How does it work?

This pre-arranged tour guide in Belur, Karnataka helped me understand the temples by taking extra time to explain each carved figure in detail.

Pre-arranged tour guides are picked up at each new city either at a tour operator office, or met directly at the monument to be toured assuming you are working with a car and driver service. Your planned tour time may be the first tour of the day for the designated guide and your driver will determine if it is more feasible to pick up the guide at the office rather than wait for him to arrive at the monument. Your driver will be in contact with the guide via mobile phone enabling a swift meet and greet while allowing you to stay focused on your tour of India and not concerned about behind the scenes planning.

Many foreign language speaking guides can be found throughout India. Specific language requests can generally be handled through a qualified travel agent. Fees for guide services are built into your tour package price however each guide will appreciate any additional gratuity you offer. See tips and tipping for suggested amounts.

Pick-up guides are an excellent choice afforded to Do-it-Yourself travelers. These trained guides sit in wait near the front entrance to popular tourist locales able to spot a traveler without a pre-arranged guide at 50 paces. As you near the entry gates you will be approached for services or immediately after entry if a guide is completing a tour with other customers. The fee for services should be negotiated up front. Ensure that the quoted price includes all people in your party and isn’t a per person price. “That’s Rs 200 total, for all of us, not per person?”

Don’t be distracted or intimidated by the official form many guides will be all too eager to show. Badges, forms and ID cards all documenting their services as “official government trained or approved” are typically ploys to charge unsuspecting tourists more money. A good, honest Indian tour guide with a respectable depth of knowledge of the monument will be happy to accept whatever you offer him. A deceptive guide only concerned with flashing name badges and forged documents will dictate pricing to the traveler without room for negotiation. See the tips and tipping page for suggested guide pricing.

The Good, The Bad and the Huh?

This pick-up guide at Chittargarh, Rajasthan had 35 years of experience, undercut a newer guide's asking wage by half and expertly knew the history of the fort

Good guides will be easily understood, have a good command over the language they are speaking and keep control of the tour. They are respectful of picture and video taking often offering to take photos of their customers. They will pose for pictures if asked and many will even give tips on the best locations for that perfect shot.

Good guides will take the time to explain the history of the monument they have studied, as well as give general background information of the city or other related stories. They welcome follow up questions and will seek the advice of a fellow guide if stumped.

Bad guides are quick to move you about with the mindset of attracting as many customers in a day as possible. They aren’t concerned about your experience, your questions or whether you enjoy your stay in India. They look at the foreign tourist as a never-ending commodity only interested in a quick payoff. Their understanding of a given monument doesn’t go much further than what they read in the most recent guide book.

Offers to shop are inevitable from good and not so good guides. This is a way to supplement their income through commissions on any products purchased by the customers they attract to a store. It’s the oldest form of affiliate marketing! You can’t escape the offer so do your best to shrug it off unless you are interested in taking a look.

It took some time to warm up to this pre-arranged guide in Madurai South India. He turned out to be one of the best guides in all my India travel.

Pass on any offers of a guide to accompany you to lunch after the tour concludes. He knows he can tempt you with the notion of one-on-one attention and further Q & A time. In reality, he will end up spending most of his time speaking in Hindi or other regional language to your driver as they gobble up the food you are about to pay for.

Yes or No?

Tour guides are essential when planning your travel to India, and no two guides are the same. They can be funny, witty, playful , serious, dull, and down right annoying. But they can be an invaluable resource at your fingertips during travel in India. Immediate answers to questions, background knowledge most guide books don’t have, and the ability to sneak guests into hidden areas all enhance your experience. Don’t be afraid to let one go early if you can’t understand them, aren’t connecting well or just want to wander in silence. Some places are self-explanatory or speak more to the visitor without the watchful eyes of a curious bystander.

The smart tourist will rely on pick-up guides. They have full control over who they are paired with, the cost as well as a sample of the body language and spoken word prior to touring a landmark. Knowing he has to earn his wage, the pick-up guide will be more interested in keeping you engaged.

The Qutub Minar fascinates local and foreign tourists as they converge to the ancient ruins as a top sightseeing location of  Delhi, and all of India. Years ago it was considered one of the “wonders of the East”, second only to the Taj Mahal.

The background of these first monuments of Muslim India, reads like a school history textbook; Rich with dates, names of rulers and stories of ego and power plays. Today the Qutub Minar is one of many ruins which make up the Mehrauli Archeological Park. Conveniently accessed by car/driver or bus, tourists are smart to come prepared with water and sun screen. The unforgiving sun beats down on visitors who have very little ability to block themselves in shade.

Comfortable shoes are a must here. To properly see the ruins you’ll be walking up and down many flights of stairs, hills, and stepping over uneven ground. Pick up guides are available at the front entrance, an inexpensive way to enhance your understanding of the UNESCO World Heritage Monument.

Open daily, entrance fee Rs 250.

Top Attractions to see at Qutub Minar:

•Alai Darwaza: The gateway to the complex, erected in 1311, bears an elegant mausoleum like architecture. Complete with stone lattice screens and inlaid marble, carved panels show more inscriptions from the Koran.
•Qutub Minar: India’s highest single tower which marks the site of the first Muslin kingdom in North India, est 1193. Minar = Arabic for Pole/Axis. It is a 5 story victory tower made of red sandstone covered in intricate carvings and inscribed verses from the Koran.
•Iron Pillar: The 4th century pillar is a tribute to ancient Indian metallurgy which bears Sanskrit inscriptions. Originally it was made as a flagstaff in Vishnu’s honor and once was topped with an image of the Hindu bird god, Garuda. It is made of 98% pure iron and is rust free.
•Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque: The remains of 27 Hindu and Jain temples were used to construct this, the remains of India’s first mosque. Carved pillars which are noticeably from Hindu temples, have had the faces of all decorative figures removed to abide by strict Islamic law forbidding iconic worship.
•Alai Minar: The first story remains of a tower meant to be even larger than the Qutub Minar.

History

Iron pillar of Qutub Minar

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 story, to which were added three more storeys by his successor and son-in-law, Shamsu’d-Din Iltutmish (AD 1211-36). All the stories 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 story.

Qutub-Minar in red and buff sandstone is the highest tower in India. It has a diameter of 14.32 m at the base and about 2.75 m on the top with a height of 72.5 m.

Numerous inscriptions in Arabic and Nagari characters in different places of the minar reveal the history of Qutub. According to the inscriptions on its surface it was repaired by Firuz Shah Tughlaq (AD 1351-88) and Sikandar Lodi (AD 1489-1517). Major R.Smith also repaired and restored the minar in 1829.

Carved pillars of Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque

Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, to the north-east of minar was built by Qutbu’d-Din Aibak in AD 1198. It is the earliest extant mosque built by the Delhi Sultans. It consists of a rectangular courtyard enclosed by cloisters, erected with the carved columns and architectural members of 27 Hindu and Jain temples which were demolished by Qutbu’d-Din Aibak as recorded in his inscription on the main eastern entrance.

Later, a lofty arched screen was erected and the mosque was enlarged by Shamsu’d-Din Iltutmish (AD 1210-35) and Alau’d-Din Khalji. The Iron Pillar in the courtyard bears an inscription in Sanskrit in Brahmi script of fourth century AD, according to which the pillar was set up as a Vishnudhvaja (standard of god Vishnu) on the hill known as Vishnupada in memory of a mighty king named Chandra. A deep socket on the top of the ornate capital indicates that probably was an image of Garuda was fixed into it.

The tomb of Iltutmish (AD 1211-36) was built in AD 1235. It is a plain square chamber of red sandstone, profusely carved with inscriptions, geometrical and arabesque patterns in Saracenic tradition on the entrances and the whole of interior. Some of the motifs viz., the wheel, tassel etc., are reminiscent of Hindu designs.

Alai Minar sits at one end of the complex

Ala’i-Darwaza, the southern gateway of the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque was constructed by Alau’d-Din Khalji in AH 710 (AD 1311) as recorded in the inscriptions engraved on it. This is the first building employing Islamic principles of construction and ornamentation.

Ala’i Minar which stands to the north of Qutub-Minar, was commenced by Alau’d-Din Khalji, with the intention of making it twice the size of earlier Minar. He could complete only the first storey which now has an extant height of 25 m. The other remains in the Qutub complex comprise madrasa, graves, tombs, mosque and architectural members. Source- Archeological Survey of India

If you decided against visiting India Gate, New Delhi’s city grid will force you to view it from a passing bus or car. It’s location at the end of Rajpath is central to many of the tourist highlights around the city. See the iconic landmark of India’s capital city in the early morning around opening time to avoid the crowds. If you prefer to be with the locals and tourists, wait until evening when families and young couples flock to this area. Rajpath comes alive with music, kids playing cricket in the nearby fields, ice cream and balloon vendors and a tremendous amount of foot traffic. The structure is floodlit after sunset and the air cools to a pleasant temperature.

Location: Less than a mile from Connaught Place, (Rajeev Chowk) at the eastern end of Rajpath.

Time to Visit: Open on all days, around the clock

Admission: Free and open to all

How to Reach: Tourists can either take local buses from various points within the city to reach the monument, or they can hire auto-rickshaws and taxis or take the metro rail. From CP one can even take a stroll till India Gate

Nearest Railway Station: New Delhi Railway Station

Nearest Metro Station: Kendriya Terminal

Time required for sightseeing: Approximately 1 hour

History

Built in 1931 and designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, this 42 m high stone arch of victory, universally known as India Gate, stands at the eastern end of Rajpath. It was previously officially known as the All India War Memorial. The names of the 90,000 Indian Army soldiers who died in the First World War, Afghan campaign of 1919 and the North-West Frontier operations are inscribed on the walls of this grand structure.

In the year 1971, an eternal flame or Amar Jawan Jyoti, was lit under the arch of India Gate to honor the brave unknown, soldier. The flame is flanked by uniformed soldiers, who stand guard over the flame. Near the flame, a shining rifle with a helmet on it, is placed on a high pedestal, as a tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in battle.

Just a few meters away from India Gate, there is a beautiful canopy or domed kiosk, with a roof of red sandstone, under which the marble statue of George V once stood. The canopy was also designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and was built in 1936. The statue has been removed from beneath the canopy to the Coronation Memorial Park in North Delhi. The emptiness of the canopy is symbolic of the British retreat from India. The visitor can stand on the other side of the canopy and can view the entire Rajpath Avenue at a stretch, which is indeed a wonderful sight. Source- Indfy.com

No photography is allowed on the grounds of the Delhi temple, so the pictures shown are from the Akshardham website. As you approach the parking lot, security does a mirror sweep underneath your vehicle as well as an interior inspection. Visitors can walk through the gate during this procedure or wait in the vehicle.

Once you find your parking spot, easy task in the early morning hours, you can either walk directly to the main entrance or stop by the outer guest services booth. Here you can check your cameras and cell phones. Don’t try to sneak these devices in as you will be thoroughly searched further ahead in the security area. You may also purchase maps, books and other small gift items at this time but wait until the main gift shop for your purchases.

Security is simple and rather fast. Remove your belt and watches, large jewelry to speed up the process. There are neat and clean washrooms here if you need to freshen up. Admission is free, no need for tickets.

Past the security gates you are free to wander. Traffic flow is maintained in a one-way pattern. Be sure to get your fill of each site before moving on as you can’t backtrack.

The Welcome Pathway leads you past the Ten Gates which represent the ten directions. Each gate has a water screen built in meant to calm the mind of mundane thoughts and agitations while providing a soothing and tranquil experience. It really works.

Gradually the welcome pathway leads to to the Visitors Center or Bhakti Dwar (Gate of Devotion). Inside the Visitors Center, you can find all the information on Swaminarayan Akshardham from the construction costs, planning and building to facts and figures about the complex. There is a small desk at the rear exit selling CD’s and books of Akshardham but again, wait until the main gift shop.

Upon exit from the Visitors Center you move into the Mayur Dwar. Two Mayur Dwars (Peacock Gates) made of stone, are adorned with 869 peacocks in different shapes and sizes. The peacock is of course the National Bird of India. From here you get your first up close view of Swaminarayan Akshardham. The architecture is breathtaking. You can’t help but realize you are seeing something extraordinary. The official guide states, “Swaminarayan Akshardham epitomizes 10,000 years of Indian culture in all its breathtaking panorama. The Monument is made of the Gajendra Peeth at the bottom which interestingly portrays value themes; the Mandovar or outer wall that ornately presents India’s great acharyas, rishis, and avatars; the Samvarans above it which crown the Mandovar; and the traditional domes, kalashes and flag that reflect the tradition of India’s ancient architecture.”

To see this Monument correctly, start at the base of the main staircase and work clockwise.

Gajendra Peeth: “A fascinating 1,070 ft long pageant of elephants in stone. It portrays elephants with nature, man and God, reflecting the message of peaceful coexisitence, love, faith, effort, courage and service. The Gajendra Peeth exhorts mankind towards nobler living and love for nature. A total of 148 stone elephants, 125 human figures, 42 animals and decorative backdrops were created in four years.”

These carvings are awe inspiring. Each panel is unique and glorious yet it felt as you moved past each one, your eyes couldn’t believe how magnificent the next panel looked. The carvings became more ornate, more elaborate. Truly stunning.

Mandovar: “The ornate wall of the Swaminarayan Akshardham monument is known as the mandovar. It is the largest, most intricately carved mandovar built in India in the past 800 years, and is 610 ft long and 25 ft high. It features 200 sculptured stone figures of India’s great rishis, sadhus, devotees, and avatars.

The mandovar includes different levels: gajstar, sinhstar, vyalstar, kumbhstar, kalahstar, gavakhstar, jangha and chhajja with a total of 4287 carved stones. The kumbhstar has 48 ornately sculpted murtis of Shri Ganeshji in different mudras.”

Unfortunately the Mandir was closed for repairs during my visit. On my next visit to Delhi, I will be sure to stop by in order to properly see the inside of the Mandir.

From the Mandir you have the option of moving into the only paid part of the complex. Here you can view the Hall of Values, an audio animatronics show, take a boat ride that lasts roughly 12 minutes taking you through 10,000 years of Indian history and watch an epic period film about the pilgrimage of a child-yogi in 18th Century India. I was only interested in the boat ride and was disappointed to learn it was an all or nothing package. You saw all three venues or nothing. The cost of the package Rs 125. Plan 3 hours to view all the attractions. This doesn’t include the wait time which can be up to 3 hours just to enter the first attraction. Get here early in the day to avoid that mess.

From this area move on to the musical fountain. Followers and tourists rush here toward dusk each night to watch the lighting of the fountain. Since my visit was early morning, obviously I missed the excitement.

Yagnapurush Jund & Musical Fountain: “A fascinating combination of a traditional Vedic yagna kund and a spectacular musical water fountain. The lotus-shaped kund measures 300 ft x 300 ft and comes alive at night with a fabulous musical fountain show themed upon the cycle of life and death. It elegantly portrays the roles of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiv, as the creator, sustainer and destroyer of the world, through a brilliant fusion of light, sound and water.”

Yogihriday Kamal: “An 8 petalled lotus-shaped arena that pays tribute to the auspicious sentiments of Yogiji Maharaj (the visionary behind Swaminarayan Akshardham). His prayers for the good of all find resonance through the words and wisdom shared by great people of our world. Each petal displays quotes of distinguished sages, scientists, historians, and statesmen, inspiring faith in God and faith in man.”

Don’t forget to make a pass through the Garden of India. The grounds are impeccably maintained but beyond seeing the landscape, this is the only part of the complex not worth spending much time on. You may be more interested in the history lesson from each display while walking through the gardens than I was. The gardens spread out over 22 acres, be sure to wear comfortable shoes.

And finally you come onto the main gift shop. You’ll understand why I suggested you wait to make purchases until now. For one thing, you’d have to carry any purchases previously until now plus your options in this well stocked gift shop are immense. Prices are extremely reasonable. Gift items from postcards, DVD’s, CD’s, shirts, religious ornaments and more cover the shop in very well merchandised displays. Just outside the gift shop is a refreshment area also with very reasonable rates.

Akshardham is more than worth the effort to see. Delhi Metro services the temple with a massive new station being built just outside the main property entrance. Bus service is also available and any taxi will easily know how to get you here.

TIPS: Leave your camera and call phone at the hotel or in the car as you will not be allowed entrance with either.

Arrive early to avoid wait times at the security gate and attractions.

No outside food or water is allowed but there is a decent selection at the refreshment stand near the exit area of the complex. Also, there is a restaurant available for sit down dining.

Wait until the main gift shop to make purchases. More options and less carrying throughout your visit make this a fun place to stop and shop.