Delhi is not just the capital of India, it is a feeling. It is home to a diverse range of people from different cultures which has something to offer to everyone. Delhi has seen it all, from the Mughal era to British India to Free India. It has a corner for everyone from historic monuments to mesmerising temples and parks, food joints to Sarojini Nagar. And today, I am here to tell you some of the best places to visit in Delhi
Historical Monuments
1. India Gate
A war memorial standing majestically in remembrance of the lives sacrificed by the children of this nation is an integral part of Delhi. The giant sandstone archway was designed by a very famous architect of those times, architect Sir Edwin Lutyens. The accompanying pleasant vicinity makes it a popular tourist spot in Delhi. India Gate also hosts a light show at night from 7 pm to 9 :30 pm, so it sure is one of the best places to visit in Delhi at night.
2. Red Fort
The fortress-palace, designed by Ustad Ahmad Lahori, showcases the zenith of Indo-Persian architectural aesthetics. He is the same artisan who built Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. The huge red sandstone structure, then known as Qila-i-Mubarak, served as the main residence of the Mughal royal family. It is among the best places to visit in Delhi for couples, to fantasize about having a royal affair while walking through the halls and rooms.
3. Humayun’s Tomb
This tomb-garden complex is an inspiration from Paradise as described in Quran. It was the first of its kind in the whole subcontinent. The lofty gardens, pavillions and archways and such artistry were never seen before in the world then. A grand mausoleum is certainly a must-visit place with friends and family.
Religious Sites
1. Akshardham Temple
Holding a Guinness World Record as the Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple, Swaminarayan Akshardham complex displays a synthesis of classic and contemporary spirituality and architecture. Built on following Vastu and Pancharatra Shastra, the pink sandstone and Carrara marble structure also followed Shilpa Shastra i.e. ancient guidelines on temple architecture for longevity and used no ferrous or concrete support. Boating inside Akshardham Temple Delhi is one of the most famous exhibition experiences available there. It is the best place to enjoy the beauty and elegance of the traditional and modern aspects of Hindu society with your family.
2. Jama Masjid
Known as Masjid-i-Jahan-Numa, this spectacular specimen of Islamic and religious architecture is the principal mosque of Delhi. It is one of the most aesthetic places in Delhi. The immensity of this impressive site is capable of holding 25,000 devotees in it, making it one of the biggest mosques in the country. It gives a panoramic view of the city, since it is built at an elevated land.
3. Lotus Temple
One of the Seven Major Baha’i Places of Worship, this mesmerizingly beautiful religious monument is a piece of modern art, apart from being a symbol of religious oneness and unity. Among the most peaceful places in Delhi, the lotus structure and the secular environment make the site an attractive tourist destination.
Street Markets in Delhi, India
1. Chandni Chowk
A heaven for shopaholics, the Chandni Chowk Market can ensnare you in with its delectable delicacies, sizzling spices, glittering jewels and silky sarees. Meaning Moonlit Square, the bustling bazaar got its name from the crescent shape it and the silver merchants who decorated the night market back in those days. Indulge yourself in a shopping spree and buy items of unmatched quality at reasonable prices.
2. Palika Bazaar
The only underground market in Delhi, this bazaar is notorious for finding rare, unique, and direct, illegal items. Bargaining is a mantra to stick within any market in India, but the intensity it requires to stick by it and withstand the exchanges is rough. This falls among the best places in Delhi to visit with friends. Beware though, never wander off alone.
3. Karol Bagh Market
Strolling through the market streets, discover one of the most laid-back of the bustling markets and one of the best places to visit in Delhi to chill with family or friends. Although it might not seem very glamorous and the cultural and traditional depth of the area makes it a very diverse field for shopping around. The wide array of cuisines and attires results from the variety of ethnicity the people residing there have.
Parks and Gardens to visit in Delhi
1. Hauz Khas Village
This suburban area in South Delhi is a well-known destination for multiple artistic and natural spots. Its Deer Park, one of the two largest green areas in the region, is a popular pick for being the best place to spend weekends near Delhi. Families spend picnics and strolling time there. The ducks and deers make it interesting for children to spend their time there. Overlooking the lake, you can definetly enjoy the sunsets here. You should not miss the Rose Garden in Hauz Khas. Rose is the symbol of love and passion, coupled with the serene ambience of the garden, which naturally makes it one of the best places to visit in Delhi for couples.
2. Qutub Minar Complex
The set of monuments falling under this complex show blend of Islamic eloquence and Hindu elegance in the structures. Signifying the might of Islamic powers, the architecture introduces western design through the minars, mosques and tombs with high archways. But the supporting pillars are clad with art inspired by the Hindu temples of Indian origins. Also, because of the great height, it offers a panoramic view of the city with awesome sunsets.
3. Lodi Gardens
Showcasing the craft of the earth and creativity of the humans, Lodi Gardens is a dreamy treat for lovers of both architecture and nature. If you are someone, who likes to cherish the tranquillity of nature and beleive in early mornings, this place is definitely a hit. Apart from the peaceful sunrises, this refreshing place is among the best sunset points in Delhi as well. Spend some time musing about the beauty of the craftsmanship of the arches, domes and pier bridges in the garden. These historical remnants will leave a hauntingly beautiful impression on your mind. The thriving flora and fauna give life to the area. The greenery of a variety of plant life is speckled with colours of flowers and multitudes of butterflies. The spectrum of hues and calls because of the mynahs, babblers, parakeets, kingfishers, and hornbills adds vibrancy to the atmosphere.
4. Nehru Park
Named after the first prime minister of the free nation, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, it is one of the most beautiful parks and landmark destinations during a trip to Delhi. Sprawling across an area of over 80 acres, it is one of the best places to hang out and chill in Delhi. The extensive span of the park is decorated by a large number of seasonal plants and trees, altering the scene of the place with each season, all of which are plenty delightful.
Museums and Art Galleries in Delhi
1. National Museum
One of the largest museums in the country, also known as the National Museum of India, is home to moments and shreds of evidence of time, spanning years over 5000. Some of the prominent collections of this place are Dancing Girl from Indus Valley Civilization and Ivory carved Dashavatar. Over 2 lakhs of artefacts are stored and taken care of here. From sculptures, textiles, weapons and armour, to manuscripts, coins, instruments and much more. Apart from the pieces of Indian history, heritage and culture, the museum also houses several hundreds of foreign artefacts and arts.
2. National Gallery of Modern Art
Being structured like a butterfly, the building of the gallery itself is a piece of art. It is among the largest of its contemporaries in the world. Generations of artists and their art are featured here. Art of Raja Ravi Varma, Jamini Roy, Thomas Daniell etc artists from home and abroad are displayed to be admired by enthusiasts. The artworks range from indigenous creations to altruistic modern renditions. The evolution of art is the noticeable theme of the museum gallery.
3. National Science Centre
Built to propagate scientific discoveries and knowledge, and inculcate a temperament to pursue scientific and technological studies, National Science Centre is among the best places for kids particularly. Although adults are sure to love it a lot as well. It segregates sections that engage in different topics, requiring visitors to go through them one at a time. NSC discusses prehistoric discoveries, historic contributions, and current innovations, and makes them accessible for visitors to interact with and learn from. It also has a zone open for futuristic developments in the fields of science and technology, and we display examples of some ideas to invoke imagination and interest.
Concluding Thoughts
Delhi is a city of historic importance with many archaeological sites. It also has a lot of parks and gardens from the Mughal era to bewitch your experience even more. For enriching experiences, museums should be a must to get to know some fun places in Delhi. I hope you like the article and I have tried my best to cover as many things as possible.
I advice that you check the timings of all places before planning a visit. Also, the metro serves as a very good option for travel. It is present almost at all places thus connecting all these major destinations. Delhi is not just a destination, it is a feeling. Do come with some time in hand to enjoy the most of the city.
