Bright lights, big city. Delhi is a test of India’s amalgamation of cultures. Residents of various religious faiths live in tight proximity of each other as a multitude of languages keep them connected. Conservative traditions are tested by politics, New Delhi being the National Capital of India, through the growing influx of foreign tourists and villagers seeking a new life in the urban city center, and a rising middle class with a taste of western ideals.
Tourists of India will undoubtedly find Delhi, one of 5 potential landing ports via airline travel. And with so much to see and do in and around this sprawling metropolis, making Delhi a starting point for a few days is a must for any traveler.
WHAT’S HERE
India Gate: Delhi’s impressive monument built to honor the 90,000 Indian Army soldiers who died in the battles of WWI, Afghan Campaign of 1919, and the North-West Frontier operations. Previously known as the All India War Memorial, this iconic structure plays center stage during the annual India Republic Day Parade. You don’t have to be a war buff to appreciate this popular sightseeing destination.
Lodi Gardens: The reason Delhites come in large groups to this sprawling green oasis within the city is obvious at first sight. Clean, well kept pathways move visitors around with ease through a mixture of old growth trees and flowering native plants. Add in the historic Bara and Shish Gumbad tombs plus the National Bonsai Park, and you’ll quickly fall in love with this park.
Qutub Minar: Come armed with sunscreen, hat and sunglasses, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers little relief from the sun’s penetrating rays. Pick-up guides are a helpful resource for moving about this awe inspiring architectural feat dating back 800 years.
Jama Masjid: Currently the largest mosque in India, this title is set to be lost when completion of a new, larger mosque in South India is completed within a few years. Room for 25,000 followers is hard to imagine without a glimpse into this behemoth of a building. Female tourists are required to be in the company of men in some parts. Friday mornings are designated for prayer, and photos are not allowed in all areas.
Akshardham: It may appear no expense was spared during construction of this $300 million temple outside of the city center. Metro, taxi or private car is the best way to find yourself here. Come early as the lines to view the multiple structures and opulent lotus garden form shortly after opening. An evening light show is for those willing to brave the hoards of traffic afterward.
Red Fort: This imposing beast made of red sandstone spreads 2 kms through the city. Pick-up guides can be aggressive but willing to bargain on their service fees. Inside is a quirky shopping area aimed at spendthrift tourists eager to, or unaware of infinite more opportunities, to shop for souvenirs. The inner courtyard holds multiple buildings, some nearly 400 years old, and former British barracks.
National Museum: Get lost in Indian culture and history. The audio tour is hit and miss, great for first time tourists to India who may need a bit of a introduction into the country.
Connaught Place: Feeling homesick? This is the place to be. Foreign tourists are drawn to the many restaurants, upscale shopping, money exchanges, and airline offices scattered throughout the massive circular commercial hub. Anything you need, including fresh flowers, can be found here.
Gandhi Smiriti: Tour exhibits in the house and grounds of one of India’s most iconic figures. Walk in Gandhi’s final footsteps, and even see where he was assassinated.
Humayun’s Tomb: Tucked into southern Delhi, this is the city’s first Mughal mausoleum built to hold the remains of the second Mughal emperor of the same name. Part kitschy, part fascinating, tourists will recognize the same red sandstone from Red Fort. Play along with the tricks that exists inside as they workers do try to get a laugh out of visitors.
