Central Delhi - 8 Incredible Tourist Attractions in the Heart of Delhi
Updated: May 25
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Much like the vital organ at the core of every living being, Central Delhi serves as the pulsating heart of the capital of Incredible India. With wit and charm, Central Delhi, often dubbed the "Heart of Delhi," represents India to the global stage.
When you glance at the map of Central Delhi, its intricacy may leave you feeling a bit disoriented. The array of options for tourists is vast – from immersing themselves in museums and government buildings to meandering through bustling markets, all while soaking in the lively spirit of Central Delhi. However, I've curated a list of eight must-visit attractions in the Heart of Delhi. Let's embark on this journey.
Central Delhi - 8 Incredible Tourist Attractions in the Heart of Delhi 2. India Gate7. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib8. Parliament House/Sansad Bhavan |
1. Connaught Place (CP)
In 2010, my first Delhi adventure led me to Connaught Place, affectionately known as CP by the locals. I was floored looking at how vibrant this place was. It is a pretty commercial place with its buildings designed in colonial-style architecture. The outer facade of many buildings in CP were and are still painted white, giving it a distinctive and pristine look. It's a bustling shopping destination with an array of restaurants and cafes that add to its allure. I couldn't resist exploring the famous Palika Bazaar, an underground market within CP, where countless small shops offered everything from electronics to clothing. Bargaining skills come in handy here, as you might uncover hidden treasures.
Things to note:
CP hosts a variety of cultural events, art exhibitions, and performances that happen in the galleries situated there. Keep a lookout for the schedule on these events.
Indulge in Delhi's street food delights, especially the golgappas, at one of the many street food vendors in CP.
Take a leisurely stroll through Central Park, enjoying the greenery, fountains, and seating areas.
2. India Gate
Another significant monument I wanted my kids to see in Delhi was the India Gate, alongside the Qutub Minar. I aimed to impart the importance of this war memorial, its historical context, and its role in Republic Day celebrations. They were fascinated since they knew about the Arc De Triomphe in Paris and Barcelona but didn't expect to encounter a similar arch in India.
I am quite certain that this significant monument, a perpetual memorial to 84,000 valiant soldiers of the Indian Army who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation between 1914 and 1921 , is deeply ingrained in the memories of every Indian child who once watched the India's Republic Day parade on television. I also have vivid memories of watching the parade, where spectators lined the sides of the central vista route, enthusiastically cheering the main ceremonial procession. The monument is also often a location for civil society protests. I had always seen the monument gleam under the sunlight, however my visit to this 42-meter-tall oblong monumental archway at night revealed a different and captivating experience. The impressive design of the Amar Jyoti Jawan, featuring a black marble base, a reversed rifle, crowned by a military helmet, and encircled by four urns, each holding a lit torch, evoked a strong sense of patriotism in the surroundings.
Things to take note of:
The India Gate is situated near the Kartavya Path on the eastern edge of New Delhi's ceremonial axis (formerly Rajpath).
This war memorial's walls bear the names of 13,300 servicemen, including some from the United Kingdom.
Beneath its archway lies the Amar Jawan Jyoti (Flame of the Immortal Soldier), guarded 24/7 by the Indian armed forces, serving as India's tomb of the unknown soldier since its inauguration in 1972. This sacred monument commemorates Indian soldiers who gave their lives in the Bangladesh Liberation War of December 1971.
India Gate is one of India's largest war memorials, and it is customary for the Prime Minister to pay tribute at Amar Jawan Jyoti before the commencement of the Republic Day parade every year.
Just behind India Gate in the canopy, the towering 28 feet high and 6 feet wide 3D holographic statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose stands tall, further adding to its allure (inaugurated on 8 September 2022)
The timings for the light show at India Gate is between 07:00 PM and 09:30 PM.
Standing beneath this monument sent shivers down my spine. Its colossal presence in the heart of the capital city serves as a testament to India's pride and the unwavering resilience of its people.
3. National War Memorial
The National War Memorial is located in the heart of New Delhi, near India Gate. This memorial honors the 26,000+ soldiers of the Indian Armed Forces who who sacrificed their lives to defend the sovereignty and integrity of the country in various wars and conflicts. Its location near India Gate makes it easily accessible for visitors. In the evenings, visit the war memorial to experience the illuminated ambiance and witness the Retreat drill, post 6:00 PM ideally. There is no entry ticket.
Opening Times: Mon - Sun - 9 AM to 7:30 PM
Address: Located in India Gate, C - Hexagon, India Gate, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, India
4. Rashtrapati Bhavan
The Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of the world's largest democracy, was opened to the public for guided tours in 2016. The idea was to promote transparency and to showcase the architectural beauty of this historic and iconic building consisting of 340 rooms. It is noted to be one of the biggest palaces in the world, covering a total of 5 acres, and it is built on a 330-acre estate.
The visiting circuits within the facility include the Mughal and colonial-inspired main building housing the forecourt and the premier rooms (2 hours tour), the museum housing the Clock tower, the Stables and the Garages showcasing historical and cultural artefacts of art and heritage (1 hour tour), the grandeur of 12 acres of lush garden Amrit Udyan (2 hours tour) and the Change of Guard which is the President's Body Guard, the senior most regiment of the Indian Army. It is the single best way to experience the India's political heritage and the role of its highest office.
For more information, please visit the website - https://visit.rashtrapatibhavan.gov.in
Good to know: The Change of Guard ceremony, known for its vibrant military precision and grandeur, is usually scheduled for Saturdays and Sundays. It's a good idea to check the schedule, when and how you can watch it before you go. |
5. Jantar Mantar
If you’d read my blog on '20 things to do in Jaipur - Explore the Pink City of Rajasthan', you would’ve read about Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory, built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 5 cities, namely Jaipur, Mathura, Ujjain, Varanasi and New Delhi. Now what could peak the interest of so many tourists and locals to visit this observatory? As simply put, imagine a observatory built approximately 300 years ago wherein it showcases a collection of precise man-made architectural instruments used for measuring time, predicting eclipses, and tracking celestial bodies without any dependence on modern technology. This unique blend of history, science, and artistry is what makes Jantar Mantar a must-visit attraction.
The moment you step into Jantar Mantar, you feel like you’re stepping back in time. The massive stone and marble structures seem like my kid's play room where all Lego structures are placed orderly. Only these structures stand tall and proud, showcasing the brilliance of ancient Indian astronomers and are not just toys. I highly recommend hiring the services of a guide who can explain to you the details of the meticulously designed instruments that are positioned to align with the movements of the sun, moon, and stars. Otherwise you might be pretty clueless!
One of the most fascinating instruments at Jantar Mantar is the Samrat Yantra, also known as the Giant Sundial. This colossal structure is also present in Jaipur Jantar Mantar and measures time with remarkable accuracy, using the shadow cast by the sun. Best to witness its precision when the clock strikes 12 at noon. So plan your visit accordingly. It is said to be the world's largest sundial, and is truly awe-inspiring.
There are many other notable instruments like the Jai Prakash Yantra (to accurately determine the time), the Ram Yantra (to measure the azimuth and altitude of celestial bodies) and so on and so forth that provide an educational experience to adults and kids alike.
We just couldn't believe all these advancements were made in the field of astronomy in the 18th century. Quite impressive isn't it the rich scientific heritage of India ! So, whether you are a history enthusiast, a science lover, or simply someone seeking a unique experience, Jantar Mantar in New Delhi is a must- visit destination.
6. Agrasen ki Baoli
Aiding as a water source for a village in the arid regions of India in the medieval region, baolis or stepwells were primarily constructed with unique engineering techniques with this function in mind. However, when other functional requirements such as a venue for social gatherings, social hubs became more prominent, the baolis or vavs became a popular architectural masterpiece of many kings. One such baoli which is famed and renowned for its intricate carvings and unique design with symmetrical steps is the Agrasen ki Baoli built by Maharaja Agrasen, located in the heart of New Delhi. It is fascinating because one, the stepwell which dates back to the 14th century, is a tranquil escape from the city’s chaos. Second, its symmetrical steps lead to a water reservoir below and visitors can explore the depths of this stepwell. Third, apart from India, while stepwells can also be found in countries like Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Iran, and they may have their architectural differences, it is India's preservation and rich cultural heritage associated with these stepwells that make them truly significant.
Not only does Agrasen ki Baoli attract architecture enthusiasts and history buffs, but it has also caught the fancy of Bollywood. This stepwell's serene ambiance has made it a popular choice for filmmakers seeking an idyllic location. Now apart from architecture enthusiasts and history lovers, you even have the movie buffs and fans visiting Agrasen ki Baoli. Don't just take my word for it, go see it for yourself and be captivated!
7. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
I must admit, there are two aspects of Gurudwaras that I deeply cherish. Firstly, I find solace in the serene and peaceful ambiance they offer. The melodious recitation of Gurbani, the ancient verses of the Guru Granth Sahib, transcends language barriers, bringing warmth to my soul and serenity to my mind as the prayers continue. Secondly, the delectable atte ka halwa prasad served at the conclusion of the prayer session is an absolute delight. However, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib introduced me to a third dimension: the opportunity to take a dip in the Sarovar, a holy water tank within the Gurudwara complex believed to possess healing properties and spiritual significance. This experience evoked cherished childhood memories of visiting places like Talakaveri in Coorg with my parents, where we would immerse ourselves in holy water as a ritual. Don’t these fond memories of the past with your loved ones help you heal from your troubles of today? Something to ponder on.
The Gurudwara Bangla Sahib holds immense significance as a sacred place of worship for Sikhs, drawing devotees from India and around the world who follow the Sikh faith. Additionally, it serves as a prominent tourist destination as well, one that must not be missed if in New Delhi.
Even if you choose not to explore the interior of the Gurudwara, you can still marvel at its architectural grandeur and simplicity, with its gleaming white marble facade and iconic golden dome creating a visually stunning sight. Moreover, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is renowned for its community kitchen, known as the Langar, where volunteers selflessly serve free meals to thousands of visitors every day, regardless of their religion or social status. This noble practice embodies the values of equality, humility, and the spirit of service.
Did you know? Gurudwara Bangla Sahib has historical ties to the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji, who is believed to have resided in the bungalow (Bangla) that once occupied the site where the Gurudwara now stands. |
Address: Ashoka Road, Hanuman Road Area, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, India.
8. Parliament House/Sansad Bhavan
The attack on the Parliament House of India, which occurred on December 13, 2001, had a profound impact on the nation. This significant building, representing India's governance and legislative processes, faced a grave threat. The incident served as a wake-up call for the entire country. The Parliament House, a creation of British architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker, had its foundation stone laid by the Duke of Connaught in 1921, and it was officially inaugurated by Lord and Lady Irwin in 1927. During my visit to Delhi, I was excited to personally witness the grandeur of this iconic structure. The Parliament House is believed to have drawn inspiration from the 11th-century Chausath Yogini Temple in Madhya Pradesh, showcasing a fusion of Portuguese and Indian architectural styles.
Worries about the old Parliament building's stability led Prime Minister Narendra Modi to inaugurate a new one in May 2023. This cool triangular building, part of the Central Vista Redevelopment Project, sits right next to the old one on Sansad Marg. Designed by Ahmedabad-based HCP Planning Private Limited, with Bimal Patel as the chief architect, it may be 10% smaller, but it boasts a Lok Sabha chamber that's three times bigger. The design takes cues from the Peacock for the Lok Sabha and the Lotus for the Rajya Sabha. I've always enjoyed watching parliamentary debates on TV and couldn't wait to soak up the democratic vibe in person. Unfortunately, it’s not open to visitors just yet.
To view the artistic impression video of the New Parliament building, you can view it on this Link.
I couldn't visit the old Parliament House in New Delhi because it's not open to the public without special permissions. I should have done my homework! To enter, you need a special visitor's pass from Parliament security, which is easier to get when the house isn't in session. A parliamentary officer guides visitors through the Rajya Sabha, Lok Sabha, and Central Hall. You can watch live proceedings for up to an hour with these passes, which are color-coded: green for Lok Sabha and maroon for Rajya Sabha. |
I could still appreciate the exterior of the Parliament House and capture photographs from outside the premises. Next time around, I'm going to secure an entry pass through a recommendation from a gazetted officer of the parliament or a Member of Parliament (MP), as its the only way to tour this esteemed legislative institution. I would love exclusive access to the interiors for a more comprehensive experience.
Opening Times: Monday to Friday - 10 AM to 6 PM; Saturday and Sunday are closed.
Visiting times 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except Sundays and Mondays.
Address: J685+V7V, Sansad Marg, Gokul Nagar, Janpath, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, India
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