Top 5 Tourist Places to Visit in Delhi
The capital of the country is not only a seat of political power but also a storehouse of grand history. Delhi has been the administrative capital of several imperial dynasties, including the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Raj. Because of this, Delhi houses several architectural landmarks that grant it an otherworldly charm. In Delhi, you will find the perfect amalgamation of the urban and the ancient worlds. Here are the top 5 tourist places to visit in Delhi that will make sure that you receive the full Delhi experience.
- Red Fort
The popularity of the Red Fort has not waned to this day. This piece of Mughal architecture, made entirely from red sandstone, was the brainchild of Shah Jahan. The walls of the fort, along with attractions such as the Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khaas, the Chatta bazaar, and the nearby Meena Bazaar, bear testimony to the grand history of the fort. Visitors can view a special sound and light show to know about the history of the Red Fort in detail. In 2007, UNESCO declared the Red Fort to be a World Heritage Site. One of the most well-known places to visit in Delhi, it is a must-visit for anyone who is new to the city. This will be included in all Delhi tours.
2. Jantar Mantar
To witness how ancient Indians understood the stars, pay a visit to Jantar Mantar. It is one of India’s first astronomical observatories, and probably it’s most ancient. The structure was constructed in 1724 by Maharaja Jai Singh of Jaipur. Unfortunately, the instruments in Jantar Mantar can no longer provide accurate readings because of the obstructed skyline around the observatory. However, it is still fascinating to witness how astronomy was practised and understood in ancient India. Some of the main instruments included in the observatory are the Samrat Yantra, the Ram Yantra, and the Jai Prakash.
3. Humayun’s Tomb
Humayun was the second Mughal emperor and father to Akbar the Great. His tomb was built in 1570 by his wife Haji Begum. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Humayun’s Tomb boasts of an architecture that is unparalleled in its excellence. Apart from the grave of Humayun, the tomb also includes the graves of Began Begum, Hamida Begum, and Dara Shikoh- all prominent members of the Mughal family. Made from red sandstone and white marble, the tomb continues to awe with its beauty and timeless elegance to this day. You will find Humayun’s Tomb as a part of all Delhi tours.
4. Lotus Temple
Delhi tour packages are incomplete without a visit to the Lotus Temple. Not many people know that the four petals in the famous Lotus Temple in Delhi are representations of the four most ancient religions of India- Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, and Jainism. The Lotus Temple was built by the believers of the Bahai faith, who famously proclaimed that people, irrespective of their religion, are equal. The interior of the temple has a meditating chamber, while the exterior is decorated with a beautiful garden bearing flowers of variegated colours. The building is the recipient of several awards and accolades and has become one of the landmarks of Delhi’s architecture.
5. Shankar’s International Dolls Museum
This is a really fun place to visit in the city. The museum houses a number of different dolls from all over the world. The museum was the brainchild of K. Shankar Pillai. Today, the museum has over 6,500 dolls from more than 85 countries all over the world. This one is also included in most Delhi tour packages.
Conclusion
Of course, there are a number of other places to visit in Delhi that are worth a visit. The city curiously and perfectly blends urbanity with old-world charm. If the roads and the shopping centers prove to be the pinnacle of modernity, the ancient forts and palaces still stand as a representation of the long history of this city.
