Delhi Darshan: A Glimpse of an Indulging City

Delhi is a metropolitan city that hides its rich cultural heritage in almost every alley of the capital. An important political city is undoubtedly one of the most important tourist destinations of India. Every year thousands of tourists from all across the globe visit Delhi to witness the beauty of this mesmerizing city. However, sometimes it gets a bit hard as to how to plan your Delhi Darshan trip, especially if you have a time crunch.

There are thousands of options for a tourist, ranging from heritage sightseeing to shopping at some of the largest markets in the country. Delhi Transport Corporation also offers bus services for Delhi Darshan. Now, if tourists wish to explore the city on their own, the best thing to do is to seek out suggestions for ‘One-day Delhi Sightseeing’.

A city of never-ending surprises, you can witness a sight to remember in almost every lane and hear a story that dates back to an era long gone. To help our readers plan a perfect day-trip to Delhi, we have made a travel itinerary for a full day sightseeing tour of Delhi.

We bring to you three different routes around the city that takes you through the hidden alleys, popular monuments and bustling bazaars of the capital:

Also Check Out: Complete Delhi Tourism Information

Delhi Darshan- Day Sightseeing Option/Route 1

• Chandni Chowk
• Red Fort
• Jama Masjid
• Raj Ghat
• Old Fort
• Lunch at Andhra Bhawan
• Humayun’s Tomb
• Safdarjung’s Tomb
• Agrasen ki Baoli
• Jantar Mantar
• Connaught Place
• Rashtrapati Bhawan
• India Gate
• Dinner at Pandara Road

Delhi Darshan: Day Sightseeing Option/Route- 2

• Bangla Sahib Gurudwara
• Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum
• Sarojini Nagar
• Iskcon Temple
• Lotus Temple
• Qutub Minar
• Hauz Khas

Delhi Darshan: Day Sightseeing Option/Route – 3

• Old Delhi
• Laxmi Narayan Temple
• Rashtrapati Bhawan
• Dilli Haat
• Lunch at Hauz Khas
• Qutub Minar
• Kalkaji Temple
• Akshardham Temple

A Scrumptious Breakfast at Chandni Chowk

One of the colourful bazaars during the Mughal Era, Chandni Chowk is located in Old Delhi. The narrow lanes of the market houses various havelis, shops, restaurants and temples. Famous for its street food, Chandni Chowk hides a gem in its heart. Nothing starts the day better than a delicious serving of hot parathas. Paranthe Wali Gali offers you a variety of breakfast options ranging from aloo paratha, mixed paratha to khoya paratha. The three remaining shops showcase the photos of all the celebrities who have been to their shop. A famous hotspot for foodies, Paranthe Wali Gali would be the perfect start for your day.

• Entry fee for Paranthe Wali Gali: No entry fee.
• Timings for Paranthe Wali Gali: The shops usually open by 8 so we would suggest you to reach there by 8:30 in order to stick to the schedule.

Also Check Out: Popular Shopping Market in Delhi

Visit to Red Fort – A Home to Many Mughals Rulers

Delhi boasts of many historical treasures and architectural marvels but the gem in its crown has to be the Red Fort. One of the most popular Mughal monuments, made by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the fort served as a Mughal palace, housing Mughal emperors for almost 200 years. Not just a palace, the fort also served as the cultural and strategic hub for the Mughal empire. Made out of red sandstone, Red Fort is a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture. A significant building in the Indian Freedom Struggle, Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru, the First Prime Minister of the country, delivered the famous midnight speech from the Red Fort itself. Situated on the banks of river Yamuna, Red Fort hosts many museums and bazaars inside, showcasing the magnificent Mughal history.

• Entry Fee for Red Fort: INR 35 for Indians and INR 500 for international tourists.
• Timings for Red Fort: Tuesday to Sunday – 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. Monday closed.

Also Read

• Popular Heritage Sightseeing Places in Delhi
  

Visit Jama Masjid – One of the India’s Largest Mosque

Masjid-i Jahan Numa, very close to Delhi’s heart, is the religious name for Jama Masjid. Built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, between 1644 and 1656, Jama Masjid is one of India’s largest mosques. Though British wanted it to be annihilated, it still stands tall in the centre of Chandni Chowk. Boasting a capacity of more than 25,000 people, Jama Masjid is a sight to behold during Eid. One of the holiest places in India, it is the last monument built by Shah Jahan. The original name of the mosque means a commanding view of the world and that holds true till date. Climb to the top of the minarets to witness a spectacular view of the busy alleys of Old Delhi.

• Entry fee for Jama Masjid: There is no entry fee for Jama Masjid, however climbing the minarets is chargeable. Also, you need to pay INR 200 for photography.
• Timings for Jama Masjid: Monday – Sunday (7:00 am – 12 pm and 1:30 pm to 6:30 pm) However, tourists are not allowed during prayer time.

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Pay Your Respect at Raj Ghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi

A memorial built in the honour of Mahatma Gandhi, ‘Father of the Nation’, Raj Ghat attracts a lot of Indian and international tourists. Situated on the banks of river Yamuna was a ghat called Raj Ghat where the memorial is built, thus giving it its name. Raj Ghat is also home to the memorials of some of the greatest Prime Ministers of India such as Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Lal Bahadur Shastri and Indira Gandhi among others. Many foreign dignitaries visit Rajghat to pay respect to the preacher of non-violence, Mahatma Gandhi. There is an eternal flame placed at the end of the memorial.

• Entry fee for Raj Ghat: No entry fee.
• Timings for Rajghat: Monday-Sunday (5:00 am to 7:30 pm). There is a commemoration ceremony held every Friday.

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• Other Popular Memorials to Visit in Delhi

Visit Old Fort – A Monument That Was a Historical Part of Independence

Purana Qila, also known as the Old Fort is one of the oldest surviving forts in Delhi. The fort was built by Sher Shah Suri, the founder of the Sur empire. Sher Shah Suri died before the completion of the fort which was later completed by his son, Islam Shah. According to historical facts, the fort which was originally constructed by Mughals was used as the inner citadel of the Mughal city. After conquering Humayun, Sher Shah Suri started further construction of the existing fort. During the partition of India, the fort was used to house refugees seeking asylum. Until 1970, the fort had staged many cultural plays and still hosts many musical events and theatrical performances. Tourists can also enjoy boating at the lake inside the fort. Another major attraction near Old Fort is the National Zoo of Delhi.

• Entry fee for the Old Fort: INR 20 for Indians and INR 200 for international tourists.
• Timings for the Old Fort: Monday – Sunday (7:00 am to 5:00 pm)

Also Read: Pilgrimage Tourism in Delhi

Enjoy a fulfilling lunch at Andhra Bhawan

You must be hungry by now and we have an amazing lunch planned for you! One of the best places to eat in Delhi, the canteen at Andhra Bhawan offers mouth-watering unlimited food at just INR 130. The canteen offers a south-Indian meal which consists of rice, puri, dal sabzi, curd, desserts and creamy coconut chutney. You can also get non-vegetarian options like prawns, chicken and fish at an additional cost of INR 120. Andhra Bhawan is a heaven-sent bliss for a foodie. The hosts of the canteen offer you delicious food with generous hospitality which makes it one of the best eating places in Delhi.

• Entry fee for Andhra Bhawan: No entry fee. The cost of a single meal is around INR 130.
• Timings for Andhra Bhawan Canteen: 12:00 pm – 04:00 pm

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Visit Humayun’s Tomb – The Inspiration Behind Taj Mahal

One of the major tourist attractions of Delhi, Humayun’s Tomb was commissioned by the first wife of the Mughal emperor Humayun, Empress Bega Begum, in 1569. The designs of the monument are believed to be the brainchild of a Persian architect named Mirak Mirza Ghiyas. Humayun’s tomb is believed to be the first garden tomb constructed in India. Today a major site for every heritage walk, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. There are many other small monuments within the premise of Humayun’s tomb such as Isa Khan’s tomb which was built prior to the Humayun’s tomb. The tomb’s complex accommodates the main tomb of the Emperor Humayun along with the graves of Bega Begum, Hamida Begum and Dara Shikoh as well as other significant Mughal members.

• Entry fee for Humayun’s tomb: INR 30 for Indian tourists and INR 500 for international tourists.
• Timings for Humayun’s Tomb: Tuesday – Sunday from sunrise to sunset, closed on Monday.

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Visit Safdarjung’s Tomb – One of the Most Underrated Monuments of Delhi

One of the most underrated historical monuments in Delhi, Safdarjung’s tomb is a sandstone and marble mausoleum, built in 1754. While the Mughal emperor Ahmad Shah Bahadur was on the throne in 1748, Safdarjung was the Prime Minister of the Mughal empire. While the empire was about to collapse, Safdarjung took control of the Mughal empire. Due to which, he was exiled by the king. After Safdarjung’s death, his son pleaded to the royal family to allow him to raise a tomb in the name of his father which led to the construction of the Safdarjung’s Tomb.

• Entry fee for Safdarjung’s Tomb: INR 15 for Indian citizens and INR 200 for international tourists. Additional INR 25 is charged for carrying a camera inside.
• Timings for Safdarjung’s Tomb: Monday – Sunday from sunrise to sunset.

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Experience the Eerie Feeling of Supernatural Powers at Agrasen ki Baoli

Made an appearance in the famous blockbuster movie P.K, Agrasen ki Baoli is one of the best places to visit in Delhi. Agrasen Ki Baoli welcomes hundreds of guests every day who are looking to explore the dark side of the monument. Protected and promoted by the Archaeological Survey of India, this haunted monument is believed to be the source of black magic. There are many legends and rumors around the construction of the stepwell. However, no clear citation is available regarding the origin and the purpose of the well. It is believed to be built by a king named Agrasen and was rebuilt by the Agarwal community. As you step down these steps, the dropping temperature and sound of birds will creep you out a little!

• Entry fee for Agrasen Ki Baoli: No entry fee
• Timings of Agrasen ki Baoli: Monday – Sunday (09:00 am – 5:30 pm)

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Visit Jantar Mantar – A Scientific Building for People Who Admire the Solar System

A keen astronomer, Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur, constructed five major Jantar Mantar in Jaipur, Delhi, Ujjain, Mathura and Varanasi. The Jantar Mantar in Delhi has three of the total thirteen astronomical instruments. The purpose of Jantar Mantar was to collect astronomical data and compile them to predict the movements of the sun, moon, planets and stars to tell the time. A historic sundial, this monument literally means ‘instruments for measuring the harmony of the heavens.’ Due to his love and passion for stars and sky, the Maharaja himself commissioned for the construction of this monument.

• Entry fee for Jantar Mantar: INR 5 for Indian citizens and INR 100 for international tourists.
• Timings of Jantar Mantar: Monday – Sunday from sunrise to sunset.

Visit Connaught Place – The Indian Times Square

The Indian version of the Times Square, Connaught Place is the financial, commercial and social hotspot of Delhi. Situated in the heart of the city, Connaught place links the Old and New Delhi together. The exterior building of Connaught Place was designed by W.H. Nicholls and the neighborhood gets its name after Prince Arthur, the first Duke of Connaught and Strathearn. Today, India’s largest tourist hotspot, Connaught place, also referred to as CP, is the pride of Delhi tourism. Every day thousands of people come here to hang out and explore local shops. Various trendy cafes, bars, eating joints and international clothing stores make this attraction a major social hub of the city. Delhi sightseeing is incomplete without exploring the underground markets of Palika, Asia’s biggest underground market. You can buy cheap knock-offs of famous brands at a very cheap price.

• Entry fee for Connaught Place: No entry fee.
• Timings for Connaught Place: Monday – Sunday, most of the shops open up after 10:00 am.

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Visit Rashtrapati Bhawan – The Residence of the President of India

The Presidential residence which formerly served as the Viceroy’s house during British era was designed by Edwin Landseer Lutyens. Built on the Raisina hills, Rashtrapati Bhawan is located at the western end of Rajpath. The main building comprises the President’s office, residence, halls and guest rooms. Spread over 130 acres, Rashtrapati Bhawan has some of India’s most beautiful gardens. The famous Mughal Garden opens for public between the months of August and March. Considered to be the largest residence for the single head of a nation in the world, Rashtrapati Bhawan has around 340 rooms. The entire structure reflects the amalgamation of both the Indian and the British style of architecture.

• Entry fee for Rashtrapati Bhavan: No entry fee
• Timings of Rashtrapati Bhavan: Monday – Sunday (9:00 am to 4:00 pm).

Pay Your Respect to the Indian Soldiers at India Gate

One of the must-visit tourist attractions in Delhi, India Gate is one place you can’t afford to miss. Originally referred to as the All-India War Memorial, it has the names of Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives in World War I, engraved on its wall. The names of martyrs of Anglo-Afghan War are also engraved on its wall. Situated opposite to Rashtrapati Bhawan, it’s on the other side of the Rajpath. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, the construction of India Gate began in 1921 and was completed in 1931. There are four eternal flames placed under India Gate, referred to as Amar Jawan Jyoti. The famous Republic Day parade starts from Rashtrapati Bhavan and terminates at India Gate.

• Entry fee for India Gate: No entry fee
• Timings of India Gate: The visitors can visit the monument at any point of time

Devour a Heavenly Dinner at Pandara Road

Coming to the end of our Delhi full-day sightseeing tour, we have to end it while having a heavenly dinner at the best eating hub in Delhi, the Pandara Road. Famous for its exceptional restaurants, you will find some of the best restaurants in Delhi here. Serving you diverse cuisines, it is the best way to end a tiring yet eventful day in Delhi.

• Entry fee for Pandara Road: No entry fee
• Timings for Pandara Road: Most of the restaurants are open till 12:00 am, throughout the week.

Delhi Darshan Tour Route 2

• Bangla Sahib Gurudwara
• Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum
• Sarojini Nagar
• Iskcon Temple
• Lotus Temple
• Qutub Minar
• Hauz Khas

Seek Blessings at Bangla Sahib Gurudwara

One of the most prominent religious places in India, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is associated with the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Har Kishan. A sacred shrine for Sikhs, this place has become a popular religious tourist attraction. People from every religion irrespective of caste, creed and colour visit the shrine to soak in the tranquility and serenity of the gurudwara. It was originally constructed as a small holy shrine by Sikh General Sardar Baghel Singh in 1783 who was in command of constructing shrines for all ten Sikh Gurus. The Gurdwara has a small pond of holy water, main dome, kitchen and a school all within its premises. The service of Langar is still practiced without any discrimination against religion. A holy place which has transformed into a religious hotspot for all religions is a top tourist attraction for people from all across the country.

• Entry fee for the Bangla Sahib Gurudwara: No entry fee.
• Timings of the Bangla Sahib Gurudwara: The gurdwara is open 24×7 for the visitors and pilgrims.

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Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum – An Ode to An Empowering Woman of Indian History

Former residence of the former Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi, has now been converted into a museum. The Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum was built after her assassination at her residence. Today, the visitors can see all the artefacts preserved since her death. The setting of her house has been restored till date. Amidst the well-maintained lawns and shady trees, lies the spot where former Prime Minister of India Indira Gandhi was assassinated by her two bodyguards. The museum displays some of the newspapers from the time she was the Prime Minister of India. Inside the museum, the visitors can also see the burnt shoes and clothes of late former Prime Minister of India, Rajiv Gandhi. The museum exhibits the simple lifestyle of the famous Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi.

• Entry fee for Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum: No entry fee.
• Timings for Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum: Tuesday – Sunday (9:00 am – 5:00 pm)

Also Check Out: Popular Museums in Delhi

Sarojini Nagar – The Most Popular Market of Delhi

Delhi’s most famous market, Sarojini Nagar, lies in South-west Delhi. Ideal for budget shopping, you can get hundreds of items within your budget. One of the most vibrant places in Delhi, Sarojini Nagar market witnesses thousands of people each day, looking for a cheap deal on their clothing and lifestyle needs. The shops here sell branded as well as local products at knock-off prices. You can get a fine bag at 300 bucks, even less depending upon your bargaining skills. If you visit the market on weekends, the place would be jam-packed with thousands of people bargaining with the shop owners. The market remains packed with customers exploring the alleys for one perfect deal. The market has various eating joints and juice vendors to help you remain hydrated on your shopping sprees to the market.

• Entry fee for Sarojini Nagar market: No entry fee.
• Timings for Sarojini Nagar market: The market sets up around 10:00 am and goes on until 10 pm.

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Iskcon Temple – Of Spirituality and Humanity!

Managed by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, Iskcon temple is one of the must-visit temples in Delhi. The society was formed in New York in 1966. With 500 major centers, temples and communities, the society is known for promoting the spiritual beliefs of India. The society preaches the philosophies of Srimad Bhagavadgita. It has attracted many international citizens to the belief and culture of Hinduism. The temple is an aesthetic marvel, with a serene and tranquil surrounding. The beautifully draped gods amidst the Krishna bhakts dancing in circles is an experience to remember. The evening aarti is something you must witness, for all it offers is peace and happiness to the core. Initiated by Bhaktivedanta Prabhupada, Iskcon is a leading promoter of vedantic study.

Entry fee for Iskcon temple: No entry fee.

Timings for Iskcon temple: Monday – Sunday (4:30 am to 9:00 pm)

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Lotus Temple – Striving for Brotherhood and Peace!

Lotus temple is Delhi’s top tourist attraction with thousands of tourists visiting the serene temple. Constructed in 1986, resembling a lotus flower, this is not a typical religious place but a safe place for people of every religion. Made by the Bahai House of Worship, the temple was designed by an Iranian architect named Fariborz Sahba. The rule of Baha’i architecture states that worship house should have nine sides and no sermon preaching can be practised inside the temple. Open to people of all religions and faiths, the Lotus temple in Delhi serves as the worshipping house for the Indian subcontinent.

• Entry fee for the Lotus temple:  No entry fee.
• Timings for Lotus temple: Tuesday – Sunday (Summer: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm/ Winter: 09:00 am to 5:00 pm)

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Qutub Minar – A Minaret of Victory to the Glorious Times

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Qutub Minar is one of the oldest remaining monuments in India. Commissioned by Qutub al-Din Aibak in 1192, the famous historic building in Delhi was completed by his successor Iltutmish in 1220.  It is made of red sandstone and marble. An architectural marvel of medieval times, the Qutub Minar has a total of 379 stairs to climb to the top. Entry into the minaret has been banned due to a series of accidents and mishappening such as suicides and stampedes. It is believed that the top of the structure was destroyed by lightning which was further renovated and reconstructed by Firoz Shah Tughlaq. Alauddin Khilji commissioned the Alai Minar which is incomplete till date as the construction stopped after the death of the ruler in 1316. Qutub Minar is one of the most-visited monuments of Delhi.

• Entry fee for Qutub Minar: INR 30 for Indian citizens, INR 500 for foreign nationals.
• Timings for Qutub Minar: Monday – Sunday (7:00 am to 5:00 pm)

Also Read: Popular Muslim Pilgrimage Sites in India

Hauz Khas – Where Hearts Meet!

One of the most pristine neighborhoods of South Delhi, Hauz Khas is a major tourist attraction not just because of its heritage. The famous Hauz Khas village boasts of some of the most exquisite cafes and bars. Everyday people from all parts of Delhi come to hang out at this quaint place. The village is adjacent to the famous Hauz Khas Fort which makes it a perfect combination of heritage and modern lifestyle. The ancient water reservoir is a sight to behold and the view from the fort is one of the top things to do on your Delhi sightseeing tour.

• Entry fee for Hauz Khas: No entry fee.
• Timings for Hauz Khas: The fort opens at sunrise and closes at sunset. However, the village opens around 10:00 am and you can hang out till 10 in the night.

Delhi Darshan Tour Route 3

• Old Delhi
• Laxmi Narayan Temple
• Rashtrapati Bhawan
• Dilli Haat
• Lunch at Hauz Khas
• Qutub Minar
• Kalkaji Temple
• Akshardham Temple

A Heritage Walk Through the Narrow Alleys of Old Delhi

A heritage walk leads you to the narrow yet ancient alleys of Old Delhi which was formerly known as Shahjahanabad, named after the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan who built it. This walk takes you to the history of the nation, from the invasion of foreign rulers to the struggle of freedom and from the blood-led battles to the sweet and chaotic yet peaceful city now. This is a journey that showcases the worn-out havelis and homes with Persian doors and jharokhas sticking to its authenticity and history. You also visit the largest Indian mosque, Jama Masjid to witness the excellence of Mughal architecture. And not to forget the delicious breakfast of Paranthe wali gali.

Entry fee for Heritage Walk: No entry fee. The heritage walk is paid wherein it depends on the type and duration of the walk

Timings for Heritage Walk: Morning and Afternoon Heritage Walks are available

Laxmi Narayan Temple – A Tradition of Peace and Serenity

One of the important tourist attractions in Delhi, Laxmi Narayan Temple, also known as the Birla Temple was built by a businessman, J.K. Birla in 1939. The temple is dedicated to Lord Narayana (a form of Lord Vishnu when he is with his consort, Goddess Laxmi). The temple is built in Nagara style of temple architecture and was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi. It is believed he imposed a condition to inaugurate the temple which was to allow people of all castes to enter the premises and worship. Thus, the temple marks an important change in social and religious background of the nation making it an important landmark.

• Entry fee for Laxminarayan Temple: No entry fee
• Timings for Laxminarayan Temple: Monday – Sunday (4:30 am-1:30 pm and 2:30 pm-9:00 pm)

Drive Pass Rashtrapati Bhawan

Drive pass Rashtrapati Bhawan which is the presidential residence of the President of India. Built on the Raisina hills, Rashtrapati Bhawan is located at the western end of Rajpath. Spread over 130 acres, Rashtrapati Bhawan has some of India’s most beautiful gardens.

The famous Mughal Garden opens for public between the months of August and March. Considered to be the largest residence for the single head of a nation in the world, Rashtrapati Bhawan has around 340 rooms. The entire structure reflects the amalgamation of both the Indian and the British style of architecture.

Dilli Haat – A Bazaar Where India Meets!

Dilli Haat is a joint effort of various government bodies to help sustain the rich heritage of the country along with the talented artisans of India. The haat represents the entire country under one roof. Visitors can spot various handicrafts and handlooms brought from every corner of the country. It helps the needy artisans and enables them to showcase their talent and earn enough remuneration in exchange for their art. This colourful bazaar is also a major hotspot for foodies as it offers different cuisines of the states ranging from momos of Sikkim and bamboo chicken of Nagaland to Amritsari Naan of Punjab to dhokla of Gujarat. It is an ideal hub for home decor including rugs, curtains, furniture and paintings.

Entry fee for Dilli Haat: INR 30 for Indian citizens, INR 100 for foreign internationals

Timings for Dilli Haat: Monday – Sunday (10:30 am to 10:00 pm)

Devour Lunch at Hauz Khas

While roaming the national capital, you will come across the delicious cuisines and local street food of the city. We take you to the social hub of Delhi, Hauz Khas Village, where trendy restaurants and cute cafes attract you for a cup of coffee or a delicious serving of pasta. Lined with clubs, bars and cafes, Hauz Khas is a popular hanging spot for the youth. Tourists who wish to explore the nightlife and party culture of the city can visit Hauz Khas. Devour a scrumptious lunch at one of the best restaurants at Hauz Khas.

• Entry fee for Hauz Khas: No entry fee
• Timings for Hauz Khas: The village opens around 10:00 am and you can hang out till 10 in the night.

Qutub Minar – A Minaret of Victory to the Glorious times

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Qutub Minar is one of the oldest remaining monuments in India. Commissioned by Qutub al-Din Aibak in 1192, the famous historic building in Delhi was completed by his successor Iltutmish in 1220.  It is made of red sandstone and marble. An architectural marvel of medieval times, the Qutub Minar has a total of 379 stairs to climb to the top. Entry into the minaret has been banned due to a series of accidents and mishappening such as suicides and stampedes. It is believed that the top of the structure was destroyed by lightning which was further renovated and reconstructed by Firoz Shah Tughlaq. Alauddin Khilji commissioned the Alai Minar which is incomplete till date as the construction stopped after the death of the ruler in 1316. Qutub Minar is one of the most-visited monuments of Delhi.

• Entry fee for Qutub Minar: INR 30 for Indian citizens, INR 500 for foreign nationals.
• Timings for Qutub Minar: Monday – Sunday (7:00 am to 5:00 pm)

Kalkaji Temple – Of Great Devotion to the Existence of Faith!

One of the most popular temples in Delhi, the Kalkaji Temple is situated in the southern part of Delhi. The temple dates back to the times of Mahabharata when the Pandavas were establishing Indraprastha. Under the guidance of Lord Krishna and Lord Shiva, the pandavas prayed to Goddess Kali and built a temple in her honour amidst the Aravalli Hills of Delhi. The temple is built with the elements of Tantra in architecture. This ancient temple was renovated and built again by many Indian rulers over the period of time. The temple houses Lord Shiva, in the form of a shivalinga along with the idols of Lord Ganesha, Lord Hanuman and Bhairav Ji.

• Entry fee for Kalkaji Temple: No entry fee
• Timings for Kalkaji Temple: Monday – Sunday (4:00 am to 11:30 pm)

Akshardham Temple – a saga of divinity in the presence of humanity

Akshardham means the ‘divine abode of God’. The temple is a tribute to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and follows the belief that each soul is potentially divine. This architectural marvel honours the traditional style of Hindu architecture with intricately carved sandstone and marble. The temple complex houses around one hundred murtis or idols of Hindu Gods and great sages. The architecture of the complex includes beautiful gardens and artificial water bodies. Akshardham Temple conducts various exhibitions on the rich cultural and religious heritage of the nation.

The three main exhibitions by the temple includes-

• Sahajanand Darshan which is the Hall of Values which teaches the moral values of honesty, unity and peace.
• Neelkanth Darshan is a giant screen theatre showing the journey of a young boy, Neelkanth across the Indian subcontinent.
• Sanskruti Darshan is a twelve-minute boat ride, sailing through the glorifying history of India.

Entry fee for Akshardham Temple: No entry fee
Timings for Akshardham Temple: Monday – Sunday (9:30 am – 8:00 pm)

Delhi has something to offer at every corner or in every alley of its being. The city is vast and cannot be comprehended in a single visit. That is the reason why people, travellers come back to this grand city time and again. It is not only to soak in the rich cultural heritage but to indulge themselves in the city lights at night when the world is peacefully asleep. These routes brought to you are our best suggestions to let you experience the diverse elements of the national capital ranging from history, culture, spirituality and crazy food!

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