The Red Fort is a historic fort in the city of Delhi in India, which served as the main residence of the Mughal Emperors. Every year, the fort is the site where the Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag on Independence Day. The Red Fort's massive red sandstone walls, which stand 75 feet high, were built in 1638 to keep out invaders. Today, they mainly keep out the noise and confusion of the city. The fort's main gate, Lahori Gate, is one of the emotional and symbolic focal points of modern India. Architecturally, it's a blending marvel that features the cultural intermixing which defines much of India's history. A visit to the fort is a journey through India's tumultuous history and a must-see for any history enthusiast.
Chandni Chowk, originally meaning 'moonlit square', is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Old Delhi, India. The market was once divided by canals to reflect moonlight and remains one of the largest wholesale markets in India. Walking through Chandni Chowk is like travelling through time. The narrow lanes, bustling with activity from food carts, spice stalls, sweet shops, and general commerce, offer a visceral sensation of the commercial heart of historic Delhi. Bargaining is customary, and an adventurous shopper can find beautiful gems, such as hand-crafted jewellery, fabrics, and unique Indian spices. Visiting Chandni Chowk is more than shopping—it's a full-on sensory experience that gives a taste of the local culture, color and chaos that is Delhi.
Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India and a well-known landmark of Delhi. Built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1644 and 1656, the mosque has three great gates, four towers, and two 40-meter-high minarets constructed of strips of red sandstone and white marble. Visitors can climb up the southern tower of the mosque for a stunning panoramic view of the city. The mosque's courtyard can accommodate 25,000 devotees. The serene and spacious courtyard provides a respite from the bustling city streets. Jama Masjid stands as a remarkable example of Mughal architecture and a sacred place where one can appreciate the traditional Islamic heritage. The atmosphere within the mosque is one of contemplative peace, and visitors are recommended to dress conservatively when visiting.
To truly experience the bustle and charm of old Delhi, a rickshaw ride is a must. The ride takes you through the winding lanes of Chandni Chowk where you get a visceral feel of the trade and life which feeds the city. A rickshaw ride weaves through the colorful chaos, offering a lively experience of Delhi's established trading and market culture. You will witness the timeless routine of commerce and community, from wedding market streets decked with garlands and tinsels to the aromatic lanes by the spice market. The ride is also a chance to observe the remarkable harmony with which different religions and traditions coexist in India, with religious sites for Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains standing close together.
There is no better way to dive into the heart of Delhi's cuisine than through a guided food tour in Chandni Chowk. Famous for its street food, the area offers an overwhelming number of choices that tantalize the taste buds. A typical food tour takes you through a carefully crafted itinerary to experience a variety of traditional dishes like paranthas, chaat, kebabs, and the delicious jalebis. Diverse food joints, heritage eateries, and sweet shops line the old, bustling streets, each narrating their story through their unique flavors. The guides are usually foodies themselves who not only introduce the participants to various dishes but also share the history behind them, making it a treat for both the palate and the mind.
The Spice Market, also known as Khari Baoli, is located near the Fatehpuri Masjid at the western end of Chandni Chowk. It is Asia's largest wholesale spice market. A walk through Khari Baoli is a treat to the senses, filled with fragrant aisles of every imaginable spice. Here, the air is filled with the pungent mix of pepper, turmeric, cloves, cardamom, and many other spices. Vendors here deal with rice, nuts, herbs, tea leaves, and all varieties of spices, supplying shops throughout India. Besides buying spices to take home, visitors can learn about the different uses of spices in Indian cooking and the medicinal properties many of these spices possess. Photography aficionados also find the market a vibrant subject for capturing the essence of India’s colorful and diverse culture.
Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib is a historical gurdwara in Chandni Chowk. It commemorates the martyrdom site of the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, who was beheaded here in 1675 on the orders of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb for refusing to convert to Islam. The gurdwara not only serves as a place of worship but also narrates the story of courage and faith. The visit provides an insightful glimpse into the Sikh religion's history while offering an opportunity to participate in 'Langar', the communal meal that is served to people irrespective of their background or religion. Observing or partaking in the langar is a unique and humbling experience that showcases the Sikh community's values of service and equality.
In the heart of old Delhi, Haveli Dharampura stands as a restored legacy of a 19th-century mansion turned boutique hotel. While staying at the haveli might be an experience itself, non-guests can visit the Dharampura for its cultural events and activities like kite-flying, traditional dance shows or a heritage walk inside the haveli. The evenings can be cherished with a relaxing dinner on the rooftop, which presents an enchanting view of the Jama Masjid, Red Fort, and the bustling life of Chandni Chowk. The architectural restoration allows a glimpse into the lifestyle of the nobles of Mughal society, and a visit promises to be a nostalgic journey through Delhi's historical narrative complimented by the charm of old-world hospitality.
For the early risers, a cycle tour of Old Delhi allows for a more personal and invigorating experience of the area before the hustle and bustle set in. As the sun rises, cyclists can navigate through the labyrinthine bylanes of Chandni Chowk, uncovering the hidden wonders of Delhi. The tour often includes stops at significant landmarks such as the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, and Spice Market, but the real magic lies in the peace that is found just before the crowds appear. The quiet of the morning presents an entirely different Chandni Chowk, where the architecture and history can be appreciated without distractions. The cycle tour is not just about exercise; it's an invitation to connect with the city's heartbeat in the most authentic way possible.
Located within the Digambar Jain Temple complex, the Charity Birds Hospital is a unique attraction that showcases a different aspect of Delhi's compassion. Here, injured and sick birds are treated and taken care of until they are healthy enough to fly away. The hospital operates under the Jain philosophy of non-violence and care for all living beings. Visitors can see various species of birds and understand the efforts towards their conservation and rehabilitation. Although a little off the beaten path, a visit to this charitable bird hospital is an uplifting experience, reminding us of the kindness that exists amidst the hustle of the metropolis. It's a chance to appreciate and contribute to the welfare of our feathered friends.
Hill Stations (44)
Religious Places (317)
Historical Places (158)
Museums (50)
Wildlife Sanctuaries (18)
National Parks (18)
Forts (11)
Villages (36)
Zoos (10)
Mountains (10)
Gardens (27)
Waterfalls (14)
Dams (8)
Lakes (25)
Trekking Places (31)
