India Gate

 When it was built: 1921
By whom it was built: Edwin Lutyens
Nature of the building: Memorial
Originally called the All India War Memorial, India Gate, New Delhi was built by Edwin Lutyens to commemorate the death of 90, 00 soldiers in the World War I and the Afghan Wars. The foundation stone was laid on 10 February 1921 by the Duke of Connaught. You can find the names of the soldiers who died in these wars inscribed on the walls of this monument. It was completed in 1931.
Since 1971 the Amar Jawan Jyoti has been burning under the India Gate, New Delhi. The flame of the immortal warrior marks the Unknown Soldier's Tomb.

India Gate, New Delhi is made of red stone that rises in stages into a huge molding. Names of over 70,000 Indian soldiers, in whose memory it is built, are inscribed on the walls of the monument the entire arch stands on a low base of red Bharatpur stone. Above on both sides is inscribed INDIA, flanked by MCM and to the right, XIX. The shallow domed bowl at the top was intended to be filled with burning oil on anniversaries.
At the base of the India Gate, New Delhi there is another memorial-the Amar Jawan Jyoti. It was added after independence. This eternal flame was lighted in commemoration of the unknown soldiers who laid their lives to serve this nation.


Don't miss the Republic Day parade every year on 26th January. India gate stands witness to the latest advancements of defense technology which are displayed during the parade. Get a glimpse of the colorful and diverse cultural heritage of India as artists from all over the country perform on the Republic day celebration at India Gate, New Delhi.

Lal Qila - Red Fort

When it was built: 1648
By whom it was built: Mughal Emperor Shahajahan
Nature of the building: Fort

Mughal Emperor, Shahjahan began constructing Red Fort in Old Delhi in 1638 so that it could function as a center for Mughal government. So halls of public and private audience, domed and arched marble palaces, private apartments and even a mosque, was built inside it. Lal Quila was attacked by the Persian Emperor Nadir Shah in 1739, and by the British soldiers during the war of independence in 1857.
Lal Quila, or the Red Fort, conjures up the image of red sandstone walls full of turrets and bastions. Founded on a dry moat in the northeast corner of Shahjahanabad, the walls extend up to two kilometers and are as high as 33 meters.
  -   The fort's center is Naubat Khana or the Drum House where the musicians used to play for the emperor and announce the arrival of royalty.
  -   Diwan-i-Amor, is the Hall of Public Audiences where the Emperor used to listen to the complaints of his subjects.
  -   Similarly, the Emperor held private meetings in the Diwan-i-Khas, the hall of private audiences in which the centre-piece or the Peacock Throne was later carried away to Iran by Nadir Shah in 1739.
  -   The hammams or the Royal Baths, the Shahi Burj- Shahjahan's private working area, and the Moti Masjid or the Pearl Mosque, built by Aurangzeb for his personal use-draw equal attention from the tourists.
  -   The Rang Mahal or the 'Palace of Colors' for the Emperor's wives and mistresses, display gilded turrets, mosaics of mirrors, and a ceiling overlaid with gold and silver reflected in a pool on the marble floor.
You have to enter Red Fort, Delhi through the lofty Lahore Gate, which structurally faces Lahore, now in Pakistan. You would feel thrilled to remember that several speeches were delivered by freedom fighters and national leaders of India here since the first war of independence

Jama Masjid

When it was built: 1656 AD
By whom it was built: Mughal Emperor Shahajahan
Nature of the building: Mosque

The largest mosque in India, Jama Masjid in Delhi, was built by Mughal Emperor, Shahjahan in 1656 AD. History says that 5,000 craftsmen had built Masjid-i-Jahan Numa, or Jama Masjid on the hill, Bho Jhala in Shahjahanabad. Even 25,000 worshippers can perform their prayers here in the courtyard. This mosque in Old Delhi, displaying both Hindu and Islamic styles of architecture, was built to replicate Moti Masjid at Red Fort in Agra. Legend also says that the walls of the mosque were tilted at a certain angle so that if an earthquake occurs the walls would collapse outward.

  -   There are three gateways, four towers and two minarets in Jama Masjid in Delhi in which vertical strips of red sandstone and white and black marble were used alternatively. The mosque was built on a high podium so that its frontage is detectable from all the neighboring areas. Even the mosque's back is cased over to the height of the rock on which the mosque stands, with stones

  -   There is a prayer hall on the west, which is bedecked by a series of arches that stand on 260 pillars. Tablets of white marble, which are four feet long and 2.5 feet wide, are engraved with inscriptions in black marble that accounts for the history of the building and the reign of Shah Jahan. The pillars, on the other hand, prop up 15 domes at various heights.

  -   The tower of the mosque was made up of five storeys, each with a balcony jutting out of it. While the first three storeys were made of red sandstone, the rest were built out of sandstone.

  -   Three domes were built by using white marble with bands of black extensively. There is a hall with seven arched entrances under the domes. Two lofty minarets with 130 steps, longitudinally striped with white marble and red sandstone, stand on either side of the domes. Divided by three projecting galleries, the minarets are propped on twelve-sided domed pavilions.

  -   The south minaret, which is 1076 square feet wide, so that people could assemble there to pray. Since the main entrance on the eastern side was used by the emperors and thus remains closed on weekdays, you can have a glimpse of Old Delhi, the Red Fort and the New Delhi from this minaret for a fee of Rs 5.

  -   Three flights of steps built of red sandstone in the east, north and south, will lead you to the courtyard of the mosque. While the northern gate of the mosque has 39 steps and the southern gate has 33 steps, the eastern gate has 35 steps because it was a royal entrance.

  -   The west-facing mosque is covered with open arched colonnades each with a tower-like gateway in the centre.

Purana Qila - Old Fort

When it was built: 16th century
By whom it was built: Sher Shah Suri
Nature of the building: Fort

Purana Qila - Old Fort in Delhi was constructed in the 16th-century by Sher Shah Suri, the founder of the Sur Dynasty. Mughal Emperor Humayun was defeated by Shah Suri in 1539. Thus after capturing two Mughal strongholds- Delhi and Agra, Shah Suri constructed this fort to defend Delhi from the Mughals. Incidentally, only after Sher Shah Suri died in 1545, Humayaun was able to recapture Delhi and Agra.
Humayun began using Sher Mandal, the octagonal red sandstone tower as his library and observatory later. According to legends, Humayun died after falling down from the steps of this tower and thus the Mughals, later decided to vacate the fort considering it to be ominous. They constructed Lal Qi'lah or Red fort to defend Delhi from foreign invasions.
  -   Purana Qila - Old Fort in Delhi houses the Delhi Zoo, Delhi's largest zoological park, and a boat club.
  -   The Qal'a-I-Kunha Masjid and the Sher Mandal are two important monuments inside the fort.
  -   Qila-i-kuhna Masjid was built by Sher Shah Suri in 1541, which has five doorways with the 'true' horseshoe-shaped arches. Red sandstone and marble were used in contrast to give the mosque a very distinctive look. The mihrabs (prayer niches) are decorated with concentric arches and the central alcove is topped by a beautifully carved dome. The mosque has an inscription which says 'As long as there are people on this earth, may this edifice be frequented, and people be happy in it.' it.
  -   The fort has bastions on the corners and in the western wall.The walls of the Fort tower down on the road for about 2 kilometers and from a height of 18 meters.
  -   It has three main gates - the Humayun darwaza, Talaqi darwaza and Bara darwaza, which are double-storied and built with red sandstone.
  -   Excavations in 1955 have yielded painted Grey Ware pottery dated to 1000BC. Findings like coins associated with the Gupta of 4-5th century AD and post-Gupta ages, have also been found
  -   Sher-Mandal is a double-storeyed octagonal tower of red sandstone that was surmounted by an octagonal pavilion or chhatri. The central chamber is cruciform with recesses on its four sides and the dados of its interior are decorated with glazed tiles, while the upper portion contains incised and painted plasterwork.
  -   There is a lake surrounded by a garden with rows of trees and flower plants, which has paddle-boating facility. Inside the fort too there are lawns

Qutab Minar

When it was built: 1199

By whom it was built: Qutub-ud-Din Aibak

Nature of the architecture: Afghan architecture

General Introduction:

The Qutab Minar is the highest tower in India built of red sandstone. The foundations of this architectural marvel were laid by Qutub-ud-Din Aibak in the 12th century. But he did not remain alive to see the completion of this marvelous structure, which was completed later by Iltutmish and Firuz Shah Tughlaq. The Qutab Minar is one of the best examples of Indo-Muslim architecture.

The Qutab Minar, 239 feet sandstone tower in India best exemplifies Indo-Muslim architecture. This magnificent piece of architecture is located in the Qutab complex in the Aurabindo Marg, near Mehrauli, 14 Km south of Connaught place in Delhi.

The history of the origins of the Qutab Minar is shrouded in mystery. Legend has it that the foundations of this tower was laid by the founder of the slave dynasty Qutub-ud-Din Aibak in the 12th century as a mark of victory against the last Hindu ruler in Delhi. Muhammad of Ghur defeated Prithwiraj Chauhan, the last Hindu ruler. He went to Afghanistan but left Qutub-ud-Din as his viceroy. He crowned himself as the ruler of Delhi after the death of Muhammad of Ghur.

Another version regarding the origins of the monument is that it was built to proclaim the supremacy of Islam. Some others point out that it was the holy sanctum for the Muslims to pray to their almighty. Much against popular perception, some scholars believe that it was not named after Qutub-ud-Din Aibak, but after Khwaja Qutub-ud-din Bakhtiar Kaki, a saint from Baghdad who was revered by Akbar. However what it is, it can well be said that the monument was started by Qutub-ud-Din Aibak.

Qutub-ud-Din started the construction of the minaret in 1199 A.D. The Qutub Minar is itself built on the ruins of Lal Kot, the red citadel the capital of the Jat, Tomars and the Chauhans. He was inspired by the Jam of Afghanistan to build this fascinating minaret. But he could not see the completion of this huge tower. The tower has five storeys each with a projecting balcony. The monument was built in three stages. The first was built by Aibak himself, while the second and third storeys were built by his son and successor Iltutmish. The fourth and fifth storeys were built by Firuz Shah Tughlaq. The monument is marked by distinctive features of architectural designs. This fascinating piece of architecture has withstood nature's fury over the centuries. Today the monument has a slight tilt, but still attracts tourists in droves.

Features:

The word Qutab Minar means 'axis minaret.' It is a 239 feet tower built in red sandstone. The tower has five storeys each with a projecting balcony. The highest stone tower in India has a diametre of 14.32 metres at the base and about 2.75 metres at the top. The first three storeys are made of red sandstone while the fourth and fifth storeys are built with marble and sandstone. The monument bears an Islamic character. Inscriptions in Nagari and Arabic are engrafted in the plain fluted masonry of the Minar. There is a door on the northern side, entrance to the tower, which leads to a winding staircase with 379 steps that leads to the balcony in each floor culminating in a platform at the top. At the left side of the Minar is a Bengali styled chatri known as Smith's folly.

The major attractions with the Qutab complex are Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, lofty arched screen was erected by Shamsu'd- Din IItutmish (AD 1210-35) and enlarged by Alau'd-Din Khalji and the tomb of Iltutmish. The southern gate of are Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque was built bu Alauddin Khilji. The Alai Minar north of the tomb was built by Alauddin Khilji. The other attractions in the Qutab complex are the Madrasa, graves, tombs, mosque and architectural members.

The Parliament House

Built In 1921

Built By Herbert Baker
Welcome to the Parliament House, the power-corridors of the largest democracy in the world, India. Also known as Sansad Bhawan, the Parliament House in Delhi is the hub of political activity of India. Tucked away in the heart of the city, it is to the northwest of Vijay Chowk, next to the Secretariat buildings at the end of Parliament Street. This beautiful circular structure is a landmark example of the British architectural marvel.
Designed by Herbert Baker, the Parliament House had its foundation stone laid by the Duke of Connaught on 12th February 1921. Inaugurated by Lady and Lord Irwin in 1927, the building was planned to house a domed central hall and three semi-circular structures, originally meant to accommodate the Chamber of Princes, the Council of State and the Legislative Assembly. Parliament House holds the pride-position in the history of democratic India, as the transfer of power took place in the midnight of 14th August 1947 in the central hall of this building.
Just one storey tall, the massive structure stands 75 feet high and measures 570 feet in diameter. This sitting house of the elected members of India covers the Chambers of the Lok Sabha, the Lower House of Parliament, the Rajya Sabha, the Upper House of Parliament and the Parliament library, attached to each other by galleries. A verandah with 144 columns borders the three semi-circular chambers. The boundary wall has blocks of sandstone carved in geometrical patterns reminding of the elegance of the Mughal jalis. Lavish lawns, gardens, fountains and waterways all around the building, further heighten the grand and majestic appeal of this 'Temple of Democracy.'

The Parliament House is worth a visit when it is in session. The three sessions in a year are Summer, Monsoon and Winter. Don't miss the other attractions which lie just at a stone-throwing distance, like the India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Jantar Mantar, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib and Hanuman Mandir.

Location: The Parliament House is located on the north-western side of Vijay Chowk, which is next to the Secretariat buildings at the end of Sansad Marg or the Parliament Street.
Admission Fee: Public entry into the Parliament House is free of cost but prior official permission is compulsory. For foreign citizens, entry permission has to be taken from their embassies or High Commissions.
Admission Timings: People can visit the Parliament House throughout the year, whether the sessions are going on or not.
How to reach: The tourists can avail local buses, hired auto rickshaws, taxis and metro rail to reach the Parliament House, located near Connaught Place, the heart of Delhi.
Nearest Rail Station: The nearest rail station is New Delhi Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport is the nearest.
Nearest Metro Station: Central Secretariat is the near most metro station.
Nearby Markets: Central Cottage Industries Emporium, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Janpath and Palika Bazaar are the nearby markets.

Rashtrapati Bhavan

Built In 1931
Built By Edwin Lutyens


The Rashtrapati Bhavan is the official residence of the President of India around which the Modern Delhi or New Delhi is centred. Tucked away on the Raisina Hills, this erstwhile residence of the Viceroy of India, is now the official home of the ruling President of India. Every Saturday morning, guards march before the iron grille gates. While the apartments are private, the gardens are open to the public every year during the Spring season.

Rashtrapati Bhavan was originally built for the Governor General of India or the Viceroy of India. Inaugurated in 1931 as the Viceregal Lodge, the name was changed in 1950 after India became a republic. History has it that Lutyens designed the surrounding Moghul Gardens at the request of Lady Harding who was captivated by the Mughal gardens of Kashmir.And, the rest is history with Lutyens recreating the magic with all the decorative fountains, waterfalls, paved pathways, ornamental plants, fruit-bearing trees, flowers and shrubs.
This majestic cream and red sandstone building covers an area of 4.5 acres of land and houses 340 rooms, 37 salons, 74 lobbies and arcades, 18 staircases and 37 fountains. This stunning blend of Western and Indian architectural styles, is supposedly larger than the Versailles. The most splendid room in the Rashtrapati Bhavan is the Durbar Hall, which lies directly beneath the main dome. All important Indian State and Official ceremonies are held here. The interior is equally enchanting adorned with intricate paintings. The beautifully landscaped Mughal Gardens lies to the west, recreated after the terraced gardens the Mughals built in Kashmir. The garden is famous as the 'Butterfly Garden' because of the legions of butterflies who frequent the garden always. This landmark colonial structure can give competition to the India Gate when it comes to height. This stretch to the India Gate is called the Rajpath where the Republic Day parade is held.

Durbar Hal

Rashtrapati bhavan, an important stop for local sight seeing as the historic monument, as this is the official residence of the president of India. The wonderful construction is not only the main attraction but the history that it bears is also the magnetism that attracts tourists from every corner of the world.

Durbar Hall is also known as the throne room. All the official functions take place in this durbar hall. The wonderfully curved dome under which the hall is situated. The pillars and their designs were designed by Lutyens and the stone bells and other carvings make the bhavan more precious and worth watching. It is believed that the silent bell rings when a dynasty comes to an end but the bell never rang when a dynasty ended after a successful rule of sixteen years. So the bell is named as the silent bell.

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Address: Rashtrapati bhavan is located on Raisina Hill, a mile away from Connaught Place at the western end of the Rajpath.
Timings: according to the permission.
Admission Fee: prior permission is required.
How to reach: the local busses, autos will take you to Connaught place. The metro rail is the best way to reach the place.
The nearest metro station: Central Secretariat
Nearest railway station: New Delhi Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport

Nizamuddin's Tomb

When it was built: 14th century
Nature of the building: Tomb

Nizamuddin's Tomb in Delhi is placed off Mathura Road the east end of Lodi Road. History says that the erection of the tomb of the famous Sufi saint, Nizamuddin Chisti who died in 1325 , aged 92, led to a dispute between construction of the tomb and that of Tughlaqabad. Nizammudin village, which now is placed behind the residential suburb of Nizammudin, gradually grew up around the shrine of Sheikh Niz Aulia or Nizamuddin Chisti.
  -   Nizamuddin's Tomb in Delhi has a large tank
  -   Jamat-at-Khana Mosque is situated on the west of the central shrine.
  -   The arches of the tomb are richly decorated and reflect the typical Khalji design, which you will also see at Ala'I Darwaza in the Qutub Minar.
  -   If you go towards the south of the main tomb, you will notice the grave of princess Jahanara, Shahajahans's daughter behind the crafted screens. Jahnara had spent with the emperor his last days when he was imprisoned in Agra Fort. The epitaph written by her says- "Let naught cover my grave save the green grass, for grass suffices as the covering of the lowly"
  -   Pilgrims congregate twice a year here for Urs fair which commemorates the anniversary of Nizamuddin Chisti and his disciple, Amir Khusrau, even whose tomb lie nearby.
The Dargah of Hazrat Nizamuddin, the Sufi saint loved and respected by all is located in Delhi. Certain Fast Facts about the Nizamuddin's Tomb is given below
.Location: Nizamuddin's Tomb is located at the eastern end of Lodhi Road in Delhi. It is very near the Mathura Road.
Admission fee: There is no admission fee for entry to the Nizamuddin's Tomb. Entry is free and open to all.
Admission Timings: It is open on all days from sunrise to sunset. However the best time to visit the Nizamuddin's Tomb is on Thursday evenings approximately between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.
On Thursday evenings the shrine is crowded with devotees who come to pray and the road leading to the shrine is taken up by people who sell flowers, caps and other religious items.
How to reach: Delhi is well connected by rail, road and air to all parts of the country. After reaching Delhi, tourists can take buses, rickshaws, autos or the metro rail from any part of the city to reach Nizamuddin's Tomb.
Nearest Railway Station: New Delhi Railway station
Nearest Metro Station: Central Secretariat
Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport
What to see: The Tomb of Hazrat Nizamuddin, Jamat Khana Masjid, Tombs of Jahanara, Mohammed Shah and Mirza Jahangir, Baoli, Chini-ka-Burj and Bai-Kodaldai's Tomb, Tomb of Amir Khusrau

Humayun's Tomb

                                                                            When it was built: 1570

By whom it was built: Haji Begum, the widow of Mughal Emperor Humanyun
Nature of the building: Tomb
 
Humayun's Tomb in Delhi, the first garden-tomb in the Indian subcontinent, had teased the architectural novelty that Taj Mahal finally gave shape to. This tomb in New Delhi was built by Haji Begum, the Persian widow of Humanyun, at a cost of Rs 1.5 million through 8 years. A complex of buildings displaying Mughal architecture in Nizamuddin East, it consists of the main tomb of the Emperor Humayun as well as several others, including the Barber's Tomb.
Mughal emperor Humayan, was not able to rule for a long time as he met with his untimely death after he falling from the stairs of the Sher Mandal library. Sayyed Muhammad ibn Mirak Ghiyathuddin and his father Mirak Ghiyathuddin brought in from Herat, designed the tomb on the bank of the Yamuna River adjoining the shrine of the Sufi saint of Chisti silsilah, Nizamuddin Auliya.
  -   Following the Islam saying that paradise is found in the middle of a garden with water flowing through it, Humayun's Tomb in Delhi is situated in the middle of a garden, Char Bagh, which is divided into four parts. 36 squares divide the garden by a grid of water channels and paths and a high rubble wall separate it into four large squares by causeways and channels. This design of laying the gardens in the Persian style was introduced by Babur
  -   You should watch the black-and-yellow marble tomb of Humayun's wife and the tomb of Humayun's barber known as Nai Ka Gumbad.
  -   The octagonal tomb crowned by a colossal double dome, is placed on a platform with colonnades that is again faced by a series of cells with arched openings. There are numerous graves under it. The central chamber has four double-storied offsets and contains the cenotaph of the emperor Humayun and his queen Bega Begum.
  -   Two double-storied gateways, one on the west and the other on the south, guard the enclosure. There is a pavilion in the center of the eastern wall and a hamam or the bath chamber in the center of northern wall.
  -   The main tomb is placed on the north-south axis. The dome is a complete semi-circle built with red sandstone but bordered with white and black marble.

Razia Sultan's Tomb

Razia Sultana was the first Muslim woman dedicated ruler who successfully ruled the country with proper efficiency and competence. Iltutmish was the efficient leader who was ruling the country and after his reign he nominated his daughter to be the next ruler as his the most efficient son died in his life time. Razia sultana created a history and she uplifted the position of India woman. Her bravery and efficiency was not less than a male ruler. She defeated her brother and became the ruler.
Razia sultan was born in the year 1205 AD and from her childhood she showed her interests in learning the art of sword and she learnt to lead armies. She was very much interested in male sports rather than the then female sect who preferred to remain behind pardahs. Razia sultana was encouraged by her father to engage in the army and taking leadership that developed a wonderful capacity of leadership qualities, responsibilities and bravery as her characteristics. She ignored the traditionalism regarding dressing of Indian women and welcomed the male attire and she bravely ruled the country that was the secret behind all her success. She was a literate person as she overruled all the discrimination between Hindus and Muslims and showed her greatness, generosity and kindness by her great works and dedicated life.
Her most trusted adviser was Jamal Uddin Yaqut. Turkish nobles were threatened by the power of Razia and Jamal and that made the growth of the conspiracy against her in Lahore. Sultana was defeated in the battle by Governor of Bhatinda named Malik Altunia, she was captured and forced to marry him. In the year 1240 she recaptured the throne. But she was convinced by the Turks to escape and so she run away and then was killed by a peasant who gave her shelter and food.
The tragic end of the great first female ruler of South-East Asia made history very significant and important. The wonderful work of Razia sultana and her catastrophic end have changed the course of the history.

Razia Sultan's Tomb is an important tomb which bears a rich historical importance and significance. The tomb is located on the Bulbuli road. Razia sultana was an eminent woman ruler of slave dynasty. The tomb was built by one stone and the construction shows the splendid architecture of the then era that India experienced.

Razia Sultan's Tomb- Fast Facts are as follows:

Address: the tomb is located eastern part Kala Mashjid and Turkman Gate.

Timings: the tomb remains open all days.

Admission Fee: not applicable

How to reach: local busses, auto rickshaws and metros are the best way to reach the place.

The nearest metro station: Chawri Bazaar.

Nearest railway station: Old Delhi railway station

Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi international Airport

Jantar Mantar

When it was built: 1725
By whom it was built: Maharaja Jai Singh II
Nature of the building: Observatory

Maharajah Jai Singh II of Jaipur incidentally, constructed five astronomical observatories in west and central India between 1727 and 1734. The observatories, or "Jantar Mantars" comprise of multiple buildings, each with a particular function for astronomical measurement. Jantar Mantar in Delhi-with a collection of structures inside it, was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II in 1725. This observatory in New Delhi is located to the east of Hanuman Mandir in Sansad Marg. The Mughal emperor, Muhammad Shah gave the famous astronomer Maharaja the responsibility to revise the calendar and correct astronomical tables used by the then priests. So even before the construction began, astral observations were made daily for years.
  -   There are unique instruments to trace the course of heavenly bodies and predict eclipses.
  -   Jantar Mantar in Delhi has a variety of information sources so that one can explore various historic sites through interactive panoramic "VR" photographs, time lapse sequences, 3D models as well as articles, drawings, and historic texts.
  -   The observatory also says about the technological achievements under the Rajput kings and their attempt to resolve astronomical mysteries.
  -   Instead of using brass instruments in this observatory, the style of the renowned Arab astronomer, Prince Ulugh Beg, was followed.
  -   The two pillars on the southwest of Mishra Yantra decide the shortest and longest days of the year. Interestingly, one pillar completely covers the other with its shadow in December while it does not cast any such shadow in June.

Chandni Chowk

When it was built: 17 the century
By whom it was built: Mughal Emperor Shahajahan
Nature of the building: Market

Chandni Chowk meaning the Moonlight Square, was designed and laid by Jahanara Begum, Mughal emperor Shahajahan's daughter between the Red Fort and Fateh Puri Masjid. There was Najafgarh pond, the water of which glittered while reflecting the moonlight and then flowed into a cannal, Faiz Nahar across this locale. There were expansive gardens to the north of this avenue that also canopied Jahanara sarai, the palace of the Begum, which today has the biggest electrical market of north India. History says that the emperor thought about founding this market in Old Delhi to satisfy his daughter's shopping spree.

  -   Chandni Chowk originally stretched from Lahore Gate of Red Fort to Fatehpuri Masjid, and it was divided into four parts. The first part, Urdu bazaar, which extended from the present Jain temple to Dariba Kalan.
  -   The second part from Dariba Kalan to Kotwali, came to be known as Phool Mandi or flower market.
  -   The third part from Kotwali till the present Town Hall, was known as Jouhari bazaar or Ashrafi bazaar.
  -   The fourth part, proper Chandni Chowk, stretched from Jouhari bazaar till the Fatehpuri Masjid. The Brotishers changed a lot of this part as they filled the canal flowing through it with a clock tower that later collapsed.
  -   You will find entire galis with wholesale textiles market
  -   You will be tempted to the gali with jewellery shops.
  -   You can go for window shopping in the narrow lanes with shops selling books, clothing, shoes, leather goods, electronic and consumer goods.
  -   Haldiram's, jalebis are fried in pure ghee, you will get alleys where you can try out lip-smacking and street-smart dishes
  -   In a way the street reflects the national unity, secularism and diversity of India as it houses many important places of worship of major religions of the world. Jain temple, Gauri Shankar temple, Gurdwara Sisganj, Baptist Church, Sunehri Masjid to Fatehpuri Masjid- there are places of worship for almost all religions in this area that speaks about the unified and secular spirit of Chandni Chowk in Delhi.

All festivals make this area vibrant with a festive mood but the procession on Republic Day is worth watching when a grand parade passes through Chandni Chowk in Delhi.

Chirag-i-Dihli's Dargah

The Chirag-i-Dihli's Dargah is the Dargah of Sufi saint Nasir ud din Mahmud. Nasir ud din Mahmud was one of the favorite disciples of Hazrat Nizamuddin. He succeeded Hazrat Nizamuddin as the head of the Chisti sect. He was bestowed the title of Raushan Chirag i Dihli meaning the Illuminated lamp of Delhi.
After his death in the year 1356, he was buried here. A tomb was built over it. The tomb is a square chamber. There are 12 pillars to support the chamber. Each corner of the dome of the Tomb has Turrets. This dome bears a lot of resemblance to the tomb of Mubarak Shah. Like his tomb, this tomb is plastered and rises from an octagonal drum.
What is interesting is that an entire village came into existence centering the tomb of this famous saint. This village of Chirag Delhi is currently a flourishing urban settlement. At one point of time this village was surrounded by rectangular walls. These walls had gates on all sides. The walls were constructed during the reign of Muhammad Bin Tughlaq. They no longer exist.
The Chirag-i-Dihli's Dargah also has the graves and tombs of several other renowned individuals.
There are several structures inside the complex of the Chirag-i-Dihli's Dargah. They were added at different points of time. This includes an assembly hall (Majlis Khana), a symposium hall (Mahfil Khana) and several mosques. One of these mosques was built by Emperor Farrukhsiyar in the early eighteenth century to offer his respect to Nasir ud din Mahmud.
The History of the Chirag-i-Dihli's Dargah is interesting. If you are interested in paying a visit to this sacred shrine then browsing through Chirag-i-Dihli's Dargah Fast Facts will definitely be very useful. Do not miss out on the Nearby Attractions of Chirag-i-Dihli's Dargah.
When we sit to write about the History of Chirag-i-Dihli's Dargah what first comes to mind is that this Dargah is more than seven hundred years old. The Dargah is the burial place of Nasir-ud-din Mahmud. It contains his tomb as well as several other monuments.
Nasir-ud-din Mahmud was the disciple of Hazrat Nizamuddin. He also went on to become the head of the Chisti Sect. Loved and revered by all this man received the title of Raushan Chirag-i-Dilhi meaning the illuminated lamp of Delhi. After his death in the year 1356, a tomb was built here. The sacred tomb of this devout saint bears a lot of resemblance to the tomb of Mubarak Shah. It rises from an octagonal drum. There is a square chamber that is supported by twelve pillars. Turrets are found in each corner of the dome on top of the tomb.
The tombs of several other distinguished individuals are also found here.
What is interesting is that in addition to the graves and tombs, several mosques have also been constructed inside the premises of the Dargah. Emperor Farrukhsiyar was a great devotee of Nasir ud din Mahmud. In the beginning of the eighteenth century he built a mosque here in honour of this great man.
An Assembly Hall (Majlis Khana) and a Symposium Hall (Mahfil Khana) are also to be found here.
The History of Chirag-i-Dihli's Dargah is indeed very rich because in addition to the graves of several renowned personalities it also has a number of Masjids and Halls where the Muslims can meet for prayers and conversations.
Chirag Delhi, earlier a village and presently an urban settlement has grown and developed centering the Dargah. Walls with gateways circumscribed the village but it no longer exists. However it is rather interesting to know that the area has flourished because of the Dargah.
On reading the History of the Chirag-i-Dihli's Dargah one is sure to feel more inspired to pay it a visit. The shrine has stood the test of times and several additions of different structures have been made within its enclosure periodically.
The Chirag-i-Dihli's Dargah houses the sacred tomb of Nasir ud din Mahmud. In addition to that there are several other tombs of renowned individuals as well as mosques within the premises of this shrine. Certain Fast Facts about the Chirag-i-Dihli's Dargah is given below
Location: Chirag-i-Dihli's Dargah is located at the Chirag Delhi village. There are 2 options. One can take the Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg or the Outer Ring Road. The former runs through the Chirag Main Road and the latter through the Soami Nagar South Colony.
Admission fee: There is no admission fee for entry to the Chirag-i-Dihli's Dargah. Entry is free and open to all.
Admission Timings: It is open on all days from sunrise to sunset. How to reach: Delhi is well connected by rail, road and air to all parts of the country. After reaching Delhi, tourists can take buses, rickshaws, autos or the metro rail from any part of the city to reach Chirag-i-Dihli's Dargah.
Nearest Railway Station: Nizamuddin Railway station
Nearest Metro Station: Central Secretariat
Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport
What to see: The Tomb of Nasir ud din Mahmud, tombs of several other renowned individuals, the assembly Hall, the Symposium Hall and the various mosques.

Akshardham Temple

Akshardham Temple in Delhi has an important place in Delhi's tourism. The structure depicts great Indian culture and its architecture is simply immaculate. The temple is located at NH 24, Noida Mor, New Delhi. This amazing structure comprises of 20,000 statues, floral motifs and exquisite carved pillars made of stones.

This beautiful structure and masterpiece architecture was built under the support and funding of the Bochasanvasi Aksharpurushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS). The temple was inaugurated on November 7, 2005 by Pramukhswami Maharaj (Leader of BAPS).

It is built along the river Yamuna and lies over an area of around 100 acres with beautiful gardens, water fountains and carved pavilions. The temple took complete two years for completion and a hefty sum of rupees was invested in the construction. According to estimates, around 2 billion was spent in the construction of this masterpiece which indeed depicts the great Hindu religion.

The architecture of Akshardham temple is similar to the one at Gandhinagar in Gujarat. The main monument at the temple is about 141 feet high with a beautiful statue of Lord Swaminarayan. There are various structures within the temple which depicts the history and culture of Hindu Religion.

If you want to explore the whole temple then you should take your time off for the whole day as it takes at least five hours to visit each and every structure of the temple. Other relevant information about Akshardham

Location: NH 24, Noida Mor, New Delhi

State: Delhi

Year of Construction: 2005

Specialty: The structure is spread over 100 depicting Indian culture, history, art, values.

Open time for public: 9AM - 9PM from Tuesday to Sunday. Closed on Monday

Lotus Temple

Lotus Temple is one of the remarkable architectures of Bahai faith. It is located at Kalkaji in New Delhi. The temple looks like a lotus flower and is made of marble, cement, dolomite and sand. The temple has no restrictions for visitors and is open to people from all religions. The place provides immaculate environment for meditation, peace and wisdom. The Bahai temple was completed in 1986. Since then the temple has received recognition from all over the world for its splendid architecture and design. Lotus Temple is among the most visited monuments in India. The credit for building this beautiful structure goes to the Persian architect Fariborz Sahba from Canada.

Personifying Lotus in the temple does not merely mean giving a lotus shape to the edifice but it has a message to the people of India in the form of a manifestation from the almighty. Lotus is a symbol of peace, purity, love and immortality. It is this particular specialty of Lotus flower which makes the flower an important icon in Indian culture and society. This is why the design of Lotus temple has been inspired by lotus flower.

The design looks like a half opened Lotus flower with 27 freestanding "petals" made of marble. The architect, while designing the temple took into account the eternal beauty of Lotus flower. The construction work took almost 10 years before it finally got shape and was open for public. The team comprised of 800 engineers, technicians, workers and artisans who worked diligently to give realization to one of the most complex edifices in the world. The temple integrates the aesthetic values along with the technological influence within the whole structure. There are nine reflecting pools that encompass the temple from outside. Converting the geometry of the design that did not have any straight line to the actual structure needed a lot of effort and dedicated engineering. The temple has the capacity to accommodate nearly 2500 people and has nine doors that open in a central hall. The whole structure is made of white marble that adds to the glory of the temple. It is about 40 meters tall surrounded by nine ponds and appears as if the temple is floating like a Lotus flower in water.

The most appraising aspect of this particular architectural masterpiece is the integration of the effervescent Indian history along with the modern engineering and architecture. The temple has to its accreditation being recognized all over the world as one of the most visited edifices in the world with almost 50 million people having visited the temple since its inception in 1986.

Awards Received:

• Award given to the architect Mr. Sabha in the year 1987 from International Federation for Art and Architecture, USA.
• Award for the structural design by the Institute of Structural Engineers in UK
• The Citation Award for personifying the visual impact of the beautiful Lotus flower.
• Accreditation for its outdoor illumination in the year 1988
• American Concrete Institute Award for being one of the most artistically built concrete structures.
• In the year 2000 it received the "Glob Art Academy Award" from Glob Art Academy in Vienna.

Digambar Jain Temple

Digambar Jain Temple is located just the opposite of Red fort and is the oldest Jain temple in the city. The temple was built in the year 1526 and is popularly known as the Lal Mandir. The tranquil ambience and the wide spread devotional area is the main attractions of the temple.

The main statue of Lord Mahavira is situated under the main shrine of the temple.

The annual festival and the special event is the ideal time when you can observe the culture and its various traditional rules will add a wonderful memory to your trip.

The annual events like various study of Holy Scriptures, meditation and showing dedication to Paramatma. The festivals of meditation and offering devotion are main attractions that will give you the chance to experience of the oldest religion of India Jainism.

To observe various religious aspects in India this temple is the best place where you can easily skill Jainism and its unique customs.

Digambar Jain Temple is located just the opposite of Red Fort and this place is ideal to see and observe Jainism one of the oldest religious sect. Jainism plays an important part in Indian history and in shaping up the society. The peace and the tranquility that resides in the temple will make you to revisit the place.

Digambar Jain Temple- Fast Facts are as follows:
Address: the temple is located just opposite to the Red fort near Chandni Chowk
Timings: the temple remains open all days
Admission Fee: not applicable and is open to all people irrespective of caste and creed.
How to reach: local busses and autos will take you to the destination and you can avail metro which is fast as well as cheap.
The nearest metro station: Delhi Main
Nearest railway station: Old Delhi Railway Station

Memorials in Delhi

Delhi, the capital of India is home to memorials and cenotaphs of freedom fighters and the Indian national leaders. People from far and wide visit the Memorials in Delhi and pay homage to them. Delhi is home to the memorials of Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri. The Memorials in Delhi have now become tourist places of interest.

Raj Ghat:

Raj Ghat is a home to the memorial of the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi. Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated on 31 January, 1948. Raj Ghat, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi is a simple black marble platform is the spot where Gandhiji was cremated after his assassination. An eternal flame is seen burning constantly at one end of the memorial. A stoned pathway flanked by manicured lawns leads to Gandhiji's memorial. His last words "Hey Ram" are engraved on the memorial.

Visitors are expected to remove their footwear as a sign of reverence.
Every Friday prayers are held commemorating the thought and philosophy of the father of the nation. There are two museums nearby. The museums have preserved the writings, speeches of Gandhiji and the spinning wheels which Gandhiji used.

Shanti Van:

Shanti Van, north of Raj ghat and Shakti Sthal is the memorial of India's first Prime Minister and the man who played a pioneering role in the Indian freedom struggle, Jawahar Lal Nehru. Shanti Van literally means the "forest of peace". Jawahar Lal Nehru was cremated here on 27th May, 1964. The area is adorned in lush greenery. His paramount objective was to rid the society of the ills of poverty. He worked towards making India a flourishing and advanced country. He is fondly remembered as Chacha Nehru by children on his birthday, 14th of November. Prayers are offered on his birthday and death anniversary.

His Grandson Sanjay Gandhi's tomb lies close to Jawahar Lal Nehru's memorial.

Shakti Sthal:

Shakti Sthal, north of Vir Bhumi is the memorial of India's first and only woman prime-minister Indira Gandhi. She was the daughter of India's first prime-minister Jawaharlal Nehru. If she stifled democracy in independent India for the first time, she also realized many dreams. This towering personality played a defining role in Indian politics till her assassination in 1984. She had remarked in 1984 "If I die a violent death, as some fear and a few are plotting, I know that the violence will be in the thought and action of the assassins, not in my dying."

Her last rites were performed at the 'Shakti Sthal', meaning the place of strength and power to symbolize the determination and guts of Indira. The memorial to Indira Gandhi is a grey-red monolithic stone. Rajiv Gandhi said "Everyone grieves when his mother dies. But I gained courage for there grew a feeling in the country that every citizen had lost his mother…For some days, people thought that India was shaking. But there are always tremors when a great tree falls." The lush greenery around the memorial provides a peaceful ambience. Prayers are organized on her birthday and death anniversary to commemorate her services to the nation.

Vir Bhumi:

Vir Bhumi, near Raj ghat is the memorial of India's sixth and youngest prime-minister Rajiv Gandhi. Rajiv Gandhi inherited the legacy of his mother and he took the country to newer heights. Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated at Sriperumbudur, near Chennai by a Tamil woman, belonging to the L.T.T.E. He was awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumously in the year 1991. Prayers are offered on his birthday and death anniversary to commemorate the great deeds of this great leader.

Vijay Ghat:

Vijay Ghat is a memorial to India's second Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri. He was cremated here in 1966. He was a great freedom fighter and braved turbulent times in British prisons. Popular for coining the slogans 'Jai Jawan' and 'Jai Kisan', he played a major role in the administration of the country after independence. He led the country on the path of progress. He played a deciding role in the Indo-Pak war, the country emerged victorious. He died of a heart attack in 1966. He was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna. Political leaders and heads of state pay homage to this great leader every year on his birthday and death anniversary.

The Memorials in Delhi are major places of interest. You can pay homage and revere the great souls at their memorials. Indiaprofile.com offers complete information on Memorials in Delhi and other Tourist Attractions in Delhi.