|
Delhi, capital city
of the Federal Republic of India. It is one of India's fastest
growing cities. It has sprawled over the West Bank of the river Yamuna, straddling the river. The city has two distinct parts, Old
Delhi & New Delhi. Delhi is one of the most historic capitals in the
world and two of its monuments- the Qutub Minar and Humayun's Tomb -
have been declared World Heritage Sites. Delhi has some of the
finest museums in the country. Its boutiques and shopping arcades
offer access to a wealth of traditional and contemporary crafts,
from all over the country. New Delhi was proclaimed the capital of
India by the British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens (1869-1944), & is
tree-lined & spacious.
Brief History of
Delhi
Delhi was the focal point for the first war of independence in 1857.
Though the revolt did not reach its desired conclusion, Delhi became
a thorn in the eyes of the British. Not only in ancient times or the
mediaeval period, Delhi has been the center of any activity at all
times. As the Britishers shifted their capital from Calcutta to
Delhi, all the activities during the freedom struggle were directed
towards Delhi. Thus, Delhi also bears the marks of the freedom
struggle. The ultimate goal of the Azad Hind Fauz during the freedom
struggle was to capture Delhi and established Swaraj. The slogan 'Dilli
Chalo' is still used by leaders and political parties when they
oraganise any rally or demonstration. It was the hosting of the
tricolour at Red Fort in Delhi which marked a chapter in the history
of India.
Some of the local
attractions in Delhi
Red Fort : The Red Fort, located by the banks of River Yamuna,
is one
of the most visited and photographed tourist attractions in
Delhi. Built by the Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in the 17th century, it
has a circumference of over 2.2kms. Explore the fort and visit
architectural delights including Naqqar Khana (Drum room), Naubat
Khana (Welcome Room), Diwan-e-Aam (Hall of Public Audience),
Diwan-e-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), Rang Mahal (Palace of
Colors), the Hammam (Bathing Area) and Shah Burj. The fort has two
main entrances - Delhi Gate and Lahore Gate.
Jama Masjid :
Built by the Mughal Emperor Shahjahan, the magnificent Jama Masjid
is also known as 'Masjid-i-Jahan Numa', 'Jahan' means 'World' and
Numa means 'Visible'. Built in 1644,
the mosque has three gateways,
four towers and two minarets that reflect the excellence of Mughal
architectural style.
Qutab Minar :
Visit the highest stone tower in India- Qutub Minar, an
architectural wonder built by Qutubuddin Aibak in 1192 to celebrate
his victory over the Rajputs. It also signifies the birth of the
slave dynasty in India. The Minar is a five-storey building with a
height of 72.5 metres. Within the complex, is the famous Iron
Pillar, which has stood for millennia without rusting.
Lotus Temple : Reputed as the Taj of modern India, it
exhibits a fine example of the excellence of contemporary
architectural style. Built in 1986, it reaches a height of more than
40m. The structure is made of pure white marble in the shape of a
half-opened lotus and is surrounded by delicately manicured lawns.
Dedicated to the oneness of all religions and mankind, its doors are
open to everyone.
Delhi Haat :
The one stop shopping place located just opposite the INA market in
New Delhi, Dilli Haat is a hit place among the admirers of
traditional Indian handicraft. Spread over 6-acre spacious area, it
provides an atmosphere of the traditional market. Here you can shop
for the traditional handcrafted items from the various Indian states
and savor the unique flavors of the delightful local foods.
Appu Ghar :
One of the every few Amusement Parks in India, Appu Ghar offers
exciting games like Roller Coaster, the Big Splash, Dodgem Cars, the
Eerie Tunnel, Giant Wheel and Columbus Jhoola. Here at Oysters, you
can also enjoy ice games like sledding, skiing and ice boating.
|