Delhi
The Indian capital Delhi finds its mention in epics like Mahabhrata and stand as a living legacy that experienced the times of Mughals, Marathas and also the Indian freedom struggle. Proclaimed the capital by the British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens (1869-1944), Delhi is India's most prosperous state instituting in itself, giant enterprises, business acumen, major industries and all ministries of India. The city has sprawled over the West Bank of the river Yamuna. Divided in two fractions, namely Old Delhi & New Delhi, the latter houses the Red Fort built by Emperor Shah Jehan between 1636 & 1658, bustling bazaars and era old life style. The beauty & serenity of Delhi lies within the courts of the main buildings, its museums, shopping arcades, the President's residence and the VIP areas.
Tourist Attractions In Delhi
Red Fort:
Built by the Mughal emperor Shahjahan when he shifted the imperial capital from Lahore to Delhi, the Red Fort is a portrait of the Mughal architecture and a symbolic of India's independence. Honored by being the scaffold for hoisting the Indian tricolor since 15 August 1947 Red fort stands as an evidence to all gone by times of vanquish and triumph. Owing its name to the red sandstone used for its construction, the Red fort is situated on the western banks of the Yamuna.
With two fort entrances namely, Lahori Gate (facing Lahore- now in Pakistan) and Delhi Gate, this massive stone fortification embraces architectural delights like Naqqar Khana (Drum room), Naubat Khana (Welcome Room), Diwan-e-Aam (Hall of Public Audience). The Diwan-e-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), Rang Mahal (Palace of Colors), Hammam (Bathing Area) and Shah Burj are other must see charms within the fort.
Jama Masjid:
Located just opposite the Red Fort, is the imposing Jama Masjid reflecting its splendid construction by way of black and white striped onion domes and minarets. Considered as one of the largest and the most elegant mosques in India, Jama Masjid was built by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in 1644. This magnificent masjid is also known as the 'Masjid-i-Jahan Numa', where 'Jahan' means 'World' and Numa means 'Visible' OR "mosque commanding view of the world". Build by five thousand artisans, Jama Masjid is a construction marvel with three gateways, four towers and two minarets.
Qutab Minar:
The most sought after spot by tourists after red fort and jama masjid is the architectural wonder- Qutab Minar is a fluted red sandstone tower tapering up to a height of 72.5 metres with intricate carvings and verses from the holy Koran. Qutb-ud-din Aibak began constructing this victory tower as a sign of Muslim domination of Delhi and as a minaret for the Muslim priest, the muezzin to call the faithful to prayer. Within the complex, is the famous Iron Pillar, which has stood for millennia without rusting.
Lotus Temple:This splendid marvel build of white marble stands in the Indian capital Delhi as the Taj of modern India. Portraying excellent architectural style this outlandish construction was completed in 1986. Built in the shape of a half- opened lotus, this quite, peaceful and relaxing tourist' spot is embraced with delectably manicured lawns and is a place for devout of all religions to dedicate themselves to their religion.
Delhi Haat :
Delhi Haat Food and Craft Bazaar is a joint project of Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC) and New Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) launched to promote the craft of the artisans, craftsman who are unable to reach big markets. Located opposite the INA market in New Delhi, this place is a haven for handicraft lovers. Spread over 6- acre spacious area, it provides an atmosphere of the traditional market not only offering visitors an array of splendid crafts items and the delicious flavor of distinct regional delicacies.