Friday 24 July 2015

Dilli dilwalon ki (Delhiites have great hearts)


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Things to do in Delhi

Things to do in Delhi

Delhi, the capital of India is also a starting point to various traveling excursions. People often tend to overload their list of things to do in Delhi with almost every must-see places. But what they are not aware of is that hyped destinations come with its own cons as well such as – overwhelming tourists, traffic, timings and many more hurdles.
There is an array of things to do in Delhi. You can take a trip to all historical places of Delhi.For shopping lovers, this place is certainly a heaven and well for food lovers – welcome to street food capital of India.
So, while you plan your next Delhi trip, we intend to shed off your extra load. Below are compiled some of the best things to do in Delhi, from historical to spiritual to just a hangout point; we have everything ready for you!

1. Morning Walk in Lodhi Gardens

Image Credits - rachaelvoorhees (flickr)
Nested in the heart of the city, Lodhi Gardens is the best place to begin your Delhi mornings. Breathe in some fresh air while strolling through the expansive greenery. Admire the royal tombs and ancient verandas that adorn this beautiful heritage of Delhi. Mesmerize in the morning beauty and calm serenity of this famous tourist destination in Delhi.
Take a break from the routine life and visit this not-so-common garden! Walk on the beautiful pathways, relax in the beautiful greenery and explore this magical place with your kids. Wrap up this fun experience by a lip-smacking breakfast within the vicinity. Give a perfect start to your Delhi trip!
How to Reach: Metro – Khan Market – Walk/Auto
Timings: Daylight
Price: Free

2. Delhi cycling Trip

Out of all things to do in Delhi, cycling throughout beautiful and hidden lanes of this magical city is something you surely don’t afford to miss! Ride through colorful streets, indulge in various enchanting sights and smell of the place. Paddle your way through stunning streets of Delhi that hold some unsolved mysteries and unsaid stories!
The best thing about this cycling trip is that you can halt your ride wherever you wish. So, if you are not able to resist that spicy smell while riding through ParanthaGali, just take a break and dig into your desired food. Learn more about Delhi – ride through the past and present, enthrall yourself! Chose from various cycling tours as enlisted below:
  • New Delhi Guided Tour: Get ready unravel the hidden treasures of ‘Dilli’. Know more about the capital of India, visit famous ancient as well as modern hot-spots of this magical place. Travel through well-famed hot spots all around the city.
  • Shah Jahan Bicycle tour: Shah Jahan Bicycle tour, Old Delhi is an engrossing experience that provides you short exhilarating glimpses of the Mughal life! Admire the grand expanse of Mughal Ruler Shahjahan’s1500 capital - Shahjahanabad. Paddle your way through this old city making its way into the modern Delhi.
  • Yamuna Bicycle tour: Kick-start your trip from little lanes of Shahjahanabad, this is one part of Delhi that still seems to breathe back in medical period. Paddling your way through the banks of the river, make your way to NigambodhGhat, a quaint land, away from the hum-drums of Delhi life.

3. Akshardham Temple

Image Credits - Russ Bowling (flickr)
While in Delhi – do not miss the opportunity of visiting the World’s largest comprehensive Hindu temple – Akshardham. Amongst all other things to do in Delhi, visiting Akshardham is one activity that needs a prior planning. It is always advisable to visit early, owing to its popularity and overwhelming crowd. Also, once you have stepped inside you will be immersed with the feeling of staying in this beautiful place forever, so it is advisable to visit early so that you can have a thorough tour of the place.
This temple is an experience of its own kind – admire the ancient architecture of the temple. Its colossal structure will certainly leave you spell-bounded. Also, Akshardham is an epitome of India as within the temple you can delight in multiple journeys like a film projection on Discover India and a Cultural Boat Ride that imparts you knowledge as well as pride in being an Indian. Moreover, there are various weekend getaways  near delhi to visit with your family and friends.
How to Reach: Metro – Akshardham – Walk/Auto
Timings: Daylight, Monday (Closed)
Price: Free

4. Qawwali’s at Nizammuddin Dargah

Image Source - Gaurav Sharma (flickr)
Indulge in a spiritual experience of a total different kind! Amid all spiritual things to do in Delhi, delight yourself in this spiritual experience that uses music as the medium to talk to God. Get enchanted by Qawwali’s which a beautiful fusion of devotional poetry and music. Connect with God, with this ancient method of prayers. More than praying this is a form of meditation that not only soothes your soul but is also pleasant to hear
Performed every evening, enthrall in gripping Qawwali session at almost all shrines in this region. NizamuddinDargah is the well acclaimed worldwide for its famous Sufi saints – spend some quality time while meditating with these soothing Qawwali’s.
How to Reach: Metro –Nizammuddin– Walk/Auto
Timings: Daylight, mostly on Thursday
Price: Evening

5. Lotus Temple

Image Credits - Mithi Dey (flickr)
Lotus Temple and Delhi are synonyms to each other! Designed in the shape of a lotus, this stunning temple has 27 flower petals constructed from marble stone. This gorgeous temple is dedicated to Baha’i faith but is open to people of all religions. Admire the stunning architecture of this gorgeous temple which holds the reputation of a prominrnt landmark for the city of Delhi.
Not just a worshipping ground but this grand landmark is ‘Must-see’ place while in Delhi. Sit, relax and feel the silence surrounding you. Walk through beautiful manicured gardens, delight in the placid environs of this mystical place.
How to Reach: Metro – KalkajiMandir Station - Walk
Timings: Tuesday – Sunday (09:00AM -07:00PM), Monday (Closed)
Price: Free

6. HauzKhas Complex

Image Source -  Urmimala Singh (flickr)
HuazKhas Complex is an assemblage of beautiful wrecks which includes a mosque, tombs and various ancient water reservoirs. What initially served as rainwater reservoir has now transformed into a common ‘hang-out’ place especially for college kids. Take a break from normal –traditional restaurants and spend some amazing moments with friends and family in this quite place.
What’s more impressing about this quaint is that HauzKhas village located in the entrance is a hot-shot shopping place – one of the most favorite things to do in Delhi. Enthrall in the placis beauty in the day-time while as the night comes you can hit any lounge or restraint as this place has much to offer than your expectations.
How to Reach: Metro – Green Park Station – Auto/Rickshaw
Timings: HauzKhas Complex (Daylight), HauzKhas Village (Daylight- Night)
Price: HauzKhas Complex (Free)

7. India Gate

Image Credits - Kai Dietrich (flickr)
There are something’s about a place that you just cannot miss while being there! One such place in Delhi is India Gate. A walk through this grand heritage of India is one sure thing to do in Delhi. Salute to the brave martyrs who sacrificed their lives just to protect us.
After spending some proud moments under this 42m tall monument, take a walk through lush-green park, you can sit and relax – as per your convenience. Considering the relevance of India Gate, it is a bit crowded here and you might also face overly pushy sellers. But the serenity that you feel while standing in front of ‘Amar-JawanJyoti’ is certainly one proud feeling that only an Indian can feel.
How to Reach: Metro – Central Secretariat – Auto/Rickshaw/Walk
Timings: Daylight
Price: Free

8. Gandhi Smriti

Image Credits - Iwaylphotography (flickr)
Amongst various historical things to do in Delgi – visiting Gandhi Smriti is one tour that you should not miss! This iconic Smriti is built right where the father of nation got shot. This calm place still seems to hold the message of Bapu, feel the utter soothing silence while here.
Pay your tributes to this holy figure who spent his entire life for our freedom. A knowledgeable trip, while here spend some time in viewing the wide collection of photographs, sculptures and paintings that adore his room. Know more about his struggles and pre-independence era through a multimedia film played here every day. In addition, there are so many various other popular places to visit in delhi along with your near and dear ones.
How to Reach: Metro –Race Course – Auto/Rickshaw/Walk
Timings: Daylight, Monday (Closed)
Price: Free

9. Garden of Five Senses

This is one of the most relaxing things to do around Delhi. The garden of five senses is not – so-common park. Sprawling across a 20acre land this piece of paradise is located right in the center of the city. A walk through the garden is a meditation of its own kind, relax in its calm vicinity with family and friends.
While here you will also witness some unique art structures such as metal cut birds, stone cut elephants and uniquely shaped gardens. Well, one complete walk of the garden is certainly a tiring job but if you have some mouthwatering food courts arranged within the vicinity, all the endeavors feel fruitful. Explore yourself in the lap of nature while here.
How to Reach: Metro – Saket – Auto/Rickshaw
Timings: Daylight
Price: 20 ₹

10. Humayun Tomb

Image Credits - Arian Zwegers (flickr)
Humayun Tomb, the shrine of late Mughal Emperor Humayun is a Persian styled tomb which now forms an inevitable part of the Indian Heritage. Admire the stunning architecture of this quaint, delight in the lush-green gardens surrounding the tomb.
While here, take a walk to a small museum located right at the entrance. Walk around this gorgeous masterpiece that seems to still sing about the life of its royalty. Learn more about the Mughal rule in India by including this historical place in your list of things to do in Delhi.
How to Reach: Metro –Khan Market – Auto/Rickshaw
Timings: Daylight
Price: 250 ₹

11. Qutub Minar

QutubMinar, the Indian version of the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a 1000year old minaret around 72.5m high. Also, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, this honored landmark of Delhi is amongst one historical things to do in Delhi. Visit this stunning piece of architecture that is not only unique but first of its kind.
Delight under the towering glory of this beautiful ruin that still seems to sing the tale of the Mughal Empire in India. While in Delhi sip in the glory of this magnificent monument, admire the ruined arches and walls that further add glory to QutubMinar.
How to Reach: Metro – QutubMinar – Auto/Rickshaw/Walk
Timings: Daylight
Price: 250 ₹

12. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

Image Credits - Wikimedia 
Nested in the heart of Connaught Place, this Sikh worship center was once the residence of Mirza Raja Jai Singh, which is why it is named as Bangla Sahib. Spend some quite moments in this holy place with friends and family. Feel the soothing calmness of the place, spend some moments in silence while sitting in this beautiful abode of God.

It is believed that during the reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, the Gurudwara saved scores of residents during epidemic. Feel the serenity of this place while in this abode of peace. After some quality moment here seek the almighty’s blessings in the form of ‘Langar’ a common meal that was initiated by Waheguru.

How to Reach: Metro –Rajiv Chawk– Auto/Rickshaw/Walk
Timings: Daylight
Price: Free

13. ChandniChowk and Chawri Bazar

A chaotic setting of some of the finest products in the World, well, that is only how you can describe this market in Old Delhi. No matter what you are looking for – food, cloth, jewelry, spices; this market just has it all. Chandnichowk is certainly the heartbeat of Delhi, learn more about how this city made its way from hidden streets to luxuriant malls and shopping plazas.
It might be old – it might appear as if wrapped under the weight of modern and New Delhi but this chaotic market is on what entire Delhi runs. While in its dense lanes get ready to be enthralled with tangy smell of spices, delicious aroma of wide variety of street food and of course the constant shouting of the vendors pulling you inside their shops is something that you just can’t ignore. Take a break from mall-life and get going in this old styled market.
How to Reach: Metro – Chawri Bazar
Timings: Day and Night

14. Spice Market

Image Credits - Moonage Daydreamer (flickr)
Do you know that the largest spice market in Asia is located in Delhi? Well amongst all Delhi things to do, this is one sight-seeing activity that is fun of a completely different type. Take a walk through colorful hidden streets of ‘Dilli’ lying under the wraps of ‘Delhi’. It might be famous for its wide variety of spices, nut apart from this you can actually get almost everything in this small street.
Feel the aroma of various spices proudly thronging this market throughout. From spices to rich variety of dry fruits- you will get everything here. Indian weddings area festival of their own and well this is certainly one of the most favorite wedding shopping destination for food items. Walk into the spice hub of Delhi!
How to Reach: Metro – ChandniChowk – Walk/Auto/ Richskaw
Timings: Day and Night

15. DilliHaat

A clean and systematic market that is an absolute contrast to the otherwise topsy-turvy market of ChandniChowk – Welcome to DilliHaat, a handicraft destination for one and all. This market is amongst the perfect things to do around Delhi with kids. Learn more about the tradional art and crafts of different areas, know more about specialty of each state and finally spend some good amount of time in picking something that you think would adorn your house the most.
For people who are more inclined towards handicraft and souvenirs shopping, well, this place is certainly your paradise. While for food lovers, delight yourself in cuisine from different states. Well the options are in abundance – enthrall in an outdoor shopping experience like never before.
How to Reach: Metro – INA – Walk
Timings: Day and Night

16. Connaught Place

Image Credits -  Wikimedia
Whether shopping or dining or just a lazy stroll - Connaught place is a typical Delhi thing to do, while in this magical place. The long array of roundabouts with arched white pillars on the sides provide you a feeling of visiting some European country. Even if you do not wish to sit or halt at any shop, you can simply enthrall in a long walk under this pillared market that is absolutely beautiful.
One remarkable thing about this market is that it’s fit for all kind of people. Fancy restaurants   and in between hawkers on road provide you with a balanced experience. Delight in a lazy walk around the market, if you wish to fully explore the place – you can also chose to visit the underground market ‘Palika Bazaar’ and roadside market ‘Janpath’, one market which is well acclaimed for replicate items of branded materials. Well, for a full-filling dose of this market you would ecrtianly require ample time and loaded wallet. Incrementally, even one can visit numerous hill stations near delhi along with your friends and family.
How to Reach: Metro – Rajiv Ch0wk– Walk
Timings: Day and Night (10:00AM – 11:00PM)

17. The National Zoological Park

If you always though that Delhi is all about historical places, shopping and people – rethink! The National Zoological Park is one enthralling thing to do around Delhi.  The park authorities along with the efforts of government have come together to create perfect conditions to give these exotic wildlife species an ideal ‘happy home’ comfort. Spend some quality time with friends or family while watching these beautiful diversified species living happily under one roof with each other.
Watch these happy animals living comfortable in this much-alike natural habitat. Delight in some engrossing photography and sight-seeing session while roaming around this zoological park.
How to Reach: Metro – PragatiMaidan – Auto/Rickshaw/Walk
Timings: Daylight
Price: 10 ₹

18. Kingdom of Dreams

Image Credits -  Wikimedia
If you are done with all hot-spots and suggested things to do in New Delhi, then head straight to Kingdom of Dreams. This imaginative theme park located on the suburbs of Gurgaon is one stop to witness art, culture, cuisine and heritage of India. An innovative concept – new to India, enthrall in a Disneyland-type experience while touring this off-beat destination in Delhi.
Delight yourself in two remarkable Bollywood shows – Zangoora and Jhumroo, while the former is a grand music show, latter, however, is a modern-day musical comedy. Choose from wide options of leisure activities available.
How to Reach: Metro – IffcoChawk – Auto/Rickshaw/Walk
Timings: Evening
Price: Depends on show selected

19. Kunzum Travel Café

Image Credits -  Wikimedia
For a traveler, meeting like-minded people is part of his journey! Take a break from all traditional things to do in Delhi and take a step forward. Visit Kunzum Travel Café where you are likely to meet many similar-minded wanderers just like you. Relax with people who respect and share similar love for travelling.
Share your travel stories, experiences with others, know more about their travel types and stories. There is no better way to build relationships and connections then by hanging here. Brainstorm on new-innovative travel ideas, you can also participate in various travel and photography workshops held here.
How to Reach: Metro –Green Park Station – Auto/Rickshaw/Walk
Timings: Daylight (Tuesday – closed)
Price: Depends on the activity selected

20. Changing of Guard ceremony

Image Credits -  Wikimedia 
Spend some proud moments in RashtrapatiBhawan, spend some proud moments while witnessing guard ceremony held on the forecourt of Presidential residence. This is one official ceremony that is held in almost every influential country of the World.
Considering all security reasons the entrance RashtrapatiBhavan is generally restricted, however, this ceremony is a sneak peek into the Presidential abode. Admire the stunning architecture of this grand building, where the power resides.
How to Reach: Metro –Central Secretariat– Auto/Rickshaw/Walk
Timings: Daylight (Depends on the Season)

21. Go-Karting in Gurgaon

Image Source - Ajay (flickr)
Get ready for a heart racing experience of go karting near Delhi like never before! A go kart is a small four wheeled vehicle designed specifically to be raced in designated tracks.Prep up for one of the most exciting karting experience and satiate your thirst for adventure.
Test your limits, break speed records with other members. Go-karts are specially designed for easy and smooth run on specified tracks. With its flexible tracks and karts, one can easily participate in scores of challenges on the track. After a quick briefing, put on your safety gears and just let your fear fly off. 
How to Reach: Metro –Noida Sector 18 – Auto/Rickshaw/Walk
Timings: Daylight (Depends on the Season)

22. Air Safari

If you are done with exploring all the available adventures on land and water then it is certainly time for you to explore the clear blue sky. Fulfil- your childhood desire of flying like birds. Indulge in this exciting thing to do near Delhi - Air Safari that takes you on a flying tour on the suburbs of Delhi. Enjoy a stunning aerial view of lush-green grasslands and amazing farm houses while gliding in the air.
Experience an exciting Paramotor Flight trip – which is a powered paraglide that operates with the help of an attached motor, harness and a propeller. Fly under the expertise of trained pilots who assure you a fun-packed aerial time. Boost up your adrenaline with a mind-blowing Air Safari
Timings: Daylight (Depends on the Season)
No matter which place you chose to visit first but when it comes to Delhi, one thing is ceratin- this giant city is a fusion of entire India in just one place. Take a walk in the past, learn more about culture of India, delight in the colorful traditions and learn more about India by indulging in various things to do in New Delhi.
So, even if Delhi is not on cards but we are pretty sure with the above mentioned list of things to do in Delhi, you are now completely sorted where you would travel first when visiting the capital. Unravel the hidden treasures of this beautiful city ‘Dilli’.
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