Delhi in a Day – Old & New Delhi Heritage Tour

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.

The Red Fort, or Lal Qila, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an iconic symbol of India’s independence. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1648, this massive red sandstone fort served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. The fort complex includes grand halls, lush gardens, and intricate marble structures. Its architectural brilliance blends Persian, Timurid, and Indian influences. Every year, the Prime Minister hoists the national flag here on Independence Day, making it not only a historical monument but also a living emblem of India’s sovereignty and pride. Known For: Iconic Mughal fort and venue for India’s Independence Day celebrations. Timings: Opens: 7:00 AM | Closes: 5:30 PM | Closed on: Mondays Tips: 2–3 Hours (Approx) Restricted Items: Food, smoking, drones, large bags, sharp objects. More About: Built by Shah Jahan in 1648, the Red Fort served as the main residence of Mughal emperors. The complex includes Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, Rang Mahal, and beautiful Mughal gardens. Architecture: Blend of Persian, Timurid, and Indian architectural styles, constructed primarily from red sandstone. Best Time to Visit: November to February. Tips for Visiting: Visit in the morning, carry a water bottle, and don’t miss the evening sound and light show narrating Delhi’s history.

Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an architectural marvel and one of the tallest brick minarets in the world, standing at 73 meters. Built in 1193 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak and completed by his successors, the tower is adorned with intricate carvings and verses from the Quran. Its five distinct storeys taper elegantly, each marked by a projecting balcony. Surrounding the minar is the Qutub Complex, which includes the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the Iron Pillar, famous for its rust-resistant composition. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the Indo-Islamic architecture of medieval India, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and culture lovers. Known For: Tallest brick minaret in the world and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Timings: Opens: 7:00 AM | Closes: 5:00 PM | Closed: None Tips: 2–3 Hours (Approx) Restricted Items: Food, smoking, tripods, drones, large luggage. More About: Built in 1193 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, Qutub Minar stands at 73 meters and features five tapering stories adorned with intricate carvings and Quranic inscriptions. The Qutub Complex also houses the Iron Pillar, Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, and Alai Darwaza. Architecture: Indo-Islamic architecture with red sandstone and marble, detailed carvings, and alternating angular and fluted sections. Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather. Tips for Visiting: Arrive early morning for fewer crowds, hire a local guide for historical insights, and wear comfortable shoes for exploring the complex.

"Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the grand resting place of Mughal Emperor Humayun. Commissioned by his widow, Empress Bega Begum, in 1569, it was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent and a precursor to later Mughal architecture, including the Taj Mahal. The tomb stands on a massive platform, surrounded by symmetrical Mughal gardens divided by water channels. Built from red sandstone and white marble, it combines Persian elegance with Indian craftsmanship. Its harmonious proportions and intricate detailing make it one of Delhi’s most beautiful and historically significant monuments. Known For: First garden-tomb in India and a precursor to the Taj Mahal. Timings: Opens: 6:00 AM | Closes: 6:00 PM | Closed on: None Tips: 2–3 Hours (Approx) Restricted Items: Food, smoking, drones, tripods without permission. More About: Commissioned in 1569 by Empress Bega Begum, Humayun’s Tomb is set in a charbagh-style garden and is surrounded by other Mughal tombs. Architecture: Mughal architecture blending Persian and Indian craftsmanship, with red sandstone, white marble domes, and symmetrical layout. Best Time to visit: October to March. Tips for Visiting: Visit early morning for photography, bring a hat in summer, and explore nearby Nizamuddin Dargah.

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.