Delhi: The heart of India
Delhi is a combination of traditions, culture, finance, and fashion. The location of the city, as well as its political, and commercial significance, makes it the heart of India. The place gives you everything – from career to government and business to basics. Delhi is also known as ‘the Mughal Marvel’. This is because of this place's vital status in the history and legacy of the Mughal Empire. Some of the most famous destinations exhibiting this cultural past's essence are the Humanyun Tomb, Red Fort, and the Jama Masjid. The city that showcases an exclusive mix of traditional and cosmopolitan styles also offers a combination of culinary experiences. Some of the most loved dishes that you can try when visiting Delhi are chole bhature, aloo paratha, and dahi bhalla. While you are in Delhi to experience the natural flavours of the city, you can also visit Chandni Chowk to shop for the most authentic items and take them with you as souvenirs.
Places to visit in Delhi
Delhi is dotted with numerous tourist attractions. The city has everything from historic forts and monuments to museums and gardens, from places of worship to colourful markets and malls. If you are booking your flights to Delhi, make an itinerary with the following list of top places to visit in Delhi.
- Qutub Minar: Qutub Minar, also spelt as Qutb Minar, is a 73-m tall, 5-storey minaret. Interestingly, the base of the Minar is 14.3 m wide, while the top of the structure is 2.7 m in diameter. As per the records, the foundation of Qutub Minar was laid in 1192 by the founder of the Delhi Sultanate, Qutab Ud-din Aibak. The tower has 379 steps with a spiral staircase. There is also a mosque named ‘Quwwat-ul-Islam Masjid’ on the same premises, which is said to be the first mosque in the country.
- Humayun’s Tomb: Humayun’s Tomb is the tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun, built in 1569-70. It is the first tomb of the Indian sub-continent and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. The tomb complex also houses the graves of Bega Begum, Hamida Begum and the grandson of Emperor Humayun, Dara Shikoh. The place showcases a beautiful evolution of Mughal architecture. The Charbagh Gardens of Humayun’s Tomb are another significant attraction. The gardens are built in Persian style and are used as resting areas for visitors.
- Purana Quila: Purana Quila is an old, attractive monument amidst Delhi's glitz and glamour. It is one of the oldest forts in Delhi, dating back to the pre-Mauryan period. The complex has three arched gateways decorated with white and coloured-marble inlays and blue tiles, giving a glimpse of Rajasthani architecture. It also contains monuments like the Sher Mandal and the Qila-i-Kuhna mosque. The place is quite popular amongst the locals and the tourists travelling to Delhi.
- Akshardham Temple: Also known as Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, this landmark is one of Delhi's most visited and loved religious places. The temple possesses 60 acres of lush lawn and has a step-well-style courtyard. It is recorded as the world’s largest comprehensive Hindu temple in the Guinness World Records. The architectural marvel is intricately built of carved sandstone and marble. There are 234 ornately carved pillars, 20,000 idols of sadhus, acharyas, and devotees and nine beautifully crafted domes. The temple houses Swami Narayana, Shiv-Parvati, Radha-Krishna, Sita-Ram and Lakshmi-Narayan idols. Various exhibitions on Swaminarayan’s life teachings are held here. Besides, his teachings are also depicted through an enthralling musical fountain and a light show conducted every evening during sunset.
- Dilli Haat: Dilli Haat is an open craft bazaar and food plaza set up jointly by Delhi Tourism, the Ministry of Textiles, and the Government of India. The place transports visitors into a magical world of Indian art and heritage displayed via a fascinating setup of craft, cuisine, and cultural activities. It has incredible craft stalls selling local, practical, and ethnic products from all over the country. The organisation hosts various exhibitions in the hall located on the premises to promote local handicrafts and handlooms.
- Raj Ghat: Raj Ghat, located on the banks of the river Yamuna, is dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. It is a beautiful and calm place with fountains and numerous trees, giving a serene charm to the area. The memorial is made on Mahatma Gandhi’s cremation spot and was built on 31 January 1948, a day after his assassination. The place holds high importance for historians, politicians, and state guests.
Delhi Airport (DEL)
Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is the most important international airport of the Union Territory and neighbouring areas. All the domestic, and international flights to Delhi, as well as other close-knit cities, arrive and depart from this airport. Due to this, it is the busiest airport in India and the third most active globally. The airport is located at a distance of 16 km from the city centre. You can easily travel this distance by taking any public transportation available, such as buses, rickshaws, trains or meteors. You can also look for more private options such as taxis and cabs to reach your destination on time. The Delhi Airport has 3 terminals for domestic, international, and regional flights. It offers all passenger premium facilities, including baggage service, duty-free shopping, restaurants, and lounges. Passengers are treated to a world-class experience, with services such as efficient baggage handling, an array of duty-free shopping options, diverse dining choices, and luxurious lounges to unwind in. Choosing the proximity and efficiency of Indira Gandhi International Airport ensures a convenient and time-saving journey to your desired destination.