New Delhi - History at every turn

Description:

The Park located in Central Delhi, is a member of the elite group of Design Hotels. It has re-invented itself over the past few years, and is now an art connoiseur of sorts.has re-invented itself over the past few years, and is now an art connoisseur of sorts. There are valuable handpicked pieces of Indian art gracing its walls and the decor is cutting edge contemporary. The Park, a part of a group of boutique hotels in India, makes sure that it's a walking and talking advertisement for serious high standards in hospitality. There is LUXURY written all over its fancy facilities and ultra modern amenities. The hotel is located in the heart of the city and overlooks the historic 18th century Jantar Mantar Observatory.

Description:

On first glance, Jantar Mantar seems like a collection of weird buildings contorted beyond belief. On closer look, the genius of the construction is apparent. Built by Maharaja Jai Singh in 1725, it is a brilliant attempt to revise the calendar and the astronomical tables. A mammoth sun dial stands in the centre of the observatory. There are many other constructions made to track the sun beams and moon cycles. Once a precise mechanism for telling time and eclipses, now Jantar Mantar is made defunct due to the overshadowing by tall skyscapers all around. This place derives its more contemporary charm from the hordes of protests (dharnas) and hunger strikes that are organised on a frequent basis.

Description:

This baoli (step well) is a small structure built of rubble and dressed stone. Shaded by a massive neem tree, it has no roof. Step wells of this kind were once the lifeline of settlements. They not only provided water but also served as points and centers of community activity; places where people gathered to cool off and socialize. The well has five levels where each level has an arched area, which was used as a resting place. The center of the well has water and the water is linked to a well dug in a covered platform. Today, it stands quietly and ignored amidst the corporate buildings of Connaught Place. If you look over the highest wall of the baoli, you will see a surrounding ring of imposing high rises. It's quite a view.

Description:

Situated in midst of the beautiful Indo-Islamic structures of the Qutub Minar complex, stands the elegant Alai Darwaza (gate). By the time it was finished in 1311, Indian workmen had mastered the art of constructing a dome. Through the system of a series of arched brackets, the square chamber was converted into a octagon and then a circle, and the dome was mounted on it. This celebrated gate is built of red sandstone with arched openings on all sides. It is full of scripts carved with ancient inscriptions and has many other decorative details in white marble.

Description:

Nobody quite knows why this structure was built. Some believe it was erected as a symbol of victory of the Muslim rule in India. What is undisputable is that it is one of the finest monuments in the country and one of the most recognised, second only to the Taj Mahal in Agra. Its construction was started Qutab-ud-din Aibak, the first Muslim ruler of Delhiin 1200, but managed to finish only the base. His successor, Iltutmush added three more storeys, and later, Firoz Shah Tughlak constructed the fifth and the last storey. The first three storeys are made of red sandstone. The fourth and fifth floors are made of marble and sandstone. Admission: Rs. 10 for Indians, Rs. 250 for foreigners.

Description:

The gigantic rubble structure to the north of Qutub Minar is known as Alai Minar (tower). Set amidst other beautiful ruins of the Qutub complex, it is a testimony of the Mughal stubbornness to create architectural art. This is an unfinished base of the mammoth tower begun by Alauddin Khilji sometime in the 1200s. It was intended to rival the size of the Qutub Minar tower.

Description:

The Iron Pillar is inscribed with a Sanskrit inscription that says that it was built as a pole for a temple in the 4th century. But that's just about all that is known about this structure. The most fascinating thing about this pillar is that it has remained rust-free for over 2000 years. Another insolvable mystery is that the kind of iron used to make this pillar can only be produced in small quantities through electrolysis - today. How it was made so many centuries ago defies explanation.

Description:

This is the tomb of Iltutmish who died in 1236. He was the son-in-law and successor of emperor Qutubuddin Aibak. It has an exquisite sculptural character and has inscriptions from the Holy book of Quran on its walls, which have been delicately carved out like fine lace work in stone.

Description:

The Jamali Kamali masjid (mosque) and tomb is situated near the Qutub Minar complex and is set within a beautiful park. The mosque's simple lines give it an air of simple elegance and quiet contemplation. Through the door on the right lies a small chamber in which Jamali and Kamali are buried. Jamali was a saint and a poet who was a favorite of the ruling king. The identity of Kamali is unknown. The tomb chamber is closed to the public but the outside premises are worth a view.

Description:

The Arab traveler, Ibn Batuta, minister at the king's court, described the series of gates within the Bijai Mandal at great length. Standing on top of the ruins of this palace, one can almost sense its ruined splendor. One of the best things to do is to stand at the highest point and get a kaleidoscopic view of many parts of the capital. You will be able to see the Begumpuri Masjid, the historic and magnificent Qutab Minar, Lotus Temple, and Humayun's Tomb.

Description:

The Lal Gumbad is one of the many grand pieces of ancient architecture that beautifully adorn the city of Delhi. Lal Gumbad or the Red Mausoleum is the tomb of Shaikh Kabir-Ud-Din Auliya, who was buried here in 1397, during the pre-Mughal era. The square-shaped tomb is erected of red sandstone, with a conic-shaped plastered dome on the roof. The serene lawns of Panchshila Park, where the tomb is located, exudes a wonderful ambiance. Don't miss this gorgeous monument, when in Delhi!

Our Local Expert Says:

If you have time only to visit one restaurant when you visit New Delhi, this is it.

Description:

A stalwart in its field, Bukhara remains unchallenged as far as cooking dry meats go. The kebabs are to die for and its dal (an Indian dish), which is cooked for 24 hours over a slow fire, is legendary. Sitting on one of the designer wooden stumps, which match the loghouse decor of the place, you can enjoy the fascinating scenes of the kitchen. It is separated through a glass partition and the chef can be seen throwing dough in the air and ending up with a perfect circular roomali roti (Indian bread). This restaurant is considered the ultimate place for Frontier food. It is expensive, but worth every penny.

Description:

Purana Qila or Old Fort, on the banks of the river Yamuna, is one of the most gorgeous exponents of Mughal architecture. This imposing structure was built by Emperor Humayun in 1533 on the site of Indraprastha (capital of the Pandavas in Mahabharata) and was named "Dina-panah". The structure was later renovated by Afghan ruler Sher Shah Suri and renamed "Shergarh" in 1545. The fort, built of red sandstone has two towering gates, "Talaqi Darwaza" on the northern side and "Humayun Darwaza" on the southern side that are intricately carved. The Qila-i-Kuhna Masjid and the Sher Mandal are important monuments inside the fort. Old Fort truly adds to the vintage charm of Delhi!

Description:

Khari Baoli is the city's wholesale market that sells exotic spices and dry agricultural products. It is a very popular place with the tourists as the sights and smells that await them are unique and something they have probably never experienced before. This place has been in existence for over centuries - Khari Baoli still is reminiscent of a time long gone by.

Description:

Fatehpuri Masjid is located on the western end of Chandni Chowk, old Delhi's most famous street. At the opposite end of Fathepuri, is the Red Fort and around the masjid, is the vibrant Chandni Chowk market. Built in 1650 by Fathepuri Begum (Shah Jahan's wife), this mosque is typical of the gorgeous red sandstone architecture of the Mughals. It has a dome with a mahapadma and a kalash on its roof and is flanked by minarets on all sides. The central courtyard is laid with red stones and there are single and double-storeyed apartments on both sides of the mosque. It is visited by non-Muslims as well, mostly during Id-ul-Fitr festivities.

Description:

This is the biggest mosque in India and is one of the last buildings to be made by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. The construction of the mosque took 14 years and ended in 1658. It has three entrances, and four towers. The top of the towers provide a priceless view of the old city. The mosque itself has been constructed in sandstone and marble. The central courtyard can hold up to 25, 000 people at any give time, but after 5pm, only Muslims are allowed to stay inside the premises. Word of caution: Women are not allowed to go up the minaret without a male escort.

Description:

Chandni Chowk is one of the busiest of roads in the city; it links the Red Fort with the Fatehpuri Masjid. Chandni Chowk is a colourful bazaar, very popular with traders and locals. It is considered as the best place to shop for fabrics, in wholesale prices. It gets so crowded that vehicles are not allowed in its bylanes. Chandni Chowk has retained its old magic and is a bustling shopping area, with historic alleys and hotels, mosques and temples. Some food stalls in the area are 100 years old. It is a favourite hangout for cuisine buffs.

Description:

Lahore Gate is one of the main entrance into the historical Red Fort. It is named so because it faces Lahore, now a city in Pakistan. As you cross the gate, you step into an arcade called the Chatta Chowk (Covered Bazaar). This marketplace once used to cater to royal needs - for silver, textiles, gold, silks etc. But today you'll find the usual items for tourists. It also had a popular mini-market called the Meena bazaar, where ladies of the court shopped on Thursdays. And it was forbidden for any male to enter the area that day.

Description:

This was emperor Shah Jahan's residence, a fort of unimaginable magnitude. Built in 1648 along the banks of the Yamuna river, it is constructed in the reddest of sandstones, and extends upto two kilometres horizontally. Before 1857, the fort was a small city in itself and was home to over 3000 people. Today, it daily welcomes thousands of tourists. Only a part of the full area is accessible to public, the rest is the territory of the Indian army. The daily sound and light show in the evenings is very popular with the visitors and is a must-see. Admmission: Rs. 5 for Indians and Rs. 100 for foreigners.

Description:

An extraordinary sound and light show is organised every evening at Red Fort. Inaugurated on October 2nd, 1996, it is perhaps the biggest of its kind in India. It recreates the events of Indian history particularly related to the fort. Red Fort is believed to be the site of the first city of Delhi. The high rise walls and imposing entrances to the Quila (fort) are credited to emperor Shershah Suri. Massive halogen lights reflected from the mammoth, red sandstone walls and sound effects from hidden speakers evoke such an effect that the show has been a hit with the local crowds as well as the tourist for years. It takes place in Hindi and English for an hour each. Tickets Rs 50 (children Rs. 20).

Our Local Expert Says:

One of the best eating out experiences in India. Not to be missed.

Description:

A well known name in the capital, Karim's has been serving traditional Indian preparations since a long time now. Considered one of the best, many a celebrity has been spotted dining here. Located opposite the Jamma Masjid, the famous place offers mouth watering kebabs and tasty mutton dishes. The specials include Mutton Burra, Chicken Tikka, Chicken Noor Jehan, Chicken Jahangiri and of course, Chicken Tandoori. The menu also features spicy appetizers like kebabs.

Description:

The Park located in Central Delhi, is a member of the elite group of Design Hotels. It has re-invented itself over the past few years, and is now an art connoiseur of sorts.has re-invented itself over the past few years, and is now an art connoisseur of sorts. There are valuable handpicked pieces of Indian art gracing its walls and the decor is cutting edge contemporary. The Park, a part of a group of boutique hotels in India, makes sure that it's a walking and talking advertisement for serious high standards in hospitality. There is LUXURY written all over its fancy facilities and ultra modern amenities. The hotel is located in the heart of the city and overlooks the historic 18th century Jantar Mantar Observatory.

Description:

India Gate is usually the first stop in a traveler's itinerary. It is a majestic structure, which stands high at the end of Rajpath amidst plush, green manicured lawns and water fountains carved in sandstone. Designed and built by Lutyens, it was originally called the All India War Memorial. This structure was built in honor and memory of the scores of Indian soldiers who died in World War I, the North-West Frontier operations, and the Afghan war in early 1900s. India Gate is truly unique as each martyred soldier's name is inscribed in its walls. Under it burns the eternal flame of 'Amar Jyoti'; burning since 1971. The area is especially breathtaking in the evenings when India Gate and the sparawling lawns are dramaticly lit with floodlights. Just behind the main structure of India Gate is a canopy made in sandstone. In front of it is the magnificent Rashtrapati Bhavan, the residence of the President of India. This is one of the most beautiful localities in the city and is favourite spot for picnics and outings all year round.

Description:

Sansad Bhavan (Parliament House) is a circular, sandstone building with mammoth pillars. It is a place where the ministers of the country convene everyday to discuss and approve policies. Sansad Bhavan is divided into three complexes - the Lok Sabha (House of States), the Rajya Sabha (House of Lords), and the library. The design of this structure was inspired by Mughal architecture - evident in the motifs on the wall slabs. Entry is allowed into the Library only, passes are available at the Visitor's Reception. To obtain a visitors' pass, foreign nationals should apply though their embassies or high commissions.

Description:

This is the official residence of the President of India. The Rashtrapati Bhavan is an awe-inspiring complex, which was designed by Lutyens in the early 1900s. The palace-like building is a blend of Western and Mughal architectural styles; the most obvious Indian feature being the huge copper dome. It is believed to be inspired by the Buddhist stupa at Sanchi. There is a huge courtyard in the front and a lush garden towards the back. The garden is spread over a 130 acre area and is very popular with the tourists. It is open to the public only in February.

Description:

The buildings that form The Secretariat surround the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The North Block are the offices of the Home and Finance Ministeries and the South Block is the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This is a series of beautiful buildings in red sandstone with Baroque domes covered with lotus motifs and elephants - another example of the architect's, Lutyen's genius. Unfortunately, entry into the premises is not allowed.

Description:

Safdarjung Tomb was built as a mausoleum for the Viceroy of Awadh, Safdarjung, in 1754. The main structure, built in red sandstone, is surrounded by many other smaller pavillions like Jangli Mahal (Wild Palace), Moti Mahal (Palace of Pearls), and Badshah Pasand (King's Favourite). It is a beautiful piece of Mughal architecture, and the endless lush green gardens and manicured lawns are sure to take your breath away. Admission: Rs. 5 for Indians, Rs. 100 for foreigners.

Description:

Built as a memorial for emperor Humayun by his wife in the 16th century, this structure, resplendent in red sandstone is considered to be the next best thing after the Taj Mahal in Agra. The tomb is awe-inspiring, nestled by lush green lawns on three sides and a river on the fourth. There are other tombs within the premises as well - of Humanyun Babar's and Isa Khan's. This place is not frequented just by the tourists but also has its loyal admirers who throng here in hordes. The entry in the complex is free on Fridays.

Description:

India is a known as a country of hundreds of religions and communities, and the Bahai Temple is a symbol of such tolerance and respect. Built in 1997, in the shape of a white lotus, it is surrounded by nine cyrstal blue pools of water and lush green lawns. The idea is to create an illusion of a white lotus floating in water. This building welcomes worshippers, believers and non-believers from all over the country and the world - it strives to create a space of calm and positive energy. If not for the religious aspect of it, thousands tourists come everyday to view and enjoy the mammoth lotus structure built out of marble with the red sandstone pathways. Admission is Free.

Our Local Expert Says:

This place scores as much for its crazy interiors as it does for its interesting food.

Description:

Chor Bizzare is an extraordinary restaurant. Its name means The Market of Thieves, and the whole concept of the restaurant is based on that. You enter through a heavily carved wooden door and walk into the most strangely decorated restaurant. The tables are the weirdest - some are silver-plated, glass or marbled, and some are converted from four-poster beds and sewing machines. There are various fascinating curios in the three rooms of the dining area, such as an old broken gramophone, posters of Coca Cola from the 1950s, a metal staircase in the middle of the restaurant leading up to nowhere, and finally, the piece de resistance, a 1920s Fiat, which acts as a salad bar. Nothing makes sense and that is the uniqueness of this place. Chor Bizzare is an award-winning restaurant and serves delicious food. You may forget the food, but will always remember the restaurant's trademark...the bizzareness.

Description:

The Park located in Central Delhi, is a member of the elite group of Design Hotels. It has re-invented itself over the past few years, and is now an art connoiseur of sorts.has re-invented itself over the past few years, and is now an art connoisseur of sorts. There are valuable handpicked pieces of Indian art gracing its walls and the decor is cutting edge contemporary. The Park, a part of a group of boutique hotels in India, makes sure that it's a walking and talking advertisement for serious high standards in hospitality. There is LUXURY written all over its fancy facilities and ultra modern amenities. The hotel is located in the heart of the city and overlooks the historic 18th century Jantar Mantar Observatory.