Exotic and exquisite corners of New Delhi

30.03.2020.

New Delhi, the capital of India is known as its most chaotic city. But it doesn’t have to be like that. While I stayed in the suburb, the safe part of Delhi- all the beautiful places were at the palm of my hand. Red fort is a delicate place with the large inner park just on the confine with the old town. I didn’t know about Garden of five senses- I discovered it at the description of the hostel where I stayed, the legendary Madpackers. Lodhi garden in the centre is the refreshment of the peace for the soul. Lotus temple is a beautiful building of marble which resembles to the Opera house of Sidney, thrill is the similar.  

Don’t just jump over New Delhi.

What to do and see

Red fort

I visited fort in New Delhi and Agra, these two are just incomparable but both are part of UNESCO heritage site. Red fort in Delhi is much more admirable, larger and elegant. Taking photos at this place is such a perfect opportunity. Red fort or Lal Qila (in hindu) originated in 17^th century during the Mughal Empire created by Shah Jahan. The fort influenced the buildings and gardens of Rajhastan, Agra and so on. The fort simbolises the indian independence so the indian national flag is raised at Independence Day each year at the main gate, Lahore gate. Inside the walls we can find tourist bazaar, magnifiscient garden decorated with various buildings like the Hall of Public Audiences, the white marble Hall of Private Audiences, Palace of Colour, Royal Baths, the Pearl Mosque.

Entry fee is 500 Rs, for Indians 35 Rs. Monday is day off.

Lotus temple

Lotus temple is one of the Delhi’s landmarks, built from white marble in 1986. and dedicated to all the religions. Baháʼí House of worship represents this marvellous place. The building is shaped from 27 petals around nine ponds. It’s free of charge.

Lodhi garden

Huge historical garden nestled in the greenery among characteristic indian buildings, lakes and variety of trees brings nothing but peace, total enchantment. It’s named like that by the Lodhi dynasty that constructed it even though it carried the name Lady Willingdon Park afterwards. Various tombs of the ancient time are situated here, at the central point there is the Big Dome or Bara Gumbad accompanied by the Mirror Dome or Shisha Gumbad. River Yamuna has left the remains inside the garden around the picturesque lake and the particular views can be seen at the Athpula bridge or eight piers bridge. It’s free of charge.

Garden of Five Senses

Situated at the outskirts of Delhi this alluring park is specially beautiful during the Flower show in February when green sculptures come to its throne. In some other time it’s not so attractive to visit, maybe a bit disappointing but still green sculpture remain almost during the whole year. Various themes are presented with some creative sculptures like the green Buddha, some of them include solar energy park, pools with water lilies, herbal gardens, water fountains. Also we can find replica of Mexican Mayan Labna Arc. It’s the quiet place to uwind and take some artistic inspiration. Not only Flower show happens here but concerts, yoga camps, adventure sports, nature walks, Fioxa sustainable festival (with Bollywood performances, exhibitions, and wellness events).

Entrance fee is 35 Rs plus additional price for the use of camera (56 Rs).

Markets of Delhi:

While I visited only Dilli Haat which is a small textile market with some eateries, still I was disappointed with the volume of choice. You can also see some traditional sweets and spices. Entry fee is 100 Rs.

Food markets, among which Chandni Chowk is the largest, can lead you to some amazing places of traditional Indian street food. My hostel have a daily activity named Delhi Belly which is praised as the excellent one but unfortunately there were no people signed up.

Other markets worth visiting are Lajpat Nagar with the massive choice of fabrics, Sarojini Nagar, Khan Market, Palika Baazar and many more. Don’t miss at least one.  Old Delhi itself is the place to meet the market.

All in all

Despite the chaos, Delhi has retained the ancient heart of India, the subtle way of approach. Its architecture is to be discovered, its way of life. Even the metro stations do not hold easiness because of security check like at the airport. Delhi speaks its own language.