10 Best Attractions in New Delhi, India
1. India Gate
India Gate is an arch in New Delhi, India. Its dedicated to the soldiers of the British Indian Army, who fought and died during the first world war. The gate was built around the central hexagon. It was before independence. The road in front of it is Raj path which leads to President’s House. This street also uses for Republic day parade on 26th January. This place has large lawns and water bodies, and decorated by evergreen trees. It’s one the favorite hangout place. Locals as well as visitors often come here for a picnic day. There are lots of food stalls around, also some of the ice cream karts stay the whole night. So, you can visit here anytime.
2. Red Fort
Mughal emperor Shahjahan built Red Fort as a new capital complex because he decided to rule from Delhi. So, as its name suggests, it was built with red sandstones. It was a royal residence for about 200 years until British overthrow last Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar. Fort is most important attraction in new delhi. Independence Day celebration happens here.
3. Qutub Minar & Mehrauli Archeological complex
Qutub Minar is one of the oldest monument in New Delhi, India. However whole Mehrauli complex along with Qutub Minar is part of UNESCO world heritage site. Its a 73-meter high tower(minaret). Built between 1192 -1220 by Mamluk Sultan Qutb ud Din Aibak. It is a part of Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque. But Sultan died and then minar later finished by his son in law. There are many additions to the complex by many rulers. Mosque complex has also an unfinished minar as well.
4. Humayun’s Tomb & Nizamuddin
Humayun’s Tomb is a tomb dedicated to 2nd Mughal emperor Humayun. It’s in Nizamuddin area of Delhi, India. When you see this tomb, you will feel that it looks like Taj Mahal of Agra, which design actually was inspired by this tomb. Nizamuddin’s holy dargah is another attraction nearby, which also hosts Sufi musical(Qawwalis) night on Thursdays.
5. Connaught Place (CP)
Connaught Place is surely one of the city centers of New Delhi. There are many high rise offices as well as business complexes around this circular buildings. Connaught Place has shops, cafés and restaurants lined up in its outer and inner rings. It is a local favorite hangout place for shopping and dining. There is a park in the center but just above the metro junction. There is an underground market known as Palika Market, but we don’t recommend you to visit.
6. Hauz Khas Village
Hauz Khas complex belongs to the work of Feroz Shah Tuglaq as a madrasa(school) complex together with an artificial lake(Hauz). The complex contains small ruins around Hauz Khas village, Lake is now a part of a district park used by locals for fitness walks, Because are many bars and restaurants in this area which makes it a great point of nightlife in Delhi. If you want to explore more take a look at Deer park nearby.
7. Jama Masjid – Old Delhi
Jama Masjid is one of the biggest mosque complexes in India. It was built by Mughal emperor Shahjahan in the 17th century. Jama Masjid is in front of Red Fort complex in Shahjahanabad. It was built with red sandstone, same as of Red Fort and white marbles. Mosque has a lively environment around it.
8. Lotus Temple
Lotus temple is a Baha’i temple in the Kalkaji area of South Delhi. It is in fact built in the shape of Lotus around water bodies and large green lawns. Design of it kinda gives you feel of Sydney’s Opera house. People of all religions are welcome here, its indeed a peaceful place.
9. Safdarjung’s Tomb & Lodhi Garden
Safdarjung’s Tomb is a beautiful and peaceful place as it’s not crowded. Located in the center Delhi near many important buildings around it. Another attraction close to it is the Lodi garden. It’s a big beautiful garden with many species of trees and flowers. There are few historical buildings inside the garden, including the Tomb of Sikander Lodi. It’s a beautiful place to hang out and relaxes any day.
10. Old Fort
Old Fort in Delhi is one of the oldest forts, it is mostly ruined, of the fort which was built by Sher Shah Suri. Archeological survey of India excavated sites found evidence of 3rd century BCE. There are a museum and a lake in front of the fort used for boating activity for tourists. Delhi Zoo is also next to the fort.
cover image credits: enjoytheworld
