Old Fort Purana Qila Delhi

History

Built by the great ruler Sher Shah Suri in the 16th century A.D, the legendaryOld Fort today lies in ruins. The Old Fort or the Purana Qila is also known as the 'Qila-i-kuhna masjid' and has survived the ravages of time. The citadel is a perfect example of Lodi style of architecture. Infact its architecture seems to be a fine blend of the Hindu, Muslim and Afghan style. The fort boasts of awe- inspiring arches and domes along with three double-storied main gates sporting 'chhatris' on its roof top which are found in the north, south and west directions.

The Old Fort is located quite close to Humayun’s Tomb and India Gate. It is believed that the construction of the fort was started by Humayun, one of the greatest rulers of his dynasty. But later on Sher Shah defeated Humayun, took over the citadel and completed the structure. Also there is a small lake near the Old Fort which caters to the boating facilities for the tourists.

The Fort is made up of red sandstone along with the contrast of marbles and the walls of the fort are 18 metres high. The Purana Quila has three majestic gates - The Humayun Darwaza, the Bara Darwaza and the 

Talaqi Darwaza. 

The three gates are double storied and built with red sandstone. The Humayun Darwaza and the Bara Darwaza were the two gates that were only meant for entering the fort. Today only the Bara Darwaza is opened for entry. The Talaqui Darwaza is located to the northern side of the fort and entry was prohibited through the Talaqi Darwaza as the name suggests. Talaqi means ‘forbidden'. 

The Old Fort houses a number of amazing buildings which include Quila Kuhna Masjid and the Sher Mandal. Both were built by Sher Shah in a grand style. The masjid is built in a fusion of marble and sandstone. There is a prayer hall in the masjid and has five doorways with horse shoe shaped arches. 

The Sher Mandal is now an observatory. It was designed for entertainment purpose. The structure and style of the building suggests its architectural magnificence. Once upon a time the Sher Mahal was used by Sher Shah as his own library.

There is a museum at the gate of the Purana Quila which houses important artifacts belonging to the Mughal era. The Old Fort is located at the ancient site of Indraprastha and is believed that there were many instances which were from the Purana Qila in the famous Hindu epic Mahabharata. Potteries have also been found dates back to the days of Mahabharata. The Archeological excavation of the site is proof to the fact that civilization existed here even in 1000 BC. 

This old yet wonderful fort has been a witness to some of the greatest events in the history of India. A visit to the imposing and inspiring Purana Qila should be on your itinerary.

You must not miss the Sound and Light Show at the Old Fort. The show presents the history of the Delhi Old Fort which dates back to 5000 years. The most amazing part is that the nine pools of water come alive in the light which is captivating!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Delhi is between October and March, when the weather is very pleasant. Most cultural events take place in winter and Delhi is socially very active. By February the flowers are in bloom and the city is really quite pretty then. Summers are searing hot and dry, so do come prepared for the weather.

Trivia

It is believed that Sher Shah could not complete the construction of the Old Fort and it was finished by Humayun. Thus, the well known gate of the fort which is the southern gate is known as Humayun Darwaza.

Timing

You can visit the Old Fort all year round but be sure of the opening and the closing time. The Fort is open on all days of the week from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

India Gate Delhi

india gate, Delhi, India

India Gate, primarily a memorial to the Unknown Soldier was Designed by Lutyens. The 42 metre high structure is a war memorial in honour of the soldiers who died during the world war. The impressive structure from where stretch massive lush green lawns has an eternal flame (Amar Jawan Jyoti) to honour the memory of the unknown soldiers. India Gate prominently located in the vicinity of Rastrapati Bhavan is a major crowd puller during the hot summer evenings of Delhi by virtue of its lush green lawns. 

India Gate of Delhi is a 42 meter high gateway situated at Rajpath, New Delhi. Also famous as the 'All India War Memorial', the India Gate was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, who designed the New Delhi city. The base stone of India Gate of Delhi was laid by the Duke of Connaught. The structure of India Gate of Delhi was completed in February 1921.

India Gate in Delhi at nearby is a famous recreation for the local people of Delhi in summer evenings and accepted picnic spot in winter months. The trendy India Gate of Delhi is situated at the heart of the capital, and easily accessible by the tourists. India Gate of Delhi lies at the east end of Janpath that leads to the Rashtrapati Bhawan.

india gate, Delhi, India

India Gate of Delhi presents a variety of entertainment. The whole day can be spent by watching monkey presentation, riding a camel, viewing the soap bubbles that is blown all over the lawns of the India gate of Delhi, playing with balloons and more. In the evening, India Gate of Delhi is busy with evening walkers as well as tourists and movable vendors. You can feel the classic Indian fast foods, 'fruit chaat', 'bhelpuri', 'chana jor garam', 'dal ka pakodas', aerated drinks from the arcade of vendors stationed there.

India Gate of Delhi is a majestic high arch, 42 meters high, built as a memorial to the Indian soldiers killed in the World War I. Under it burns an eternal flame. From the bottom of the arch one can get a good view of the Rashtrapati Bhawan of Delhi.

india gate, Delhi, India

India Gate, an "Arc-de-Triomphe" likes Archway in the middle of a crossroad. Almost similar to its French counterpart war memorial. It commemorates the 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during the World War and bears the names of more than 13,516 British and Indian soldiers killed in the Northwestern Frontier in the Afghan war of 1919. 

The foundation stone was laid by His Royal Highness, the Duke of Connaught in 1921 and was designed by Edwin Lutyens. The monument was dedicated to the nation 10 years later by the then Viceroy, Lord Irwin. Another memorial, Amar Jawan Jyoti was added much later, after India got its freedom. It is in the form of a flame that burns day and night under the arch to remind the nation of soldiers who laid down their lives in the Indo-Pakistan War of December 1971. 

india gate, Delhi, India

The entire arch stands on a low base of red Bharatpur stone and rises in stages to a huge molding, beneath, which are inscribed Imperial sons. Above on both sides is inscribed INDIA, flanked by MCM and to the right, XIX. The shallow domed bowl at the top was intended to be filled with burning oil on anniversaries but this is rarely done. 

Surrounding the imposing structure is a large expanse of lush green lawns, which is a popular picnic spot. One can see hoards of people moving about the brightly lit area and on the lawns on summer evenings. 

This solemn monument was built in memory of the 90,000 Indian soldiers who died in World War I. It was built in 1931, designed by Lutyens, and was originally called the All India War Memorial. The names of the soldiers are inscribed on the walls of the arc of the gate. Later in 1971, an eternal flame was lit here in memory of the unknown soldiers who died in the 1971 Indo-Pakistan war. India Gate stands at the end of Rajpath, and is a popular picnic site especially during hot summer evenings. At night, the Gate is brightly lit and the fountains near the Gate are lit with coloured lights. The sight is delightful.

Red Fort, Delhi India

About Red Fort

Red Fort, Delhi India

Red Fort or Lal Quila as it is more popularly known is a masterpiece of architecture and one of the most haunting spots for tourists from both India and abroad. This colossal fort on the banks of the river Yamuna, built by Shahjahan as the citadel of the 17th Century Delhi is a significant link between the past and the present, for it is from here that the prime minister of India addresses the people on the Independence Day (August 15th). 

 Mughal Emperor Shahjahan started construction of the Red Fort in 1638, which was completed in 1648. The fort contains - halls of public and private audience, domed and arched marble palaces, plush private apartments, a mosque and elaborately designed gardens. Even today, the fort continues to be an impressive evidence to Mughal grandeur.

e Architecture

Red Fort's inner view//looking awsome

The Red Fort with thick red sandstone walls, bulging with turrets and bastions is one of the largest and oldest monument in Delhi India. The Fort rises above a wide dry moat in the northeast corner of the original city of Shahjahanabad, now Old Delhi. Its walls extend from 2 kms and vary in height from 18 m on the river side to 33 m on the city side. 

The Fort also houses the Diwan-i-Am or the Hall of Public Audiences where the Emperor would sit and hear complaints of the common folks. The Diwan-i-Khas is the hall of private audiences where the Emperor held private meetings. This hall is made of marble and its centre-piece used to be the Peacock Throne, which was carried away to Iran by Nadir Shah in 1739.

Red Fort, Delhi India

The other attractions within this monument are the Royal Baths or hammams, the Shahi Burj, which used to be Shahjahan's private working area and the Moti Masjid or the Pearl Mosque, built by Aurangzeb for his personal use. The Rang Mahal or the "Palace of Colours" housed the Emperor's wives and mistresses. This palace was crowned with gilded turrets, delicately painted and decorated with an intricate mosaic of mirrors, and a ceiling overlaid with gold and silver that was reflected in a central pool in the marble floor.

The Iron Pillar at Delhi India

The Iron Pillar, Delhi India

The Delhi iron pillar is testimony to the high level of skill achieved by ancient Indian iron smiths in the extraction and processing of iron. The iron pillar at Delhi has attracted the attention of archaeologists and corrosion technologists as it has withstood corrosion for the last 1600 years. The several theories which have been proposed to explain its superior corrosion resistance can be broadly classified into two categories: the environmental and the material theories. Proponents of the environmental theories state that the mild climate of Delhi is responsible for the corrosion resistance of the Delhi iron pillar. It is known that the relative humidity at Delhi does not exceed 70% for significant periods of time in the year, which therefore results in very mild corrosion of the pillar.

On the other hand, several investigators have stressed the importance of the material of construction as the primary cause for the pillar's corrosion resistance. The ideas proposed in this regard are the relatively pure composition of the iron used, presence of Phosphorus (P) and absence of Sulphur/Magnesium in the iron, its slag-enveloped metal grain structure, and passivity enhancement in the presence of slag particles.

Other theories to explain the corrosion resistance are also to be found in the literature like the mass metal effect, initial exposure to an alkaline and ammoniacal environment, residual stresses resulting from the surface finishing operation, freedom from sulphur contamination both in the metal and in the air, and surface coatings provided to the pillar after manufacture (barffing and slag coating) and during use (coating with clarified butter).

The Iron Pillar, Delhi India

That the material of construction may be the important factor in determining the corrosion resistance of ancient Indian iron is attested by the presence of ancient massive iron objects located in areas where the relative humidity is high for significant periods in the year (for example, the iron beams in the Surya temple at Konarak in coastal Orissa and the iron pillar at Mookambika temple at Kollur situated in the Kodachadri Hills on the western coast). It is, therefore, obvious that the ancient Indians, especially from the time of the Guptas (300-500 AD), produced iron that was capable of withstanding corrosion. This is primarily due to the high P content of the iron produced during these times. The addition of P was intentional as iron produced during earlier times does not show the presence of P.

To understand the precise reason for the corrosion resistance of the Delhi iron pillar, we analysed the composition of the rust on a Gupta period corrosion resistant iron clamp and also the rust on the Delhi iron pillar. Archaeometallurgical studies form a small component of our research activities. It is clear that referring to the Delhi iron pillar as rust-less is misleading as the iron pillar derives its corrosion resistance from the passive surface film (i.e. rust) that forms on the surface. We undertook a detailed rust analysis using modern sophisticated characterization techniques like Mössbauer spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). We summarize below some of the exciting results of our study. The present study also provides valuable insight into the corrosion resistance of steels.

Microstructure

The Iron Pillar, Delhi India

The microstructure of the iron of the Delhi iron pillar is typical of wrought iron. Iron was produced in ancient times by solid-state reduction of iron ore using charcoal and after the reduction process, the slag particles in iron were squeezed out by hammering. This invariably resulted in the presence of slag particles and unreduced iron oxide in the microstructure. We have earlier shown by theoretical mixed potential analysis and experimental potentiodynamic polarization studies (conducted on ancient iron) that the presence of slag particles could enhance passivity in these ancient irons containing P. However, the role of P in the passivation process was not understood. The characterization of the Delhi iron pillar rust has provided clear ideas about the passive film formation process on the Delhi iron pillar.

Rust Analysis

The FTIR spectrum proved the presence of g-FeOOH, a-FeOOH and d-FeOOH. The d-FeOOH was the major component of the rust as the peak was of relatively larger height compared to the others. An interesting result from the FTIR spectrum was that there was a distinct signal from the phase FePO4.2H2O and the shoulder from this phase was also identifiable. Therefore, the results of the FTIR study indicated that the constituents of the scale were g, a and d-FeOOH, in addition to a small amount of FePO4. In order to further understand the nature of the rust, the Mössbauer spectrum obtained from the rust in the transmission mode was analysed. The presence of g-FeOOH, a-FeOOH and d-FeOOH in superparamagnetic form was confirmed. The very fine particle size of these oxyhydroxides was also confirmed. The presence of iron phosphate was also confirmed. Finally, the rust was also composed of magnetite that was incorporated with some ions.

The Iron Pillar, Delhi India

About Qutub Minar, Delhi-India

Qutub Minar Delhi Tourism

Qutub Minar is the pride of Delhi. The tall minaret was constructed in 1192 byQutab-ud-din Aibak, and later completed by his successor Iltutmish. The soaring conical tower is an exquisite example of Indo-Islamic Afghan architecture.

Qutub Minar is a World Heritage Site and has survived the ravages of time impressively. The Minar of Delhi is surrounded by a lush green garden, which is an ideal leisurely place for visitors. Qutab Minar is the favourite destination of tourists. It is India's most visited monument attracting around 3.9 million visitors every year.

Each of the 5 storeys and tower of Qutub Minar has unique designs.

It was hit by lightening couple of times and was damaged. The subsequent rulers repaired it. Thus it is standing mightily as it was before till date.

Qutab Minar is a great masterpiece of Mughal architecture. The base of the Qutub Minar measures 14.32 meters and the top of the structure measures 2.75 meters. The bird eye's view of Delhi city from the top is amazing. The base of first storey has alternate angular and circular flutings, the second one is round. The third storey of the Qutub Minar has angular flutings. The balconies projecting out heighten the beauty of the Minar.

The tower is so high that around 379 steps are needed to be climbed to reach the top. Another taller tower adjacent to Qutub Minar is named Alai Minar which is somewhat tilted in one direction.

The verses from the holy Qur'an are carved on sandstone walls of Qutub Minar. This monument serves the purpose of calling people for prayer in the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque. This is a tower of victory, a monument that signify the might of Islam, or a tower for keeping a check for defense.

Tourist attractions near Qutub Minar
Qutub Minar has some adjoining structures that lend shine of some of its fame. The Qutub complex houses the iron wonder nearby. The Iron Pillar is one of the metallurgical interests of the world. It is a thing to study as well as famous tourist destination. Traditionally people believe that if anyone standing in front of pillar with his back towards the column can encircle it with their arms, all his wishes will be fulfilled. Government has built a fence around it for safety. An earthquake damaged top two floors of the minar during the rule of Firoz Shah; but was repaired by Firoz Shah himself. He built marble pavilions here. In the year 1505, earthquake again damaged it and was repaired by Sikandar Lodi. Once again the minar faced earthquake in the year 1794, then Major Smith refurbished the affected parts of the minar and replaced Firoz Shah's pavilion with his own pavilion. This pavilion was again removed in the year 1848 by Lord Hardinge. Now it can be seen lying between the Dak Bungalow and the Minar in the garden.Many natural conditions weathered the minar but it is still standing with all the might owing to time to time renovations and reinstated and renovated by the respective rulers.

Qutub Minar, delhi india

Qutub Minar, delhi india

Qutub Minar, delhi india

Qutub Minar Delhi Tourism

History of Delhi

The Indian capital city of Delhi has a long history, including a history as the capital of several empires. The earliest architectural relics date back to the Maurya Period; since then, the site has seen continuous settlement. In 1966, an inscription of the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka was discovered near Srinivaspuri, which is nearNoida. Two sandstone pillars inscribed with the edicts of Ashoka were brought to byFiruz Shah Tughluq in the 14th century. The famous Iron pillar near the Qutub Minar was commissioned by the emperor Kumara Gupta I of the Gupta dynasty (320-540) and transplanted to Delhi during the 10th century. Eight major cities have been situated in the Delhi area. The first five cities were in the southern part of present-day Delhi. Though settlements have been dated to have been taking place in Delhi for millennia, there is no record to stand by that claim. Delhi is generally considered a close to 5000-year old city, as per Ancient Indian text The Mahabharata, since the first ever mention of the city is found in this religious scripture. Therefore, except the scripture, archaeological evidences to book the city's Ancient history are as good as nought. As a result, Delhi's Ancient history finds no records and this period may be regarded as the lost period of its history. Extensive coverage of Delhi's history begins with the onset of the Delhi Sultanatein the 12th century. Since then, Delhi had been the seat of Islamic and British rulers untilIndia's independence in 1947.

The core of Delhi's tangible heritage is Islamic, spanning over 7 centuries of Islamic rule over the city, with some British-styled architectures and zones in Lutyens' Delhi dating to the British rule in India. Whatever records exist of Delhi- in the form of scriptures or archaeological evidences, they crown Delhi as the Capital city of some empire or the other all through, with minor random breaks in between, making Delhi one of the longest serving Capitals and one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world^[1][2]. It is considered to be a city built, destroyed and rebuilt several times, as outsiders who successfully invaded the Indian Subcontinent would ransack the existing capital city in Delhi, and those who came to conquer and stay would be so impressed by the city's strategic location as to make it their capital and rebuild it in their own way.

Historical places of Delhi India

Delhi is a city that bridges two different worlds. Old Delhi, once the capital of Islamic India, is a labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with crumbling havelis and formidable mosques. In contrast, the imperial city of New Delhi created by the British Raj is composed of spacious, tree-lined avenues and imposing government buildings. Delhi has been the seat of power for several rulers and many empires for about a millennium. Many a times the city was built, destroyed and then rebuilt here. Interestingly, a number of Delhi's rulers played a dual role, first as destroyers and then as creators. Delhi is a spacious, open city that houses many government buildings and embassies, apart from places of historical interest. Notable attractions in New Delhi include the Rashtrapati Bhawan, the official residence of the President of India, the India Gate, a memorial raised in honour of the Indian soldiers martyred during the Afghan Wars and World War I, the Laxminarayan Temple, one of the most visited Vaishnavite temples, the Swaminarayan Akshardham temple, the Humayun's Tomb, the Purana Quila, built by Humayun, with later-day modifications by Sher Shah Suri, the Tughlaqabad fort, a 14th century fort on the outskirts of the city, the Qutab Minar, built by Qutb-ud-din Aybak of the Slave Dynasty and the lotus-shaped Bahá'í House of Worship.

History of Delhi

The Indian capital city of Delhi has a long history, including a history as the capital of several empires. The earliest architectural relics date back to the Maurya Period; since then, the site has seen continuous settlement. In 1966, an inscription of the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka was discovered near Srinivaspuri, which is nearNoida. Two sandstone pillars inscribed with the edicts of Ashoka were brought to byFiruz Shah Tughluq in the 14th century. The famous Iron pillar near the Qutub Minar was commissioned by the emperor Kumara Gupta I of the Gupta dynasty (320-540) and transplanted to Delhi during the 10th century. Eight major cities have been situated in the Delhi area. The first five cities were in the southern part of present-day Delhi. Though settlements have been dated to have been taking place in Delhi for millennia, there is no record to stand by that claim. Delhi is generally considered a close to 5000-year old city, as per Ancient Indian text The Mahabharata, since the first ever mention of the city is found in this religious scripture. Therefore, except the scripture, archaeological evidences to book the city's Ancient history are as good as nought. As a result, Delhi's Ancient history finds no records and this period may be regarded as the lost period of its history. Extensive coverage of Delhi's history begins with the onset of the Delhi Sultanatein the 12th century. Since then, Delhi had been the seat of Islamic and British rulers untilIndia's independence in 1947.

The core of Delhi's tangible heritage is Islamic, spanning over 7 centuries of Islamic rule over the city, with some British-styled architectures and zones in Lutyens' Delhi dating to the British rule in India. Whatever records exist of Delhi- in the form of scriptures or archaeological evidences, they crown Delhi as the Capital city of some empire or the other all through, with minor random breaks in between, making Delhi one of the longest serving Capitals and one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world^[1][2]. It is considered to be a city built, destroyed and rebuilt several times, as outsiders who successfully invaded the Indian Subcontinent would ransack the existing capital city in Delhi, and those who came to conquer and stay would be so impressed by the city's strategic location as to make it their capital and rebuild it in their own way.

Qutub Minar

About 15 km south of Delhi, in Mehrauli, this 238 feet and 1 inch high Minar has been referred to as "one of the wonders of world". This soaring tower of victory was built immediately after the defeat of the last Hindu Kingdom in Delhi. Qutb-ud-din Aibak laid its foundation in 1200 A.D. Iltutmish added three more storeys. After damaged by lightning in 1368 A.D. Firuz Shah Tughlaq rebuilt the fourth story, added the fifth and a harp shaped cupola. A doorway in each storey opens to its own balcony. As of now, upper storeys are closed for visitors, yet its a treat to watch this magnificent travelmasti monument. Quwwat-ul-Islam Masjid, Iron Pillar and Alai Gateway are worth having a look.


Iron Pillar

This is age old pillar standing in the courtyard of Quwwat-ul-Isam mosque has withstood the test of time (weather) for over 1500 years. This 2 ft high Pillar is a solid shaft of wrought iron and as per a Sanskrit inscription was erected outside a Vishnu temple, possibly in Bihar in the memory of the Gupta King Chandragupta II Vikramaditya (375-413 A.D.). It is said that if someone standing with his/her back to pillar encircle it with his/her arms, his/her wish will be granted.



Red Fort

Built in almost 20 years (1639-1648), by the Mughal monarch Shahjahan, who shifted his capital from Agra to Delhi had a great significance in historical delhi. Built at a cost of Rs 100 lakhs, this imposing building in redstone has its walls that vary in height from 18 m on river (Yamuna) side to 33 m on the city side. Of the two gates, Lahore Gate and Delhi Gate, the former facing the Chandni Chowk is more imposing. The Lahore Gate faces to Lahore (now in Pakistan) and gives access to Chhatta Chowk (the vaulted arcade). Of the prime attractions in the fort are Diwan-i-Am (the Hall of Public Audiences), Diwan-I-Khas (the Hall of Private Audiences), Royal Baths, Shahi Burj, Moti Masjid (built by Aurangzeb in 1659), Khas Mahal, Rang Mahal, Mumtaz Mahal and Svatantrata Sangram Sangrahalaya. It was in the Diwan-i-Am, wherein a marble dias is said to have supported the famous Peacock throne of Shahajahan which was valued at some six million sterling and alas (!) was taken away by Nadir Shah when he looted Delhi in 1739. Do check about the timings of a Sound and Light show, held every evening.



India Gate (All India War Memorial)

This 42 metre high, free standing arch, designed by Lutyens and founded on February 10 1921 by the Duke of Connaught, commemorates the 70,000 Indian soldiers who died during World War I. "Amar Jawan Jyoti", another memorial, added under the arch in 1971 is the nation's tribute to Indian Jawans, who laid their lives during Indo-Pak War of 1971. The names of the demised soul (soldiers) are inscribed all along the walls of the arch.


Old Fort (Purana Qila)Historical Places

Constructed on the historical site of Indraprastha by Mughal emperor Humayun and Sher Shah, the fort has a circuit of about a mile. Rectangular in shape, it houses the famous Sher Mandal and Qila-i-Kohna Mosque, built by Sher Shah. Earlier, it was Humayun (1538-1545) who rebuilt Indraprastha and renamed it as Dinpanalh, while Sher Shah who had defeated Humayun named it Shergarh. Sher Mandal, a two storeyed octagonal tower was used by Humayun as library, from where he slipped from its steep stairs and died. Among other attractions are a small archaeological museum, a zoo and a sound and light show held every evening. 



Jantar Mantar

Of the five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur (1699-1743), Jantar Mantar, at Delhi is one of them. (Others were erected at Ujjain, Varanasi, Jaipur and Mathura) Built in 1724, it contains six masonary instruments, the largest one Samrat Yantra (Supreme Instrument) is like a sun dial. Built for observing the movements of the stars and the planets, through these Yantras one can known about the shortest and the longest day of the year, days of the week, months, time and other astronomical data.



Humayun's Tomb

Built in 1565 AD by Haji Begum, the Persian born senior wife of Humayun, this tomb is an important landmark in the history of Indian architecture. Its uniqueness lies in the introduction of certain Persian features, viz the bulbous double dome and surrounding formal gardens. Held as "an Indian interpretation of a Persian conception", this tomb is the general dormitory of so many distinguished personalities of the Mughal dynasty, like Haji Begum, trunk of Dara Shikoh (Shahjahan's son) emperor Jahandar Shah and Frarruksiyar as well as Humayun's barber.



Birla House

It's the place where Mahatma Gandhi was assasinated on January 30,1948. A three foot tall stone memorial has been erected at the site. Moreover, Delete scenes from the Mahatma's life have been painted on the walls and ceilings of the nearby red sandstone portion. 



Parliament House Of India

Designed by Sir Herbert Baker, its foundation was laid by the Duke of Connaught in 1921 and completed in just five years. Located near the Central Secretariat, this marvellous piece of architecture can be admired only from outside due to security reasons. With a diameter of 125 yards and a height of 75 ft.



The City of Siri

The city of Siri was founded by Ala-ud-din Khilji in 1304. Located about 5 km to the north of Qutab Minar, the city is in complete ruins now. However even the remains of few ancient structures and a Baradari in Shahpur Jat is worth having a look.



Tughluqabad

Lying at a distance of about 8 km from Qutab Minar, this third city of Delhi was the site for Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq's (1320) capital, Tughlaqabad. The fort with 13 gateways is located on one of the highest spins of the Ridge. One of the most remarkable ruins in Delhi it has a circuit of about four miles, and is noted for its massive grandeur and sturdy vigour.



Jama Masjid

The largest mosque in India, was built by the great Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Begun in 1644 and completed finally in 1658 at a cost of ten lakhs of rupees, it has three gateways, four angle towers and two 40 m high minarets. Situated on a rocky eminence in Old Delhi on the other side of road to the Red Fort. One of the finest Specimen of Mughal structure, its notable features are its bold treatment in red sandstone inlaid with black and white marble, spacious courts, massive pillars supporting engrailled arches, elegant bulbous domes - all well proportioned with decorative manipulation. Spend some time here for some serious travelmasti pleasures.




Alai Darwaza

The main entrance to the Qutab Minar complex, the Alai Darwaza, was built of red sandstone, by Ala-ud-din Khilji in 1311 A.D. at the southern gate. Considered as a gem of Indo-Islamic structure, this structure made of red sandstone and marble was considered as 'the most beautiful specimen of Pathan architecture' by Commingham.




Ashok Pillars
Firuz Shah Tughlaq brought two Ashokan Pillars from Topara (near Ambala) and Meerut. One was installed at the Firuz Shah Kotla and the other at the ridge. The one at the ridge was broken and then restored and reinstalled on the ridge near the Hindu Rao Hospital.



Amir Khusro's Tomb

One of the most famous poet of Sufi tradition, Khusro lies buried here in the Dargah of Nizamuddin Auliya. Quwwalis and mushairas are held on his annual urs or celebration of death. Music and literature quite dear to Khusro, constitute the most significant feature of his urs that attracts hordes.




Dargah of Nizam-ud-din Auliya

Visited by lakhs of devout pilgrims, the Dargah contains a fine mosque known as Khizan Mosque (a landmark of early Indo-Muslim architectural peculiarities of the Khiljis and Tughlaqs. This Dargah of Nizam-ud-din, fourth in line of the Chisti saints of which Khawaja Muin-ud-din Chisti of Ajmer was the founder, has in its precincts buried famous men and women, including Ghalib, Amir Khusro, Jahanara Begum (daughter of Shahjahan) and emperor Muhammad Shjah.




Dargah of Khwaja Qutab-ud-din Bakhtiyar Kaki

A disciple of Khwaja Chisti of Ajmer, a great Chisti saint of India and a contemporary of Iltutmish, lies buried Bakhtiya Kaki near Qutab Minar in Mehrauli. This structure, the oldest in Delhi and located near the Qutab Minar, was a favourite with later Mughal emperors as their resting place. Phoolwalon ki Sair is a great occasion to be here for travelmasti.



Ghalib's Tomb & Academy

Mirza Asadullah Khan Ghalib the legendary Urdu poet of Delhi lies buried in a superbly chiselled marble tomb. Designed by the famous architect of Hyderabad. Nawab Jang Bahadur, this tomb is located in Nizamuddin area. In 1969, a Ghalib Academy was established nearby, to perpetuate his memory and works.



Firoz Shah Kotla

Firoz Shah Tughlaq, founded the city of Firuzabad, the fifth city of Delhi, in 1354 AD. It's ruins still remain. Originally, it contained eight mosques, three palaces, a hunting box and several inns. However, not much is left now, except some palace walls, remains of a mosque Jama Masjid and the Ashoka Pillar brought from Topara (Ambala). Rest of the ruins were used for the construction of later cities.




Central Secretariat
Designed by Herbert Baker and completed in 1929-30, the north and south Secretariat buildings on the either side of Rajpath are among the greatest office buildings in the world. Each block is surrounded by a dome which is 217 ft. high from the lowest level. Housing the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of External Affairs, these buildings have the best features of modern English School of Architecture as well as more delicate of the traditional Indian forms.




Lodhi Tomb (Lodhi Gardens)

The tombs of Sikandar Lodhi and some others, viz Mohammad Shah (1450). Mubarak Shah (1433) and Ibrahim Lodhi (1526), are located here. The architecture visible here is simple and anstere. Among the other attractions are well kept gardens, Shish Gumbad and Bara Gumbad. The latter was built by Sikander Shah Lodhi in 1494 A.D. and is noted for its lofty dome.




Mughal Gardens
The Mughal Gardens of Rashtrapati Bhawan are a treat for the eyes and open to the public during certain periods of the year. Designed by W R Mustoe, its a fine blend of Mughal and English styles. Small flowering trees, ornamental trees, intricate system of fountains, water channels and tanks are the special features of the garden.



Rashtrapati Bhawan, India

About 400 yards behind the Central Secretariat building lies Lutyen's magisterial Indo-Baroque Rashtrapati Bhavan. Occupying a prominent position opposite the India Gate, this majestic palace once was Viceroy's Palace, but is now the official residence of India's President. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and completed in 1923, it has an area of over 2,10,430 sq ft. One of the largest palaces of the world, it is noted for its courts, stairways and apartments, a Great Durbar Hall and a magnificent dome. With 340 rooms, this structure costed over eight million pounds and can be visited only by special permission. 
 

About India Tourism

verous culture, rich cultural heritage, rich flora & fauna and more over generous people during traveling in this country. India is the seventh largest country in the world by area and with over a billion people it is second only after China in population. If you are planning for holiday or tourism in India then you are have just taken a right step. The country offers you a lot of attractions and interesting places of tourist interest. Being a major tourist destination, the country also offers excellent tourist facilities in forms of various hotels, resorts and guest houses.

India - the land of fascinating tourist destinations is known as Unity in Diversity. On your India tours, you can enjoy unique cultural, natural, regional, religious and geographical diversities. It is India’s diversities which have made it one of the most sought after travel destinations in the world. The country attracts every year a large gathering of tourists through out the entire globe. While in India, you have lots of options for tourism which will help making your holiday in India memorable. Rajasthan - known for rich culture and heritage monuments; Kerala - known for breathtaking beaches & backwaters; Goa - the land of Sun, Sand, Surf & Sea; Kashmir - the Paradise on the Earth; Agra - the Home of Taj Mahal; Himachal Pradesh - one of the most charming & captivating states; etc are some major tourist destinations in the county. These destinations are worth deserving and attract tourists & vacationers from all over the world.

In fact, India has something for every visitor and never fails to lure its visitors. According to Council of World Travel and Tourism, Next 8-10 years India will be a hotspot tourism place in the world. India Tourism offers information on customized tour and travel packagesfor awe-inspiring tourism in India. It also offers valuable information on India tourism and various travel guides for various travel destinations within country.

A Beautiful view of The Tajmahal form Yamuna River

Himchal Pradesh Toursim Point