Visiting New Delhi Historic Sites

Qutub Minar

The Qutub Minar is a New Delhi historic site famous for being the tallest minaret in India. It is constructed out of red sandstone and marble only and should you wish to climb to the top; it takes you 379 stairs! It was constructed in 1199 A.D. and therefore one of the oldest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture. Unfortunately, earthquakes and lightning have slightly damaged the minaret but it’s still a spectacular sight. Should you choose to visit it, the Qutub Minar metro station is within walking distance.

Get your wish granted by trying to connect your arms around the Iron Pillar. You have to face backwards though! 

The Red Fort

One of the most popular tourist attractions of New Delhi, this 17^th century fort complex was constructed as a royal palace for the early Mughal emperors. Until the uprising in 1857 this remained, giving home to almost 3,000 people! The fort is located inside the walls of Old Delhi and located a long the Yamuna river. This New Delhi historic sight has been a UNESCO monument since 2007 and it’s easy to see why. Persian, European and Indian art are included in the architecture of the construction, giving it a uniqueness in it’s expression and its red color. Many structures are located inside, giving you a glimpse of what early India would have looked like. 

Humayun's Tomb

Constructed in 1562 by his wife, Humayun’s tomb is the early Indian equivalent for a pyramid. Inspired by Persian architecture, it was one of the first Indo-Islamic constructions in the area, which led to a rise of more of these historic sites along the Yamuna River. It was also the first construction to use red sandstone on an immense scale.

The main tomb area houses the family graves of Humayun and that of Humayun himself. Some tombs and monuments are located around the complex as well, and so is a typical Persian garden which was unique in the 16^th century. Restoration is always ongoing and the sight is very popular among tourists.

Jantar Mantar

Located in modern New Delhi, this historic site is a contribution to early astronomy. Built as one of five astronomical sites found throughout India in 1724, this architect has left its mark. A plaque says that it was constructed in 1710, but later research showed otherwise. In the area, 13 architectural astronomy instruments can be found and each of these instruments has a function of its own. The construction was built to allow astronomers to predict time by looking at the movement of the sun, planets and stars. Though this may sound astrological, its main purpose was constructing astronomical tables, of which many are still used today.

After a busy day of sightseeing, refuel with a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in New Delhi.