Iconic Attractions In Delhi

Delhi, the capital of India, has a rich history. The city is dotted with spellbinding mosques, forts, and monuments left over from the Mughal rulers that once occupied the city. The contrast between rambling Old Delhi and well planned New Delhi is immense, and it's interesting to spend time exploring both. Here's a list of the top attractions and places to visit in Delhi.

RED FORT

Delhi's most famous monument, the Red Fort, stands not only as a powerful reminder of the Mughal era India but also a symbol of India's struggle for freedom. It was built by fifth Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, when he decided to shift his capital there from Agra in 1638. The fort's turbulent history includes being captured by the Sikhs and the British. To take your imagination back to the ancient era, a one hour sound and light show of the fort's history is held each evening.

JAMA MASJID

Jama Masjid is another marvelous treasure of the Old City, and it is one of the largest mosque in India. It's courtyard can hold an incredible 25,000 devotees. The mosque took 12 years to build, and was completed in 1656. A climb to the top of its southern tower will reward you with a stunning view across the rooftops of Delhi. It is required to be dressed appropriately when visiting the mosque or you won't be allowed in. This means covering your head, legs and shoulders. The attire is available there.

CHANDNI CHOWK

The main street of Old Delhi, Chandni Chowk, is a shocking contrast to the wide, orderly streets of New Delhi. Cars, cycles, rickshaws, hand-pulled carts, pedestrians, and animals all compete for space. It's chaotic, crumbling and congested, but completely captivating as well. As one of the oldest and busiest markets in India, its narrow winding lanes are full of inexpensive jewelry, fabrics and electronics. For the more adventurous, Chandni Chowk is an excellent place to try some of Delhi's street food.

SWAMINARAYAN AKSHARDHAM

A relatively new attraction, this massive temple complex was built by the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha spiritual organization and opened in 2005. It is dedicated to showcasting Indian culture. As well as the astonishing architecture of the pink stone and white marble shrine, the complex includes sprawling garden, sculptures, and boat ride.

HUMAYUN'S TOMB

If you think Humayun's Tomb looks a bit like the Taj Mahal in Agra, that's because it was the inspiration for the Taj Mahal's creation. The tomb was built in 1570, and houses the body of the second Mughal emperor, Humayun. It was the first of this type of Mughal architecture to be built in India, and the Mughal rulers followed it up with an extensive period of costruction all over the country. The tomb is part of a greater complex that's set among the beautiful gardens.

QUTUB MINAR

Qutub Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world, is an incredible example of early Indo-Islamic architecture. It was built in 1193, but the reason remains a mystery. Some believe that it was made to signify victory and the beginning of Muslim rule in India, while others say it was used to call the faithful to prayer. The tower has five distinct stories, and is covered with intricate carvings and verses from the holy Quran. There are also a number of other historic monuments on the site.