| The monuments of Delhi narrate the story of
Delhi in their own unique way. It’s not only a visual treat but also a visual journey
into the glorious, and sometimes ruthless past of this historical city.
The list of
places to visit is almost endless and depends very much on the inclinations of the
traveler and what he/she is looking for. Many seek but few find. While some may like
to wander around the monuments, others may like to lose themselves in the crowded by-lanes
of old Delhi... to smell the old flavours and to catch a glimpse of an era receeding away.
Red fort stands a bold and resolute testimony to the Moghul rule. Shah Jahan
started the construction of this red sandstone structure known as Lal (meaning
‘red’ Qila (meaning ‘Fort’) in 1638. The monument was completed in the
year 1648. Once inside the fort, one crosses important landmarks - the Lahore gate, Chatta
Chowk, Naubat Khana, Diwan-i-Am, Diwan-i-Khas.
Right across the Red Fort is Jama Masjid. A magnificent mosque, and the most
important one in India, the construction of this mosque started in 1644 under the guidance
of the Moghul Emperor Shahjahan, the legendary builder who also constructed one of the
seven wonders of the world –the Taj Mahal. Near Jama Masjid is the first
Ivory Mart, reminiscent of the pastand glory of the present.
Another magnificent architectural surprise that Delhi boasts of, is the Qutub Minar.
73 meters high, this monument tapers with a diameter of 15 meters at the base to a
diameter of 2.5 meters at the top. The whole structure is divided into five distinct
stories. The lower three are made of red sandstone while the top two are of marble &
sandstone. Other examples of Moghul architecture include the Safdarjang Tomb and
Humayun’s tomb. In the shadow of Qutub Minar is the sprawling IHE premises.
The most significant British architectural contribution, is the Rashtrapati Bhawan.
Once the residence of the Viceroy of India under the British Raj, it is now the official
residence of the President of India. Apart from its architectural glory, it also boasts of
the fabulous Moghul Gardens. Standing right in front of the Rashtrapati Bhawan is
the majestic India Gate.
The other British architecture marvels are the North and the South Block,
buildings which are now the seat of power of the Indian government and the Indian
parliament - a circular structure with majestic pillars supporting its grandeur.
Once in Delhi, one just can'nt miss visiting the Raj Ghat, the final
resting-place of the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi. Situated on the banks of river
Yamuna, the serenity of Raj Ghat is enhanced by landscaped garden all around the ‘samadhi’.
Other places worth a visit include the Lotus temple (built by the followers of the
Bahai faith), museums like Gandhi Smriti, National museum, Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum
and the International doll museum.
For shoppers, what could be better than Connaught place. A
centre of excitement in the city, it also boasts of the Ivory Mart. Nearby
are the showrooms in pretegiuos hotels like Le Meridian and Intercontinental,
just to ensure that you are in touch with the roots. |
