India Gate, originally known as the All India War Memorial, stands as a timeless monument at the eastern end of Rajpath, Delhi. It is a poignant dedication to the Indian soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. Visitors to India Gate can absorb the atmosphere of patriotism while admiring the grandeur of this 42-meter high historical structure. At night, the gate glows warmly under floodlights, and the adjacent fountains are lit up with colored lights. The lush lawns surrounding India Gate are perfect for picnics and evening strolls. The site also serves as a venue for Republic Day Parade every year, showcasing the country’s defense capability and cultural and social heritage. Given its historical importance and accessibility, a visit to India Gate is a must-do activity for anyone exploring Delhi, and it provides great insight into India's past.
The National Museum in New Delhi is located near Rajpath and is one of the largest museums in India. Established in 1949, it holds a variety of articles ranging from pre-historic era artifacts to modern works of art. It is an absolute treasure trove for history enthusiasts, providing an in-depth look into the Indian civilization's evolution with its expansive collection of sculptures, paintings, textiles, armor, decorative arts, and manuscripts. The Buddhist Arts section housing the relics of Buddha from Sarnath is particularly intriguing. A guided tour can be highly educational, as it offers narratives that bring to life the rich tapestry of India's past. Spanning over three floors and numerous galleries, visitors should allocate sufficient time to thoroughly appreciate the museum's offerings.
An innovative and thrilling way to explore the stretch of Rajpath is via a Segway tour. This modern mode of transportation adds excitement to sightseeing, gliding along the boulevard with ease. Trained instructors guide participants on how to operate the Segways safely before taking them on a journey to witness the majestic beauty of the Indian capital's power corridor, including panoramic views of the Parliament House, Rashtrapati Bhavan, and the India Gate. The tour typically covers significant attractions on both sides of the Rajpath, offers photo opportunities, and is both informative and fun. The Segway tour is an exceptional way to explore the area, especially for those looking to add a twist to conventional sightseeing methods.
The tranquil waters near India Gate create a serene backdrop for a peaceful boat ride. Boating at the nearby India Gate pond is a delightful experience, offering an opportunity for visitors to relax and soak in the spectacular vista of India Gate and its verdant surroundings. The boating facility is typically available during the daytime and can be a perfect family activity or a romantic escape for couples. As visitors paddle their boats in the calm waters, they can admire the reflection of the grand arch and its surroundings. Both pedal and row boats are available for hire, generally accommodating up to four individuals per boat. Boating here allows for a unique perspective of India Gate, complementing the overall exploration of Rajpath.
Situated on the northwest end of Rajpath, the Parliament House, or Sansad Bhavan, is an architectural marvel and the seat of India's bicameral legislature. The magnificent circular building is surrounded by manicured gardens and impressive iron gates. Although entry is generally restricted, visitors can witness the proceedings of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha from the public galleries with prior permission obtained from Members of Parliament. A tour of Parliament House provides an insight into India's legislative process and democracy in action. The building's impressive structure and the extensive library are noteworthy. These guided tours are also educational, shedding light on the history, architecture, and function of the institution.
The Rashtrapati Bhavan is the official residence of the President of India and a stellar example of British colonial architecture. Visits are allowed to certain parts of the palatial estate, which includes the majestic Durbar Hall, impressive Ashoka Hall, and the extensive Mughal Gardens. The grandeur and historical significance of the place are awe-inspiring. Visitors can witness the Change of Guard ceremony, a military tradition, which takes place on weekends. The Rashtrapati Bhavan tour provides people with a glimpse into the opulent lives of the Indian head of state and showcases a blend of Mughal and western architectural design elements. It is recommended to book the tour in advance on the official Rashtrapati Bhavan website.
The National War Memorial, situated near India Gate, is dedicated to soldiers who have laid down their lives for India since independence. The memorial, inaugurated in 2019, reflects the bravery and sacrifice of Indian armed forces. A visit here is a tribute to the valiant soldiers and an opportunity to learn about the history of India's military conflicts and battles. The memorial is spread over 40 acres and consists of four concentric circles, each with its own significance. The layout is beautifully designed to facilitate introspection and remembrance. The central obelisk and the eternal flame known as the Amar Chakra are particularly poignant. Educational tours and light and sound shows add to the experience, making this a vital stop for those visiting Rajpath.
Located at the India Gate complex, the Children's Park is an enjoyable space for kids with ample play equipment, such as swings, see-saws, slides, and more. The park provides a refreshing environment for families to unwind while children engage in recreational activities. Amidst other explorations, this visit allows a relaxing break and offers kids a chance to burn off some energy. The Park also includes an amphitheater where puppet shows and other performances are sometimes held. Exploring the Children's Park can also offer a moment of respite from the usual sightseeing, and since it's right next to the iconic India Gate, it's a convenient stop for families with young children.
The Beating Retreat Ceremony is a centuries-old military tradition that marks the formal end of Republic Day festivities in India. Held at the Vijay Chowk on Rajpath, the ceremony is a spectacle of precise coordination, where bands from the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and Central Armed Police Forces come together to perform. Visitors can experience the enchanting performance which includes drumbeats, bugle calls, and patriotic tunes. The evening ends with the hauntingly beautiful tune of 'Abide With Me' and the spectacular illumination of Rashtrapati Bhavan, India Gate, and other government buildings. Witnessing the Beating Retreat Ceremony is a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with patriotism and grandeur, showcasing the rich traditions of the Indian defense forces.
Gandhi Smriti, formerly known as Birla House, is a museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, located at the junction of Rajpath and Tees January Marg. It is the sacred place where Gandhi spent the last 144 days of his life and was assassinated on 30th January 1948. A tour of Gandhi Smriti will take visitors on a journey through the last few moments of Gandhi's life, with exhibitions showcasing his personal belongings, photographs, and paintings depicting significant events of his life. The highlight of the museum is the Martyr's Column, which stands exactly at the spot where Gandhi was shot. For those looking to delve deeper into the ethos of the Father of the Nation and his principles of peace and non-violence, Gandhi Smriti provides invaluable insights and reflection.
Hill Stations (43)
Religious Places (310)
Historical Places (156)
Museums (49)
Wildlife Sanctuaries (17)
National Parks (17)
Forts (11)
Villages (36)
Zoos (10)
Mountains (10)
Gardens (27)
Waterfalls (13)
Dams (8)
Lakes (26)
Trekking Places (31)
