Lal Qila
Red Fort
The Red Fort or Lal Qila is a historic fort in the Old Delhi neighbourhood of Delhi. India, that historically served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors. Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned construction of the Red Fort on 12 May 1638.
It was completed after nine years on the 16th April 1648. The entire fort is said to have cost about one crore of rupees, half of it on the palaces. The Red Fort, so called because of the red colour of the stone largely used in it, is octagonal on plan, with two longer sides on the east and west.
Massiveness of Fort
The fort’s massive red sandstone walls, which stand 75 feet (23 metres) high, enclose a complex of palaces and entertainment halls, projecting balconies, baths and indoor canals, and geometrical gardens, as well as an ornate mosque. Among the most famous structures of the complex are the Hall of Public Audience (Diwan-i-ʿAm), which has 60 red sandstone pillars supporting a flat roof, and the Hall of Private Audience (Diwan-i-Khas)which is smaller and has a pavilion of white marble.
Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid, located in Delhi, is a significant historical and religious site. It served as the imperial mosque of the Mughal emperors during the Mughal era in Shahjahanabad, which is present-day Old Delhi. The mosque has a rich history and architectural significance, reflecting the Indo-Islamic and Mughal styles. It was constructed in 1656 and continues to be a prominent landmark in Delhi, attracting visitors and worshippers from around the world.
The Jama Masjid in Delhi is an architectural marvel that showcases a blend of Indo-Islamic and Mughal styles.
Construction: Built between 1644-1656 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the mosque is a grand structure constructed with red sandstone and white marble2.
Design Elements: The mosque features intricate calligraphy, floral designs, and captivating motifs that adorn its structures. It has a capacity to accommodate around 25,000 worshippers at a time.
Minarets: The mosque has two towering minarets made of red sandstone and marble, each with five stories marked by protective balconies. The minarets reach a height of 130 feet and have 130 steps inside for climbing.
Courtyard: The mosque boasts a vast courtyard adorned with white striped and red sandstone minarets. The courtyard can accommodate a large number of worshippers during prayers.
Gateways: Three grand gateways lead to the mosque, with the eastern gateway having 35 steps leading to it. This gate was reserved for the use of Mughal Emperors.
Domes: The mosque features three marble domes, adding to its architectural grandeur and beauty.
Architectural Style: The Jama Masjid is considered one of the finest mosques constructed during the Mughal Empire, showcasing a harmonious blend of red sandstone and white marble in its design.
The Jama Masjid's architectural splendor, historical significance, and religious importance make it a must-visit destination for tourists and a revered place of worship for the Muslim community in Delhi.
Humayun Tomb
Humayun Tomb
Humayun's Tomb, located in Delhi, India, is a significant cultural and architectural landmark. Built in 1570, it is renowned for being the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent, inspiring major architectural innovations. The tomb is often referred to as the 'dormitory of the Mughals' due to over 150 Mughal family members being buried there. Situated in an archaeological setting near the Shrine of the 14th-century Sufi Saint, Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, the tomb is part of a dense ensemble of medieval Islamic buildings in India. Notably, Humayun's garden-tomb features a monumental scale, grand design, and a garden setting that set precedents in Islamic mausoleum architecture, influencing future Mughal imperial projects like the Taj Mahal. The tomb, along with other 16th-century garden tombs in the vicinity, forms a unique ensemble showcasing the architectural and garden excellence of the Mughal era.
The site's integrity is preserved through the conservation of original structures like gateways, pavilions, and other 16th-century buildings, maintaining its outstanding universal value. Conservation efforts focus on using traditional materials and techniques to retain authenticity and enhance the significance of the site. Humayun's Tomb stands as a symbol of the powerful Mughal dynasty that played a pivotal role in unifying the Indian subcontinent.
For Visitors
Visitors to Humayun's Tomb can explore this architectural marvel daily from sunrise to sunset, with an entry fee of 40 rupees for Indians and 600 rupees for foreigners. The tomb is easily accessible via the JLN Stadium Metro Station and is located near the crossing of Mathura Road and Lodhi Road in Delhi.
India Gate
India Gate
India Gate, located in New Delhi, is a prominent war memorial that commemorates the soldiers of the Indian Army who sacrificed their lives during World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, the 42-meter-high archway resembles the ancient Roman triumphal arches and is often compared to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The memorial bears the names of over 13,000 Indian soldiers who perished in various theaters of war between 1914 and 1921. The foundation stone was laid in 1921, and the monument was unveiled in 1931, dedicated to the nation by the Viceroy, Lord Irwin. India Gate also features the Amar Jawan Jyoti, an eternal flame memorializing soldiers who died in the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971. The site is a significant symbol of remembrance and patriotism, attracting visitors and serving as a venue for various events, including the Republic Day Parade.
he architectural grandeur of India Gate, with its inscriptions and design elements, stands as a tribute to the soldiers' valor and sacrifice. The memorial's historical significance and its role as a focal point for national events make it a revered landmark in India's capital city, embodying the spirit of heroism and national pride.
Amar Jawan Jyoti
The Amar Jawan Jyoti flame at India Gate holds significant historical and symbolic importance as a memorial honoring the martyred soldiers of the Indian Armed Forces. Established in 1972 to commemorate the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Indo-Pakistani war of 1971, which led to the creation of Bangladesh, the Amar Jawan Jyoti serves as a poignant reminder of the nation's victory and the bravery of those who fought for India's freedom. The flame, located under India Gate in central Delhi, symbolizes the eternal spirit of these soldiers and their selfless dedication to the country. It stands as an iconic symbol of national tribute, inspiring generations of Indians and evoking a sense of pride and respect for the sacrifices made by these brave individuals.
Enjoyment
Boat rides at India Gate offer a serene and enjoyable experience for visitors, allowing them to appreciate the beauty of the surroundings from a unique perspective. There are three boat clubs at India Gate offering different types of boating experiences. The first two clubs, located near Rajpath, offer pedal boating, while the third one at Bhalswa Lake provides both pedal boating and motor-boating options. The charges for pedal boating are around Rs 130 for half an hour, while motor-boating costs Rs 230 for two rounds. These boat rides provide an opportunity to relive childhood memories and enjoy a leisurely time with family and friends amidst the picturesque setting of India Gate. The boat rides are especially popular in the evenings when the weather is cooler, making it an ideal time to experience this recreational activity.
Rashtrapati Bhawan
Rastrapati Bhawan
Rashtrapati Bhavan, located at the western end of Rajpath in New Delhi, is the official residence of the President of India. This iconic building symbolizes India's strengths, democratic traditions, and secular character. It stands as a testament to the country's rich history and architectural heritage, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker. The Rashtrapati Bhavan features a museum that offers insights into its art, architecture, and the lives of past presidents. Restoration projects have been undertaken to preserve its historical significance, with the first restoration completed in 1989 and the second restoration initiated in 2010 under the guidance of renowned architects like Charles Correa and Sunita Kohli.
Visiting Places
Visitors to Rashtrapati Bhavan can explore various circuits that showcase the main building, including the Forecourt, premier rooms like the Banquet Hall and Ashok Hall, and other areas like the Clock Tower, Stables, and Garages. The museum within the Bhavan displays exquisite artifacts, providing a glimpse into India's art, culture, and heritage. Additionally, the lush Mughal Gardens surrounding the Rashtrapati Bhavan, now known as Amrit Udyan, offer a serene retreat for visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature and experience the grandeur of this historic site.
Significance
Rashtrapati Bhavan holds immense significance in Indian politics as the official residence of the President of India. It symbolizes the country's democratic principles, secular values, and inclusive ideals. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker, this architectural marvel stands on a 330-acre estate and took seventeen years to build, being completed in 1929. With 340 rooms spread over four floors and 190 acres of garden area, Rashtrapati Bhavan is a testament to India's rich history and architectural heritage. The Mughal Gardens within the estate, covering 15 acres and boasting a variety of flowers, add to its grandeur.
Gandhi Smriti
Gandhi Smriti
Gandhi Smriti, formerly known as Birla House, is a museum in New Delhi dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, where he spent the last 144 days of his life and was assassinated on January 30, 1948. Originally the residence of the Birla family, it was converted into a museum in 1973 by the Government of India. The museum houses various artifacts associated with Gandhi's life and death, including the preserved room where he lived and the spot where he was shot during his nightly public walk. Visitors can explore the building and grounds, gaining insights into Gandhi's life and legacy. The museum is open every day except Mondays and national holidays, with free entry for all visitors. Gandhi Smriti stands as a poignant memorial to the Father of the Nation, offering a glimpse into his philosophy, principles, and the events surrounding his final days.
Biography of Gandhi
Gandhi Smriti holds immense significance in Indian history as a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, where he spent the last 144 days of his life and was tragically assassinated on January 30, 1948. Originally known as Birla House, this historical site symbolizes Gandhi's principles of truth, non-violence, unity, and equality, which were central to India's struggle for independence from British colonial rule. The museum within Gandhi Smriti showcases various artifacts related to Gandhi's life and death, offering visitors a glimpse into his philosophy, teachings, and the events surrounding his final days.
Gandhi Smriti serves as a poignant reminder of Gandhi's immense contribution to India's freedom movement and his unwavering commitment to non-violence and social justice. The site reverberates with Gandhi's message of "All men are brothers," encapsulating his vision of a united and inclusive India. The preservation of this memorial is a testament to Gandhi's enduring legacy and the values he stood for, making it a crucial part of India's national heritage. Gandhi Smriti stands as a beacon of inspiration, reminding future generations of the sacrifices made by Gandhi and the ideals he espoused, shaping the course of Indian history and influencing the world with his philosophy of peace and non-violence.
AksharDham
The Great Akshardham
The AkshardhamTemple is one of the temples with great pride for Hindus. The Temple has the best images carved in the stone on the walls of the Temple making it the most Adorable. Swaminarayan Akshardham is a Hindu temple, and spiritual-cultural campus in Delhi, India. The temple is close to the border with Noida. Also referred to as Akshardham Temple or Akshardham Delhi, the complex displays millennia of traditional and modern Hindu culture, spirituality, and architecture. Inspired by Yogi ji Maharaj and created by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, it was constructed by BAPS.
The Temple is Open for 10:00 AM to 6:30PM Entry in the temple is free. But to see the shows performed in the temple you need to take the ticket which can be easily Got inside the temple.
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.
Musical Fountain - Circle of Life (Evenings at Sunset - 15 min.)
A spectacular musical fountain show that 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, honouring India's child heroes, valorous 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.
Lotus Temple
The Lotus Temple, officially known as the Bahá'í House of Worship, is a significant architectural marvel located in New Delhi, India. This unique structure, dedicated to public worship in 1986, is owned by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of India. The Lotus Temple stands as a symbol of the oneness of humankind, welcoming people of all backgrounds to pray and meditate within its premises. It represents the Bahá'í principle of the unity of religion, emphasizing the importance of prayer and collective worship as integral elements of spiritual and communal life. The House of Worship serves as a center for social, educational, and humanitarian services, embodying the principle of the oneness of humanity. The Lotus Temple's architectural beauty and spiritual significance make it a revered landmark in India, attracting visitors from around the world to experience its serene and inclusive atmosphere.
The Worship Centre
The Lotus Temple holds profound significance in the Bahá'í Faith as a symbol of the oneness of humankind and the unity of religions. As one of the eight Houses of Worship around the world, the Lotus Temple embodies the principle of welcoming people of all racial, religious, and national backgrounds to pray and meditate within its premises. It stands as a collective center promoting unity and equality, where individuals from diverse backgrounds are embraced as equals. The edifice is dedicated to the one God, emphasizing the belief in the unknowable essence of God and the succession of Divine Messengers sent throughout history to guide humanity.
In the Bahá'í Faith, the Lotus Temple highlights the importance of prayer as a means of direct communication with the Creator, without intermediaries. It serves as a space for collective worship, fostering spiritual and material prosperity within communities. Devotional services at the Lotus Temple are universal, inviting all individuals to open their hearts and minds to the Words of God. Additionally, the temple emphasizes the outward expression of inner transformation through service to humanity, encompassing deeds that benefit others, communal worship, educational initiatives, and community life based on the principle of the oneness of humanity.
Overall, the Lotus Temple in the Bahá'í Faith represents a beacon of peace, universal love, and unity, embodying the core tenets of the religion through its architectural beauty, inclusive atmosphere, and focus on prayer, worship, and service to humanity.
Indira Gandhi Museum
Indira Gandhi (The Lady Prime Minister)
The Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum, located in New Delhi, is a significant historical site dedicated to commemorating the life and legacy of Indira Gandhi, India's first and only female Prime Minister. Housed in the building where Indira Gandhi lived with her family during her premiership and where she was tragically assassinated, the museum showcases various artifacts and relics associated with her life. Visitors can explore the museum to gain insights into different phases of Indira Gandhi's life, from her childhood to her political career, through photographs, personal belongings, and other exhibits. The museum also features items related to her son, Rajiv Gandhi, including his clothes and shoes worn at the time of his assassination. The site serves as a tribute to Indira Gandhi's contributions to Indian politics and society, offering a glimpse into her personal and public life, making it a significant landmark in Indian history and politics.
Location
The location of the Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum holds significant historical and symbolic importance. Situated at No. 1, Safdarjung Road, New Delhi, the museum is housed in the very old building where Indira Gandhi lived and was tragically assassinated on October 31, 1984. This location, which was once her residential house, has been transformed into a memorial to honor her memory and legacy. The museum's setting adds a layer of authenticity and emotional connection, allowing visitors to walk through the same spaces where Indira Gandhi lived and worked, gaining a deeper understanding of her life and the events that unfolded there.
The museum's location serves as a poignant reminder of the tragic events that took place, offering a glimpse into the personal and public life of one of India's most influential leaders. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to witness the simple lifestyle of Indira Gandhi and gain insights into her journey, from childhood to her time as Prime Minister. The museum's setting, with its well-preserved artifacts and relics, including the saree she wore during her assassination and the blood spot crystal plaque, creates a somber yet informative atmosphere that pays tribute to her legacy. Overall, the location of the Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum adds a layer of historical significance and emotional resonance, making it a crucial site for preserving the memory of this iconic leader in Indian history.
Lakshmi Narayan Mandir
Lakshmi Narayan Mandir
The Lakshmi Narayan Mandir, also known as the Laxminarayan Temple, is a Hindu temple located in Delhi, India. This temple is dedicated to Laxmi Narayan, which is Vishnu along with his consort Lakshmi. It was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi, who ensured that members of all castes would be allowed in the temple. The temple was built by the Birla family between 1933 and 1939 and is the first large Hindu temple constructed in Delhi. The architecture of the temple follows the Nagara style of Hindu temple architecture and is spread over 3 hectares, featuring many shrines, fountains, and a large garden with sculptures. The temple is a significant attraction in Delhi, drawing thousands of devotees during festivals like Janmashtami.
Festivals
The Lakshmi Narayan Mandir celebrates various festivals, including Ganesh Chaturthi, the birthday of Ganesha, and Raksha Bandhan. Additionally, festivals like Diwali, Shrimad Bhagwat Katha, India Day Celebration, Shri Krishan Janamashtmi, and Govardhan Puja & Annakut are observed at different times. These festivals are significant events where Hindus come to the temple to make offerings, perform rituals, and celebrate with the community.
Qutub Minar
Qutub Minar (The Truth Speaker)
The Scriptures scripted in the Qutub Minar contain so much knowledge about the ancient India. And it is one of the most tallest building in the world made in ancient India. The scriptures are scripted in the arabic and urdu language It is the one of the most visited spot in India By the Tourists. It can be compared to the 62-metre all-brick Minaret of Jam in Afghanistan, of c. 1190, which was constructed a decade or so before the probable start of the Delhi tower. The surfaces of both are elaborately decorated with inscriptions and geometric patterns. The Qutub Minar has a shaft that is fluted with "superb stalactite bracketing under the balconies" at the top of each stage. Qutbu'd-Din Aibak laid the foundation of Minar in AD 1199 for the use of the mu'azzin (crier) to give calls for prayer and raised the first storey, to which were added three more storeys by his successor and son-in-law, Shamsu'd-Din Iltutmish (AD 1211-36). All the storeys are surrounded by a projected balcony encircling the minar and supported by stone brackets, which are decorated with honey-comb design, more conspicuously in the first storey.
Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar (The Time Traveller)
Jantar Mantar is located in the modern city of New Delhi. "Jantar Mantar" means "instruments for measuring the harmony of the "heavens" . It consists of 13 architectural astronomy instruments. The site is one of five built by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur, from 1723 onwards, revising the calendar and astronomical tables.Jantar Mantar (Yantra - instruments, mantra - formulae) was constructed in 1724. Maharaja Jai Singh of Jaipur who built this observatory went on to build other observatories in Ujjain , Varanasi and Mathura. Jai Singh had found the existing astronomical instruments too small to take correct measurements and so he built these larger and more accurate instruments.
The instruments at Jantar Mantar are fascinating for their ingenuity, but accurate observations can no longer be made from here because of the tall buildings around.