places in visit delhi

Old Fort Delhi

Introduction

The Purana Quila or the old fort is one of the most captivating tourist sites that narrate the history of Delhi in details. Constructed by the Mughal emperor – Humayun, the Purana Quila is evidence to the glory of the Mughal art. The Purana Quila is situated in New Delhi and is said to guard the ruins of the city of Indraprastha that is mentioned in the Mahabharata.

History

Known as Dinpanah meaning the ‘refuge of the faithful', the Purana Quila was built between 1538 and 1545 by the Mughal emperor Humanyun. The fort originally lay on the bank of the river Yamuna before the river changed its course. The Purana Quila was built by Humayun in an attempt to build a city of his own. But characteristically, the Old Fort did not bear the name of its creator unlike the other emperors erecting such structure. When Sher Shah defeated Humayun most of the structures inside the old fort were demolished and was renamed as ‘Shergarh' . But once again as Humayun recaptured his city from Sher Shah's son he took the task of completing the city and rebuilding its old glory.

Description

The Purana Quila is another reminder of the bygone Mughal era which excelled in architectural styles. The Purana Quila has three majestic gates:
The Humayun Darwaza
The Bara Darwaza
The Talaqi Darwaza

The three gates are double storied and built with red sandstone. The Humayun Darwaza and the Bara Darwaza were the two gates that were open for entry inside the old fort. Entry was prohibited through the Talaqi Darwaza as the name suggests. Talaqi means ‘forbidden'

• The other two attractions at the fort site are:
• Qila-I-Kuhna Masjid,
• Sher Mandal
• the small museum

The Qila-I-Kuhna Masjid was built by Sher Shah when he had captured the Purana Quila after defeating Humayun in 1541. The prayer hall is the most imposing part of the masjid that has five doorways with horse shoe shaped arches. The original plans of building the entire place with marble was jeopardized due to supply shortage. But the fusion of marble and sandstone has given the masjid a unique style.

The Sher Mandal is now an observatory, octagonal in shape. The structure and style of the building suggests that the Sher mandal was built for entertainment purposes. The style and design of the building proves a definite coupling of the Muslim and Hindu architectural magnificence. When Humayun recaptured the Purana quila from Sher shah's son, he used the Sher Mandal as his own library.

The museum at the gate of the Purana Quila has many artifacts recording the beginning and end of a glorious era of the Mughal period.

How to get there

Tourists can avail local buses, taxis and auto rickshaws from different points within the city. Many hotels arrange for conducted tours for tourists.

Get more information on other tourist attractions in Delhi while browsing our site and for online booking, please fill in the form given

Raj Ghat

Raj Ghat : Delhi must be one of the very few cities in the world that have failed to develop their riverfront. No romantic walks by the Yamuna for anyone nor the city lights winking back from its mysterious depths. The closest you can get to the river are the various memorials between Red Fort and Ring Road. The most prominent among these is Raj Ghat dedicated to the father of the Nation, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. The historic name refers to the ghat (stepped embankment) at the edge of the river.

 Raj Ghat - A National Memorial

Mahatma Gandhi was cremated on the banks of the Yamuna on 31 January 1948, a day after he was assassinated. He was walking to his customary prayer meeting at Birla House (Gandhi Smriti on Tees January Marg) when he was shot dead by a Hindu fanatic, Nathuram Godse.
Raj Ghat was later turned into a national memorial, the design for which was conceived by Vanu G Bhuta. A stone footpath flanked by well-tended lawns leads to a walled enclosure, open to the sky, with a simple stone platform in black marble to mark the site. The Mahatma’s last words have been engraved on it – Hey Ram. Prayer meetings are held every Friday at 1700hrs.

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places to visit in delhi

Delhi Haat ( Dilli Haat )

Delhi Haat ( Dilli Haat ) is a combination food plaza and craft bazaar located in the heart of Delhi, one near the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, opposite INA Market on Sri Aurobindo Marg, and another at Netaji Subash Place, adjacent to Netaji Subash Place Metro Station. Delhi Haat ( Dilli Haat ) has stalls representing each state of India, giving a complete variety of tastes available all over India.There are also stalls of crafts from all over India, and from a variety of cultural traditions of India. Around 2003, this market became fully wheelchair-accessible, including an accessible bathroom. This is a relative rarity in India.There are plans to open more Delhi Haats ( Dilli Haats ) all over Delhi, one has opened at Dilli Haat, Pitampura.

Unlike the traditional weekly market, the village Haat, Delhi Haat ( Dilli Haat ) is permanent. Some shops are permanent but other sellers are rotated, usually for fifteen days.Products offered may include rosewood and sandalwood carvings, embellished camel hide footwear, sophisticated fabric and drapery, gems, beads, brassware, metal crafts,

 and silk and wool fabrics. Shows promoting handicrafts and handlooms are held at the exhibition hall in the complex. To sell wares, there is an application process and spaces are allocated according to which state the seller is from.
 There is a nominal entrance fee to shop at Delhi Haat ( Dilli Haat )

Garden of Five Senses

The Garden of five senses is a breadth taking and enamoring experience. It is not just a park - it is a celebration of aesthetic expression and appreciation, a seamless dialogue between the creations of man and nature that invites interaction and exploration. It is an ideal ground to realize the twin objectives of the need for a public leisure space as well as awakening of human sensitivity to the environment.
It is an intricate blend of natures bounty and subtle human creation. Amidst the concrete jungle and the hustle and bustle of the city, the garden of five senses comes across as a welcome breadth of fresh air and serene quietude. True to the imagery suggested by its name and with its beautiful, lush green landscapes, the garden of five senses stimulates all the five senses in an evocative bouquet that awakens the mind to the beauty of life and invokes a grateful prayer for the gift of touch, sight, sound, smell and taste .
Visitors are encouraged to touch the rocks and displays, the fragrance of flower for the nose, beds stimulates the olfactory senses, the landscaping appeals to the eyes - the sight, the ceramic bells and the water falls create a soothing sound -pleasing to the ear and the food courts serve a variety of cuisines - to please the tongue.
LOCATION
 The garden is located at Said-ul-Aizab village , close to the Mehrauli heritage area in New Delhi. The garden is built on a large expanse of land, 20 acres to be precise. It was inaugurated in February 2003 by Chief Minister of Delhi, Sheila Dikshit, coinciding with the beginning of the 16th garden festival which is showcasing seasonal flowers, hanging baskets and animal figures sculpted from the plants.

The Garden, developed at a cost of Rs 10.5 crore over the last three years. The garden is a visual treat. The geometric arrangement of plants , the meandering pathways and lotus pools , with beds of green leaves covering clear waters, with pink lotuses peeping out every now and then transport a person straight to heaven. A brief walk in the garden serves as a great stress reliever.

 Stainless steel birds mounted on slate -clad pillars soar indignantly in the air, as if, cocking a snook at their real counterparts , trying to welcome the visitors.
ESTIVALS
The food festivals, organized every now and then are virtual gastronomical delights and drive even the severest of dyspeptics on a binge trip. There are also Sherbet melas to boot . Other festivals include Garden tourism festival, Dandia Masti festival etc.
THEME
The garden festivals theme this year is Decorative Accents in Landscaping. A competition will be held in 24 classes consisting over 175 sections. There will also be competitions in Dahlia varieties, display sections, the tray garden class and nursery stalls. Such similar competitions and shows would be held every year.
AMUSEMENT SECTION
To add more interest , are the toy solar cars imported from Taiwan for use in the amusement section of the Garden of Five Senses. Each solar car cost Rs 60,000 each.
During the garden festival, free battery bus rides up to the garden would be available from Qutab Minar and the deputy commissioners office near Anupam Apartments in Saket.
SOLAR ENERGY PARK
An integral part of the garden is the solar Park set up with the assistance of the Ministry of Non-conventional Renewable Energy sources. The aim is to promote awareness of renewable source of energy. A 20KW solar power plant is installed to meet the requirement of the park.
The exhibits include :
Two solar-powered buses.
Weighing machine
Solar powered bicycles
Solar powered cars for children
Quiz computer
Solar drum and slide
A prototype of solar- powered home
Exhibits on renewable sources
In addition, solar water heating has been installed in nine food outlets.

India Gate

The first place which pops into any Indians mind while remembering the sacrifice of brave soldiers of India, is the place called India gate. The place in the capital of India. The relation of sacrifice and India gate is very close. India Gate is constructed as a memorial for the memory 90,000 soldiers who laid down their lives during World War I and second Afghan war in 1919. Located at Rajpath, New Delhi, it is also known as the All India War Memorial Constructed in sandstone, the gate is 42 meters in height and is popular relaxation area during the summer evenings. For Delhites gate also act as popular picnic spot during winter. The foundation stone of this magnanimous structure was laid in 1921 by the Duke of Connaught and dedicated to the nation in 1931 by the hands of Viceroy, Lord Irwin. The gate has arch at the top .The height of the arch is 87'6" internally and136' externally. India Gate is also credited as the first gate to be constructed in New Delhi. The names of the soldiers in the memory of whom the Gate was constructed has been inscribed on its walls.
Amar Jawan Jyoti:
 Burning in a shrine under the India Gate arch since 1971 is the Amar Jawan Jyoti which means the flame of the immortal soldiers. This marks the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers. The shrine is made of a black marble cenotaph with a soldier's rifle placed on

its barrel, crested by a soldier's helmet. Each face of the cenotaph has inscribed in gold which says the words "Amar Jawan" which means the Immortal Warrior. This cenotaph is itself placed on one edifice which has four torches on its four corners that are perpetually kept alive. Just at the rear of Amar Jawan Jyoti, the flags of Indian armed forces stand tall.

crested by a soldier's helmet. Each face of the cenotaph has inscribed in gold which says the words "Amar Jawan" which means the Immortal Warrior. This cenotaph is itself placed on one edifice which has four torches on its four corners that are perpetually kept alive. Just at the rear of Amar Jawan Jyoti, the flags of Indian armed forces stand tall. Today, it is customary for the President, the Prime Minister as well as visiting Guests of State; to pay homage at Amar Jawan Jyoti on occasions of State ceremonies. On each Republic Day i.e. 26 January, before joining the annual parade at Rajpath the Prime Minister of Union of India pays homage to the soldiers along with Heads of all Armed Forces i.e. Navy, Army and Air force.
Raj Path:
Raj path i.e. the royal way on which the India gate is present is the way which connects National Stadium to Rashtrapati Bhavan. Rashtrapati Bhavan is the official residence of President of India. It was the Viceroy of India's residence before India got its independence from Great Britain.
Accommodation:
Being the capital of nation, there is a wide variety of lodging options in Delhi.
Getting There:
Airways: Indira Gandhi International Airport is connected to most of the big cities in world directly. The Palam Airport is the domestic airport which is connected with every airport in country by direct flights.
Railways: Delhi is connected to every part of the country with rail. Old Delhi, Hajarat Nijammudin and New Delhi are the main railway stations of Delhi. To visit India gate you must get down at New Delhi railway station. You have a unique option of metro rail to reach here.
Road ways: Public transport buses are available from almost all parts of the city to India gate









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delhi places visit

Jama Masjid

The Biggest Mosque In India:
Near the Red Fort about 500m away is the Jama masjid, the biggest mosque in India. It was begun by Shah Jahan in 1650 and completed six years later and the whole cost about a million rupees. It is hard to imagine a building more suited to evoking the awe of the majesty of Allah in man. The mosque stands on a rocky elevation. Its huge gateway looks down at you like fastidious connoisseur from an immense platform which has steps that lead up to it.
Constructed in Sandstone and white marble, Jama Masjid can be entered from both the directions - North and the South Gates. The eastern gateway is supposed to remain open in Friday and was used by the emperor himself. Jama Masjid is cluttered by devotees who offer namaz, especially during Muslim Festival. For those who don't belong to non - Muslim community, a specified time is mentioned to enter the mosque

India Gate

The first place which pops into any Indians mind while remembering the sacrifice of brave soldiers of India, is the place called India gate. The place in the capital of India. The relation of sacrifice and India gate is very close. India Gate is constructed as a memorial for the memory 90,000 soldiers who laid down their lives during World War I and second Afghan war in 1919. Located at Rajpath, New Delhi, it is also known as the All India War Memorial Constructed in sandstone, the gate is 42 meters in height and is popular relaxation area during the summer evenings. For Delhites gate also act as popular picnic spot during winter. The foundation stone of this magnanimous structure was laid in 1921 by the Duke of Connaught and dedicated to the nation in 1931 by the hands of Viceroy, Lord Irwin. The gate has arch at the top .The height of the arch is 87'6" internally and136' externally. India Gate is also credited as the first gate to be constructed in New Delhi. The names of the soldiers in the memory of whom the Gate was constructed has been inscribed on its walls.
Amar Jawan Jyoti:
 Burning in a shrine under the India Gate arch since 1971 is the Amar Jawan Jyoti which means the flame of the immortal soldiers. This marks the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers. The shrine is made of a black marble cenotaph with a soldier's rifle placed on

its barrel, crested by a soldier's helmet. Each face of the cenotaph has inscribed in gold which says the words "Amar Jawan" which means the Immortal Warrior. This cenotaph is itself placed on one edifice which has four torches on its four corners that are perpetually kept alive. Just at the rear of Amar Jawan Jyoti, the flags of Indian armed forces stand tall.

crested by a soldier's helmet. Each face of the cenotaph has inscribed in gold which says the words "Amar Jawan" which means the Immortal Warrior. This cenotaph is itself placed on one edifice which has four torches on its four corners that are perpetually kept alive. Just at the rear of Amar Jawan Jyoti, the flags of Indian armed forces stand tall. Today, it is customary for the President, the Prime Minister as well as visiting Guests of State; to pay homage at Amar Jawan Jyoti on occasions of State ceremonies. On each Republic Day i.e. 26 January, before joining the annual parade at Rajpath the Prime Minister of Union of India pays homage to the soldiers along with Heads of all Armed Forces i.e. Navy, Army and Air force.
Raj Path:
Raj path i.e. the royal way on which the India gate is present is the way which connects National Stadium to Rashtrapati Bhavan. Rashtrapati Bhavan is the official residence of President of India. It was the Viceroy of India's residence before India got its independence from Great Britain.
Accommodation:
Being the capital of nation, there is a wide variety of lodging options in Delhi.
Getting There:
Airways: Indira Gandhi International Airport is connected to most of the big cities in world directly. The Palam Airport is the domestic airport which is connected with every airport in country by direct flights.
Railways: Delhi is connected to every part of the country with rail. Old Delhi, Hajarat Nijammudin and New Delhi are the main railway stations of Delhi. To visit India gate you must get down at New Delhi railway station. You have a unique option of metro rail to reach here.
Road ways: Public transport buses are available from almost all parts of the city to India gate.

Humayun's Tomb

Humayun was the eldest son of Babar who was the first emperor of Mughal Empire in India. He succeeded in becoming the next Emperor. Humayun ruled India for about a decade till he was bitten by an Afghan Emperor Sher Shah Suri. In 1555 AD Humayun regained Delhi with the help of Shah of Persia. Humayun died an unfortunate death in less than a year's time after his conquer. He felt from the stairs of his own library known as Sher Mandal library. The Persian wife of Humayun named Bega Begum then decided to build a tomb for her husband which was named as Humayun Tomb.
The construction of the tomb started in 1562 and the building was completed in the year 1572. The building is famous as the first building built in the era of Humayun's son Jallaluddin Mahammad commonly known as the Akbar. The tomb was constructed with the help of Persian architect named Mirak Mirza Ghiyuath. For this reason, Humayun Tomb has a clear influence of Persian architecture. The site for construction was chosen on the bank of Yamuna River adjoining the shrine of the Nizamuddin Auliya a Sufi saint of Chisti silsilah. The tomb was the first garden tomb made in India. This tomb became the landmark in establishing different essential norms for buildings later built in Mughal Era.

The structure is mainly built in red sandstone. The marble is largely used in the borders. The dome is made of white marble. To relieve the monotony black and white marbles have been used. Humayun's tomb is the first building built in India to use the originally Persian concept of a double dome. The tomb is geometrically placed in the middle of specially made garden. The garden is divided into 4 parts. Therefore the garden is called as Char Bagh. The garden is divided in 36 small squares by grid of water paths and channels. The Persian garden concept was introduced in this tomb firstly which then went on till the period of Shah Jahan.

There are two double-storey gateways on south and west that lead to the enclosure. There is a pavilion at the center of the eastern wall and a bath chamber in present at the center of the northern wall. For entering the tomb's chamber we have to come through the south entrance. The other three sides have been covered with mesh wire and white marble. In the exact middle of the central chamber lies the tomb. The actual resting-place of Humayun is directly beneath the underground chamber. The roof is surmounted by a double dome made of marble which has huge diameter of 42.5 meters. The dome had pillared kiosks (also called as chhatris) placed around it. Several rulers of the Mughal era have been buried here.
In 1857, during the first independence war, Bahadur Shah Zafar with three princes had taken refuge in this tomb. Humayun's Tomb is a must visit place if you are planning to roam Delhi, the city of big hearted people!
Accommodation:
Being a capital of India, Delhi serves you with all types of stay and food options. Many 3 star, 5 star hotels are available in the city. Also many low cost lodges make you rooms available.








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delhi places

Garden of Five Senses

The Garden of five senses is a breadth taking and enamoring experience. It is not just a park - it is a celebration of aesthetic expression and appreciation, a seamless dialogue between the creations of man and nature that invites interaction and exploration. It is an ideal ground to realize the twin objectives of the need for a public leisure space as well as awakening of human sensitivity to the environment.
It is an intricate blend of natures bounty and subtle human creation. Amidst the concrete jungle and the hustle and bustle of the city, the garden of five senses comes across as a welcome breadth of fresh air and serene quietude. True to the imagery suggested by its name and with its beautiful, lush green landscapes, the garden of five senses stimulates all the five senses in an evocative bouquet that awakens the mind to the beauty of life and invokes a grateful prayer for the gift of touch, sight, sound, smell and taste .
Visitors are encouraged to touch the rocks and displays, the fragrance of flower for the nose, beds stimulates the olfactory senses, the landscaping appeals to the eyes - the sight, the ceramic bells and the water falls create a soothing sound -pleasing to the ear and the food courts serve a variety of cuisines - to please the tongue.
LOCATION
 The garden is located at Said-ul-Aizab village , close to the Mehrauli heritage area in New Delhi. The garden is built on a large expanse of land, 20 acres to be precise. It was inaugurated in February 2003 by Chief Minister of Delhi, Sheila Dikshit, coinciding with the beginning of the 16th garden festival which is showcasing seasonal flowers, hanging baskets and animal figures sculpted from the plants.

The Garden, developed at a cost of Rs 10.5 crore over the last three years. The garden is a visual treat. The geometric arrangement of plants , the meandering pathways and lotus pools , with beds of green leaves covering clear waters, with pink lotuses peeping out every now and then transport a person straight to heaven. A brief walk in the garden serves as a great stress reliever.

 Stainless steel birds mounted on slate -clad pillars soar indignantly in the air, as if, cocking a snook at their real counterparts , trying to welcome the visitors.
ESTIVALS
The food festivals, organized every now and then are virtual gastronomical delights and drive even the severest of dyspeptics on a binge trip. There are also Sherbet melas to boot . Other festivals include Garden tourism festival, Dandia Masti festival etc.
THEME
The garden festivals theme this year is Decorative Accents in Landscaping. A competition will be held in 24 classes consisting over 175 sections. There will also be competitions in Dahlia varieties, display sections, the tray garden class and nursery stalls. Such similar competitions and shows would be held every year.
AMUSEMENT SECTION
To add more interest , are the toy solar cars imported from Taiwan for use in the amusement section of the Garden of Five Senses. Each solar car cost Rs 60,000 each.
During the garden festival, free battery bus rides up to the garden would be available from Qutab Minar and the deputy commissioners office near Anupam Apartments in Saket.
SOLAR ENERGY PARK
An integral part of the garden is the solar Park set up with the assistance of the Ministry of Non-conventional Renewable Energy sources. The aim is to promote awareness of renewable source of energy. A 20KW solar power plant is installed to meet the requirement of the park.
The exhibits include :
Two solar-powered buses.
Weighing machine
Solar powered bicycles
Solar powered cars for children
Quiz computer
Solar drum and slide
A prototype of solar- powered home
Exhibits on renewable sources
In addition, solar water heating has been installed in nine food outlets

Chandigarh Tourist Places

Chandigarh also called The City Beautiful. Chandigarh serves as the capital of two states: Punjab and Haryana. It is very neat and clean. Every one follows the traffic rules. The drive by the Chandigarh Police against violators of the traffic rules, through belated, is welcome. Parking is another area requiring attention. An acute shortage of parking space is being felt in some sectors. However,

  the responsibility for making the city roads safe does not rest with the police alone. Peoples help must be forthcoming. There are many things to see in the Chandigarh such as Rose Garden, Sector 17(Markets), Sukhna Lake and Rock Garden. All these 4 things are very famous in the chandigarh. Specially the Sector 17(Markets) are very famous because there are all sorts of shops here like Booksellers, Jewellery, ClothShops, General merchants, Stataioners, Shoe merchants, Tailors, Electrical applications, Dry cleaners and many more. Shops selling jewellery and ready made garments are a great attraction. For children, shops selling toys and confecionery are very favourite. Chandigarh has two satellite cities i.e. Punchkula and Mohali. Both of which share a border with it.
Sukhna lake, Rock Garden and Rose garden is also a very famous in the Chandigarh. This lake is situated in Chandigarh Sector1. Even the Sukhna

lake provide numerous facilties such as shops, restaurant and many more. Morover, this lake is very famous for its water sports like boating, canoeing etc. Rose garden is situated in Chandigarh Sector 16. In the garden grass is lush-green throughout, the flower-beds are always in bloom with the seasonal flowers and the small fountain in the center which is always working. The garden is visited by the people throughout the day.

 Geography and climate: Chandigarh is located near the foothills of the Shivalik range of the Himalayas in Northwest India. It covers an area of approximately 44 sq mi or 114 km². and shares its borders with the states of Haryana in the east and Punjab in the north, west and south. The exact cartographic co-ordinates of Chandigarh are 30°44′N 76°47′E / 30.74°N 76.79°E / 30.74; 76.79.It has an average elevation of 321 metres (1053 ft).
The surrounding districts are of Mohali, Patiala and Roopnagar in Punjab and Panchkula and Ambala in Haryana. The boundary of the state of Himachal Pradesh is also minutes away from its north border.
Chandigarh has a humid subtropical climate characterized by a seasonal rhythm: very hot summers, mild winters, unreliable rainfall and great variation in temperature (-1 °C to 41.2 °C). In winter, pieces of snow sometimes occurs during December and January. The average annual rainfall is 1110.7 mm. The city also receives occasional winter rains from the west.
 Average temperatureSpring: The climate remains quite pleasant during the spring season (from mid-February to mid-March and then from mid-September to mid-October). Temperatures vary between (max) 16 °C to 25 °C and (min) 9 °C to 18 °C.
Autumn: In autumn (from Mid-March to April), the temperature may rise to a maximum of 36 °C. Temperatures usually remain between 16° to 27° in autumn. The minimum temperature is around 11 °C.
Summer: The temperature in summer (from Mid-May to Mid-June) may rise to a maximum of 45 °C (rarely). Temperatures generally remain between 35 °C to 40 °C (94 - 101F).
Monsoon: During monsoon(from mid-June to mid-September), Chandigarh receives moderate to heavy rainfall and sometimes heavy to very heavy rainfall (generally during the month of August or September). Usually, the rain bearing monsoon winds blow from south-west/ south-east. Mostly, the city receives heavy rain from south (which is mainly a persistent rain) but it generally receives most of its rain during monsoon either from North-west or North-east. Maximum amount of rain received by the city of Chandigrah during monsoon season is 195.5 mm in a single day.
Winter: Winters (November to Mid-March) are mild but it can sometimes get quite chilly in Chandigarh. Average temperatures in the winter remain at (max) 7 °C to 15 °C and (min) -3 °C to 5 °C. Rain usually comes from the west during winters and it is usually a persistent rain for 2–3 days with sometimes hail-storms







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delhi places to visit

Birla Mandir

Lakshmi Narayan Mandir is situated to the west of Connaught Place in Delhi. Constructed by Raja Baldev Das in the year 1938, it is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Also known by the name of Birla Mandir of New Delhi, this temple has quite an interesting history attached to it. Built over a period of 6 years, the temple was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi. But, he kept a condition that he will inaugurate the Delhi Laxmi Narain Temple only if the people from all castes, especially untouchables, would be able to gain entry inside it. The temple constitutes of one of the major draws of the city and is visited by numerous devotees and international tourists every year.
Lakshmi Narayan Mandir is built magnificently, although with a modern touch. Adorning the interiors of the temples are beautiful carvings depicting the scenes from mythology. Numerous Hindu symbols and quotes from the Gita and the Upanishads ornament the temple walls. The highest Shikara (tower) in the temple soars to an altitude of 165 ft, while the ancillary one is about 116 ft. Facing east and standing on an elevated platform, Birla Mandir of Delhi also enshrines the holy Vedas. The main shrine is dedicated to Lord Narayan and Goddess Lakshmi, while the smaller ones are of Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha and Lord Hanuman and Goddess Durga.
To the north of the New Delhi Laxmi Narain Temple is the Geeta Bhawan, devoted to Lord Krishna. There is also a Buddha temple in this temple complex, adorned with murals describing his life and work. All the statues in the temple are made up of marble and were brought from Jaipur. Miniature rock temples, which dot the temple, hold a special attraction for the children. The splendor of the temple is enhanced by an artificial landscape in the back, with mountains and cascading waterfalls. The festival of Janmashtami, the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, lends an enhanced significance to the temple.

Garden of Five Senses

The Garden of five senses is a breadth taking and enamoring experience. It is not just a park - it is a celebration of aesthetic expression and appreciation, a seamless dialogue between the creations of man and nature that invites interaction and exploration. It is an ideal ground to realize the twin objectives of the need for a public leisure space as well as awakening of human sensitivity to the environment.
It is an intricate blend of natures bounty and subtle human creation. Amidst the concrete jungle and the hustle and bustle of the city, the garden of five senses comes across as a welcome breadth of fresh air and serene quietude. True to the imagery suggested by its name and with its beautiful, lush green landscapes, the garden of five senses stimulates all the five senses in an evocative bouquet that awakens the mind to the beauty of life and invokes a grateful prayer for the gift of touch, sight, sound, smell and taste .
Visitors are encouraged to touch the rocks and displays, the fragrance of flower for the nose, beds stimulates the olfactory senses, the landscaping appeals to the eyes - the sight, the ceramic bells and the water falls create a soothing sound -pleasing to the ear and the food courts serve a variety of cuisines - to please the tongue.
LOCATION
 The garden is located at Said-ul-Aizab village , close to the Mehrauli heritage area in New Delhi. The garden is built on a large expanse of land, 20 acres to be precise. It was inaugurated in February 2003 by Chief Minister of Delhi, Sheila Dikshit, coinciding with the beginning of the 16th garden festival which is showcasing seasonal flowers, hanging baskets and animal figures sculpted from the plants.

The Garden, developed at a cost of Rs 10.5 crore over the last three years. The garden is a visual treat. The geometric arrangement of plants , the meandering pathways and lotus pools , with beds of green leaves covering clear waters, with pink lotuses peeping out every now and then transport a person straight to heaven. A brief walk in the garden serves as a great stress reliever.

 Stainless steel birds mounted on slate -clad pillars soar indignantly in the air, as if, cocking a snook at their real counterparts , trying to welcome the visitors.
ESTIVALS
The food festivals, organized every now and then are virtual gastronomical delights and drive even the severest of dyspeptics on a binge trip. There are also Sherbet melas to boot . Other festivals include Garden tourism festival, Dandia Masti festival etc.
THEME
The garden festivals theme this year is Decorative Accents in Landscaping. A competition will be held in 24 classes consisting over 175 sections. There will also be competitions in Dahlia varieties, display sections, the tray garden class and nursery stalls. Such similar competitions and shows would be held every year.
AMUSEMENT SECTION
To add more interest , are the toy solar cars imported from Taiwan for use in the amusement section of the Garden of Five Senses. Each solar car cost Rs 60,000 each.
During the garden festival, free battery bus rides up to the garden would be available from Qutab Minar and the deputy commissioners office near Anupam Apartments in Saket.
SOLAR ENERGY PARK
An integral part of the garden is the solar Park set up with the assistance of the Ministry of Non-conventional Renewable Energy sources. The aim is to promote awareness of renewable source of energy. A 20KW solar power plant is installed to meet the requirement of the park.
The exhibits include :
Two solar-powered buses.
Weighing machine
Solar powered bicycles
Solar powered cars for children
Quiz computer
Solar drum and slide
A prototype of solar- powered home
Exhibits on renewable sources
In addition, solar water heating has been installed in nine food outlets.

source: visit to places in delhi {www.delhiplaces.com}

important places in delhi

Safdarjung's Tomb

Safdarjung's tomb was built by Nawab Shuja-ud-Daulah, the son of Safdarjung. Safdarjung was the governor of Awadh and later became the Prime Minister of Muhammad Shah, the Mughal emperor. Built in 1753-1754, the Safdarjung tomb lies at the Lodi road, New Delhi. Safdarjung's tomb is set in the middle of a garden, which spreads over an area of 300 sq m. The garden of Safdarjung's tomb is laid down on the pattern of the Mughal Charbagh style. The Safdarjung tomb was erected roughly on the pattern of Humayun's tomb.

Safdarjung's tomb represents the last phase of the Mughal style of architecture. The tomb of Safdarjung was built in red sandstone and buff stone. There are two graves here, one of Safdarjung and the other apparently his wife's. The square central chamber of the mausoleum is surrounded by eight rooms all around. All the apartments, except the corner ones are rectangular in shape, the corner ones being octagonal. The dome of the tomb rises from a sixteen-sided base. On either side of the Safdarjung tomb are beautiful pavilions, known as "Moti Mahal" or the pearl palace, "Jangli Mahal" or the sylvan palace and "Badshah Pasand" or the emperor's favorite

Azad Hind Gram

Azad Hind Gram is basically a Tourist Complex which is situated at Tikri Kalan. It is one of the projects developed by Delhi Tourism as a tribute to the great Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.

Azad hind gram features highly structured medley domes that surrounds the museum and the monument placed inside are undoubtedly the main center of attention of the composite that also provides the services of wide-ranging malls, an amphitheatre, traveler

information service, memento and garden shop, foodstuff cubicle, a eating place, restrooms, drinking water, phone booth and get-together conveniences.

There is abundant space to unwind and the wayside amenities to suit the tourist and visitors alike. It is perfectly situated within less than two kilometers of the border of Delhi Haryana on NH-10.The basic structural design of the development is stimulated by the speech of North Indian style and the ethnicity of Indian skill and craftsmanship.
 

Some of the facilities that can be availed of include soft drinks, veg lunch, snacks cultural activities such as kachhi ghori, finger-puppet show, and magical show, snake show. Apart from that there is also camel cart ride for village interaction, potters wheel, artificial river crossing, and much more for leisure and amusement.

Without difficulty Azad Hind Gram can be reached from any part of Delhi. If given a choice visitors and travelers can choose to take local buses from different points inside the city or, instead lease auto-rickshaws and cab, minicab or yellow cabs which are conveniently available at any point in Delhi. However you could even opt for the regular bus services that commence from the Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT) at Kashmere Gate and City Center to Mehrauli.

There are several local guided tours which are especially carried out by Delhi Tourism and private operators. They cover all the tourist attractions, museums, monuments and Azad hind gram is also incorporated as it happens to be one of the most important recreation places

Jantar Mantar

A unique structure raised in 1724, now lies in the heart of Delhi's commercial centre near Connaught place. This is the Jantar Mantar, one of several astronomical observatories raised by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur. The various abstract structures within the Jantar Mantar are, in fact, instruments that were used for keeping track of celestial bodies. Yet, Jantar Mantar is not only a timekeeper of celestial bodies, it also tells a lot about the technological achievements under the Rajput kings and their attempt to resolve the mysteries regarding astronomy. The Jantar Mantar of Delhi is only one of the five observatories built by Sawai Jai Singh II, the other four being located at Jaipur, Varanasi, Ujjain and Mathura.
All of these were built as far back as AD 1724-1730 during the period generally known as the dark age of Indian history, when the last great Mughal emperor Aurangzeb had died and the Mughal Empire was rapidly declining. During this period of turmoil, Muhammad Shah ascended the throne of the Mughal Empire. As many enemies surrounded him, he sought the alliance of the Hindu rulers. Of these, the most notable was Sawai Jai Singh II of Amber, who came into limelight since the days of Aurangzeb. When Jai Singh ascended the throne of Amber in 1699, he was barely eleven, but sharp and shrewd far beyond his years. The then Mughal emperor Aurangzeb was so impressed with the young ruler that he gave Jai Singh II the title of 'Sawai', meaning one and a quarter of an average man in worth.
As Jai Singh repeatedly proved himself a worthy ally of the Mughals, Muhammad Shah, who was seeking a dependable ally, zeroed in on Jai Singh and duly raised him to the rank of governor of Agra and later, of Malwa. Legend Behind Jantar Mantar Jai Singh was passionate about two things-arts and the sciences, chiefly astronomy. Once, at the court of Muhammad Shah, he found the Hindu and Muslim astrologers embroiled in a heated argument over certain planetary positions. It was imperative that the positions be known accurately to determine an auspicious hour for the emperor to set out on an expedition. Jai Singh offered to rectify the then available astronomical tables, an offer that was readily accepted by the Mughal emperor.
The result was an onsite Jantar Mantar in Delhi, an astronomical observatory where the movements of sun, moon and planets could be observed.

Jai Singh's idea was to create a rebirth of practical astronomy among the Indian masses and practicing astronomers. However, the lofty ideals of the Jantar Mantar remained unfulfilled as the country at that time was in chaos and the full potential of this observatory was never realized. In the beginning, Jai Singh tried to use brass instruments in this observatory, but soon gave them up because of several inherent flaws. They were too small, for one thing, their axes were unstable so the center often got displaced. He then decided to follow the style adopted by the renowned Arab astronomer, Prince Ulugh Beg, builder of the famous 15th century observatory at Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The massive masonry instruments at Samarkand suited Jai Singh's architectural tastes and promised to be more accurate because of sheer size. In 1730, Jai Singh sent a mission to the king of Lisbon. On its return to Jaipur, the mission brought back a telescope and the court astronomer by the name of Xavier de Silva. The Observatory This unique observatory was completed in 1724 and remained operational only for seven years.
 

Astronomical observations were regularly made over here and these observations were used for drawing up a new set of tables, later compiled as Zij Muhammad Shahi dedicated to the reigning monarch. Jai Singh named his observatory Jantar Mantar, which is actually pronounced, as 'Yantra Mantra', yantra for instrument and mantra for formula. A huge sundial known as "Samrat Yantra" or 'Prince of Dials',

 meant to measure accurate time of the day within half a second and the declination of the sun and other heavenly bodies dominates it.
Jai Singh himself designed this yantra. Other yantras were also meant for the study of heavenly bodies, plotting their course and predicting eclipses. The two pillars on the southwest of Mishra Yantra are meant to determine the shortest and longest days of the year. Interestingly, in December one pillar completely covers the other with its shadow while in June it does not cast any such shadow at all. After the completion of the first Jantar Mantar and with a view to verifying astronomical observations made at Delhi, Jai Singh built similar, even if smaller observatories, at other important Indian cities-Jaipur, Varanasi, Ujjain, and Mathura. The Jantar Mantars may have fallen into disuse but they remain an integral part of India's scientific heritage. It presents that the spirit of scientific enquiry was not dead in India and would have yielded rich results if only an opportunity of research and development had been given to it. This monument situated just a stroll away on the Parliament Street, still remains one of the most intriguing structures of the capital, one that burst in a flood of questions inside the curious mind of the tourist. Timing : Daily 9.00am - 7.00pm

source: visit to places in delhi {www.delhiplaces.com}

places to see in delhi

Delhi Haat ( Dilli Haat )

Delhi Haat ( Dilli Haat ) is a combination food plaza and craft bazaar located in the heart of Delhi, one near the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, opposite INA Market on Sri Aurobindo Marg, and another at Netaji Subash Place, adjacent to Netaji Subash Place Metro Station. Delhi Haat ( Dilli Haat ) has stalls representing each state of India, giving a complete variety of tastes available all over India.There are also stalls of crafts from all over India, and from a variety of cultural traditions of India. Around 2003, this market became fully wheelchair-accessible, including an accessible bathroom. This is a relative rarity in India.There are plans to open more Delhi Haats ( Dilli Haats ) all over Delhi, one has opened at Dilli Haat, Pitampura.

Unlike the traditional weekly market, the village Haat, Delhi Haat ( Dilli Haat ) is permanent. Some shops are permanent but other sellers are rotated, usually for fifteen days.Products offered may include rosewood and sandalwood carvings, embellished camel hide footwear, sophisticated fabric and drapery, gems, beads, brassware, metal crafts,

 and silk and wool fabrics. Shows promoting handicrafts and handlooms are held at the exhibition hall in the complex. To sell wares, there is an application process and spaces are allocated according to which state the seller is from.
 There is a nominal entrance fee to shop at Delhi Haat ( Dilli Haat )

Garden of Five Senses

The Garden of five senses is a breadth taking and enamoring experience. It is not just a park - it is a celebration of aesthetic expression and appreciation, a seamless dialogue between the creations of man and nature that invites interaction and exploration. It is an ideal ground to realize the twin objectives of the need for a public leisure space as well as awakening of human sensitivity to the environment.

It is an intricate blend of natures bounty and subtle human creation. Amidst the concrete jungle and the hustle and bustle of the city, the garden of five senses comes across as a welcome breadth of fresh air and serene quietude. True to the imagery suggested by its name and with its beautiful, lush green landscapes, the garden of five senses stimulates all the five senses in an evocative bouquet that awakens the mind to the beauty of life and invokes a grateful prayer for the gift of touch, sight, sound, smell and taste .

Visitors are encouraged to touch the rocks and displays, the fragrance of flower for the nose, beds stimulates the olfactory senses, the landscaping appeals to the eyes - the sight, the ceramic bells and the water falls create a soothing sound -pleasing to the ear and the food courts serve a variety of cuisines - to please the tongue.

LOCATION

 The garden is located at Said-ul-Aizab village , close to the Mehrauli heritage area in New Delhi. The garden is built on a large expanse of land, 20 acres to be precise. It was inaugurated in February 2003 by Chief Minister of Delhi, Sheila Dikshit, coinciding with the beginning of the 16th garden festival which is showcasing seasonal flowers, hanging baskets and animal figures sculpted from the plants.

The Garden, developed at a cost of Rs 10.5 crore over the last three years. The garden is a visual treat. The geometric arrangement of plants , the meandering pathways and lotus pools , with beds of green leaves covering clear waters, with pink lotuses peeping out every now and then transport a person straight to heaven. A brief walk in the garden serves as a great stress reliever.

 Stainless steel birds mounted on slate -clad pillars soar indignantly in the air, as if, cocking a snook at their real counterparts , trying to welcome the visitors.

ESTIVALS

The food festivals, organized every now and then are virtual gastronomical delights and drive even the severest of dyspeptics on a binge trip. There are also Sherbet melas to boot . Other festivals include Garden tourism festival, Dandia Masti festival etc.

THEME

The garden festivals theme this year is Decorative Accents in Landscaping. A competition will be held in 24 classes consisting over 175 sections. There will also be competitions in Dahlia varieties, display sections, the tray garden class and nursery stalls. Such similar competitions and shows would be held every year.

AMUSEMENT SECTION

To add more interest , are the toy solar cars imported from Taiwan for use in the amusement section of the Garden of Five Senses. Each solar car cost Rs 60,000 each.

During the garden festival, free battery bus rides up to the garden would be available from Qutab Minar and the deputy commissioners office near Anupam Apartments in Saket.

SOLAR ENERGY PARK

An integral part of the garden is the solar Park set up with the assistance of the Ministry of Non-conventional Renewable Energy sources. The aim is to promote awareness of renewable source of energy. A 20KW solar power plant is installed to meet the requirement of the park.

The exhibits include :

Two solar-powered buses.
Weighing machine
Solar powered bicycles
Solar powered cars for children
Quiz computer
Solar drum and slide
A prototype of solar- powered home
Exhibits on renewable sources
In addition, solar water heating has been installed in nine food outlets

source: visit to places in delhi {www.delhiplaces.com}