Being the capital city of the country, with an imperial history of heading many consecutive dynasties, Delhi prides itself on an impeccable collection of the finest architectural structures in India, both of pilgrim importance and wonder. Delhi consists of some of the magnificent temples, both ancient and contemporary, which unleashes the rich religious significance of the place. The edifice of these temples offers an unforgettable experience to the visitants. Blending spirituality and devotion with modernity and enriching heritage, the temples of Delhi promises to leave the beholders truly mesmerized. Delhi is chock-a-block with a dizzying array of exquisite temples, located amidst lush gardens and graced with colorful lights, which makes it the ultimate destination for devotion and spirituality. A visit to these holy shrines is sure to leave you begging for more. Read through the following section to have a look at some of the most famous and grand temples of Delhi.
Famous Temples Of Delhi
Birla Mandir
Birla Mandir, also famous as Laxmi-Narayan Temple, ranks among the most prominent landmarks in Delhi and have served as a tourist hub for travelers from all across the globe. Built by famous industrialist Baldeo Das Birla in the 20th century, this temple is mainly dedicated to the preserver of Hindu Trinity – Lord Vishnu and enshrines magnificent deities of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in the year 1938, this sprawling temple with its stupendous architectural splendor, is located just off Connaught Place on Mandir Marg in Central Delhi. The temple remains opens to devotees from 7 am to 12 pm in the morning and from 2 pm to 9 pm in the evening.
ISKCON Temple
Whether you are a Lord Krishna devotee or just driven by pure faith, ISKCON temple is one place you cannot afford to miss when out to explore the rich religious heritage of Delhi. Also known as Hare Rama Hare Krishna Temple, this magnificent shrine is perched on the serene peripheries of Hare Krishna Hill in East of Kailash, away from the bustles of Delhi. Adorned with the marble effigies of Lord Krishna, Radha and other deities, ISKCON temple, with its sprawling premise, manicured lawns, library and a hi-tech museum indeed ranks high among the most revered shrines in the capital city. The temple remains open to the devotees from 4.30 am to 12 pm in the morning and from 4 pm to 9 pm in the evening.
Akshardham Temple
The ambrosial Akshardham Temple, apparently fêted as the largest Hindu temple complex in the world by Guinness World Record Committee, is a recent inclusion to the city of Delhi and has emerged as symbol of impeccable beauty, bliss and grandeur. Modeled after the Akshardham Temple in Ahmedabad, this Hindu shrine, inspired by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, is well famed as India’s biggest spiritual theme park. Perched on the banks of river Yamuna, this straggling pink sandstone cultural complex spread across 100 acres of land, displays the splendor of Indian history, art, culture and values. This temple is open to devotees from Tuesday to Monday (9 am to 9 pm).
Lotus Temple
The Bahá’í House of Worship, better known as the Lotus Temple, can be described as one of the biggest marvels of modern architecture, with a white chaste marble lotus set amidst the plush hills of Kalkaji. Build during 1980’s, the Lotus Temple is apparently the only Bahai temple of worship in Asia that houses no deities or idols. An opulent edifice set in shimmering pools of water, the Lotus Temple is better described as the melting pot of all religions. The temple is open to visitors from 9 am to 7 pm during summers and 9:30 am to 5:30 pm during winters on all days excluding Mondays.
Hanuman Mandir
The legendary Hanuman Mandir, located at Baba Kharak Singh Marg near Connaught Place, traces back its relevance to the Mahabharata days. Constructed in the year 1724 by Maharaja Jai Singh, this small yet elegant temple is apparently one of the oldest shrines in Delhi. The temple is dedicated to Bala Hanuman or Lord Hanuman, one of the greatest devotees of Lord Rama. This temple has undergone renovations several times since its inception.
Gauri Shankar Temple
The 800 year old Gauri Shankar Temple, located in Old Delhi, is apparently one of the oldest temples in the country and houses a 800 hundred year old Shiva lingam. Made of Phallus stone, this brown colored lingam is thronged by snakes, which is said to signify the cosmic pillar. Apart from this, there are bejeweled statues of Gauri and Shankar placed under the silver canopy inside the main shrine. The Gaurishankar Mandir of Delhi is apparently one of the most revered temples of Shaivism. This temple is open to visitors all the time.
Kalkaji Temple
Kalkaji Temple, located in Okhla Industrial Estate, is one of the most visited temples in Delhi. The temple was built in the year 1734 and was later expanded during the 18th century. The temple is devoted to Goddess Kali. The temple is especially thronged with huge number of devotees during Dusherra who visit the temple to attend the famous Kali Puja. Special arrangements are done during this nine-day long festival. People sing, dance and chant the holy names of the Goddess in order to please her.
Sri Digambar Jain Mandir
Situated opposite to the Red Fort, Sri Digambar Jain Mandir is one of the oldest places of worship in Delhi, built in the year 1658 AD. Established during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, this temple has undergone numerous modifications, renovations and reconstructions since then. Located amidst the busy bustle of Chandni Chowk, Shree Digambar Jain Lal Mandir presents a picture of serenity and is dedicated to Lord Parshvanath, the twenty-third Jain tirthankara. The best time to visit this temple is during the Jain festivals like Paryushan, Deepawali, Samvatsari and Jnaan Panchami.
Delhi, the present-day cultural hub of India, was once subservient to the rule of Parthians, Turks, Afghans, Mughals and Britishers, that had left an indelible impression on the face of the city and gave Delhi its own unique status. Tourists from all over the world flock to Delhi to explore its rich cultural-historical heritage and without doubt lose their heart to its scrumptious cuisines. Delhites love to show off their rich heritage of Maharajas and dynasties, which is well reflected in their food culture as well. In fact, Delhi is accepted as the “Eatery Capital of India” with its different food outlets and cuisines. The city is crowded with the restaurants and foods of all kinds. If you plan your vacation to Delhi, then don’t miss to hit the various food joints, dhabas, snacks centers and popular restaurants for a great treat. In order to know more about the Delhi foods and popular eateries, explore this article.
Delhi Food Guide
Street Food
Delhi has a rich heritage of delicious foods, popular eateries, and food stalls that seems to flock every street of the city. The mouth-watering street fare and savories are a must try in Delhi. If you wish to experience the real flavor of Indian hospitality, then a visit to the street-side cafes of the historic Chandni Chowk is absolutely recommended. From chaats to kulfis to roadside kababs, biryani, rotis and parathas, Chandni Chowk has loads to offer to your taste buds. Parthawala Gali of Chandini Chowk is famous for all these dishes and even the eateries around Jama Masjid sell these items like hot cakes. If you visit Delhi then don’t forget to delight your taste buds with these delicious street foods.
The Punjabi Cuisine
Delhi is the ultimate hub for regional cuisines and Punjabi cuisines definitely ranks on top. From dishing out a wide platter of non-vegetarian food to serving an entire range of vegetarian delicacies, the popular Punjabi joints have it all. However, if you are game for authentic dal makhani and tandoori chicken, then Punjabi dhabas are the place to go. The dhabas in Delhi are the best places to savor Punjabi cuisines. Places like Dilli Haat and Connaught Place indeed has a lot to offer in terms of authentic Punjabi cuisine.
Mughlai Cuisine
Most of the cultural, traditional and historic richness of Delhi comes from Mughals. Even today, you can feel the enriching traditions of Mughals through the delicious Mughlai cuisine. Thus, the trip to Delhi is incomplete without enjoying the authentic Mughlai badaam pasanda (mughlai mutton), Galouti, Kakori Kebab and more. To taste the Mughlai food with the traditional taste you must visit Old Delhi. The most legendary Mughlai food services are provided by Karim’s and Babu Khan’s near Jama Masjid, Nalli Nahari in Beradari and The Great Kebab Factory at Radisson Hotel is truly a great delight for all Mughlai lovers. Other popular Mughlai restaurants are Pindi and Gulati on Pandara Road, Kake da Hotel in Connaught Place, Ka Aangan at Hyatt Regency etc.
Vegetarian Cuisine
Although Delhi is famous for desi vegetarian foods, not many restaurants provide the best service. Still there are some restaurants in Old Delhi, which definitely promises to delight you with authentic vegetarian foods from all across India like chole bhature, dosa, idly, roti, chapatti, dal-rice and other regional specialties. There are some places, which offer pure vegetarian food like Brijbasi at Katra Neel, Moti Mahal at South extension and Evergreen at Green Park. Another must visit place for every vegetarian is Haldiram, which has branches in three places namely Chandini Chowk, Mathura Road and Lajpat Nagar. If you are looking for the typical south Indian food than Sagar Ratna Restaurant in Defense Colony is the best place.
International Cuisines
Delhi is the city for cuisines from all over the world. Thus, international cuisines have marked their presence in the place. The popular international cuisines in Delhi are Chinese, Continental, Thai, Mexican, Lebanese etc. These cuisines are best served in five star hotels like Chor Bizarre in Hotel Broadway, Osaka in Hauz Khas Village, Darbar in Ashoka Hotel and Dum Pukht in Maurya Sheraton. You can also try international foodstuffs in Mc Donald’s, Pizza Hut, KFC’s Dominos, Pizza Hut and Wimpy’s, which serve as a paradise for the foodies. Other crowded eat outs are Little Italy at Defense Colony Market, Olive near Qutub Minar, West View at Maurya Sheraton and Orient Express at Taj Palace.
Sweets and Kulfis
Delhites are the great lovers of sweets and no matter where you go in Delhi, you are likely to find sweet shops there. Punjabi, Mughlai and Rajasthani sweets are prepared in the traditional way but the most popular and preferred sweets are Bengali sweets. The most famous authentic Bengali sweet shop in Delhi is the Annapoorna. Other popular sweet outlets are Ghantewala in Chandini Chowk, Kaleva in Gole Market and Nathu’s and Bengali Sweets in Bengali Market. Other than sweets, Delhites love to gorge on Kulfis- the Indian ice cream. Roshan di kulfi on Ajmal Khan Road in Karol Bagh is an exceptional place to try Kulfi. So when you visit Delhi don’t forget to enjoy delicious sweets and Kulfis.
Whoever said money can’t buy happiness simply didn’t know where to go shopping in Delhi. Any journey is incomplete without a bit of retail therapy and a trip to Delhi is indeed your time to indulge in hedonistic materialism. From the flea markets in Janpath to luxurious malls in North and West Delhi, the capital city is indeed every shoppers delight. If you love to shop until you drop, then the national capital is indeed your paradise. You can buy almost everything here, from antique wares to useless pieces of decorative junk to cushion covers, slippers, jewelry, vintage coins and more. You just name it and they have it, all at throwaway prices! But the shopping charm of Delhi isn’t just restricted to the flea markets alone. The capital city is also the hub for swish high-end buyers who swore by international brands and designer goodies as well. Delhi is home to some of the plushest malls in the country where you can grab anything and everything- right from your designer trousseau to chic gadgets to traditional handicrafts and more, all under one roof. So when you visit Delhi don’t forget to flock the streets and malls for the best shopping loot. Read on the article to know about some of the famous shopping destinations in Delhi.
Shopping Places In Delhi
Chandni Chowk
Almost a century old now, the famous Chandni Chowk market near Old Delhi railway station is presumably the oldest and the most loved shopping destination of the city. Originally called Shahjahanabad, this famous shopping hotspot was set up by Shah Jahan in 1650 AD and it is believed that his daughter Jahanara Begum Sahib contributed a lot in its construction. If you are looking to grab the best bargains on some of the best buys, then Chandni Chowk is the place to go. A narrow street named ‘Dariba Kalan’ near Chandni Chowk is known for its natural perfume called itra, stunning pearl, gemstones, silver and gold jewelry. ‘Katra Neela’ in Chandni Chowk is a famous cloth market offering all kinds of clothes ranging from contemporary to western and from silk to khaadi. Other popular lanes of the bazaar are Bhagirath Palace, Kinari Bazaar and Chhatta Chowk Bazaar. If you visit Delhi, then do not miss to take a trip to this shopper’s hub, which is open on all days except on Sundays.
Karol Bagh Market
Karol Bagh Market near New Delhi Railway Station is one of the oldest and the most popular shopping centre in Delhi. The history of this market dates back to the time of Indian partition, when many of Karol Bagh denizens arrived as refugees from Pakistan. Located in the heart of the city, Karol Bagh market promises to be your ultimate shopping experience. From street shops to the luxurious air-conditioned stores, Karol Bagh has it all. The Ajmal Khan market in Karol Bagh is popular for Indian and International brand showrooms and the hot spice stores. The Ghaffar market in Karol Bagh is another must visit shopping destination, typically known for imported cosmetics, perfumes, watches, cell phones and more. Other places near Karol Bagh are Arya Samaj Road, famous for second hand books and Bank Street popular for jewelry shops are other must visit places in Karol Bagh. You can check out this market place on any day except Monday, as the shops remains close on this day.
Dilli Haat
Dilli Haat situated near the INA market at Laxmi Bai Nagar is the Delhi tourisms open air handicrafts market where in people from all over the country flock to display and sell their wares. Open on all seven days of the week, Dilli Haat serves as the ideal place for buying exotic handicrafts, handlooms and ethnic jewelry. The beautiful handicrafts and handlooms range from the sophisticated frameworks to the simple elegant regional works. Apart for the handicrafts, Dilli Haat is also eater’s paradise and offers a wide range of delicacies ranging from North Indian, South Indian, Rajasthani, Bengali and almost all the traditional Indian food.
Connaught Place
Connaught Place in Central Delhi popularly known as CP is the most glamorous shopping destination in Delhi. Connaught Place was designed by Robert Tor Russell and W H Nicholls and was named after the Duke of Connaught. This architectural gem is designed in two circles namely inner and outer circle, based on Victorian architecture, which is designed after the Royal Crescent in Bath, England. The stunning circular shaped market further looks extravagant with beautiful parks and fountains at the centre. For decades, it has been the popular shopping and till date continues to attract a lot of shopaholics. With the number of malls, restaurants, shops, food joints and cinema halls, Connaught has become the must visit place for tourist, which is open for all the days of the week accept Sunday.
Janpath Market
Janpath market is located opposite to Connaught Place and is the best place for buying the most fashionable goods at the most reasonable price. This market, which is most popular among the college students and the tourist, is open on all the days of the week except Sunday. Numerous stalls that are put up around the market area sell almost all types of items and if you know to bargain well, then you can bag some great deals.
Sarojini Nagar Market
Sarojini Nagar Market, named after freedom fighter Sarojini Naidu, is one the most crowded market in South Delhi. Although Delhi has hundreds of markets, only few of them give you the good value for money as Sarojini market. This market is best suited for people who want fashionable and elegant clothes at a reasonable price. The major attraction of the Sarojini market is that you can buy branded stuff at throwaway prices. However, take care to bargain well or else you might end up paying high bills. Sarojini market is open to the crowd on all days except Mondays.