My backpacking in India started in the city of New Delhi, the nation’s bustling capital. As it holds the biggest population across the country, most of its streets are busy and noisy. Though not as relaxed as its neighboring states in northern India, I can say that it has a couple of interesting sights to see. Here are a few notable places I visited in New Delhi:
1. Jama Masjid Mosque
Islam is a leading religion in India next to Hinduism, thus mosques can be seen throughout the country. The Jama Masjid in New Delhi is considered as one of the largest mosques in India built in 1600s by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, the same person who created the Taj Mahal in Agra, India.
Also read: When in India: My Number One Tip to Enjoy Taj Mahal in Agra
Also read: When in India: My Number One Tip to Enjoy Taj Mahal in Agra
This mosque is made up of marble and sandstone, which gives the dominant reddish color. The exterior and interior architecture of Jama Masjid is such a sight to see.
Entrance fee: INR 300 (for foreigners)
Hours: 7AM to 12PM and 1:30PM to 6:30PM
Note: Women must observe proper attire. The knees and shoulders must not be exposed. Vestiture may be borrowed at the entrance.
2. India Gate
With similar looks to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, the India Gate is a scenic structure in the heart of new Delhi standing 42 meters and is made up of stone. It serves as a memorial to the Indian soldiers who fought for British Army during World War I. Engraved to this gate are over 13,000 names of both Indian and British soldiers.
Around the area is a vast open space and lawn where people usually go on a picnic. It’s best to go here in the afternoon, and possibly stay until nighttime to catch nearby display of lights at the fountain.
Entrance fee: Free
Hours: No closing time
Entrance fee: Free
Hours: No closing time
3. Red Fort Delhi
A historical landmark and a World Heritage Site named by UNESCO, the Red Fort is a complex that primarily served as defense camp back in the day. It was also where the past emperors of the Mughal dynasty used to live at.
Aside from its historical significance, the Red Fort is an important venue during the Independence Day celebrated every August 15 where the Indian flag is being raised to commemorate the first time the flag was hoisted at its Lahori Gate in 1947.
Entrance fee: INR 550 (for foreigners)
Hours: 6AM to 5:30PM
4. Raj Ghat
Mahatma Gandhi is perhaps the most popular leader in India. He is definitely a force to be reckoned with, who led the peaceful movement towards India’s independence from the British. And to commemorate such great act, the Raj Ghat serves as a memorial to him.
A huge black marble is found at the center, which is the exact spot where Mahatma Gandhi’s cremation was performed. However, his ashes aren’t there anymore since, as said, the ashes were distributed to family members and a few were scattered in the Arabian Sea.
Entrance fee: Free
Hours: 6:30AM to 6:00PM
Note: There’s a need to remove footwear upon entrance.
5. Parliament House
The Parliament House is an impression of strong British influence, which adds variety to tourist destination in New Delhi. A notable area in the complex is the dome-shaped Central Hall where the Indian constitution was historically drafted. Other buildings are meant for offices of the Parliament Committee that are still being used today.
There’s also a museum inside that opens from 11AM-5PM. It’s closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Entrance fee: 10 INR (for adults) and free for children
Hours: 11AM-5PM for the museumShellyViajera Travel Blog
