• Travel

    Venture the old bit of Delhi

    The old Delhi has its own charm. Previously it was known as the Shahjahanabd in the early 17th century. Located on the western banks of River Yamuna, this part of the city is in fact not a very small place. In this part of the city lies the old and famous forts like LaalQila or the Red Fort and the first ever mosque of India, known as the Jama Masjid. Earlier, when Mughals used to rule the Delhi Sultanate and they ruled over the country, this Old Delhi was the centre from where they used to rule. Then, this place had wide streets and royal markets but now these have turned into narrow and shabby lanes along with dilapidated houses and shops. But still, the taste of royalty ligers on and one can easily get it when they enter this area. The name Shahjahanabad though came from the Mughal ruler Shahjahan.

    Among all the monuments and other things which should be visited in this city, one definitely has to visit QutubMinar. This is the most popular tourist site in the city to be precise. This monument was built by Qutubud din Aibak who was a Mughal emperor. It is said that, this monument was built to rejoice the beginning of the Mughal rule in the Delhi sultanate after the last king of the prevailing Hindu kingdom was defeated. This monument has a height if 73 meters and it was built in the year 1193.

    Visiting the dargah of NizamuddinAulia is a must when you are visiting old Delhi. This is one of the oldest mosques of India and inside the complex; a Sufi session is arranged every session which is an absolute soul stirring experience. In Mehrauli, there is dargah of Bakhtiyar Kaki, which is the oldest shrine in Delhi. Every Thursday evening, one can visit here to listen to Sufi music which is a lifetime experience for one.

    One also needs to visit the Jama Masjid. This is a masjid which is said to be the largest mosque in India. This is situated in the Old Delhi area and exactly opposite to the Red Fort. This Jama Masjid is famous for the brilliance of architecture it has. This is a perfect place and an ultimate delight for those who love photography.  There are numerous heritages and one can take a walk down to the memory lane in this place.

    Then there is the beautiful Lodi Garden -the quiet and serene greenery around you in the heart of Delhi. This garden was built during British rule in India during 1936. It has all the tombs of 15th and 16th century. The lush green surrounding soothes the day and is a place of escape from the daily pollution of the city. It also has a National Bonsai Park within it which is another place to visit.

    One can try and search hotels near delhi railway station. There are plenty of options there. Otherwise, they can book hotels online before going there which will be more convenient.