Delhi: A City that Embraces All
Posted on April 29, 2008 in Travel by Prarthna
Almost all major international flights arrive and leave from the Delhi, the capital city of India. Delhi has evolved over the years to now become a mixed hub of flourishing cultures, people, business, economy, education and politics. Though Delhi may mean different things to different people, what cannot be denied is the way it has grown to accommodate such a unique and vibrant culture which it can call its own.
The city is well-connected with an effective network of roads and underground metro. The city is thronged by eminent historical forts, palaces and places of worship which is a much awaited treat for foreign tourists.
Tourist Attractions in Delhi
Delhi enfolds a galore of tourist attractions. Listed below are places one should visit in Delhi:
- Red Fort: This fort was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in 1639 AD. The Red Fort is also known as the Lal Qila and marks the zenith of Mughal creativity and influence. Diwan-i-Am, Moti Masjidand the Diwan-i-Khas are some of the important structures within the Red Fort.
- India Gate:This 42 meter high structure was built by Edwin Lutyens to honor the death of Indian soldiers who died in World War I and the Afghan Wars. At that time it was called the All India War Memorial. The foundation stone for India Gate was laid in 1921 by the Duke of Connaught which was finally completed in 1931.
- Qutub Minar: The construction of this 72 meter high tower was initiated by Qutb-ud-din Aibak (first Muslim ruler of Delhi) and the last storey was built by Firuz Shah Tughluq. The monument is closed for tourists currently because of a mishap which took the lives of about 25 children in the 1980s.
- Akshardham Temple: This temple was sanctified in 2005 and dedicated to the nation on behalf of the President and Prime Minister. The Akshardham temple is located on the banks of the Yamuna River next to the Commonwealth Games Village which is scheduled to be held in 2010.
Delhi’s Culture
Delhi has an assimilating culture. It gives room to both the poor and the rich to survive. Apart from the ancient forts and palaces that enhance the city’s honor and glory, people enjoy regular Gurbhani at Gurudwaras and Kawwalis at the, Nizamuddin shrines. Delhi celebrates the spirit of almost all religions like Diwali, Dusshera, Chhat Puja, Durga Puja, Holi, Lohri, Id and Christmas as well. 3 most popular churches in Delhi include – Cathedral Church of Redemption, Church of the Sacred Heart and St James Church. Christians throng the doors of these churches every Sunday and on Christmas Eve to receive the blessings of Jesus Christ.
Delhi’s Cuisines
Delhi cuisines are also abundant to suit the tastes if every individual. If you’re looking for kababs or other Mughlai delicacies, the area around Jama Masjid is just the right place to visit. Always go in groups as the area is a little cramped to tread alone and to avoid nuisances.
Delhi’s Handicrafts
Delhi’s old city of Shahjanabad located around the Lal Qila still holds the tradition of making decorative bangles. Embroidered saris and dresses are very popular in Delhi. The art of crafting golden thread into velvet, silks or other materials is called “zardozi”. The popular “meenakari” work is also found in Delhi. These indigenous materials are available in places like Hauz Khas, Chandni Chowk, Paharganj and in Ajmeri Gate.
Recreational Activities in Delhi
Delhi has it all from the opportunity to play at grand stadiums like Feroz Shah Kotla to the recently hyped commonwealth games to be held in 2010. Delhi provides the building block for budding athletes and players of different sports like cricket, hockey, golf, etc. Clubs like the Balloon Club offers balloon floating up to a height of about 800ft above the ground and other recreational hubs like the “Appu Ghar” has also opened ice games in a section called the Oysters.
Enjoy all seasons in Delhi. As for summers, it is hot and winters are absolutely chilly. Connaught place, Sarojini Nagar, Dilli Haat and Janpath are some of the best places one could go shopping for clothes, antiques, clothes, metal work, handicrafts and loads more.
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