Delhi: The Historical City of India
Delhi is a culturally rich city in India, bursting with energy and charm. The capital of India has a solid historical background. Some of the most powerful emperors ruled the city in the past, and it is therefore known for its legacy, which attracts tourists from all corners of the world. Humanyun’s tomb, Red Fort, and Jantar Mantar are some of the most iconic infrastructures that tell about the ancient history of Delhi. The city also has diverse attractions, ranging from old-world monuments and forts to contemporary wonders. Besides, it also gives you an excellent entertaining time with its buzzing markets, cafes and restaurants. The food culture of Delhi is something that is relished by all. From spicy North Indian cuisines to delicious South Indian flavours, Delhi gives a fantastic taste of all sorts of food items. The most delicious and mouth-watering dishes available on the streets of Delhi are pav bhaji, dahi bhalla, and golgappa. And after filling your stomach with contentment, you can take a tour of the famous shopping markets, such as Chandni Chowk and Sarojini Nagar, to buy items at the most reasonable rates. If you enjoy history, get excited about shopping sprees, love trying different cuisines or want to create some memories, this city caters to the needs of all. Book your Rome to Delhi flight ticket with IndiGo.
Places to visit in Delhi
There should be a long list of historical places with a past that goes back over a millennium. Here is a list of famous places in Delhi that speak volumes about the bygone era of the Indian capital.
- Red Fort: Red Fort is one of India's most historic forts and a UNESCO World Heritage site. A Mughal fortification is renowned for its breathtaking red sandstone structure, magnificent palaces and beautiful gardens. The iconic fort located in Chandni Chowk is also known as Lal Quila. It has an impressive main gate, which is called Lahori Gate. The spectacular structure of the gate attracts huge crowds, especially during the Independence Day celebration. The fort has a vast compound and majestic buildings, including Drum House, Pearl Mosque, Royal Baths, Palace of Color and white marble halls. You can enjoy an enthralling light and sound show during the evening. The show re-creates the events of Indian history related to the Red Fort.
- Rashtrapati Bhawan: Rashtrapati Bhawan is one of the most impressive buildings in Delhi. They are also known as Parliament House. The circular collonaded building houses ministerial offices, a museum complex, a clock tower and numerous committee rooms. The structure was designed and conceptualised by Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker in the Imperial Style, consisting of an open verandah with 144 columns. An important part of the building is a circular-shaped central hall where the Indian Constitution was drafted. It also has the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha and a library hall. The Rashtrapati Bhawan also has accommodation facilities for the ministers and the essential officers of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.
- Jantar Mantar: Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory and equinoctial sundial. The phenomenal piece of architecture was constructed by Maharaja Jai Singh in 1724. The structure enlightens old-world astronomy, how time was determined, and the people of a bygone era discovered the location and movements of these celestial bodies. The 300-year-old observatory contains several astronomical structures and instruments entirely made using brick, limestone, and rubble and installed in the open air.
- Akshardham Temple: Swaminarayan Akshardham is a spiritual and cultural complex located on the banks of the river Yamuna. Through its breathtaking grandeur, the temple epitomises a 10,000-year-old Indian civilisation. The temple complex is a marvel of contemporary architecture that showcases India's rich legacy. A visit to the temple takes you on an enlightening journey through India's art, cultural values and spiritual messages. The temple is adorned with lush green lawns, exquisite bronze statues, and a lotus-shaped garden. You can enjoy the enthralling musical fountain show in the evening.
- Jama Masjid: Jama Masjid is the largest and one of the most renowned mosques in India. Situated on the old side of Delhi, the mosque has a vast courtyard with the capacity to cater to around 25,000 devotees. The spectacular complex comprises three huge gates, four colossal towers and two 40 m-high minarets made of red sandstone and white marble. Jama Masjid was built around 1650 – 1656 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. The place is open every day of the week from 7 a.m. to noon and 1.30 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. However, tourists are not allowed to visit the mosque during the prayer hours.
- Humayun’s Tomb: Humayun's Tomb is the first example of Mughal architecture in India. A beautiful mausoleum is a masterpiece of Mughal design. The architectural marvel was built in 1565 by Humanyu’s wife, Bega Begum. It is acclaimed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. One of the conserved Mughal monuments, the tomb is located in the city's eastern part. The garden squares, also called Chahar Bagh, are the most notable features inside the walled enclosure of the tomb. Beautiful pathways and water bodies add to the charm of the place. A centrally located, well-proportioned mausoleum is topped by a double dome. The premises also have several graves of other Mughal rulers.
Delhi Airport (DEL)
Delhi Airport (DEL) is the main airport of the city, located around 16 km from the city centre. The airport is also known as Indira Gandhi International Airport. It is one of the most active airports in India based on the daily flight traffic and the second busiest airport when it comes to passenger traffic. The airport seamlessly connects the city with all the major countries while smoothly handling all the flights to Delhi. The Airport comprises three terminals - T1, T2 and T3. Out of these, T1 and T2 handle domestic flights, and T3 handles both domestic and international flights. The airport offers all the premium facilities to the visitors, including lounges, cafes, restaurants, duty-free shops and baggage services. Many options for public transportation connect the airport to the city centre, including the metro, bus, taxi and car rental services.
