacrifices made by Police personnel since independence and their paramount role in preserving national security and integrity.
Since Independence till August 31, 2019, 35,134 Police personnel have laid down their lives in the nation’s service. The NPM comprises a Central Sculpture, a Museum, and a Wall of Valour.
Parliament House
The Parliament House is a circular colonnaded building. It also houses ministerial offices, numerous committee rooms, and an excellent library. Conceived in the Imperial Style, the Parliament House consists of an open verandah with 144 columns.
The domed circular central hall with oak-paneled walls and the three semi-circular buildings are used for the Rajya Shabha and Lok Shabha meetings.
Purana Quila
- Location: Near Delhi Zoo, Mathura Road
- Nearest Metro Station: Pragati Maidan
- Open: All days
- Entry Fee: 30 (Indians), 300 (foreigners)
- Days Closed: None
- Photography Charges: Free (still camera); 25 (video camera)
One does not have to go far to see the old fort or Purana Quila standing stoically amidst wild greenery. Built on the site of the most ancient of the numerous cities of Delhi, Indraprastha, Purana Quila is roughly rectangular, having a circuit of nearly two kilometers.
The thick ramparts crowned by merlons have three gateways provided with bastions on either side. It was surrounded by a wide moat connected to the river Yamuna, which used to flow east of the fort. The northern gate way called the Talaqui Darwaza, or the forbidden gateway, combines the typically Islamic pointed arch with Hindu Chhatris and brackets; whereas the southern gateway, called the
Humayun Darwaza also had a similar plan.
Humayun built the massive gateway and walls of Purana Quila, and the foundation was laid for the new capital, Dinpanah.
The work was carried forward by Sher Shah Suri, who displaced Humayun; Purana Quila is the venue for the spectacular sound and light show held every evening.
Qutab Minar
- Location: Mehrauli.
- Nearest Metro Station: Qutab Minar.
- Open: All days.
- Entry Fee: 40 (Indians), 600 (foreigners).
- Days Closed: None.
Qutab Minar is a soaring, 73 m-high tower of victory, built-in 1193 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak immediately after the defeat of Delhi’s last Hindu kingdom. The tower has five distinct storeys, each marked by a projecting balcony and tapers from a 15 m diameter at the base to just 2.5 m at the top. The first three storeys are made of red sandstone; the fourth and fifth storeys are of marble and sandstone. At the foot of the tower is the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the first mosque built in India. An inscription over its eastern gate provocatively informs that it was made with material from demolishing ’27 Hindu temples. A 7 m-high iron pillar stands in the courtyard of the mosque. If you can encircle it with your hands while standing with your back to it, your wish will be fulfilled.
The origins of Qutab Minar are shrouded in controversy. Some believe it was erected as a tower of victory to signify the beginning of the Muslim rule in India. Others say it served as a minaret to the muezzins to call the faithful to prayer.
No one can, however, dispute that the tower is not only one of the finest monuments in India but also in the world. Qutab-ud-din Aibak, the first Muslim ruler of Delhi, commenced the construction of the Qutab Minar in 1200 AD but could only finish the basement. His successor, Iltutmush, added three more storeys, and in 1368, Firoz Shah Tughlak constructed the fifth and the last storey.
The development of architectural styles from Aibak to Tughlak is quite evident in the minar. The relief work and even the materials used for construction differ. The 238 feet of Qutab Minar is 47 feet at the base and tapers to nine feet at the apex. The tower is ornamented by bands of inscriptions and by four projecting balconies supported by elaborately decorated brackets. Even though in ruins, the Quwwat Ui Islam (Light of Islam) Mosque in the Qutab complex is one of the most magnificent structures in the world. Qutab-ud-din Aibak started its construction in 1193, and the mosque was completed in 1197.
Iltutmush in 1230 and Alla-ud-din Khilji in 1315 made additions to the building. The main mosque comprises an inner and outer courtyard decorated with shafts and surrounded by Piller. Most of these shafts are from the 27 Hindu temples plundered to construct the mosque. It is, therefore, not surprising that the Muslim mosque has typical Hindu ornamentation. One of Delhi’s most curious antiques is close to the mosque, the Iron Pillar.
Rashtrapati Bhavan
Rashtrapati Bhavan, home to the President of the world’s largest democracy, is symbolic of Indian democracy and its secular, plural, and inclusive traditions. It was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker and stood on a 330-acre estate. It took seventeen years to build this presidential palace, which was completed in 1929. Almost seven hundred million bricks and three million cubic feet of stone were used to build this architectural marvel with 2.5 kilometers of corridors and 190 acres of garden area. The main building covers an area of 5 acres and has 340 rooms spread over four floors.
The famous Mughal Gardens of the Rashtrapati Bhavan cover an area of 15 acres. They have 159 famous varieties of roses, 60 varieties of bougainvillea, and many other varieties of flowers. The Estate also has a state-of-the-art Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum Complex (RBMC) comprising the Clock Tower, the Stables, and the Garages showcasing past and current presidencies, the royal ceremonies, and the rich flora and fauna of Rashtrapati Bhavan, amongst other things. President Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated the RBMC on 25th July 2016.
For the convenience of the general public, Delhi Tourism has extended the facility of Ho-Ho Buses to the Rashtrapati Bhavan.
“For tourists desirous of visiting Rashtrapati Bhavan, prior online booking may be made.”
Red Fort
- Location: Netaji Subhash Marg
- Metro Station: Chandni Chowk
- Open Tue-Sun; Mondays closed
- Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
- Entry Fee: 90 (Indians), 950 (foreigners)
- Photography: Nil (25 for video filming)
- Sound & Light Shows: 6 pm onwards in English and Hindi
- Ticket: 80 (adults), 30 (children)
- “Disable friendly”
The Red sandstone walls of the massive Red Fort (Lal Qila) rise 33-m above the clamor of Old Delhi as a reminder of the magnificent power and pomp of the Mughal emperors. The walls, built-in 1638, were designed to keep out invaders; now, they mainly keep out the noise and confusion of the city.
Lahore Gate’s main gate is one of the emotional and symbolic focal points of the modern Indian nation. It attracts a significant crowd on Independence Day.
The vaulted arcade of Chatta Chowk, a bazaar selling tourist trinkets, leads into the huge fort compound. Inside is a veritable treasure trove of buildings, including the Drum House, the Hall of Public Audiences, the white marble Hall of Private Audiences, the Pearl Mosque, Royal Baths, and the Palace of Color.
An evening sound and Light show re-create events in India’s history connected with the fort.
Safdarjang Tomb
- Location: Intersection of Safdarjung Road and Aurobindo Marg
- Metro Station: Jor Bagh
- Open: Daily
- Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
- Entry Fee:
- 25 (Indians),
- 300 (foreigners)
- Photography Charges: Free (still camera), 25 (video camera)
Safdarjung’s Tomb is the last enclosed garden tomb in Delhi in the tradition of Humayun’s Tomb, though it is far less grand in scale. It was built in 1753- 54 as the mausoleum of Safdarjung, the ruler of Awadh under the Mughal Emperor, Mohammed Shah.
It has several smaller pavilions with evocative names like Jangli Mahal (Palace in the woods), Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), and Badshah Pasand (King’s favorite).
The complex also has a madrasa. The Archaeological Survey of India maintains a library over the main gateway.
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