Delhi & Agra Highlights – Heritage, Culture & Cuisine

India Gate, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, is a 42-meter-high archway built in 1931 to honor the Indian soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. Located along the Rajpath, it bears the names of over 13,000 soldiers. The eternal flame, Amar Jawan Jyoti, was added after the Indo-Pak War of 1971. Surrounded by lawns, fountains, and a lively atmosphere, India Gate is both a historical landmark and a popular spot for evening outings, drawing locals and tourists alike. Known For: War memorial honoring Indian soldiers. Timings: Opens: 24 Hours | Closes: Never | Closed on: None Tips: 30–45 Minutes (Approx) Restricted Items: Drones, littering. More About: Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, the 42-meter-high arch commemorates soldiers of the British Indian Army who died in World War I. The Amar Jawan Jyoti burns in tribute to fallen soldiers. Architecture: Triumph arch style inspired by Arc de Triomphe, built in sandstone. Best Time to Visit: Evening hours between October and March. Tips for Visiting: Visit at night for illuminated views, enjoy street food nearby, and combine with a drive along Rajpath.

Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India, is an architectural masterpiece located on Raisina Hill. Completed in 1929, it was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker as the Viceroy’s House. The vast complex includes 340 rooms, sprawling Mughal Gardens, and impressive courtyards. Its design harmoniously blends classical Western and Indian styles, with a prominent dome and intricate jaali work. Open to the public on select days, the Rashtrapati Bhavan stands as a symbol of India’s democratic traditions and architectural grandeur. Known For: Official residence of the President of India with Mughal Gardens. Timings: Opens: 9:00 AM | Closes: 4:00 PM (Select days for public) | Mondays & Government Holidays Tips: 2 Hours (Approx) Restricted Items: Cameras, mobile phones in certain areas, food. More About: Completed in 1929 by Sir Edwin Lutyens, it has 340 rooms and vast gardens. The Mughal Gardens open to the public during Udyan Utsav. Architecture: Blend of Western classical and Indian architectural elements with a massive dome and jaali work. Best Time to Visit: February–March for Mughal Gardens bloom. Tips for Visiting: Pre-book tickets online, carry an ID, and follow security protocols strictly.

Connaught Place, commonly known as CP, is one of Delhi’s most iconic landmarks and a bustling commercial and cultural hub. Located in the heart of the city, CP is renowned for its colonial-era Georgian-style architecture, designed in a circular layout with Inner, Middle, and Outer Circles. The structure is inspired by the Royal Crescent in Bath, England, and is characterized by its white colonnaded buildings and broad radial roads. Known For: Historical charm with a modern twist, Upscale shopping and dining & Vibrant nightlife. Timings: Opens: 10:00 AM | Closes: 10:00 PM (Varies by shop and restaurant) | Closed on: Sundays (Though restaurants and cafes usually stay open). Tips: 2–3 Hours (Approx.) Restricted Items: Littering prohibited. More About: CP is one of the most iconic commercial and business hubs in Delhi.CP houses global retail brands, traditional Indian stores, famous restaurants, art galleries, bookshops, and financial institutions—all under one roof. Architecture: Georgian-style architecture, Inspired by Royal Crescent in Bath, England. Best Time to Visit: October to March. Tips for Visiting: Carry a camera and Wear comfortable shoes.

Lodi Tomb is part of the Lodi Gardens, a lush park dotted with 15th- and 16th-century monuments from the Lodi dynasty. The tombs, including that of Sikandar Lodi, are fine examples of Indo-Islamic architecture, featuring domes, arches, and intricate tile work. The gardens are a popular spot for morning walks, photography, and picnics, offering a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle while preserving Delhi’s medieval heritage. Known For: Tombs of Lodi dynasty rulers amidst landscaped gardens. Timings: Opens: 6:00 AM | Closes: 7:00 PM | Closed on: None Tips: 1–2 Hours (Approx) Restricted Items: Smoking, littering. More About: Lodhi Gardens house monuments from the 15th–16th centuries including the tombs of Sikandar Lodi and Mohammed Shah. Architecture: Indo-Islamic architecture with domes, arches, and decorative tile work. Best Time to Visit: Winter mornings. Tips for Visiting: Ideal for morning walks, photography, and picnics.