Delhi is the capital territory of India. Delhi became the seat of the British empire and recently finished the 100th year as the capital. Delhi is a city that is known for how ancient and modern times blend seamlessly. Between the history that can be seen in monuments, forts, and tombs to current enhancements like the Metro system, there is much to see. Many tourists visit Delhi to experience the preserved monuments as well as the ancient tombs.
With everything that Delhi has to offer, it’s easy to see why those interested in history flock there.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Delhi is from October to March. The flowers are blooming, the weather is pleasant and the atmosphere is easy to enjoy. For tourists who plan to visit in July, raingear should be packed as this is the wettest month in Delhi. The month of November is the driest month, while January is the coldest.
Tourists should be prepared for very humid weather if visiting from April to July. July starts the monsoon season where the heavy rains bring relief from the humidity.
What To See
With Delhi’s rich history come many architectural treasures that tourists can experience. These fascinating sites are still standing today showcasing the amazing architectural skills of Dehli’s monuments, forts, and tombs.
Qutub Minar
Qutub Complex includes the famous Qutub Minar, which is known as the “victory tower” and soars 73 m-high, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most frequented tourist places in the city. The tower is in Mehrauli and was built after the defeat of the last Hindu kingdom. The tower is one of the oldest in the subcontinent and has five projecting balconies and marks each story. The first three stories are made of red sandstone and the top two are made of marble and sandstone.
Humanyun’s Tomb
Humanyun’s Tomb is more of an extravagant palace than a tomb. This was the last retreat of Mughal Emperor Humayun. Humanyun’s Tomb is one of the best-preserved monuments and is in the eastern part of Delhi. The captivating mausoleum is the first of Mughal architecture in India. Humanyun’s Tomb inspired the construction of the Taj Mahal. Persian architecture was a strong influence on the architecture of the Humanyun’s tomb. Mirak Mirza Ghiyas was of Persian descent and the architect of the building. He constructed the tomb in the center of the Charbagh garden with four main parts separated by walkways or flowing water.
Red Fort (Lal Qila)
Red Fort is one of the most extraordinary palaces in the world. It was home to Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Red Fort was built in an irregular-shaped octagon with two main gates. The two long sides where the gates are located are longer than the six other shorter sides. A water fish-filled ditch surrounds the fort except for on the riverside. The walls of the fort are built out of red sandstone and covered with a series of turrets, domes, balconies, and windows. The towers and kiosks catch the rays of the setting sun leading it to a sight to be seen.
Rashtrapati Bhavan
Rashtrapati Bhaven is a multi-dimensional mansion with amazing architecture. Edwin Landseer Lutyens was the architect of this magnificent building which is the residence of the President of the largest democracy in the world. The mansion was initially built as the British Viceroy’s residence. The mansion consists of four floors and 340 rooms. It was built using 700 million bricks. The dome is superimposed on the structure and is the most eye-catching roof in Delhi.
India Gate
India Gate is also known as Delhi Memorial. It was originally named the All-India War Memorial. This sandstone arch in New Delhi was dedicated to the Undivided India Army that died in the wars fought between 1914 and 1919. The Imperial War Graves Commission (Commonwealth War Graves Commission) ordered the India Gate to be built. Sir Edwin Lutyens was the architect of this memorial and several other war memorials. Tourists are drawn to the India Gate lawns around the monument for a nice evening while eating snack food and enjoying the show of lights. A new monument to honor armed force members killed after 1947 is being constructed at the ‘C’ Hexagon of the India Gate.
Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar consists of five astronomical observatories in northern India. The buildings are unique in form and each is a specialized function for astronomical measurement. Tourists along with architects and artists are drawn to the combinations of large-scale geometric forms.
Where To Stay
Delhi has many options for places to stay while visiting the city. The choices are numerous – 5-star hotels, romantic hotels, or best value hotels.
- LetsBunk Poshtel: A luxury lifestyle hostel starting at $30/night
- Hotel City Star New Delhi: A modern accommodation hotel - starting at $30/night
- Park Inn by Radisson New Delhi IP Extension: A cheaper option to stay at in the city - starting at $86/night
- The Imperial New Delhi: Located right in the heart of the city and has a pool - starting at $259/night
Whether it’s a hostel, a hotel with modern amenities, or less expensive accommodations, Delhi has many options where a tourist can stay. No matter what a traveler chooses, there’s no reason to not plan a visit to Delhi to experience all the historical sights, sounds, and beautiful culture.