Remember when we used to travel? It’s amazing to think that it’s been twelve months now since the first cases of Coronavirus were reported in the United States. Life pre-2020 seems like a distant memory with the turbulence of the last year. But with the vaccines rolling out and a brighter future ahead, it’s time to start thinking of those things we took for granted and look forward to doing them again. I for one can’t wait to travel, so let’s look to brighter times and dream of exotic destinations, today lets dream of India and its capital Delhi.
Delhi and the nation’s capital contained within, New Delhi, is a bustling city with folks from all areas of life. Full of modern wonders blended with traditions of past dynasties it’s also a great spot for shopaholics. For the first time tourist though, there is an abundance of sights to visit. Be it the historical Red Fort, the Garden of five senses or family favourites such as Jantar Mantar and the Lotus Temple to name a few. The city, in general, is known for its book cafes, bars, hotels, clubs, street food and much more. However, choosing the best places to visit, in a busy city can be tricky. To whet your appetite a little, we will narrow it down and choose the Top 5 Places to Visit in Delhi.
1. Red Fort (Lal Qila)
This is one of the most beautiful spots in Delhi, once serving as the residence of the Mughal Emperors. The Old Fort combined with the zoo nearby are highly recommended tourist spots to visit by day. But, a visit let’s say in the evening time is a must-see. At night, a tantalizing display of light and sound take you on a journey through the history of the fort and the 300 years of Mughal rule.
Opening Hours: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm
Price: Regular entry is 35 Rupee (50 cents) for locals and 500 Rupee ($7 USD) for foreigners.
Light and Sound show is 60 Rupee for adults and 20 Rupee for children. The weekend will cost you extra at 80 Rupee for adults and 30 Rupee for the kids.
Tip: Visit in the evening to see the amazing light and show, shown in Hindi and English.
Location: Netaji Subhash Marg, Lal Qila, New Delhi.
2. Lotus Temple
Probably the most iconic attraction in Delhi. The Lotus Temple is the quintessential spot for those seeking a peaceful experience within the city of Delhi. The spellbinding architecture is certainly something to behold, crafted into the shape of a white lotus and consisting of 27 marble “petals”. Part of the marble of the building was sourced all the way from the same Greek mountain responsible for many of the ancient structures that still adorn Athens today, including the Parthenon.
The space itself preaches equality and unity, welcoming people of all religions. The ideas behind the design reflect the welcoming nature of the Baha’i Faith and it has won several international architecture awards since it’s unveiling in 1986.
Opening Hours: 9 AM to 6 PM (closed on Mondays)
Price: Free
Location: Lotus Temple, Bahapur, Kalkaji, New Delhi.
3.Hauz Khas Village (HKV)
More than just history, HKV is now an opulent neighbourhood in South Delhi famous for its art galleries, fashion boutiques, vintage shops and buzzing nightlife with its abundance of trendy cafes, bars and pubs.
The heart of the village is the HKV complex, founded by Alauddin Khilji and tracing its origins back to the 13th century. Nowadays, it retains the old allure, splicing elements of Islamic architecture with modern urban motifs. It is located right in the heart of a reservoir and has a lovely park complete with walking paths to take it all in. The area is backdropped with domed medieval tombs from the 14th to the 16th century.
In the Village surrounding the complex itself, the energy is contagious, so don’t miss the chance to check out a live show, whether it’s music or even stand-up comedy in one of the many popular cafes.
Opening hours:- The HKV complex itself is open from Mon to Sat, 10:30 AM -7:30 PM.
Of course, the bars and restaurants are open till late.
4. Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar is an astronomical and architectural wonder, in the shape of a humble sundial. Constructed in 1724 by the famous ruler Maharaja Jai Singh of Jaipur, you can find it in the modern city of New Delhi. Jantar Mantar literally translates to “instrument for calculating the harmony of the heavens”. The architectural ingenuity is fascinating.
The purpose of the observatory or sundial was to put together astronomical tables and to predict the movements and time of the sun, planets and moon. Unfortunately some of the fine, calibrated marking on the instruments are eroding. But luckily in 2010, it was inscribed on the UNESCO world heritage list and is now getting the world attention that it deserves.
Opening hours:- 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
Cost per person:- 5 Rupee (about 5c/nickel) for locals and 100 Rupee ($1.30 USD ) for foreigners
Location:- Sansad Margaret, CP, New Delhi
5. Nehru Planetarium
Nehru Planetarium can be found in the lovely green surroundings of the Teen Murti House. Once home to India’s first Prime Minister, it is now a museum dedicated to his memory. The Planetarium itself is one of five in the country and conducts various Astro related programs and shows throughout the day. These are generally aimed at inspiring student and budding scholars alike. During events such as lunar and solar eclipses, special arrangements are made to get people involved with the observation and photography of such events. Telescopes can be found outside the planetarium to allow visitors to experience these astronomical wonders.
Location:- Teen Murti House, Teen Murti Marg, New Delhi
Opening Hours: 9:00am – 5:30pm, closed on Mondays, English shows at 11:30am & 3:00pm, Hindi Shows 1:30am & 4:00pm. (about 30-35 mins)
Price:- 60 Rupee (80c) per person
Location:- Teen Murti House, Teen Murti Marg, New Delhi
So as rough as recent times have been, there is light up ahead, and overseas travel should be on the cards once again, sooner rather than later. So maybe it’s time to start thinking about where your next adventure might be. If you’re planning on visiting India and its capital, think about a stopover too. You can go via South East Asia or depending on which direction you’re coming from, let’s say you fly from or via Europe, I recommend a stop in Dubai to see the ever-growing architectural wonders that keep shooting up every year. It makes for another exotic spot to break up the journey and has tons of options for flying into Delhi.
So, with happier days on the horizon, why not start planning your next trip? Book your dubai to delhi flight, take your friends and family and explore an exotic and bustling city like Delhi.
Interested in the train journey from Rishikesh to new delhi during Covid, check out this clip below…
