Delhi is the capital of India, although the role of the main city of the country did not always belong to this place. But at all times it was of no small importance in the history of the state. Archaeological studies claim that the first settlements on the territory of modern Delhi existed more than three thousand years ago. Hindus say that it was at this place that most of the events described in the old poem "Mahabharata" took place. Such sights of Delhi as openwork white-stone buildings, elegant hotels, chic exotic parks remind of a rich past. The city in 1911 became the capital of British India. Today, the entire metropolis is divided into two parts: the fashionable area of New Delhi and Old Delhi.
Lakshmi Narayan
The temple, built of pink and white marble, is one of the most famous architectural monuments located in New Delhi. The temple is called Lakshmi Narayan and it is dedicated to the godsKrishna and Lakshmi. These deities are considered the most popular persons in the religion of the Hindus. Therefore, many attractions in Delhi bear the name of these patrons of family happiness and love.
The building was built at the beginning of the last century. The richest people of India became its financiers, and Mahatma Gandhi was present at the consecration ceremony of the religious building. Those who study the classical culture of India see in the architecture of Lakshmi Narayan a combination of styles that prevailed in different eras. Visitors are always in a festive mood when contemplating this place. This is achieved thanks to the sparkle of gilding and bright colors that are present on the building.
Sikh temple
The Delhi sightseeing map will show tourists all the places to visit while in the Indian capital. So, you should pay attention to the building, located in the very center of the metropolis, on Connaught Place. This is a white marble temple. It is the most visited Sikh cathedral and is called the Gurdwara Bangla Sahib.
Guests of the city easily recognize this object by its onion gilded dome, which is somewhat reminiscent of the golden vaults of Orthodox churches. There is a pond in front of the gurdwara. It is called Sarovar. The locals believe in the sacred and healing power of its water. The temple was built back in 1783, when the Mongol emperor Shah Alam II occupied the throne. The architect was Sardar Bhagel Singh, a Sikh general. Anyone can visit the temple. Only for this it is necessary to fulfill one condition:visits are allowed only with a covered head and bare feet. And before entering, guests can be offered “prasad”. This is such a ritual food made from oil, honey, grain and flour.
Gate to fallen soldiers
India Gate is a monument erected in honor of the fallen Indian soldiers who took part in the First World War and the Anglo-Afghan battles. There is a monument in New Delhi. The author of the project was Edwin Lutyens. The monument was opened in 1931. The monument is made in the form of an arch, which is built of Bharatpur stone. An eternal flame burns at the foot. True, according to the plan, it was supposed to be in a hollow bowl installed on top of the structure. But this project remained only an idea. To see other sights of Delhi, you need to drive a little further than the gate. In the meantime, you can relax in the vast park, which is spread around this architectural masterpiece.
Lal Qila
Lal Qila or the Red Fort is considered the heart of Old Delhi. This monument belongs to the 17th century and is considered the most beautiful and majestic landmark of this period. The monument was created during the reign of Shah Jahan, who was also a Mongol emperor, like Shah Alam II. The red fort is called because of the walls lined with sandstone of the corresponding color. The sights of Delhi (photo and description can be seen in our article) are incredibly interesting. So, in the Red Fort, attention is drawn to its internal structures: a hall for public ceremonies -Diwan-i-Am - and a hall for private imperial meetings - Diwan-i-Khas.
Qutb Minar
After seeing all the above sights of Delhi, take a few more minutes and visit the Qutub Minar tower. This impressive building is incredibly huge. Qutb Minar is also called the Tower of Victory. Its height is almost 73 meters. This most interesting object is masterfully made of red sandstone. The building took 175 years to build. Its author was Qutb-ud-din Aibaku, the first ruler of Islamic origin in India. In order to acquire all the necessary building materials, Aibak had to destroy 27 Jani and Hindu temples. Work began in 1193 and ended only in 1368.
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