Treasures of Delhi: Part 1

When I initially thought about places to visit in India, I thought about going to Agra to see the Taj – Done!, partying at the beaches of Goa – in the works, and visiting the hill-stations of Himachal Pradesh – pending.  What I didn’t expect, however, was that Delhi, where I’m currently living, has so much to offer.

Here’s a couple of my favorite spots:

The Lotus Temple

The temple was built back in the mid 80’s and it’s shaped as…you guessed it…a Lotus Flower.  Having visited the temple, however, it is no wonder that it has won a number of architetural awards including the GlobArt Academy in the year 2000 to Fariborz Sahba, the temple’s architect.

The Parliament Hosue and India Gate

 If you visit the Parliament House then you must visit India Gate as both of these sites are near by.  The walk to India Gate on Rajpath was perhaps the most quiet and peaceful walk I've had since moving to Delhi.

Red Fort

There’s such a contrast between Old Delhi, where Red Fort is located – busy, crowded, noisy – and Red Fort – quiet, peaceful, majestic – that it enhances your visit to Red Fort; definitely worth the visit.  Also, if you’re in Old Delhi to visit Red Fort you might as well swing by the original Karim’s for some great authentic Indian food.

Nizamuddin Dargah

For those of you that have been to Nizamuddin Dargah, you know that getting there is literally half of the battle.  However, as the Qawwals begin to sing their Qawwalis you can’t help it but fall into this trance like state that just sucks you right in.  Next thing you know, an hour has gone by and you feel totally relaxed and overcomed with joy; at least that was my experience.

Next up is Qutb Minar, Old Fort, Humayun's tomb, and my all time favorite place ever: Akshardam