Throughout my stay in Delhi we had the opportunity to visit so many beautiful and culturally significant places in different parts of the city. Delhi has so much to offer from bustling bazaarsvto quiet, secluded temples. We had lots on our itinerary however we found that some of the places we visited may not have been worth the stop.
Here’s my straightforward advice on what is absolutely worth the stop and what could be skipped.
– Jama Masijd: Visit –
Jama Masjid is one of the largest and most significant mosques in the country.
What is Jama Masjid?
Built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, the same visionary behind the iconic Taj Mahal, the construction of the Jama Masjid spanned from 1644 to 1656. Its creation involved thousands of artisans and craftsmen, resulting in the red sandstone and white marble. Jama Masjid is adorned with intricate details and delicate carvings. The mosque’s towering minarets and vast courtyard can accommodate over 25,000 worshippers, reflecting the architectural prowess of the Mughal era.
Throughout history, Jama Masjid has endured periods of both glory and adversity. It has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, British colonial rule, and India’s struggle for independence. Despite these challenges, the mosque has remained a symbol of faith, community, and cultural heritage for Muslims in India.
Jama Masjid Today
Today Jama Masjid offers amazing views over New Delhi and is still an Active Mosque so make sure to plan your visit around religious events and activities.
There is a small entrance fee so bring cash, around 300-500 rupees.
Don’t forget to bring sandals, you will have to take off your shoes and, if you are a woman or foreign, you’ll have to wear a covering that they provide there.
– Lotus temple: Pass –
This might be a controversial one but the Lotus Temple was not my favorite place in Delhi.
The Lotus Temple officially known as the Bahá’í House of Worship, is a giant building in the shape of a (you guessed it) Lotus.
What is the Lotus Temple?
The temple was completed in 1986 after years of meticulous planning, design, and construction. Its purpose is to serve as a place of meditation, prayer, and contemplation for people of all faiths, backgrounds, and walks of life. The Bahá’í Faith advocates the harmony of science and religion and seeks to foster unity among diverse cultures and beliefs.
Why I would skip
When we first arrived at the temple we had to enter from a side gate, get patted down, and then walk across a huge span of gardens. It was extremely crowded and in my opinion even more crowded than the Taj Mahal. To get inside you have to walk up lots of stairs and inside there isn’t much to see unless you are there to pray. Honestly going inside just felt intrusive to the locals even though it is allowed.
However, the architecture and gardens were beautiful. The entire building reminds me of the Sydney opera house and is incredibly crafted.
All in all the entire Temple was just as beautiful in the car ride by.
– Qutub Minar: Visit –
This was definitely in my top two for best places in Delhi.
What is Qutub Minar?
Qutub Minar is a Minaret and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, standing at a height of approximately 73 meters (240 feet).
It was initiated by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the first ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, as a symbol of his victory over Hindu rulers. Originally intended to serve as a victory tower, the minaret’s construction came to a halt after Aibak’s death, resulting in an incomplete structure. Other rulers added their own contributions, leading to different layers that reflect the evolution of Delhi’s ruling dynasties.
However, the minaret has also faced multiple earthquakes over the centuries, which led to restoration efforts to preserve its structural integrity.
The Qutub Minar’s distinct architectural style, a fusion of Indo-Islamic influences, is expressed through the carvings of the Quaran which adorn the entire minaret.
Qutub Minar Today
Today the Minaret and many different tombs are preserved throughout this UNESCO word heritage site.
At the base of the Qutub Minar complex lies the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, one of the oldest surviving mosques in India. Surrounding all of this are gardens, ruins, and plenty of things to explore for hours.
– Karol Bagh Hanuman Statue and Temple: Pass –
What is the Karol Bagh Hanuman staute?
This 108-foot statue of Hanuman Mandarin the heart of New Delhi was founded by Mahant Nagababa Sevagir ji Maharaj who told his disciples that the Hindu god Hanuman appeared to him in a dream. He then set out to build a temple to Hanuman in the exact spot where he had this encounter.
Construction began in 1994 and lasted for 13 years until 2006. The sacred flame was brought to the temple from Jwalaji and has burned nonstop ever since the opening of the temple.
Why I would skip
Today this temple is hard not to see as the towering statue of Hanuman looks over New Delhi. At the base of Hanuman’s feet lies a statue of a slain monster with mouth wide open as the entrance to the temple.
Although this entire temple is fascinating it’s situated at an extremely busy intersection and is hard to stop at. You can see this temple perfectly fine from sights around New Delhi and from the car.
– Chandi Chowk: Visit –
This was by far my favorite place we visited in Delhi and one of the biggest markets I’ve ever been to.
What is Chandi Chowk?
The name “Chandni Chowk” translates to “Moonlight Square” or “Silver Square,” most likely referring to its original intention.
It was designed and built by Shah Jahan, the same emperor who commissioned the Taj Mahal, in the mid-17th century.
The street was intended as a major road in the capital city, Shahjahanabad (now known as Old Delhi). Chandni Chowk served as the main street connecting the Red Fort, the imperial residence, to the Fatehpuri Mosque, and it was lined with grand markets, elegant shops, and bustling bazaars.
Chandni Chowk Today
Today, Chandni Chowk is renowned for its eclectic blend of old-world charm and commerce. The narrow lanes, bustling markets, historic landmarks, and vibrant street food stalls continue to attract both locals and tourists. According to our tour guide, most locals consider this area to be “the Real Delhi”.
The best thing we did was take a rickshaw around the entire shopping district and alleys. This gave us the perfect overview and efficient way to see the entire area.
I’ll See you
