Rashtrapati Bhavan :
Rashtrapati Bhavan, home to the President of the world’s largest democracy, is emblematic of Indian democracy and its secular, plural and inclusive traditions.
It was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker and stands on a 330 acre estate. It took seventeen years to build this presidential palace which was completed in the year 1929.
Almost seven hundred million bricks and three million cubic feet of stone were used in building this architectural marvel that has 2.5 kilometers of corridors and 190 acres of garden area.
The main building covers an area of 5 acres and has 340 rooms spread over four floors. The famous Mughal Gardens of the Rashtrapati Bhavan cover an area of 15 acres and have 159 celebrated varieties of roses, 60 varieties of bougainvillea and many other verities of flowers.
The Estate also has a state-of-the-art Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum Complex (RBMC) comprising the Clock Tower, the Stables and the Garages showcasing past as well as current presidencies, the regal ceremonies, and the rich flora and fauna of Rashtrapati Bhavan, amongst other things.
The RBMC was inaugurated by President Pranab Mukherjee on 25th July, 2016. For the convenience of the general public, Delhi Tourism has extended the facility of Ho-Ho Buses to the Rashtrapati Bhavan. "For tourist desirous of visiting Rashtrapati Bhavan, prior online booking may be made."
For more details please visit http://rashtrapatisachivalaya.gov.in/rbtour/
Change of Guard Ceremony at President House ( *Saturdays Only):
Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavan (President house), One of India’s oldest military traditions. Enjoy the fascinating parade, with the elite President’s Body Guard on horseback and the Army Brass Band in full regalia.
Days: *Saturday Only
Bus Departure Timings:
Bus Departs at |
Ceremony Timings |
7:30 AM |
8:00 AM to 8:40 AM – 15th March to 14th August |
8:30 AM |
9:00 AM to 9:40 AM – 15th August to 14th November |
9:30 AM |
10:00 AM to 10:40 AM – 15th November to 14th March |
Bus Departure From:
HoHo Delhi
HOHO Information Center,
Baba Kharak Singh Marg,
Landmark: Next to Hanuman Temple, Opp. Connaught Place Police Station
Connaught Place,
New Delhi-110001
*The Change of guard Ceremony may be cancelled if the parade-area is rendered unusable due to inclement weather.
Baba Kharak Singh Marg :
If you are an enthusiast of handicraft, this is your road to handicraft heaven. This street is renowned for handicrafts as it is the hub of handicraft emporiums. People from all parts of India and abroad come here to hunt for handicrafts at these emporiums. Prior to freedom, this road was known as Irwin Road, after Lord Irwin, the Viceroy of India. Adding to the charisma of the street, BKS Marg is also marked by HO HO Dilli Dekho Bus Service’s i-Center which is the starting point of the route.
Interesting facts:
- The street houses 18 state government emporiums.
- Close to Hanuman Mandir constructed by Maharaja Jai Singh and Gurdwara Bangla Sahib, the biggest Gurdwara in Delhi.
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib :
It is the most prominent Sikh gurdwara, or Sikh house of worship, known for its association with the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Har Krishan. Gurdwara Bangla Sahib was originally a bungalow belonging to Raja Jai Singh, an Indian ruler in the seventeenth century, and was known as Jaisinghpura Palace. The eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Har Krishan resided here during his stay in Delhi in 1664. During that time, there was a smallpox and cholera epidemic, and Guru Har Krishan helped the suffering by giving aid and fresh water from the well at this house. Soon he too contracted the illness and eventually died on March 30, 1664. A small tank was later constructed by Raja Jai Singh over the well, its water is now revered as having healing properties and is taken by Sikhs throughout the world back to their homes.
Nearest metro station:- Rajiv chowk
Entry fee:- Free for all religion
Nearest eating point:- Bikanerwala
Note:- All days open.
Red Fort :
Next up is your date with the red architectural masterpiece of Delhi. Red Fort popularly known as Lal Qila is one of the most haunting spots for tourists. This magnificent fort on the banks of the river Yamuna, is a living piece of history from 17th Century Delhi. This fort was constructed by Shahjahan who also built the wonder of the world Taj Mahal as a symbol of his love. The whole structure is made of Red stone. Construction of Red Fort started in 1639 and within a span of 9 years, the colossal structure was built. The Red Fort has the highest pedestal as a historical monument in Indian democracy as the site plays a host for the Prime Minister of India as he addresses the nation on August 15. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.
Interesting facts:
- The whole design within the palace is based on the theme of ‘Paradise’ as described in the Koran.
- Largest monument in Old Delhi.
- Once more than 3,000 people lived inside the premises.
- Bahadur Shah Zafar was tried here.
Rajghat :
The calm yet dignified ambiance of your next destination will probably take you back to an era when great leaders were born. Surrounded by deep green lawns, Rajghat a simple black granite platform marking the site where, on January 31, 1948, Mahatma Gandhi’s last rites were performed. ‘Hey Ram’, his last words, are engraved on the black memorial stone. At the center of the square stone, an eternal flame burns to symbolize eternity of the great leader. To mark Gandhi’s birthday (Oct. 2) and death anniversary (Jan. 30), prayer ceremonies are held. The foreign leaders visiting Delhi pay their respects to Gandhi at Rajghat.
Interesting facts:
- The memorial was designed by Vanu G. Bhuta.
- 10,000 visitors visit this memorial everyday.
National Gallery of Modern Art :
If you are an Art fanatic, you are at your Mecca. The former residential palace of Maharaja of Jaipur was later transformed into National Gallery of Modern Art. It is situated at the eastern end of Rajpath near India Gate and is administered by the Government of India. Former Vice President of India, Dr. S. Radhakrishnan inaugurated the gallery in presence of Jawaharlal Nehru on March 29, 1954. The gallery has a wonderful collection of around 15,000 paintings, sculptures and works of arts by Indian as well as international artists. The National Gallery of Modern Art bears witness of the transition taken place in the field of art in last century. The gallery obtains, preserves and displays works of modern art from mid 19th century till date. Explore the history of Indian contemporary art through ages under one roof. It is a tribute to art in the nation.
Interesting facts:
- Building was designed by Sir Arthur Bloomfield which was later styled by Sir Edwin Lutyens.
- The NGMA has two branches one at Mumbai and the other at Bangaluru.
- The new wing of the National Gallery of Modern Art opened in 2009 is almost 6 times the space of the original gallery.
India Gate :
India Gate was built in 1931 as a memorial to 90,000 Indian soldiers who laid their lives fighting in the First World War.
The name of 90,000 men who died during these conflicts are inscribed on the uprights of the arch. Under the arch is the memorial to the Unknown soldier – an inverted rifle, and an eternal flame, guarded round the clock by a ceremonial guard drawn from three wings of the armed forces.
On one side of India Gate, at the far end of the Raj Path, stands the Rashtrapati Bhawan, and on the other side stands a canopy under which a statue of King George V stood before independence.
Interesting facts:
- The area around India Gate is called Princess Park, because it housed the residences of the ruling kings and princess. These includes Jaipur House which houses NGMA, Hyderabad House, Patiala House, Baroda House, Jodhpur House, Bikaner House, Jamnagar House and Kota House.
- After independence, all these were taken over by Govt, and now house various Govt. offices Serves as the venue of Republic Day Parade.
Purana Qila :
This destination will transport you to 5000 years back in history of great Mughals and Afghans. In the city of Dinpanah, Refuge of the Faithful, Purana Qila stood with its royal might. It was started by Humayun in 1533 AD and was completed by the Afghan ruler Sher Shah in five years time. This monument is a perfect blend of Hindu elements with Muslim style of arches and domes. Simply said, the style of architecture of the Purana Qila can be considered as a secular architectural style.
Interesting facts:
- ‘Qila-i-kuhna Masjid’ is a mosque inside Purana Qila built by Sher Shah Suri in 1541.
- Excavations in 1955 have revealed evidences of Gupta age.
- The archaeological evidences established that this fort stands on the ruins of the legendary city of Indraprastha
Humayun Tomb :
Like a true example of Mughal imperial architecture, your next destination has a royal aura about it. Humayun’s Tomb was built by his widow Hamida Banu Begam, also known as Haji Begam in 1569 after his death in 1556. Mirak Mirza Ghiyath, a Persian, was the architect employed by Haji Begam for this tomb. It is considered as the first distinct example of proper Mughal style inspired by Persian architecture. The influence is evident as it was the first garden tomb built in the Indian Subcontinent. Humayun’s Tomb was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.
Interesting facts:
- It took eight years and Rs 1.5 million to build Humayun’s Tomb.
- Humayun’s Tomb introduced the four-quartered garden concept into Mughal architecture.
- The water channels at the garden reflect the four rivers that flow in jannat, the Islamic concept of paradise.
- The first monument to use the Persian double dome.
Lotus Temple :
This is the destination for those who are looking for nirvana. A visual delight, Lotus Temple is one of the most remarkable architectures of Bahai faith. This splendid structure is considered as the modern ‘Taj Mahal’. Since its dedication to public worship in December 1986, this Mother Temple of the Indian sub-continent has drawn to its portals more than 70 million visitors, making it one of the most visited edifices in the world. The place provides immaculate environment for meditation, peace and wisdom. The temple has no restrictions for visitors and is open to people from all religions. Fariborz Sahba, Canadian architect of Iranian origin, spent 10 years in designing and project management, and with the help of a team of about 800 engineers, technicians, artisans and workers brought to realization one of the most complicated constructions in the world.
Interesting facts:
- Lotus Temple stands seventh in the international chain of Bahai House of Worship.
- The central hall of worship in the temple has a capacity to accommodate 2500 persons at a time.
- Ardishir Rustanpur of Hyderabad had been generous enough to donate his entire life savings to buy the plot for Lotus Temple to be constructed.
- A CNN report has listed the Lotus Temple of Delhi as the most visited establishment in India.
Embassy Lane (Drive Pass) :
An Embassy is the diplomatic representation of a country’s government in another country. It transmits messages of its home government to the government of the host country and vice versa. It informs its home government about important political, social, economical, military and other events happening in the host country. It prepares international treaties and official state visits. It promotes its own home culture, economy and science in the host country. It is situated at chankyapuri where you can see different countries embassies. The road knows as shanti path, covered with lush green gardens. Out of every countries embassy you can see their national flags.
Qutub Minar :
Get ready to meet one of the architectural marvels in the world. Qutub Minar is one of the most famous tourist destinations in India. The minaret was constructed by Qutab-ud-din Aibak and later completed by his successor Iltutmish in 1192. Qutub Minar holds the title for the highest individual tower in the world with a height of 234 feet. It also makes it into the list of the tallest and most famous towers in the world. It proudly displays the beauty of Indo-Islamic Afghan architecture untouched by the time it has seen. Qutub Minar is a World Heritage Site. It is India’s most visited monument attracting around 3.9 million visitors every year.
Interesting facts:
- The purpose behind the construction of Minar was for the use of mu’azzin (crier) to give calls for prayer.
- The Minar contains numerous inscriptions in Arabic and Nagari characters, which narrate its history.
- As per the inscriptions on its surface, it was repaired by Firuz Shah Tughlaq and Sikandar Lodi.
- According to the Archeological Survey of India, the site at which Qutab Minar is located was once occupied by 27 Hindu and Jain temples
Sarojini Nagar Market :
At the Sarojini Nagar Market you get fashionable clothes at affordable prices. Export-surplus garments as well as rejected export clothing come to this market at throwaway prices. That is why product of even reputed brands available here at cheap prices. But don’t expect trial or changing rooms at street-side shops. Besides, use your art of haggling. The market remains closed on Mondays. There are different areas within the market. Babu Market houses several sweet shops. The many shoe shops in the vicinity of the market also catch the eye. Subzi Mundi offers the freshest and choicest fruits and fresh vegetables.
Interesting facts:
- It is the only market where you can get Branded clothes at 1/4th its original price.
- Good Food to Relish
Dilli Haat :
It’s a treat for those who swear by traditional artisans and food. This place is bubbling with sheer energy of the visitors enjoying various craft products at 62+ stall and 25 + food stalls located within the complex. Craftsmen from different corners of India come over to showcase their products which are reasonably priced. Delhi Haat presents two passions in a platter- food joints and crafts market – both inspired from the village style. The regional food stalls offer the rich traditional delicacies from all regions. Thus this place offers a kaleidoscopic feel of the richness and diversity of Indian culture and handicrafts.
Interesting facts:
- Spread over a spacious six acre area
- Set up jointly by Delhi tourism and NDMC, D.C. (Handicrafts) & D.C. (handlooms), Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India & Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India.
National Rail Museum :
The National Rail Museum is a museum which focuses on the rail heritage of India it opened on the 1 February 1977. It is located in over 10 acres of land with both indoor and outdoor exhibits. The most amazing feature of the rail museum that attracts the children as well as train buffs is the toy train that provides a joyful ride. The National Rail Museum is a highly informative place in Delhi that educates us of the history of railways in India. It has a unique museum which has a collection of over 100 real size exhibits of Indian Railways,Static and working models, signating equipment’s, antique furnitures, historical photographs and related literature etc. The line-up of old coaches includes the handsome Prince of Wales Saloon, built in 1875. Mysore’s Saloon built in 1899 with its brocade covered chairs and an elegant rosewood bed; one can peer in through the windows for a good look. The star attraction here is the Fairy Queen, built in 1855 and considered to be one of the best preserved steam locomotive engines of her age. A ride in joy train and mono rail is the most exciting experience besides boating. Do not miss the handsome Fire Engine on your way out.
Timings:9.30 am- 5.30 pm
Closed on Mondays and National Holidays
Entry ticket: Rs. 20
Toy train ride: Rs. 20
Nehru Museum :
Walk through the life our first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru with the help of many precious moments captured on camera and original manuscripts. The Nehru Memorial Museum established in the memory of Jawaharlal Nehru (1889 – 1964) is located in the majestic Teen Murti House. It has four major constituents namely, a Memorial Museum, a Library on modern India, a Centre for Contemporary Studies and a Planetarium. Nehru’s bedroom, the drawing-room and study have been preserved the way they were in used. The Nehru Planetarium gives an overview of the Indian Space Program through interesting shows.
Interesting facts
- This building served as the official residence of the Commander-in-Chief of the British forces in India.
- The massive granite rock in front lawn has Nehru’s first speech as the Prime Minister that he delivered on the eve of Independence of India.
National Museum :
It’s time to take a stroll down the lanes of history. National Museum of Delhi is the largest museum in the country. Here Indian history and heritage lived through the ages. The credit for the commencement of this grand museum goes to Jawaharlal Nehru. This initiative to preserve ancient history of India was his brainchild. The National Museum displays collection dating back to as far as five thousand years. The National Museum has several galleries. It has the largest collection of artifacts dating to the Indus Valley Civilization. It was inaugurated for the general people on the 5th June, 1978.
Interesting facts
- Possesses over 2,00,000 works of art.
- Has a prestigious collection of 800 sculptures.
- It is run by the Ministry of Culture.
Jantar Mantar:
Often the venue for political protests, Jantar Mantar will introduce you to ancient science in India. It is a remarkable structure built by Maharajah Jai Singh II of Jaipur between 1727 and 1734. The 5 astronomical observatories, each with a specialized function for astronomical measurement, have captivated the attention of architects, artists, and art historians world wide. It consists of fourteen geometric devices used for measuring time, forecasting weather changes, predicting behaviour of planets and finding extraterrestrial altitude. Jantar Mantar is very popular among tourists and the people of Delhi. This structure shows the scientific acumen of ancient India.
Interesting facts
- It is maintained by the Jaipur Government because it was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur.
- Jantar Mantar was the logo of the 1982 Asian Games
- It is one of the oldest astronomical observatories in India
- Among the devices inside the Jantar Mantar, the biggest instrument is the “Samrat Jantar”