1. Connaught Place – The Colonial Shopping Hub

A Blend of Old-World Charm and Modern Brands

Connaught Place, or CP as locals call it, is the ideal mix of heritage and high street. From iconic Indian brands like FabIndia to international stores like H&M, CP has it all. Plus, the central park and Georgian architecture give it a unique shopping experience.

2. Sarojini Nagar – Budget Fashion Galore

Your Wallet Will Thank You

If you’re into fashion without burning a hole in your pocket, Sarojini Nagar is the spot. You’ll find export surplus clothes from top brands at throwaway prices. Bargaining is key here don’t be shy!

3. Chandni Chowk – The Traditional Bazaar

Dive into Delhi’s Heritage

Chandni Chowk is more than just a market it’s a cultural experience. Famous for bridal lehengas, fabrics, spices, and jewelry, this chaotic yet charming market is a must-visit for authentic Delhi vibes

4. Lajpat Nagar – Ethnic Wear Wonderland

Shop Till Yo Drop

From colorful kurtis to beautiful dupattas and readymade suits, Lajpat Nagar is a haven for ethnic wear lovers. The Central Market is packed with stalls offering trendy and affordable items.

5. Dilli Haat – Handicrafts and More

Cultural Melting Pot

If you want a mix of crafts from all over India, Dilli Haat is the place to be. With artisans selling everything from Madhubani paintings to Kashmiri shawls, this open-air market is both scenic and diverse.

6. Select Citywalk – Luxury Meets Leisure

Shop and Chill

Located in Saket, Select Citywalk is one of Delhi’s premier shopping malls. It houses luxury brands, a great food court, and a relaxed ambiance. Perfect for a full day of retail therapy.

7. Janpath – Boho Chic at Its Best

Street Shopping with Personality

Janpath is famous for its Tibetan market and bohemian vibe. Think funky jewelry, embroidered bags, scarves, and antique decor. A great place for souvenirs and offbeat finds.

8. Karol Bagh – Something for Everyone

All-Rounder Market

Karol Bagh is a mix of street stalls and upscale stores. From books and gadgets to bridal trousseaus and footwear, this place offers variety like no other.

9. Khan Market – Elite Shopping Experience

Where the Rich and Famous Shop

Khan Market is one of the most expensive retail locations in India. But with its boutiques, bookstores, and cafés, it offers a classy shopping environment that’s hard to resist.

10. Paharganj – Backpacker’s Bazaar

Budget with a Twist

Famous for leather goods, hippie clothes, and quirky jewelry, Paharganj is a backpacker’s delight. Don’t forget to haggle it’s part of the fun!

11. Greater Kailash (GK) M-Block Market

Trendy and Timeless

This South Delhi market is a hotspot for trendy clothing, accessories, and top-notch salons. It’s also dotted with bakeries and cafés for that mid-shopping snack.

12. South Ex – Fashion Forward

High-End Indian Fashion

South Extension, divided into Part I and II, is your go-to destination for premium Indian designer wear. Think Ritu Kumar, Nalli, and other iconic Indian labels.

13. Palika Bazaar – Underground Shopping

Bargain Hunter’s Dream

Palika Bazaar in CP is an underground, air-conditioned market. It’s known for electronics, perfumes, accessories, and more all at negotiable prices.

14. Meena Bazaar – Mughal-Era Vibes

Old Delhi’s Hidden Gem

Located near Jama Masjid, Meena Bazaar specializes in traditional Mughal-style clothing and intricate embroidery. Perfect for festive shopping!

15. Hauz Khas Village – The Indie Scene

Boutiques and Beyond

This artsy enclave is packed with designer studios, indie brands, and vintage decor shops. A peaceful contrast to Delhi’s hustle, Hauz Khas is ideal for slow, thoughtful shopping.

Conclusion

Delhi truly spoils you with choices. From luxury malls to ancient bazaars, every corner tells a shopping story. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, exploring the best shopping places in Delhi is an adventure you shouldn’t miss. So, put on your comfy shoes, grab your wallet, and get ready to splurge (or save) in style!

The post Best Shopping Places in Delhi appeared first on Same Day Tour Blog.

1. Akshardham Temple

One of the most iconic Hindu temples in India, Akshardham is dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan. The temple is a modern architectural marvel featuring intricately carved stone, exhibitions on Indian heritage, a musical fountain, and sprawling gardens. It’s a place where devotion meets grandeur.

2. Kalka Ji Mandir

Located near the Lotus Temple, Kalka Ji Mandir is an ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. It is especially popular during the Navratri festival when thousands of devotees gather to offer prayers and seek blessings.

3. Hanuman Mandir (Connaught Place)

This is one of the oldest Hanuman temples in India, known for its large idol and continuous chanting of the Hanuman Chalisa. It holds great importance for devotees seeking strength, protection, and courage.

4. Birla Mandir (Laxminarayan Temple)

Built by the Birla family, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Laxminarayan) and Goddess Lakshmi. It’s known for its serene ambiance, beautiful architecture, and lush gardens. Mahatma Gandhi is said to have inaugurated it on the condition that people of all castes be allowed to enter.

5. Chhatarpur Temple

Situated in South Delhi, this temple complex is dedicated to Goddess Katyayani, a form of Durga. Spread over a large area, the temple beautifully blends traditional north and south Indian styles of architecture.

6. Yogmaya Temple

Located near the Qutub Minar, this temple is believed to be dedicated to Yogmaya, the sister of Lord Krishna. It’s one of the few surviving temples from the Mahabharata era and holds significant mythological importance.

7. Gauri Shankar Temple

Situated near the Red Fort, this 800-year-old temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It houses a shivling believed to be more than 800 years old and is visited by a steady stream of devotees.

These temples are not just places of worship they’re also cultural landmarks, offering a spiritual retreat amidst the hustle and bustle of the capital city. Would you like a travel guide combining a temple tour across Delhi?

The post Top Religious Places in Delhi appeared first on Same Day Tour Blog.

In this blog, you will read about the top cities of India famous for food.  India is also known for its diverse food culture and get famous all around the world for its cuisines and culinary style. The legend said the food speaks a lot about the place and its people. So if you are a true traveler and would like to explore yourself in India you just need to enjoy the food culture of each city. In this blog, we explain the few most famous foodie cities of India and its various cuisines.

Delhi (India)- famous for which food?

Delhi is known as the capital city of India has a population of 20 million. In Delhi, around 5 million people are coming to work every day from the neighboring states like Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. This city is best known for its food culture and varieties of food which will feed all of those working people who are coming from neighboring cities and locals as well.

This city is also known as ‘Food Capital of India’ At every corner of Delhi you will find the best food joints wish to serve mouth-watering street food and meals at best affordable prices such as Chole Bhature, Dahi Bhalla, pav bhaji and different chaat. This city is also famous for luxury restaurants Like Bukhara which serve the best lentil “dal Bukhara’ across the globe. Here you will also find the best Non-Veg food here near the Jama Masjid area Karim’s is one of the famous names among them.

Amritsar–(India)- famous for which food?

Amritsar in the world-renowned city because of the major pilgrimage sector the Golden Temple, Here thousands of tourists are coming from different parts of the world to seek the blessing and visit this holy place. Besides that this city is also famous for its Punjabi culture food which is considered as the world’s most powerful foodie city. Here you will food so many touristic Dhaba and restaurants which serve all north Indian and Punjabi cuisines.

Amritsar is best known for Amritsari Kulcha, Paneer dishes, and special earthen pot Kesar Milk and cool drink like Lassi made by yogurt with a pinch of rose water and sugar which is the most favorite of every person. Few famous Indian restaurants which serve special Punjabi cuisines are Kesar the Dhaba, Amrik Dhaba, etc. here in the evening you will also enjoy the Parade ceremony at Wagah border and enjoy the best street food as well.

Suggested Tour Packages :-

• India Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Taj Mahal Tour
• Golden Triangle Tour With Amritsar
• Varanasi Tour Packages
• Delhi Tour Packages
• Golden Triangle Tour Packages 
• One Day Trip from Delhi 
• Delhi Agra Jaipur Tour

Jaipur (India)- famous for which food?

Jaipur comes on number 3 in the list of top cities of India famous for food. This city is known for its royal culture and historical buildings. This is the famous city of Rajput Kings which is known for its luxury lifestyle and royal food culture. As this is a tourist city so here you will have both vegetarian and Nonvegetarian food but the specialty of this city is its Vegan food which consists of mouth-watering Rajasthani cuisines such as Daal Bati (lentil served with wheat flour Ball), Churm laddu, Besan Gatte, Pyaaz kachauri, etc.

Here you will also find the best sweets shops which serve special Jalebi and Ghebar (A round sweet cake decorated with dry fruits). On every half kilometer, you will find the best food joints of this city. Here you will also find the best food option and entertainment in the evening which is famous all around the world called ‘Chowki Dhani’. This place is famous for its authentic Rajasthani food and cultural activities like dance performances, came rides, etc.

More Suggestions-

• Golden Triangle Tour Packages
• Golden Triangle Tour 4 Days
• Golden Triangle Tour 2 Night 3 Days

Hyderabad (India)- famous for which food?

Hyderabad is known as the city of Nizams which is famous for its rich lifestyle and food habits. The best-renowned food of Hyderabad city is called Hyderabadi Biryani which is a nonveg food dish and famous all over the world. This culture of biryani is started by the Mughals. Apart from this, you will also enjoy the best Non veg food items here like Kachhe gosht ki biryani, Haleem Paaya soup, Hyderabadi marag, Mutton Biryani, and Sheer Kurma.

The best thing about Hyderabad is here you will avoid the same food varieties from a smaller shop to a big multi-cuisine restaurant according to your budget and choice.

Visit us on ;-

• Golden Triangle Tour Packages

• Golden Triangle Holidays from Hyderabad

Mumbai (India)- famous for which food?

This city is also known by the name of Mayanagri because of its vibrant culture and Bollywood. This city is like a dream city for every Indian who has a desire to work in this city and to be a successful man in his life. This city looks always busy and local trains are the lifeline of Mumbai.  This city is famous for its street food as well as for its luxury restaurant which serves the best international cuisines. The most famous street food of Mumbai is Vada Pav and Pav bhaji which is the signature food of this city.

Here you will also find so many locals and tourists enjoying the best street food near Juhu Chowpati such as Bhel puri, Chana chaat, Papdi chaat, and coconut water while walking on the beaches. Here you will also find some juice corner which is unique for its various juices they have varieties of more than 200 juices which start from INR 20 up to rs.1000 just for a glass of juice.

Golden Triangle Tour with Aurangabad and Mumbai

Varanasi (India)- famous for which food?

Varanasi is known as the lively city of India. This city is known as the holiest and colorful city of the world-famous for its religious aspects and culture. This is the city of Lord Shiva which is always overcrowded with thousands of devotees. This city is also famous for its street foods and unique food habits which make this city special. Three things are famous in Varanasi the first is the Benarasi Paan, Chai, and Bhaang (marijuana). Here people are dying for Paan (betel leaf) and Chai (Tea).

Here you will see the culture at every corner of Varanasi people standing in groups until midnight and enjoying tea and gossiping at tea stalls. Banarasi paan is famous in all over India and you will see at every Paan shop the name written as ‘Banarasi Paan Bhandar’. Here some snacks are also famous like kachauri, Varanasi Tomato chaat, etc. In the evening people enjoying flavored milk cooked at a low temperature and Gadowlia, Chowk, and Dashashwamedha Ghat are the famous place for street food.

Read Related Blog:-

• Places to visit in Varanasi
• Get to Know about Taj Mahal Online Tickets
• Agra Petha History, Recipe and Famous Stores
• IRCTC Login Train Ticket Booking & Updates

Is Kolkata famous for sea food?

Kolkata is known as the City of art galleries, grand architecture, and cultural festivals. This city was also known as the capital of India under the British Raj between the 17^th and 18^th centuries. The life of most of the Kolkata people moving around Macchi –Bhaat means fish and rice the most famous food here is rice served with different fish curries. Lucchi and Manghsho Jhol are also one of the famous foods of Kolkata.

This city is also known for its stunning varieties of sweets and the famous desert here are Roshogulla and Sondesh which is famous all around the world for ages. In India when we have foreign VIP delegates in our country we preferred to serve them Roshgulla or Sondesh in the desert after meals. Some kinds of new Chinese food are also famous nowadays in Kolkatta like Momos, Chowmein, and noodles.

Ahmedabad (India)- famous for which food?

Ahmedabad is famous for its festivals and food culture. Gujratis are the famous food lovers in the world and the variety of light snacks is famous all around the world like Khakra, Fafda, Khaman Dhokla, Thepla, Patra  Dalvada Farsan, and so many things. Most of the snacks made in Gujarat will serve in the morning breakfast but due to the oil-free and light meals you will have the same at any time in a day. This city is without No Dariya and No Daru but has a vast variety of food here.

At present this city is known as the business capital of India has so many foreign industries and Plants where millions of people working every day in which some are foreigners as well but this is truly mentioned that foreigners are also fond of the food of Ahmadabad. In this, you will get these snacks on roadside stalls as well as in the luxury restaurants. When Prime Minister Modi who belongs from Gujarat went for his official foreign trips the foreign officials welcome him with Dhokla in his meals.

Lucknow -The city of Nawab’s

How can we forgot Lucknow in the list of top cities of India famous for Food. This city is known as the city of ‘Nawab’ They are famous for their discipline life such as an attractive disciplined language, stylish lifestyle, and for the delicious food discovered by them. Lucknow creates itself as a pioneer of Awadhi cuisine. The main cuisine is famous in Lucknow are the different varieties of non-vegetarian kababs such as Galouti kabab, Tunde kabab, Seekh kabab, Kakori, Shami, Sheermal and Korma,

You will also enjoy here the best aya soup and Paya Nahari which is mouth-watering in the taste. In the evening hours, the Lucknow market is fully decorated with these varieties of foods where people are come to enjoy the delicacies of non-vegetarian foods. There are very old shops more than 100 years are the hub of these foods and if any tourists visiting this city these shops are like a paradise for non-vegetarian such as Tundey Kabab (Famous for Different varieties of kebabs) and Idrees biryani etc.

Suggested Tours:-

• Same Day Delhi Tour
• Jaipur Cultural Tour
• Old Delhi Food Trail
• Taj Mahal Tours

Udupi – Famous for South Indian Cuisines

Udupi also comes in the list of top cities of India famous for food. The famous city of south India located in Karnatak state this city is known as the city of temples all over the world and attracts millions of tourists every year. Udupi is that place where you will enjoy all the cuisines of south India such as Dosa (Pancakes), Idli, Vada, Rawa serve with Sambhar are the main food of this place.

This city is originated in dosa which is famous everywhere in India and you will find many Udupi named restaurants all over in India. The specialty of this food never looks oily and always healthy as it is made up of rice and different vegetables. During your visit to Karnataka, you will find so many street vendors that are selling the best Dosa and Idli sambhar.

The post Top Cities of India famous for Food appeared first on Same Day Tour Blog.

Minar is an Arabic word and literally means a tower. In the Islamic world, a mosque always has an accompanying tower, this tower was to facilitate the Muezzin (caretaker of the mosque) as he could go up the tower and could call people and say the ajaan. Qutub Uddin Aibak after conquering Delhi had started constructing a mosque named “Quwwat Ul Islam” meaning the might of Islam. This mosque was made from the debris of Jain and Hindu temple.

Who built the Qutub Minar?

A minaret was attached to the mosque but unfortunately, the sultan king died during the construction. Only the first story was completed during the reign of Aibak. Qutub Uddin Aibak was junior to the Muhammad Ghor(Popularly Known as Muhammad Ghauri) Ghauri defeated the famous ruler of Delhi Prithvi raj Chauhan in the second battle of Tarain. Aibak inscribed verses in praise of his master(Ghauri) on the minaret he was making. The name of the minaret was either inspired by the name of the maker or a Sufi saint Qutubudin Bakhtiar kaki.

What are the Qutub Minar Delhi entry charges?

Note:- All childer up to the age of 15 years are exempted from the fees

Three more stories were added by the successor of Aibak. Shamshuddin Iltutmish. The top two stories were added by Firoz Shah Tughlaq in 1369. A British officer Major Robert Smith tried to replace to a top portion of the Minar with a specially designed cupola.

Suggested Tour Packages :-

• India Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Varanasi Tour Packages
• Delhi Tour Packages
• Golden Triangle Tour Packages 
• One Day Trip from Delhi 
• Taj Mahal Tour Packages

This cupola was an eyesore and didn’t really go very well with the flow of architecture of the minaret. Finally in 1848 by the order of lord Harding, this cupola was removed and the originality of the architecture was preserved, this cupola has been parked in the garden area of the Qutub  Minar and is popularly known as the Smith’s folly.

Read More blog:- Red Fort Delhi History Timings

Qutub Minar Facts

Electric strikes earthquake Qutub Minar- In 1369 the top story of the then minaret was destroyed in an electric strike. The then King of Delhi not only repaired the damaged story but added one more story to the structure. The fourth story added by Firoz Shah Tughlaq is done in white marble and the top story is a combination of white marble and red sandstone.  King Sikander Lodhi of Delhi repaired the minaret in 1505 as it was damaged in an earthquake in 1803 again a severe earthquake jolted the Qutub Minar and restoration and repair work was carried by the English in 1825.

The architecture of the Qutub Minar

The minaret is a cylindrical minaret rising 72.5 meters from the bottom. The minaret has spiral stairs inside comprising of 379 steps. No one is allowed to go up the minaret, the respective stories are separated by adjoined balconies. Islam negates the idol worship even representation of any life form is not allowed. The verses of the Quran decorated with floral figures have been inscribed on the outer surface.

Inspiration for the Qutub Minar

The Qutb Minar has been inspired by the minaret of Jam in Afghanistan. The Qutub Minar has a diameter of 14.3 meters (approximately 47 feet)  at the base while the top story reduces to a mere 2.7 meters (9 feet) the first three stories have been constructed using red sandstone while the top two stories also use marble in architecture. The ground three stories depict a design alternate of the conical and round surface. Eloquent carvings of the verses of the Quran interspersed with floral patterns, bells, lotus, flowers decorated the tower. The 72.5-meter high tower is not very straight it tilts a little (65 cm from its base) this little tilt is known to be safe and poses no danger to the longevity of the monument.

Suggested Plan:-

Delhi Tour Packages 

Delhi Tour

Taj Mahal Tour Packages 

Why Qutub Minar is the icon of Delhi.

Qutub Minar is the iconic structure of Delhi. The Delhi metro rail corporation has photograph of this iconic structure as their brand image, for centuries this building was the tallest structure not only in the city of Delhi but perhaps entire India this amused the people of India and slowly Qutub Minar became the icon of Delhi. The south of Delhi is an upmarket area with fine restaurants and the posh MG Road very well in the vicinity of the Qutub Minar.

Suggested Plan:- Golden Triangle Tour Packages

Quwwat Ul Islam Mosque- 

Qutub Ud Din Aibak was a staunch believer of Islam. He was general in the army of Mahmud of Ghaur he was the king who had defeated the Rajput ruler of Delhi Prithvi Raj Chauhan. Aibak being a rigid and staunch believer started construction of a grand mosque. This mosque is amongst the oldest surviving mosque of India. This mosque was made from the debris of 27 Jain temples which existed over here. The pillars have distinct Jain/Hindu architecture details visible.

The architecture of Quwwat Ul Islam Mosque

These pillars are crafted from red sandstone these were plastered with a plaster of lime and mortar, the figures and figurines of Hindu origin were well covered. Indue course of time the plaster gave way and the original carvings became visible. All the pillars have distinct designs and patterns and none of them has been duplicated. The name of the mosque literally means “The might of Islam”. The successor of Aibak also added to the existing structure of the mosque. The arches made by Iltutmish are in reality more affirming to the Islamic style of architecture.

History of Allahi Darwaza

The Allahi Darwaza was made by sultan Allaudin Khilji in 1311, this was conceptualized as a grand gate of entry to the Quwwat Ul Islam mosque, The king wanted to make four gates of this kind but because of the unfortunate death of the King Sultan, only this gate facing southern side could be completed.

The architecture of Allahi Darwaza

The architecture is certainly more Islamic, The gate is square in dimension. The walls are unusually thick(11 feet). The gate has true Islamic arches and the first true Islamic dome on the top. The dome is 14 meters high, The gate is an excellent example of the latticework in red sandstone. Marble has also been used in adorning the gate, the carvings look like being done on wood. The geometric patterns, floral patterns have been used. From inside the room is truly ornate. The carvings look like a fusion of Turkic and Indian designs.

Iron pillar of Mehrauli Complex

In the compound of Quwwat ul Islam mosque stands another marvel an Iron pillar supposed to be crafted in the reign of Chandragupta II who is also known as Vikramaditya(375-414 AD). The amazing fact about this iron pillar is that in all these years out in the open it has sustained the vagaries of weather still there is no effect of the natural phenomenon of rusting on this pillar. The metallurgy and chemical composition of this pillar is amazing. This pillar is 7.21 meters high and the weight is around 6000 kilograms. This pillar was brought to this place by Anangpal Tomar the King of Delhi who had built a grand Vishnu temple at this place, this pillar is a Vishnu dhwaja(Flag pole of Lord Vishnu), before being brought to this place it was a part of the Vishnu temple complex in Udaygir.

Alahi Minar History & Architecture

Sultan Allaudin Khilji the sultan of Delhi renovated the Quwwat Ul Islam mosque. New arches were added to the pr existing mosque. The Sultan decided to make another grand minaret for this huge mosque. This Minar was supposed to be twice the height of the existing Qutub Minar(72.5 meters), The construction started but unfortunately due to the untimely death of the Sultan in 1311 AD the work stopped. The minaret then stood at 28 meters (first story). Today this giant uncomplete minaret is a huge pile of boulders and rubble, this was the core of the new Alahi Minar the outer core of red sandstone was not yet added.

The post Qutub Minar Delhi History and Timings appeared first on Same Day Tour Blog.

The red fort in Delhi is located in the old city of Delhi, the fort is situated across the famous Chandni Chowk area of old Delhi , the famous Jama masjid is just a walk of few minutes from the red fort. The palaces of the red fort overlook the ring road of Delhi with the memorials of Indian political stalwarts across the road. This area is the most congested area of Delhi city.

How to reach the Red Fort?

Parking- Being a very congested part of the city it’s good to know that the Red Fort has ample parking space available for all tourist vehicles, from the parking lot you can walk all the way to the Lahori gate or you can ride the electric vehicles available over here for a short ride. Don’t forget to visit a small mosque known as “Sunhari mosque “near the parking lot and southwestern gate of the red fort.

History of Red Fort

Red fort- In year 1638 ACE king Shah Jahan decided to make a fort on the banks of river Yamuna. This fort was completed in year 1648 at a cost of ten million Mughal Rupees. Aurangzeb son of Shahjahan ruled over India from this fort. 18^th Century saw many Mughal kings being crowned and many scandals being hatched over here, In 1739 Nadir shah the Persian emperor looted peacock throne and many more valuable memorabilia from here. In 1752 the Marathas won the red fort, In 1783 the Sikh forces of Baba Baghel Singh Dhaliwal conquered Delhi. British East India gained control of red fort in 1803. After the revolt of 1857 the English again recaptured the red fort and last Mughal Bahadur Shah Zafar II was exiled to Rangoon. In 1947 India became independent nation and the Prime minister unfurls the national flag from the bastion of red fort every year on 15^th August. In 2007 This fort was accorded the status of World heritage monument.

Red Fort Entry Charges  :- The entry tickets of the Red Fort Delhi can be purchased from the ticket counter at the Fort. They can also be bought online from the ASI website.

Entrance gate- There are three gates in the red fort. The common tourists can seek entry through the Lahori Gate. The Lahore Gate is the iconic symbol of free India. Every year the prime minister of India hoists the National flag over here on 15^th August the Independence Day of India. The Delhi gate is used as an entry and exit gate for the VIP persons. The third gate is no more into use. It’s known as the Khijri gate (waterfront gate). Huge wooden gates gilded with bronze guard the Lahori gate. You can sight some bullet marks probably from the war of 1857 on the doors. Very near to the entrance gate, you can buy the entrance tickets to seek entry to the red fort.

Red Fort Timings:- Red Fort Delhi is open to the tourists from sunrise to the sunset. It remains closed on every Monday.

Read More about Agra Fort:- Agra Fort History, Timings FAQ’S

What are the places to visit in the Red Fort?

Meena Bazaar- As you walk across the main entrance gate you are greeted by a colonnade of shops, this was called as “Meena Bazaar” a market for the royal ladies. The royal ladies could go for shopping right inside here in the fort. Just a little distance is the open crossing known as “chatta chowk”, this is the cross way crossing the north-south street. This is also the center point of this market. The Chatta chowk is an octagon in shape its ceiling is missing and it has an open top. The end part of the Meena bazaar is in the shape of a gate with stairs on both sides. A short walk from the Meena bazaar leads you into an open area with Barracks from the British times. These Barracks were constructed during the British rule of India to accommodate the English forces living inside the fort.

Suggested Tour Packages :-

• India Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Varanasi Tour Packages
• Delhi Tour Packages
• Golden Triangle Tour Packages 
• One Day Trip from Delhi 
• Taj Mahal Tour Packages

Naubat Khana- The red fort is given the name because of the red-colored sandstone ferried from the quarries of Rajasthan (Dholpur). The same red sandstone has been used to make the Naubat Khana or Nakkar khana this literally means the “Drum house”. The royal bands with drums and music instruments used to welcome the arrival of the royalty entering through the gate. The top floor has been converted into a hall with closed windows, This hall was being used as a museum now the museum has been shifted. The entrance facade of the Naubat Khana is in white colour while the exit gate is in red sandstone with multiple alcoves on either side, the carvings are similar to the ones seen in the period buildings of Agra fort and Taj Mahal (Mosque, Mehman Khana and Royal Gate).

                          Rear side of Naubat khana in red sand stone with alcoves.

Deewan E Aam: – Right across the Naubat Khana is the court of public audience known as Deewan E Aam. Nine arches of the Deewan E Aam face the Naubat Khana. This is a single-storied building with four small arched dome structures on four sides. The arches are typical from Shah Jahan era and bear remarkable similarity to the arches of Dewaan E Aam of Agra Fort.

Suggested Tour Plans :-

• Golden Triangle Tour Packages
• Golden Triangle Tour 2 Night 3 Days
• Golden Triangle Tour 4 Days
• Delhi Agra Jaipur Tour
• Golden Triangle Tour with Udaipur
• Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi

The common people of the Mughal Empire could approach the Mughal emperor seated on the lofted platform of white marble. This platform has been covered in glass enclosure. It has been regally done in marble inlay of semi-precious stones. The hall is elevated and there are stairs leading to the inner space. The symmetry of this building is astounding; you can feel the symmetry yourself as you get excellent Instagram pictures across the arches. There are two small windows on either side of the royal throne these were supposed to be used by the royal ladies without being noticed by outsiders.

Rang Mahal- Right behind the red sandstone building of Deewan e aam is the Rang Mahal. The conspicuous feature of the Rang Mahal is the “Nahar E Bahistha” Delhi has intense summers so to combat this heat the Mughals made water channels fountains and a shallow water pond right in front of Rang Mahal. Just imagine when these fountains worked and the water flowed through the water channel across the midst of the rang Mahal. What a view it was.

How did the Royal People use to involve in Merrymaking?

The white marble palace was used for merrymaking. Right in front of the palace is a small very well decorated waterfall (abshaar) originating from a water channel flowing through the midst of the palace. One vault of Rang mahal is done in mirrors embedded on the walls known as Sheesh Mahal. The palace is on top of the basement, there is a gate to the basement visible on the left side of the facade. It is rumored that British weapons are still stored in the basement. Adjacent to the Rang Mahal on the left side is an open pavilion. Where the king came up for a public view every day in the morning. This pavilion overlooks the riverside. Book Taj Mahal Tours

Khaas Mahal- The special pavilion of the king opens into the open courtyard this is also made in white marble with multi cusped arches. This is supposed to be the private palace of the emperor. . The name “Khaas” has been used.  It was divided into three respective sections, “Khwaabgaah” was the private place where the emperor slept, “Baithak” where the king had very private meetings and “Tasbeehkhana” a place where the emperor praised the lord and repeated the rosary. The building has rings to tie the tassels of the eloquent silk curtains and “shamiana”( royal canopies).

Where is Yamuna Gate Located?

Underneath the Khaas Mahal is the gate leading to the riverfront so it was called “Yamuna gate” it’s a folklore that the emperor Shah Jahan came into the palace through this gate in 1648 to join the inauguration ceremony, he was showered with gold coins by his crown son “Dara Shikoh” the entire palace was decorated and the celebrations continued for nine days. All the artisans were accordingly rewarded.

Dewan E Khaas– Next to the Khas Mahal is the Deewan e Khas. This is also a white marble building, this was the place where the closed meetings of the king with his ministers were held. The building had a sliver ceiling which was melted during the times Mughals had lost their power. Today the ceiling is a replica of the same in wood.

Suggested Tours

• Taj Mahal Tour Package
• Taj Mahal Tour Guide
• Agra Tour Package from Delhi
• Visit Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
• Taj Mahal Sunrise Tour
• Agra Sightseeing Tour

What is the famous verse of Firdaus?

On one fine marble screen is written a famous Persian verse “Gar Firdaus Rue Zameen Ast. Hamien Ast Hamien Ast” Meaning if there is heaven on this earth then it’s over here and over here. The marble was excavated from makrana in Rajasthan and extensive “Pietre dura” work can be seen on the walls and the columns. The world-famous “Takhte Taus” or the Peacock throne was once situated in Dewan E Khaas, It was later looted by the Persian emperor Nadir Shah in the late 18^th century. One side of Deewan E Khaas leads into Musamman Burj. This was the place from where King George V and Queen Mary made a public appearance during the Delhi Darbar and coronation ceremony in 1903.

Hammam- The building was used as a bathroom by the royalty. This building is also done in white marble with marble inlay work done on the floor. There are separate avenues for a hot bath and a cold bath. The essence of rose and fresh rose petals was used for the luxury of the royal bath.

Moti Masjid Red Fort – This is the only structure made by Emperor Aurangzeb. He is known to have constructed this mosque from his hard-earned money. He used to see the caps and do the calligraphy work on writing the Quran to earn righteous money.  The mosque is small and made in white marble with an ablution tank for the devotees. The building appears straight and very well-tuned to the geometry of other buildings but the inner confines are angled a little, this was to make sure that devotees bow towards the west (Mecca).

Hayaat Bagh- This is a four-quartered garden very well in tune with the descriptions of the Jannat (Heaven) in the Quran. The garden has been bisected by four streams respectively of Milk, Wine, Water, and honey. Islam originated in Arabia a desert so what else can you imagine about heaven being in a desert. The two marble palaces have been named as “Sawan and  Bhadon” on the basis of the two rainy months of the Indian calendar, In the midst is the red sandstone palace called as “Jafar mahal”.

Baoli– Towards the Salimgarhi fort is a stepped well, It is known to exist over here much before the red fort of today. The stepped well was used as an alternative mode of water supply and was to be used in an emergency of an enemy attack.

Red Fort FAQ’S

Q-  What are the timing of light and sound show in the Red Fort Delhi?
A- Yes there is an excellent sound and light show held in the Red Fort. It is available Hindi and English language every day. The tickets for the this show can be purchased on a first come first serve basis. Following are the timings for this show-

Q- Why there is so much open space in Red Fort Delhi while the royal palaces are not that large.
A- The Mughals came from central Asia and brought their legacy with them. They used to love their “Shamianas” or royal tents. It is known Shahjahan had a royal shamiana whom he was very fond of. This shamiana was epitome in luxury, braided with the most luxurious carpets, the gold thread woven tassels of silk curtains exuded nothing but luxury.

Q- Why did Shah Jahan make Red Fort in Delhi?
A- Shahjahan was the absolute ruler of India, his shifting of capital and making of Red Fort in Delhi sure was not because of any threat perception. Shahjahan loved his wife Mumtaj Mahal and after her death is known to have lost all interest in worldly pleasures. It is said he confined himself to a room for a month and when he made his first public appearance after the confinement. The people could not believe their eyes as the emperor had turned grey in just a month. Agra was the place where the mausoleum of Mumtaj Mahal was being constructed being in Agra constantly reminded him of his irreparable does so to solace himself he started making a new fort in Delhi.

Q- Was the Red Fort Delhi made by the Artisans who worked at  the Taj Mahal?
A- Yes the chief architect was Ustad Ahmad Lahori and in fact, the red fort of Delhi strongly negates the so-called assertion about the amputation of the workers working in the Taj mahal. The same team of masons, stone carvers, cutters engineers worked in the construction of the red fort. The fort bears astonishing architectural similarity between the monuments constructed by Shahjahan at Agra Fort and the Taj Mahal in Agra.It is said that Shahjahan on the auspicious occasion of the inauguration of the red fort gifted these artisans with valuable gifts.

Q- Why the bank of Yamuna was selected for making of Red Fort in Delhi?
A- Mughal right from the times of Babur was very perturbed by the summer heat of the plains of India so to combat this heat they made beautiful gardens , The most important thing for these gardens is the availability of water so most of the Mughal forts and monuments are made on the banks of rivers to facilitate the availability of water.

The post Red Fort Delhi History Timings appeared first on Same Day Tour Blog.

How to plan Old Delhi Tour?

The old Delhi area is very congested in the day time as it still houses some of the very crowded markets of Delhi. If you are looking forward to do 2 days Delhi Tour and want to explore old Delhi then the first thing to remember is to start early. You have to be an early Bird, start your tour with a visit to regal Jama masjid, hire a rickshaw and go across the narrow and winding alleys of Old Delhi.

Your Rickshaw Walla will enumerate so many stories and will show you some famous and well-known places of old Delhi on this rickshaw ride. Do visit the wholesale markets in the old Delhi area which will be really interesting especially to the foreigners. After the rickshaw ride go for the sightseeing of Red Fort which is just a stone throw away distance from here. 

Delhi Tourist Places Opening and closing time 

• Akshardham Temple timings– 9:30 am to 6:30 pm (Monday closed)
• Lotus Temple (Bahai Temple) timings– 9:00 Am to 5:30 pm (Monday closed)
• Humayun’s Tomb timings- Sunrise to Sunset (No closure day)
• Jama Masjid timings- 7:00 Am to 12:00 am (No closure day)
• Qutub Minar timings- 7 am to 5:30 pm or 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm (No closure day)
• India Gate- Sunrise to Sunset (At night, no weekly closure)
• Raj Ghat – Morning to Night (No weekly closure)
• National Museum- 10:00 Am to 6:00 Pm (Monday Closed)
• Zoological Garden- 1^st April to 15 October: – 9:00 Am to 4:30 Pm
  • 16 October to 31^st March: – 9:30 Am to 4:00 Pm

Things to remember for Akshardham Temple Tour-

Remember this is actually a working Hindu Temple, Do maintain the decorum of proper dress and use proper language while being in the temple. The temple has a scintillating water show conducted every evening, so do remember to see this water show on your Akshardham Visit.

No photography, no mobile camera, no video taking is allowed inside the temple do remember to leave the video and photography equipment in your car, no intoxicants of any kind (Including tobacco) are allowed inside, No food articles from outside are allowed inside. A visit to Akshardham temple is a sort of pilgrimage so visitors should maintain and respect the traditional and cultural values.

Know before visiting Banglasahib Gurudwara-

Bangla Sahib Gurudwara is also a historical and site of religious importance. This Gurudwara is in memory of Guru Harkrishan Sahib who cured the Delhi residents of small box epidemic, Tobacco articles or intoxicants of any kind are not allowed inside. The visitors have to cover their Head and remove shoes (Including socks) to go inside.

The visitors can pay their obeisance to Shri Guru Granth Sahib situated in sanctum sanctorum and can listen to the bards singing holy hymns. Do remember to visit the community kitchen where thousands of devotees enjoy free food without any discrimination of caste, caste creed and religion. During the planning of your Golden Triangle Tour, you can include this famous Gurudwara in the sightseeing of Delhi. Taj Mahal Tour from Cruise Port India

How to Book a Tour Guide in Delhi?

The Audioguide is available at the National Museum without any extra payment for foreign nationals. The government of India-approved tour guides are available to guide you on your Delhi tour. Contact your local travel agent or hire from an online agent and book your tour Guide. You can also book your tour guide from the Delhi tourism office or from the office of the Ministry of Tourism at 10 Janpath New Delhi.

Suggested Tours :- Jaipur Tour Packages

Points to remember before visiting Lotus Temple-

Lotus temple is a religious site belonging to Bahai faith. It’s a wonderful piece of architecture in the form of a lotus flower in full bloom. It has 27 free-standing marble-clad petals. The temple can accommodate 2500 people. This is basically a place for people of all faith to get together and worship. You are free to recite and read scriptures of any faith and religion. No ritualistic ceremony is allowed inside the temple. To date, the temple has attracted more than 70 million visitors.

Know before visiting India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhawan

A formal request through the website of Rashtrapati Bhawan is possible, you have to make an online booking for the same at http://rashtrapatisachivalya.gov.in/rbtour/.

There are two parts and tours, the first part comprises of the main building and central lawn and is open on Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday. The second part comprises the Rashtrapati Bhawan museum complex (RBMC) also including the clock tower, the stables, and the garages. This part is open on all days except Monday.

The Mughal Garden and other gardens of Rashtrapati Bhawan are open from August to March. This is open on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The timing is from 9:00 Am to 4 Pm. You can also be a spectacle to the change of guard ceremony through the official website.

India Gate is open from sunrise to sunset and no ticket is levied you can stroll around and take pictures in front of the memorial or the gardens.

Tips For Two Days Delhi Tour

Remember that Delhi has lots of monuments if you don’t have time and time is a constraint then go for a day tour but day tour won’t be able to do justice to the sightseeing of Delhi. At least reserve two days for Delhi sightseeing, these two days are good enough to include most of the monuments in Delhi.

What are lesser-known Monuments in Delhi?

If you have a flair for history and architecture then Delhi has lots of lesser nown monuments which are equally beautiful. Include monuments like Safdarjung tomb, Agrasen ki Baoli, Ghalib ki Haweli, Tomb of Adham Khan, Jamali Kamali mosque, Feroze Shah Kotla fort in your tour of Delhi.

Where to shop in Delhi?

Apart from monuments and memorials, Delhi is famous in north India as a trading hub there are wholesale markets where not only you will get the best deals but you will get stuff that will be best in quality.

The markets you can explore are Karol bagh, Janpath, Sarojini Nagar market, Khan market and Delhi Haat. Indians love to do window shopping and a stroll in the market will surely entertain you and show you the market in detail.

The post Tips For Two Days Delhi Tour appeared first on Same Day Tour Blog.