#top10attraction

Delhi has two parts, Old Delhi and New Delhi. While Old Delhi is all about Mughal and British architectural monuments, New Delhi is home to several offices and modern buildings. Some of the major attractions of the city include the Red Fort, India Gate, Qutub Minar, Jantar Mantar, Jama Masjid, Lotus Temple, Humayun's Tomb, Old Fort (Purana Quila), Gandhi Smriti and Raj Ghat, Lodi Gardens, Hauz Khas Fort and Village, Akshardham Temple, Chandni Chowk, Rashtrapathi Bhavan,  Gurudwara Bangla Sahib etc.

1. The Red Fort Delhi: 

The Red Fort is a historical fortification in the national capital of New Delhi. Located in the center of the city, it was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal dynasty. It was constructed by Shah Jahan in the year 1639 as a result of a capital shift from Agra to Delhi. This imposing piece of architecture derives its name from its impregnable red sandstone walls. In addition to accommodating the emperors and their households, it was the ceremonial and political center of the Mughal state and the setting for events critically impacting the region. Today, this monument is home to a number of museums that have an assortment of precious artifacts on display.  Every year, the Indian Prime Minister unfurls the national flag here on the Independence Day.

[caption id="attachment_941" align="alignnone" width="1200"] The Red Fort Delhi[/caption]

Formerly known as Quila-e-Mubarak or the Blessed Fort, the Red Fort lies along the banks of the river Yamuna, whose waters fed the moats surrounding the fort. It was a part of the medieval city of Shahjahanabad, popularly known today as 'Old Delhi'. The entire fort complex is said to represent the architectural creativity and brilliance of Mughal architecture. With so much history and heritage associated with it, the Red Fort is one of the most popular monuments in India and a major tourist attraction in Delhi. It became a UNESCO world heritage site in 2007. The Archaeological Survey of India is at present responsible for the security and preservation of this magnificent monument.

 Tips for visiting the Red Fort

Best time to visit: November to February Location: Netaji Subhash Marg Metro Station: Chandni Chowk Weekly holiday: Monday Entry fee: Rs. 10 (Indians), Rs. 250 (foreigners) Special events: Sound and light show, 6pm onwards in Hindi and English at Rs. 80 for adults and Rs. 30 for children

2. The India Gate: 

At the center of New Delhi stands the 42 m high India Gate, an "Arc-de-Triomphe" like archway in the middle of a crossroad. Almost similar to its French counterpart, it commemorates the 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during the World War I. The memorial bears the names of more than 13,516 British and Indian soldiers killed in the Northwestern Frontier in the Afghan war of 1919. The foundation stone of India Gate was laid by His Royal Highness, the Duke of Connaught in 1921 and it was designed by Edwin Lutyens. The monument was dedicated to the nation 10 years later by the then Viceroy, Lord Irwin. Another memorial, Amar Jawan Jyoti was added much later, after India got its independence. The eternal flame burns day and night under the arch to remind the nation of soldiers who laid down their lives in the Indo-Pakistan War of December 1971. [caption id="attachment_944" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The India Gate[/caption] The entire arch stands on a low base of red Bharatpur stone and rises in stages to a huge moulding. The cornice is inscribed with the Imperial suns while both sides of the arch have INDIA, flanked by the dates MCMXIV (1914 left) and MCMXIX (1919 right). The shallow domed bowl at the top was intended to be filled with burning oil on anniversaries but this is rarely done. During nightfall, India Gate is dramatically floodlit while the fountains nearby make a lovely display with coloured lights. India Gate stands at one end of Rajpath, and the area surrounding it is generally referred to as 'India Gate'. Surrounding the imposing structure is a large expanse of lush green lawns, which is a popular picnic spot. One can see hoards of people moving about the brightly lit area and on the lawns on summer evenings.

3. Qutub Minar:

Qutab Minar is a soaring, 73 m-high tower of victory, built in 1193 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak immediately after the defeat of Delhi's last Hindu kingdom. The tower has five distinct storeys, each marked by a projecting balcony and tapers from a 15 m diameter at the base to just 2.5 m at the top. The first three storeys are made of red sandstone; the fourth and fifth storeys are of marble and sandstone. At the foot of the tower is the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the first mosque to be built in India. An inscription over its eastern gate provocatively informs that it was built with material obtained from demolishing '27 Hindu temples'. A 7 m-high iron pillar stands in the courtyard of the mosque. It is said that if you can encircle it with your hands while standing with your back to it your wish will be fulfilled. [caption id="attachment_948" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Qutub Minar[/caption] Opening Closing Time: Sunrise to sunset Photo Opp: The Qutub Minar makes for great photographs, especially when photographed from unique angles. Entrance Fee: Rs 10 (Indians), Rs 250 (foreigners)

4. Jantar Mantar Delhi:

Jantar Mantar was built in 1724 by Raja Jai Singh II of Jaipur in Delhi. Jantar Mantar of Delhi, is an astronomical observatory with masonry instruments. Jantar Mantar in Delhi is a remarkable and curious creation of Raja Jai Singh II, the mathematician and astronomer king. Jantar Mantar has instruments that can graph the path of the astronomical universe. The name of this noteworthy astronomical observatory, Jantar Mantar means 'instrument for calculation.' There is a colossal Samrat Yantra at the periphery of Jantar Mantar. To the south of Samrat Yantra there is an amazing instrument called Jai Prakash. The Jai Prakash of Jantar Mantar in Delhi has two concave hemispherical structures and used for determining the position of the sun and celestial bodies. Jantar Mantar is built of brick rubble that is plastered in lime. You can see the following instruments inside the Jantar Mantar of Delhi.

Samrat Yantra

Jai Prakash

Ram Yantra

Niyati Chakra

Misra Yantra

[caption id="attachment_956" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Jantar Mantar Delhi[/caption] All these instruments can be used for various astronomical calculations. Today the historical structure is encircled by new office buildings. Jantar Mantar of Delhi is even used by modern day scholars to ascertain the location of the heavenly bodies in our universe. The Delhi Jantar Mantar is open to public from 10 am to 6 pm. The entry to this amazing astronomical observatory is free. As it is located at the city center adjacent to the well know Connaught Place, you can easily reach Delhi Jantar Mantar without much hassle. If you visit the capital city of New Delhi, do not forget to have a glimpse of Jantar Mantar-a beautiful creation of the Jaipur King.

5. Jama Masjid Delhi:

The Jama Masjid was commissioned to be the central mosque of the new city. Built by more than 5000 artisans under the supervision of Wazir Saadullah Khan, the mosque designed by architect Ustad Khalil, took 6 years to be completed. The mosque was inaugurated by Sayed Abdul Ghafoor Shah Bukhari I, a mullah from Bukhara (now Uzbekistan), on 23 July 1656, on the invitation from Shah Jahan, whom he bequeathed the title Shahi Imam and appointed to the high office of Imamat-e-Uzma. The cost to build the mosque came to a whopping 1 million rupees at the time.The mosque houses several relics of Islamic religious significance like an age old transcript of the Quran printed on deer skin, the footmarks, sandals, and a red beard-hair of the Holy Prophet Mohammad. [caption id="attachment_959" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Jama Masjid Delhi[/caption] Construction Started : 1644 Construction Completed : 1656 Cost of Construction : 1 million rupees Who Built It : Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan Maintained By : Delhi Waqf Board Where is it Located : Delhi, India Structure Type : Mosque Dimensions : 80m in length; 27m in width; 41m in its highest point Materials Used : Red Sandstone, Marble Architectural Style : Islamic Architect : Ustad Khalil Capacity : 25,000 Visit Timing : 7am to 12pm, 1:30pm to 6:30pm, all days of the week Entry Fee : Free entry, Rs. 200-300 photography charge, Rs. 100 from climbing the southern minaret How to Reach : Walking distance from Old Delhi Railway station and ISBT Kashmere Gate. Chawri Bazaar is the nearest Metro Station - 500m away. AC and non-AC buses connect Jama Masjid to the entire Old and New Delhi. Autos and taxis can also be availed to reach here.

6. Lotus Temple:

This temple is built in the shape of a lotus flower and is the last of seven Major Bahai's temples built around the world. Completed in 1986 it is set among the lush green landscaped gardens. The structure is made up of pure white marble The architect Furiburz Sabha chose the lotus as the symbol common to Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Islam. Adherents of any faith are free to visit the temple and pray or meditate. [caption id="attachment_962" align="alignnone" width="1853"] Lotus Temple[/caption] Around the blooming petals there are nine pools of water, which light up, in natural light. It looks spectacular at dusk when it is flood lit. Location: Near Kalkaji Temple, East of Nehru Place Nearest Metro Station: Kalkaji Mandir Open: Tue-Sun; Mondays closed Timings: 9am to 5:30pm Entry: Free Photography: Permission required

7. Humayun's Tomb:

Humayun died in 1556, and his widow Hamida Banu Begam, also known as Haji Begam, commenced the construction of his tomb in 1569, fourteen years after his death. It is the first distinct example of proper Mughal style, which was inspired by Persian architecture. It is well known that Humayun picked up the principles of Persian architecture during his exile, and he himself is likely to have planned the tomb, although there is no record to that effect. The tomb was constructed at a cost of 15 lakh rupees (1.5 million). [caption id="attachment_966" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Humayun's Tomb[/caption] Mirak Mirza Ghiyath, a Persian, was the architect employed by Haji Begam for this tomb. The tomb proper stands in the centre of a square garden, divided into four main parterres by causeways (charbagh), in the centre of which ran shallow water-channels. The high rubble built enclosure is entered through two lofty double-storeyed gateways on the west and south. A baradari (pavilion) occupies the centre of the eastern wall and a hammam (bath chamber) in the centre of northern wall. The square red sandstone double-storeyed structure of the mausoleum with chamfered corners rises from a 7-m. high square terrace, raised over a series of cells, which are accessible through, arches on each side. The grave proper in the centre of this cell-complex is reached by a passage on the south. The octagonal central chamber contains the cenotaph, and the diagonal sides lead to corner-chambers which house the graves of other members of the royal family. Externally each side of the tomb, its elevations decorated by marble borders and panels, is dominated by three arched alcoves, the central one being the highest. Over the roof pillared kiosks are disposed around the high emphatic double dome in the centre. The central octagonal chamber contains the cenotaph, encompassed by octagonal chambers at the diagonals and arched lobbies on the sides. Their openings are closed with perforated screens. Each side is dominated by three arches, the central one being the highest. This plan is repeated on the second storey too. The roof surmounted by a double dome (42.5m) of marble has pillared kiosks (chhatris) placed around it. The mausoleum is a synthesis of Persian architecture and Indian traditions-the former exemplified by the arched alcoves, corridors and the high double dome, and the latter by the kiosks, which give it a pyramidal outline from distance. Although Sikandar Lodi's tomb was the first garden-tomb to be built in India, it is Humayun's tomb which set up a new vogue, the crowning achievement of which is the Taj at Agra. There is also a somewhat common human impetus behind these two edifices-one erected by a devoted wife for her husband and the other by an equally or more devoted husband for his wife. Several rulers of the Mughal dynasty lie buried here. Bahadur Shah Zafar had taken refuge in this tomb with three princes during the first war of Independence (AD 1857). On the southwestern side of the tomb is located barber's tomb (Nai-ka-Gumbad) which stands on a raised platform, reached by seven steps from the south. The building is square on plan and consists of a single compartment covered with a double-dome. Opening Closing Time: Sunrise to sunset Entrance Fee: Rs.10 (Indians) Rs.250 (foreigners)

8. Purana Qila (Old Fort):

The Purana Qila or the Old Fort has a lot in store for its visitors. It was built under Sher Shah Suri and is considered to be the capital of the Pandavas. Stretched across two kilometers in length, the huge red sandstone ramparts of the fort emphasize on the historical valor and aura of the times the fort must have witnessed. [caption id="attachment_970" align="alignnone" width="700"] Purana Qila (Old Fort)[/caption] Key attractions:

The magnificent three gateways – Bara Darwaza, Humayun Darwaza and Talaqi Darwaza

Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque – A fine example of pre-Mughal architectural style, it is a single domed mosque with pointed arches and five doorways. The blend of white marble with red sandstone looks impressive.

Sher Mandal – It is a double storeyed tower made of red sandstone. It is also said that Humayun fell from the second floor of this tower and died because of his injuries.

Museum – These is also a museum inside the Purana Qila complex that preserves and displays the various excavations that were found in the area.

A Light and Sound Show- It is held in the evening inside the fort. It beautifully presents and highlights the numerous stories associated with the history of Delhi and the fort.

Boating – A ride in the Purana Qila lake is a must when you visit the fort, especially when the weather is pleasant.

Other structures in the compound of Purana Qila – Kairul Manzil, stepped well (baoli)

Quick Tips:

Still cameras are allowed inside for free. The entry of video cameras is chargeable.

Gear to protect yourself from mosquito bites in the evening

You can also visit other tourist places near the Old Fort like the Delhi Zoo, India Gate, Children’s Park, Nizam-ud-din’s shrine or shop at nearby markets including Connaught Place, Palika Bazaar, Janpath and Sunder Nagar Market.

Location: Indraprastha Purna Qila, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi Nearest Metro Station: Pragati Maidan Visiting Hours: Sunrise to Sunset (Open all days) Entry fee: Rs. 5 (Indians), Rs. 100 (Foreigners) Time required to explore the fort: 1.5 to 2 hours

9. Gandhi Smriti and Raj Ghat:

Raj Ghat A simple square platform of black marble marks the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated following his assassination in 1948. It is surrounded by a beautiful park with labelled trees planted by notables like Queen Elizabeth II, USA President Eisenhower, Ho Chi Minh and various others. Two museums dedicated to Gandhiji are nearby. [caption id="attachment_972" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Raj Ghat[/caption] Located at Rajghat (Delhi), Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti was formed in September 1984 by the merger of Gandhi Darshan at Rajghat and Gandhi Smriti. The main attraction: Gandhi Smriti is one of the biggest museums of Gandhi and has a library where around 60,000 books are kept and has bookshops selling books of Gandhi. There are around 6000 original photos of Gandhi preserved here. The house treasures many memories of the last 144 days of Gandhi’s life. The exhibition on the Mahatma, the room he lived in and the prayer ground where he fell a martyr with God’s name on his lips attract a large number of visitors daily. [caption id="attachment_973" align="alignnone" width="640"] Gandhi Smriti[/caption] Gandhi Darshan is situated close to the Gandhi Samadhi at Rajghat on 36 acres of land. It offers a comprehensive exhibition on Gandhi spread out in four pavilions, a film auditorium, conference facilities for national and international camps, a children’s corner and a library. [caption id="attachment_974" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Gandhi Darshan[/caption] How to get there: Delhi being the capital of India is well connected by air and rail with the rest of the country. Best time to visit: October to March Address: Gandhi Smriti, 5 Tees January Marg, New Delhi 110 011, India.

10. Lodi Gardens:

Lodhi garden is located beside India International Center which is just 3 kilometers away from Humayun's Tomb. It is one of the historical gardens in Delhi. Lodhi garden houses the tombs of Sayyid and Lodhi rulers. Lodhi garden was set up in between the 15th and 16th centuries by the Sayyid and Lodhi rulers. The garden is very well kept and still have some historical monuments which are an added attraction for the tourists. Lodhi garden in Delhi has been re-deigned by JA Stein and Garrett Eckbo in the year 1968 and that's how it got the present shape. At Lodhi garden you must visit the tombs of Muhammad Shah, the 3rd leader of Sayyid dynasty and Sikandar Lodhi. [caption id="attachment_978" align="alignnone" width="770"] Lodi Gardens[/caption] There is a Bara Gumbad and Sheesh Gumbad in the center of Lodhi Garden in Delhi which speak of the architectural glory of that era. The former comprises of a large rubber construct dome, a three domed mosque and a residence surrounding a central courtyard which contains the remains of a water tank and opposite to this Bara Gumbad lies the Sheesh Gumbad which consists of the remains of an unknown family.

Address Main Lodi Road, Beside India International Centre, New Delhi, Delhi - 110003 Entry Fee : No entry fee Timings : Visiting Hours - 6:00 AM - 7:30 PM Official Website www.delhitourism.gov.in Photography allowed or not Allowed Nearest metro station JLN Metro Station

  11. Hauz Khas Fort and Village:

The Hauz Khas Fort Complex nestles amidst beautiful landscapes and tranquil ambiance. Enclosed by immense greenery and the splendid beauty of a lake, it is a popular hangout-zone amongst youngsters. The place also encloses a Deer Park, a famous tourist attraction. It is located in Hauz Khas, close to Green Park, South Delhi. Built in the 13th century, it is one of the oldest structures in Delhi. It is a heart-throbbing hub of activities, a bird-watcher’s delight and a favored picnic spot for the locals. [caption id="attachment_983" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Hauz Khas Village & Fort[/caption] Among the notable buildings that hold historical importance, Hauz Khas Fort Complex was initiated with the construction of a water-reservoir or the Royal tank (now known as the Hauz Khas lake) by Allauddin Khilji. He commissioned the reservoir to provide continuous supply of water to the inhabitants of Siri Fort.  It was originally named as Hauz-i-Alai. Derived from an Urdu word Hauz, which means a Pond. Later, a number of monuments such as Mosques, Madrasas, Pavillions and Tombs were built adjoining the water-reservoir or the lake by several emperors. One of the prominent structures within the complex is the Tomb of Firoz Shah Tughlaq. The tomb which is very ascetic in appearance,  was built by the emperor for himself.  It is embellished with Quranic inscriptions.  The Tomb now looks worn-out because of being ignored.  The buildings seen on the hem, including halls and chambers, were constructed by Sikandar Lodhi. These were later converted in to Madrasa, a college for theological training.  A number of cenotaphs can also be seen. At present, what this fort offers to the visitors is unmatchable. Its capacious lawns are a perfect spot for out door sports. The relics offer boulevard and other arcane passages for people to explore.  For a die-hard photographer, the place is a paradise. The splendor of the place is exceptionally photogenic.  It captivates the spectator with its fusion of Indo-Islamic Architecture. The entourage is extremely mesmerizing during the sunset and the sunshine. The fort adduces a magnificent amalgamation of flora and fauna which is truly a delight for the eyes. The precinct of Hauz Khas is a metropolis of medieval arts profused by artists, scholars and photographers from all across the mainland. The place also has a galore of diners with mesmerizing aura. It is also a hub of designer boutiques. Hauz Khas is among the most affluent and posh areas of Delhi. Getting to the fort is easy, Green Park as well as Hauz Khas Metro stations are the nearest ones. The fort is accessible at any time of the day, from sunrise to sunset. The best time to visit is in the months of October, November, February and March. My visit to the Hauz Khas Complex was quite alluring and the place really captivated all my senses. I felt like sitting there for the rest of the week and gaze at the beauty that surrounded me. The place gives out a lost in time feeling amidst the frantic city of Delhi. So,  all those searching for an irenic spot to rejuvenate your mind, I would definitely urge you to explore this exquisite location!

12. Akshardham Temple:

Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi epitomizes 10,000 years of Indian culture in all its breathtaking grandeur, beauty, wisdom an d bliss. It brilliantly showcases the essence of India’s ancient architecture, traditions and timeless spiritual messages. The Akshardham experience is an enlightening journey through India’s glorious art, values and contributions for the progress, happiness and harmony of mankind. [caption id="attachment_866" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple New Delhi[/caption] The Swaminarayan Akshardham complex was built in only five years through the blessings of HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) and the colossal devotional efforts of 11,000 artisans and thousands of BAPS volunteers. Heralded by the Guinness World Record as the World’s Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple, the complex was inaugurated on 6 November, 2005.

What to Experience:

Akshardham Mandir: A traditional mandir (temple) dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan that reflects the beauty and spirituality of India’s ancient art, culture, and architecture Nilkanth Varni Abhishek: A hallowed spiritual tradition in which prayers are offered for world peace and continual peace for oneself, family, and friends with the water of 151 holy rivers, lakes and ponds of India.

Exhibitions:

Hall 1 - Hall of Values (50 mins): Experience enduring human values through films and robotic shows that depict the ideals of nonviolence, honesty, family harmony, and spirituality. Hall 2 - Giant Screen Film (40 mins): Discover India through the incredible story of an eleven-year-old yogi named Nilkanth that brings to life the culture and spirituality of India's customs, the majesty of its art and architecture, and the unforgettable sights, sounds, and power of its awe-inspiring festivals. Hall 3 - Cultural Boat Ride (15 mins): Sail through 10,000 years of India's glorious heritage. Learn about the discoveries and inventions of the rishi-scientists of India, see the world’s first university of Takshashila, sail through the caves of Ajanta-Ellora and discover India's contributions to humanity through the ages.

Musical Fountain - Circle of Life (Evenings at Sunset - 15 min.): A spectacular musical fountain show that depicts the cycle of birth, life, and death as described in Indian philosophy.

Garden of India: Sixty acres of lush lawns, gardens and exquisite bronze statues, honouring India's child heroes, valorous warriors, national patriots and great women personalities who inspire values and character.

Lotus Garden: A lotus-shaped garden echoing spirituality as expressed by philosophers, scientists, and leaders throughout history

Location: On NH 24, Akshardham Setu Ph: 22016688, 22026688 Nearest Metro Station: Akshardham Timings: First Entry: 9:30 AM Last Entry: 6:30 PM Exhibition Tickets: 10 AM to 5PM Complex Entry: Free | No Ticket Exhibition: Fee | Ticket Adults : 170 INR Senior Citizen : 125 INR Child (4-11 yrs) : 100 INR Child (Below 4 yrs) : Free Musical Fountain: Fee | Ticket Adults : 30 INR Senior Citizen : 30 INR Child (4-11 yrs) : 20 INR Child (Below 4 yrs) : Free Day Closed: Mondays Photography: Not allowed Mobiles & Electronics: Not allowed (Cloakroom Available)

13. Chandni Chowk:

It is the perfect place to shoping. This densely populated market has been around for more than three centuries and was once visited by merchants from Turkey, China and even Holland. You may buy curios and souvenirs from here. Dariba Kalan is known for its pearl, gold and silver jewellery and attar (natural perfumes). Gulab Singh Johri Mal, established in 1819, are well-known manufacturers and exporters of attar. A visit to Khari Baoli is a must for the spice-lover — don't forget spices are what connected India to the West. Kinari Bazaar is the best place to look for zari and zardozi trimmings and tinsel. The cloth bazaar of Katra Neel offers all kinds of fabrics such as silks, satin, crepe, cotton and muslin. Bhagirath Palace is Asia's largest market for electrical goods and also offers medical equipment and allopathic medicines. Moti Bazaar is famous for shawls and pearls and Tilak Bazaar for chemicals. [caption id="attachment_989" align="alignnone" width="720"] Chandni Chowk[/caption]

14. Rashtrapathi Bhavan:

Rashtrapati Bhavan, home to the President of the world’s largest democracy, is emblematic of Indian democracy and its secular, plural and inclusive traditions. It was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker and stands on a 330 acre estate. It took seventeen years to build this presidential palace which was completed in the year 1929. Almost seven hundred million bricks and three million cubic feet of stone were used in building this architectural marvel that has 2.5 kilometers of corridors and 190 acres of garden area. The main building covers an area of 5 acres and has 340 rooms spread over four floors. The famous Mughal Gardens of the Rashtrapati Bhavan cover an area of 15 acres and have 159 celebrated varieties of roses, 60 varieties of bougainvillea and many other verities of flowers. The Estate also has a state-of-the-art Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum Complex (RBMC) comprising the Clock Tower, the Stables and the Garages showcasing past as well as current presidencies, the regal ceremonies, and the rich flora and fauna of Rashtrapati Bhavan, amongst other things. The RBMC was inaugurated by President Pranab Mukherjee on 25th July, 2016. For the convenience of the general public, Delhi Tourism has extended the facility of Ho-Ho Buses to the Rashtrapati Bhavan. [caption id="attachment_993" align="alignnone" width="690"] Rashtrapathi Bhavan[/caption] The Mughal dynasty practically came to an end when in 1803, the native rulers defeated by General Lake of East India Company near Patparganj. The East India appointed first resident of Delhi as the 'Protector' of battered Mughal crown. In the early years the British and their troops settled within the walled city around the Red Fort and Kashmere Gate. The city underwent drastic transformations after the war of 1857. One third of the city was razed to rubble in 1858 and the East India Company transferred the rule to the British Crown. On 12th December, 1911, at the historic Delhi Durbar, the George V, the Emperor of the British Empire proclaimed the shifting of the capital of India from Calcutta to Delhi. After announcement of Delhi as the Capital of India, the preparation for the building a new city started with majesty, pomp and show. Thus came up a vary special city, New Delhi, the dream of Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker, city planners and architects. Built on the area in and around Raisina Hills, the new city housed among the landmarks, the Rastrapathi Bhawan, (Viceroy's House), the North and South Blocks of the Secretariat, and a Council Chamber which now houses India's Parliament, the 42 meters high memorial arch India Gate, Cannought Place and numerous roads, parks and other structures. On the site where Delhi stands today, several cities have risen and decayed in the past. Their relics illustrate important phases in the architectural history of the country and are visible symbols of Delhi's glorious past. New Delhi, the capital of India's British rulers, was the eight in the series of city built one after another by successive lines of rulers. The national government, which took over on the attainment of independence in August, 1947, has not built another city. New Delhi, has, however, expanded manifold and is rapidly undergoing transformation.  It is from New Delhi that most visitors form their first impression of the city.  Much of the New Delhi was built between 1920-1930. After independence, Delhi became the capital of new nation. With the advent of independence, its importance has increased manifold and Delhi has now became the political, economic and culture capital of country. The built - up heritage of Delhi are to be found in groups in the successive cities. Those which should not be missed by a visitors are the Qutub Minar and its adjuncts; Tughlagabad, Humayun's Tomb and shrine of Nizam-ud-Din; Sher Shah's fortS (Purna Qila), Red Fort and the Jama Masjid. To these might be added Kotla Feroz Shah, Safdarjung Tomb, Hauz-Khas, and the Lodi Tombs. Indeed, millennium come and go, Delhi goes on forever. As Pt. Jawharlal Nehru said, "Even the stones of Delhi whisper in our ears of the ages of long ago and the air breathe is full of the dust and fragrance of the past, as also of the fresh and piercing winds of the present.. The traditions of millennia of our history surrounds us at every step and the procession of innumerable generations passed before our eyes."

15. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib:

One of the prominent Sikh pilgrimage centers in Delhi, the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is located on Ashok Road with close proximity to the Connaught Place. The history of this gurudwara dates back to the 17th century, when it was the palace of Raja Jai Singh. It is said that in the year 1664, Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji, the eighth Sikh Guru came to visit the King and cured people who were contracted with smallpox and cholera epidemic by distributing them water from the tank. That water tank, used by the Guru, still exists today inside the gurudwara and is believed to possess medicinal properties. [caption id="attachment_995" align="alignnone" width="800"] Gurudwara Bangla Sahib[/caption] The Gurudwara premises include the main prayer hall (containing the Granth Sahib, the holy book of the Sikhs), the water tank in the middle, a library, a museum, a hospital, a school and an art gallery. As similar to all gurudwaras, langar is served in the Bangla Sahib where everyone irrespective of religion, caste or creed is welcome to share a meal. Few important information for visitors are:

The gurudwara is open 24 hours, all days of the week.

Entry is free.

You are required to dress modestly and keep your head covered inside the gurudwara premises.

You are required to remove your shoes before entering the gurudwara.

On the birth anniversary of Guru Har Krishan, special gatherings and prayers are held.