60 Second Geography - Delhi

 

New Delhi was built by the British; a fact that is obviously reflected in the architecture. All roads in New Delhi lead to the India Gate which is a memorial to the unknown soldiers who lost their lives in World War I. As you head to Janpath, you'll see many international 5-star hotels, impressive governmental buildings, foreign embassies and museums such as the famous National Museum and the Nehru Museum. New Delhi is also where most international businesses are concentrated and subsequently, the areas surrounding New Delhi have spawned many suburban residential areas. This is quite a contrast to Old Delhi and its crowded, urban life.

Old Delhi is over 2500 years old and was the capital city of the Mughal empire. The City is dominated by the grand bazaar of Chandni Chowk and by the Jama Masjid which is the largest mosque in India. But, once you leave the bustle of the market center, the stillness of the City will take you by surprise. Old Delhi offers some of the most spectacular views of the City (both old and new). While it seems that it is in a neglected state, this should not dissuade you from visiting the "real" India. It still is an excellent place to wander around and breathe in the atmosphere of the old emperor's days.

Some of the major attractions in both New and Old Delhi include:

• Red Fort. This fortress build by the Emperor Shahjahan in 1648 is one of Delhi's most magnificent monuments. The exquisite places inside include Diwan-i-Aam (hall where the public audiences or meeting were held), Diwan-i Khas (or private meeting place for the royals), Rang Mahal (water cooled palace for the royal ladies) and Pearl Mosque. A Sound and Light show that recreates the Red fort's history is held every evening inside the Red Fort.
• Qutub Minarqutub. This minaret, which was built by Qutub-ud-Din Aibek in 1199, and stands at an impressive height of 238 feet high, is one of the major landmarks of Delhi. Although the origin of Qutub Minar is shrouded in controversy, it represents one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in India.
• India Gate. This majestic arch, which is 42 meters high, was built as a memorial in honor of the Indian soldiers who died during the First World War. Beneath this arch burns an eternal flame (Amar Jawan Jyoti) to honor the memory of the unknown soldiers.
• Akshardham Swaminarayan Templeakshardham. The sprawling pink sandstone complex, which is spread over 100 acres, has become an important landmark and tourist attraction in India. This grand complex, which was opened in November 2005, brilliantly showcases the grandeur and essence of India's ancient architecture, traditions and timeless spiritual messages.
• Humayun's Tomb. This 16th century tomb was built in the center of a well - planned garden by Haji Begum, the wife of the Mughal emperor Humanyun. This tomb, which is constructed of white marble and red sand stone, is believed to be the architectural predecessor to the famed Taj Mahal in Agra.
• Old Fort or Purana Quila. This walled fort, which is currently in ruins, was constructed by the emperors Sher Shah Suri and Humayun between 1538 to 1545 A. D. It is believed to be at the same site, where Indraprastha, the capital of the Pandavas in 1000 B.C. was located. The fort has three entrances and the only entrance open to the public is the Bara Darwaza. Inside the fort there is a mosque with a two-storied octagonal tower. The Mughal King Humayun is believed to have died by falling accidentally from this tower.

What are you waiting for? Contact The Little Travel Consultant and learn the secrets of Old and New Delhi.