Delhi

Delhi, capital city of the Federal Republic of India. It is one of India's fastest growing cities. It has sprawled over the West Bank of the river Yamuna, straddling the river. The city has two distinct parts, Old Delhi & New Delhi. Delhi is the second most widely used entry point into the country, being on the route of most major airlines. It is well linked by rail, air and road to all parts of the country. The remains of seven distinctive capital cities - among them Shahjahanabad and Qutub Minar - can be seen. Here, museums, art galleries and cultural centers attract the finest exhibitions.

Delhi blends an historic past and a vibrant present. Delhi has some of the finest museums in the country. Legend has it that the Pandavas, the august heroes of the epic Mahabharata, originally founded Delhi, then called Indraprastha, around 1200 B.C. Present day Delhi is built around the ruins of seven ancient cities.

Delhi- the commercial hub has many tourist attractions to offer. Visit vibrant shopping complex of Connaught Place, Delhi Haat for handicraft goods and delicious food bonanza. Pay a visit to Red Fort and Qutub Minar to view the excellence of Mughal architecture.

Or just drop in at Janpath- for buying a variety of cheap and best items. If you are looking for spiritual peace, visit Lotus temple, which is also famous for its marvellous architecture and heavenly beauty. Take a stroll at Rajpath. Or pay a visit to India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhawan for viewing monuments made during British era.

Delhi - a canvas that reflecFor further information ts the complexities, contradictions, beauty and dynamism of a city where the past co-exist with the present. Many dynasties ruled from here and the city is rich in the architecture of its monuments. Diverse cultural elements absorbed into the daily life of city have enriched its character. Exploring the city can be a fascinating and rewarding experience.

Qila Rai Pithora: Also known as the first Red Fort of Delhi and one of the seven ancient cities of Delhi, Qila Rai Pithora was built by Prithviraja Chauhan III by extending the citadel of Lal Kot, and constructing huge ramparts and moats around it. The city derived its name from the title of Prithviraja Chauhan himself and thus came to be known as Qila Rai Pithora, with Lal Kot as its southwestern base.

At present the ruins of Qila Rai Pithora have been conserved in a 20-acre DDA Conservation Park at Mehrauli. The park has an 18-foot high statue of Prithviraj Chauhan and a library, and is being developed as a tourist destination housing an interesting museum and artifacts belonging to the medieval period.Located in South Delhi between Mehrauli and Saket. Can be accessed through the Press Enclave Marg or through the Mehrauli Badarpur Road

For further information log on to http://delhitourism.nic.in/

General Information

A blend of historic past and vibrant present, Delhi the capital city of India typifies the soul of the country. Legend has it, Inderprastha as was known earlier, founded by the Pandavas around 1200 BC. Several times mighty empires arose and fell here. Today, the city is curious blend of the modern and traditional sky scrappers, beautiful gardens, wide tree lined avenues perpetuate the Mughul passion of landscaping and architectural excellence. There are open air cafes, Yoga Ashrams, sophisticated hotels. An walled city build by the Mughuls. Glittering shops, roadside wanderers and a world of culture and tradition to be explored.

Area: 1483 sq. kms.
Altitude: 239 mts
Temperature (deg C): Summer- Max.45, Min.27; Winter- Max.25.5, Min.4.
Languages Spoken : Hindi, English, Urdu and Punjabi.
Best Season : September to March
STD code: 011

TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

Air:
Delhi is well connected with major cities in India and world.

Rail: Delhi is the headquarters of the Northern Railway and is well connected with all of the major places in India.

Road: Delhi is at the intersection of several national highways and is well connected by regular bus services from Inter State bus terminal (ISBT), Kashmiri Gate (2968709), Anand vihar (2149089), and Sarai Kale Khan (4698343). Some of the important road distances are Agra-203 kms, , Almora-373 kms, Amritsar -447 kms, Bharatpur-190 kms, Calcutta-1490 kms, Chandigarh -238 kms, Jaipur-258 kms, Khajuraho-596 kms, Kullu-502 kms, Lucknow 514 kms, Mathura-147 kms, Mumbai Mussoorie-269 kms, Nainital-318 kms, Shimla -343 kms, Shrinagar-376 kms, Udaipur-663 kms, Varanasi-738 kms etc.

CONDUCTED TOURS:
For conducted tours contact

DARAMSHALAS (Advance reservations not accepted)
Parsi Anjuman (only for Parsis), Near Delhi Gate, Bahadur Shah Zafar Maeg, 23413615; Gujrat Samaj Sadan, 2 Rajpura Road, Civil Lines 23981796-98, 23966687; Marwari Dharamshala, (Jogiwara), Nai Sarak, 23950278; Lacchu Mai Jain (only for Hindus), 411 Esplanade Road; Bholumal Dharamshala, Charkhawala, Chawri Bazar, Bhupinder Hall, Behind Ramakrishna Mission, Panchkuian Road; Lady Hardinge Sarai, Opp. NewDelhi Railway Station; Lakshmi Narain Dharamshala' 77-89 Fatehpuri; Lakshmi Narayan Temple Dharamshala ( only for Hindus ),Mandir Marg, 23363637; Swami Narayan Temple( only for Gujratis ), 13 Bela Road, 23974703; ISKCON, Sant Nagar Main Road, near C-Block Mkt. , East of Kailash, 26235133/34, 26215423

PLACES OF INTEREST
Purana Quila (Old Fort), Kabuli or Khuni Darwaja, Feroz Shah Kotla, Kutub Minar, Tughlaqabad, Nizamuddin Aulia, Humayun's Tomb, Lodi's Tomb, Safdarjung's Tomb, Jama Masjid, Jantar Mantar, Red Fort, India Gate, The Secretariat Complex, Rashtrapati Bhavan & Mughal Gardens, Parliament House, Teen Murti House and Connaught Place, The Supreme Court, Raj Ghat, Shanti Vana, Vijay Ghat, Ladakh Buddha Vihara, Vigyan Bhavan, Diplomatic Enclave, National Museum, National Rail Museum, Dilli Haat.
Son-et-lumiere Show at Red Fort:

Ticket Rs.50/- and children (3 to 12 years) Rs.20/-. Advance tickets available at Ashok Travels & Tours Counters at Ashok Hotel, Janpath Hotel, L-1 Block of Connaught Place and Cottage Emporium. Red Fort ':23274580, 23214833 (Closed on Mondays).

EXCURSIONS:
Badhkal Lake 32 kms, Ballabgarh 36.8 kms, Karnalake 132 kms, Dabchick 92 kms, Dasna 40 kms, Dhanaa 41 kms, Dharudara 70 kms, Hindon 19.3 kms, Hodal 90 kms, Maur Bund 32 kms, Okhla 11 kms, Sardhana 24 kms, Sohna 56 kms and Suraj Kund 18 kms.

MISCELLANOUS INFROMATION:
Indiatourism Office, 88, Janpath, New Delhi-110001.(: 23320005, 3320008, 23356529 Fax: 23320109 E-mail: goitodelhi@tourism.nic.in ,Website: www.incredibleindia.org

Indiatourism Office Counters at IGI Airport, Terminal-I 25675296 Terminal-II 25691171.

Delhi Tourism Development Corporation (DTTDC), N-36, Bombay Life Bldg, Middle Circle, Connaught Place, New Delhi - 110001 23315322, 23314299.

Foreigners' Regional Registration Office, East Block, Level - II, Sector I, R.K.Puram, 26711348, 26711384

Ministry Of Home Affairs, Lok Nayak Bhavan, Khan Market, New Delhi-110003. 4623739,24693334

Income Tax Office, Central Revenue Bldg, ITO, Room No. 164-165, Tourist Counter, 23316161 Ext.1650.

Places of Interest

Mughal Monuments

Moghul Monuments
Old Fort or Purana Quila -- The fort is said to be constructed on the historic site of Indraprastha (900BC) by Humayun and Sher Shah. Covering a circuit of about a mile, the walls of the fort have three gates and are surrounded by a moat fed by the river Yamuna. The wall was built by Humayun while the buildings in the fort are attributed to Sher Shar. The notable buildings that have survived in the fort are the Sher Mandal and the Quila-I-kholina Mosque.
Kabuli or Khuni Darwaza -- To the left of Chandni Chowk; there was once a gate across the road that was called Khuni Darwaza or the Bloody Gate. The British reoccupied Delhi on 20 September 1857 after fierce resistance by rebels. On 21 September 1857 Bahadur Shah surrendered to Hudson at Humayun's tomb. On 22 September three Mughal princes, Mirza Moghul, Mirza Khizr Sultan and Mirza Abu Bakr were brought by Captain Hudson in a bullock-cart and shot dead at Khuni Darwaza near Delhi Gate. He ordered the princes to take off their upper garments and killed them one by one. The three bodies were carried to the Kotwali and stripped off all the clothes except a rag around their loins, and laid on stone slabs outside the building before they were buried. The reoccupation of Delhi was followed by massacre and plunder and it was even suggested that whole city be razed to the ground. Mirza Ghalib, the great Urdu Poet, who was a witness to the killings and plunder wrote in his Dastambu: "GOD ALONE knows the the number of persons who were hanged. The victorious army entered the city along the main road. Whomsoever they met on the way was killed." The "Khuni Darwaza" still stands in its solitary grandeur exactly opposite the main gate of the Maulana Azad Medical College.
Feroz Shah Kotla -- The ruins of Ferozabad, the 5th city of Delhi, erected by Feroz Shah Tughlaq in 1354 can be found at Feroz Shah Kotla, just off Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg between the Old and New Delhi. The remains of a mosque and a well can also be seen, but most of the ruins were used for the construction of later cities. Feroz Shah was a great builder and so, this fifth city of Delhi was full of splendid palaces, mosques and gardens. The Tughlaqabad area was woefully short of water and this made the Tomars move westward to Mehrauli. Firoz Shah, Muhammad Tughlaq's successor solved this problem by building his new city on the banks of Yamuna. Kotla was the inner citadel of Firozabad, built like Windsor, with great palaces and a magnificent mosque inspiring Timur's envy. Destroyed by the Mughals, Kotla palaces were reduced to mere ruins, exposing to view the subterranean passages and covered cloisters. One can still see the pyramidal structure topped by the Ashokan Pillar brought from Topra, and a three-tiered baoli. Timur's invasion of Delhi reduced the city to a city of ruins as he took away with him elephants loaded with treasures and costly building material, artists, masons and skilled workmen as prisoners. The Saiyyads and Lodis used Kotla as their citadel. Now more famous for the cricket ground, where many important matches were held.
Qutub Minar -- The origins of Qutab Minar are shrouded in controversy. Some believe it was erected as a tower of victory to signify the beginning of the Muslim rule in India. Others say it served as a minaret to the muezzins to call the faithful to prayer. No one can, however, dispute that the tower is not only one of the finest monuments in India, but also in the world. Qutab-ud-din Aibak, the first Muslim ruler of Delhi, commenced the construction of the Qutab Minar in 1200 AD, but could only finish the basement. His successor, Iltutmush, added three more storeys, and in 1368, Firoz Shah Tughlak constructed the fifth and the last storey.
Tughlaqabad -- Tughlaqabad was a magnificent fort when built by Ghiasuddin Tughlaq in 1324. But soon after his death it became a deserted, haunted place. But the great fort & city was never lived in and still has scarce human habitation. This fort was built within four years between 1321 and 1324. It contained a vast number of buildings, mosques, palaces, towers, and tanks surrounded by mammoth bastions. In fact Ghiyasuddin had selected this site for the fort when he was a mere soldier. But soon it became a deserted, and a haunted place. No enemy has attacked the fort nor has anyearthquake destroyed it.

Why was the third fort of Delhi abandoned?
It is believed that Saint Nizamuddin was building his baoli - step well at the time when Ghiyasuddin was using all his state power, and resources on the speedy construction of the fort. Out of reverence, people worked more agreeably for the saint than for the Sultan who forbade his men to work at the baoli. So they worked at night in lamplight. This irked the Sultan who prohibited the sale of oil. The saint worked a miracle and the baoli water, when used in the lamps, emitted bright light. This exasperated the Sultan. In a fit of bitterness, the saint cursed the city of Tughlaqabad-'ya rahe usar, ya base gujar' (either it remains barren, or else be peopled by the Gujjar tribesmen). The curse prophesied doom on the city not yet fully completed. Ghiyasuddin, then out in Bengal, threatened to set the saint right when the returned to Delhi. The saint then quipped, 'Hunuz Dilli dur ast' (Delhi is yet far away). When Ghiyasuddin returned after his victorious campaign, his son Muhammad Tughlaq arranged for him a reception at Afghanpur, a village outside Delhi. A grand wooden canopy was specially erected on this occasion. When the grand salute was in progress one of the elephants put its foot on the wooden contraptions. The whole canopy collapsed over the Sultan and his infant son, killing them instantly. The prophecy was fulfilled. The Sultan could not reach Delhi to chastise the saint. When Muhammad Tughlaq took over as Sultan, he chose to build his own city and fort-Adilabad. Within a year or two after 1324, the city of Tughlaqabad was just abandoned by Muhammad Tughlaq. It became a haunt of jackals, monkeys and the sheep tending Gujjars who roamed about freely in royal ruins. The curse had materialized.
Humayun's Tomb -- The Mughals brought with them a love for gardens, fountains and water. The first mature example of Mughal architecture in India, Humayun's Tomb was built by the emperor's grieving widow, Haji Begum, in 1565 AD. Constructed with red sandstone and ornamented marks the beginning of a new tradition of ornate style, which culminated in the Taj Mahal of Agra. Designed by the Persian architect, Mirza Ghyas, Humayun's Tomb shows a marked shift from the Persian tradition of using coloured tiles for ornamentation. Located in the midst of a large square garden, screened by high walls, with gateways to the south and west, the tomb is a square tower surmounted by a magnificent marble dome. The dome stands 140 feet from the base of the terrace and is topped with a copper pinnacle. In addition to the remains of Humayun, the complex also houses the grave of many other distinguished members of the Mughal dynasty.
Lodi's Tomb
- Adjacent to the Dargah Complex on the western side Chiragh Delhi is the tomb of Bahlol Lodi, the founder of the Lodi dynasty and reigned from A.D. 1451 to 1488. This tomb was built by his son, Sikander and may originally have been surrounded to a garden. The tomb is crowned by five domes, the central one of which is fluted and higher than the rest. The north, south and east facades have three archways, while the west wall has two which flank mihrab.
- About 3 Kms to the west of Humayun's tomb and adjoining the India International Centre are the Lodhi Gardens. In these well-kept gardens are the tombs of Sayyid and other Lodi rulers. Mohammed Shah's tomb (1450) was a prototype for the later Mughal-style tomb of Humayun, a design that would eventually develop into the Taj Mahal.
- Other tombs include those of his predecessor, Mubarak Shah (1433), and Sikander lodi(1517). The Bara Gumbad Masjid is a fine example of its type of plaster decoration.
Safdarjung's Tomb -- Representing the last phase of the Mughal style of architecture, Safdarjang's Tomb stands in the centre of an extensive garden. Built in 1753 by Nawab Shauja-ud-Daula to house the remains of his father, who was a minister in the Mughal court, the tomb is referred to as the "last flicker in the lamp of Mughal architecture." It shows how the grace and simplicity of he Mughals had been overtaken by decadence. The tomb also has a mosque.
Jama Masjid -- Work on the Jama Masjid mosque was begun in 1650 by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to complement his palace at the Red Fort. More than 5,000 workers toiled for six years to complete the largest mosque in India. Every Friday, the emperor and his retinue would travel in state from the fort to the mosque to attend the congressional prayers. A fine example of Mughal architecture, the Jama Masjid has three gateways.
Jantar Mantar -- At first sight, the Jantar Mantar appears like a gallery of modern art. It is, however, an observatory. Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur (1699-1743), a keen astronomer and a noble in the Mughal court, was dissatisfied by the errors of brass and metal astronomical instruments. Under patronage from the emperor, he set on himself the task of correcting the existing astronomical tables and updating the almanac with more reliable instruments. Delhi's Jantar Mantar is the first of the five observatories that he built with large masonry instruments. The observatory has the Samrat Yantra, a simple equal hour sun dial, the Ram yantra for reading altitudinal angles; Jai Prakash for ascertaining the position of the sun and other celestial bodies, and the Misra Yantra which is a combination of four scientific gadgets.
Red Fort or Lal Quila (Son-et-lumiere show) -- The mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, after ruling from Agra for elleven years, decided to shift to Delhi and laid the foundation stone of the Red Fort in 1618. It is called so because of the red stone with which it is built, the Red Fort is one of the most magnificent palaces in the world. India's history is also closely linked with this fort. It was from here that the British deposed the last Mughal ruler, Bahadur Shah Zafar, marking the end of the three century long Mughal rule. It was also from its ramparts that the first Prime Minister of India, pandit Jawharlal Nehru, announced to the nation that India was free form colonial rule.Daily sound and light shows are held here in Both Hindi & English.
Hauz Khas -- Hauz Khas is the historical battleground where Timur defeated Mohammed Shah Tughlaq in 1398. One can find the remnants of an ancient college and Feroz Shah's tomb here and on the east to a short distance the Moth ki Masjid built in the finest Lodi style. Once an archetypal North Indian Village in the heart of Delhi's urban sprawl, Hauz Khas is now a shopper's paradise successfully marketing the concept of ethnicity in every possible way. Hauz Khas was a large reservoir built by Allauddin Khilji that was once the water catchments for the city. This village is remarkable for both the ancient and charming ruins in the nearby compound looking down on a still, green tank, as well as for the modern and posh shopping complex, which has sprung up around here. The madarsa, tombs and mosque around it built by Feroz Shah Tuglaq still make for an exclusive and exciting experience. Hauz Khas is also the site of India's first Night Bazaar being built by the Ministry of Tourism.

British Monuments

India Gate -- Built as a memorial to commemorate the 70,000 India soldiers killed in World War I, India Gate was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and completed in 1931. Located on Rajpath, the road that leads to the magnificent Rashtrapati Bhawan, the gate is 160 feet high with an arch of 138 feet. Built from sandstone, the arch also houses the Eternal Flame, a gesture in memory of the Indian soldiers who laid their lives in the 1971 war with Pakistan.
The Secretariat Complex -- Popularly known as the North Block and South Block the present seat of the ministry of Finance and External affairs respectively was the original Secretariat built on Raisina hill. These imposing structures are topped with Chatris on the corners giving it a typical oriental look.
Rashtrapati Bhavan & Mughal Gardens -- Formely the Viceregal Lodge, the building is the highlight of Lutyen's New Delhi and was completed in 1929 at a cost of 12,53,000 pound sterling. Located in an area of 130 hectares, the palace has 340 rooms. At one time, 2,000 people were required to look after the building and serve the Viceroy's household. The lodge also has impressive garden called the Mughal Garden, which is open to public twice in a year, usually in February and March.
Parliament House -- The seat of Indian Parliament is a marvelous piece of architecture designed by the famed architect Lutyens and constructed under the direct supervision of Sir Herbert Baker. Visitors are not allowed to loiter inside the building without special permission, for security reasons. For the foreign visitors permits are given only after they obtain an introductory letter from the respective embassy. Designed as a circular structure, the House is 171 meters in diameter and about one-third of a mile in circumference. The two semicircular house chambers flank the Central Hall with its impressive dome. The building has a continuous open corridor on the first floor fringed with a colonnade of 144 creamy sandstone pillars. The exterior walls of red sandstone are carved in geometric patterns that echo Moghul jaalis. It is a marvellous piece of architecture which can be admired only from outside on account of security restrictions. It is domed almost circular structure about a kilometer in circumference and is the seat of the Indian Parliament. During the sessions of Parliament there is a flurry of activity in and around the structure.
Teen Murti House -- The Teen Murti Bhavan housed the first Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru. It was designed by Robert Tor Russel, the architect of Connaught Place, and the Eastern and Western Courts on Janpath. The Bhavan was originally the residence of the Commander-in-Chief of the British Forces in India. However, after independence the house was taken over as the residence of Jawaharlal Nehru. And on his death, the house was converted into a national memorial comprising a library and a museum. The library is one of the finest ones for information on modern Indian history. The house gets its name after the Teen Murti (three statues) Memorial, which stands on its extensive grounds. The memorial was built in memory of the Indian soldiers who perished in World War I. The Bhavan is closed to public on Mondays and on all public holidays.
Other Monuments of Modern Delhi
Dilli Haat - Dilli Haat and Craft Bazaar ... experience the traditional weekly village market, complete with crafts, food and cultural activities. More…
Akshardham Temple Complex - A mega temple complex, one of the biggest and most intricate places of worship ever constructed, is drawing hordes of visitors and seems set to become a major tourist attraction. It is widely being heralded as one of the greatest monuments India has ever produced. More…
The Supreme Court - Located opposite the pragati maidan is supreme court of India.
Raj Ghat -- The mortal remains of mahatma Gandhi were cremated on this spot on the west bank of the river Yamuna on the evening of January 31, 1948. A simple open platform inscribed with the Mahatma's last words, 'Hey Ram' (Oh God) is set in a garden with fountains and a variety of exotic trees.
Shanti Van -- To the north of Rajghat is Santiban. 1st Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's last rites were performed here on 27 May 1964. A tombstone has been erected on his funeral place. Next to it, the tomb of Sanjay Gandhi who was died in a plane crash in 1980.
Vijay Ghat -- This is the tomb of 2nd Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri. After the Indo-Pak was of 1965. Shastriji went to Tashkent in Russia on peace mission. In 1966 his last rites was performed here.
Vigyan Bhavan -- Delhi's most prestigious International Conference Centre.
Diplomatic Enclave - A broad street where most of the foreign embassies are located.

Excursions

Badhkal Lake-32 km - Situated in the Faridabad district of Haryana, the panoramic Badhkal Lake is a natural pool surrounded by vast lawns and lush greenery. Just over 30 km from New Delhi, the lake is a popular picnic spot. It also offers boating facilities to tourists.

Sohna-56 km - A top the Aravalli hills lies the picturesque health-cum-holiday resort. Sohna literally means `gold' in Hindi. Once, gold dust was collected from the sands of streams around it and so the place came to be known as `Sona', gold.

Sohna is famous for its sulphur springs, reputed for their medicinal properties, with the temperature ranging from 46.10c to 51.70c. The springs are located at the feet of a perpendicular rock, and are capped by a dome believed to have been built in the 14th century. The spa complex with sauna, sulphur and steam bath facilities for the tourists is situated up on the rock. There is also a mini swimming pool, filled with water spewed from a wall mural.

Sohna is also famous for its vintage Car Rally which is held during the month of February every year.

Suraj Kund- 18 km - Situated 11 km from the Qutab Minar on the Mehrauli-Badarpur Road, Surajkund is the site of a perennial lake surrounded by rock-cut steps. The Sun temple stood here during 1000 AD, the remains of which can still be seen here. The temple and the enchanting surroundings of this place won the heart of a Tomar chieftain Surajpal, who belonged to a clan of sun worshippers. Raja Surajpal had a sun pool and amphitheatre built in this area with the sun temple at its periphery. After the chieftain Surajpal, who built the complex, the place was named Surajkund.

Okhla-11 km - Okhla is un-doubted the No. 1 Industrial Area of the capital city of India. Located in prime area of South Delhi, it has wide roads, clean surroundings and ample parking space. There are negligible power cuts and it has continuous water supply, adequate sanitation and drainage facilities.

Ballabgarh-36.8 km - The venue of the Kartik Cultural Festival is the historic fort of the king Nahar Singh at Ballabgarh. Around 1739 AD work on the construction of the Fort of Ballabgarh began under instruction of the forefathers of King Nahar Singh. Two gates once guarded it. The four corners of the Mahal were decorated with - 'minars' on which were mounted large cannons.

After Nahar Singh's death in 1857, his palace at Ballabgarh, just outside Delhi, faded into ruin and oblivion. Rediscovered and rescued by the Government of Harayana, the palace was entrusted to a well-known team of experts, under whose direction it has been restored to its original, delicate bearty. In a unique joint venture, the district administration of Faridabad, the Ballabgarh Beautification Society, the Departments of Tourism and Cultural Affairs of the Government of Harayana, the Office of the Director General of Tourism, Government of India, local business leaders, and leading artists and arts venture of international stature.

Karnal lake-132 km - Karnal Lake is situated on the National Highway No.1 near Karnal, 124 km from Delhi and about 150 km from Gurgaon. It's a lovely green stretch that celebrates one of the protagonists of the epic Mahabharatha Karna.

The Karna Lake is man-made on a marshy land. The structures round it provide some of the most delightful luxuries for tourists. Designer decorated guest rooms look out to the lake outside. Each room faces the landscaped surrounding. The tall eucalyptus trees shut off the din of the highway. Karna Lake also has twin luxury cottages, quiet and restful. A well-equipped conference hall is an integral part of the complex, complete with steno cabin and allied facilities.

The lake has an identity of its own for its green waters and a small island. The surrounding fringes of bottlebrush have attracted darters and the pled crested Kingfishers. Ducks and geese filt in and around the water, adding to the quiet pleasures of Karna Lake. Boating is an added attraction here.

Dabchick- 92 km - On the border of Haryana as one travels to Agra, Dabchick resort greets the tourists. The resort is cozy, compact and geared to cater to the tourists in a hurry. Here the very best of facilities await the travelers.

Other Excursions In Haryana & Rajasthan

Hindon- 19 km
Hodal- 90 km
Maur Bund- 32 km
Sardhana- 24 km
Dasna- 40 km
Dhanaa- 41 km
Dharudara-70 km

Museums

The National Museum on Janpath -- It is the premier repository of antiquities. Built in 1960, it has an extraordinary collection representing the entire span of Indian civilization from pre-historic times. Its galleries include finds from the Indus Valley Civilization, superb sculptures in stone, and bronzes from the Chola period, the largest collection of miniature paintings in the world, manuscripts, a Buddhist Gallery, including relics of the Buddha from Piprahwa, the exquisite Jewellery Gallery, the Anthropological Gallery of tribal art; galleries devoted to decorative and applied arts, Maritime Heritage and Pre-Columbian art, and the Central Asian Antiquities, Gallery of Auriel Stein's finds along the ancient Silk Route (the great murals however, are on display at the adjacent Archaeological Survey of India).

The National Gallery of Modern Art -- Housed in the residence of Jaipur's former maharajas has a superb collection of paintings dating from 150 years ago to the present day. Company School paintings of the 19th and early 20th centuries and the works of Rabindranath Tagore, Jamini Roy and Amrita SherGil hold pride of place amidst exhibits, which give an overview of the evolution of modern Indian paintings and sculpture. The National Museum and the National Gallery of Modern Art periodically organize special exhibitions.

The Rail Transport Museum - It is a must for rail buffs. Its vintage display includes the oldest locomotive in the world-still working; the Vice regal Dinning Car (1889) and the Prince of Wales Saloon (1876). Children can enjoy a ride on the miniature rail track located in the south of Delhi close to the diplomatic area of Chanakayapuri it traces, through exhibits, the 140 year-old history of the Indian Railways. The museum, established in 1977, and spread over a ten-acre area, is the first of its kind in India.
Timings: summer 0830 to 1130 and 1600 to 1730 hours, winter: 0900 to 1730 hours.
It is closed on Mondays.

National Rail Museum -- It was built as per plan of British architect M G Satto on 1957, 1st Feb, on the carpet area of 10 acres of land. The museum displays 27 locomotives and 17 carriage. The saloon car of the Maharaja of Baroda (1886), the carriage of the Maharaja of Mysore made of teak covered with ivory; the cabin of the Prince of Wales (1876), the carriage in which the ashes of Gandhiji was carried in 1948; Fairy Queen of 1855 (oldest steam engine in the world); evolution of Indian Rail from steam engine to present era are vividly displayed. Even, the skull of an elephant who struck a Mail train in 1894, with his head is also projected here in the exhibition. The Toy train is running - you may buy here as a souvenir of your visit. Restaurant and Libraries are also there.

The Nehru Memorial Museum - Located at Teen Murti House where Jawaharlal Nehru lived for 16 years till his death in 1964. Its special charm is that the rooms have been preserved as they were. Not far from here is the Indira Gandhi Memorial where one gets a glimpse of the life of the late Prime Minister.

Indira Memorial Museum -- Another national museum has been built at 1 Safdarjung Rd in memoriam of Indira Gandhi, on May 27, 1985. Her own bodyguard assassinated Indira Gandhi on 31 Oct 1984. A glass cage has covered the spot where her body fell down. Before being bullet sprayed in from point blank range, Indira was on her way along the garden road out of her residence. At that place Czechoslovak Govt made a artificial water flow by crystal on steel plate of 33?25 m. The crystal stream on the steel plate is designed and planned by the Czech architect Jaroslav Mirich. 3 rooms are full with articles, which were in use by Indira. Photographs of Indira are also there. The bloodstained sari and other dress materials of Indira are chemically preserved in the museum. You may go inside the private chambers to view reading room, dinning room, Dewan-i-Aam, Dewan-i-Khas etc.
Except Monday open everyday from 10-00 to 17-00 3010094.

The Gandhi Memorial Museum - It has a collection of memorabilia on Mahatma Gandhi.

Dolls Museum -- Shankar's International Dolls Museum was founded in 1954. More than 6000 Variety representing almost 85 countries of the world is on display in the museum. Dolls of Japan deserve special mention. However, 1/3 of total dolls are Indian - Indian cultural and the cultural life style has been projected in the fashions of dolls. Besides, there is B C Roy Children's Library and children's play corner. The doll museum is situated at Nehru House close to Income Tax Office at Bahadur Sah Zafar Marg near Delhi Gate.
Timing : Except Monday open every day from 10-00 to 17-00

The Crafts Museum at Pragati Maidan has galleries displaying India's rich tradition of handicrafts. An added attraction is the presence of craftsperson who are bought here from different parts of the country to demonstrate their skills.

National Museum of Natural History -- In this central part of the city are also located in the FICCI building, Mandi House. Huge dinosaur and birds of pre historic ages are depicted National Museum of Natural History. The Discovery Room also appreciable.
View the film show from 11-30 to 15-30.
Open daily at 10-00 to 17-00
No ticket is required
Tel: 3314849

The Tibet House Museum on Lodi Road has a fine collection of tankhas, jewellery and ritual objects. En route to Old Delhi are the Shankar's Dolls Museum of Archeology related to the Mughal era, and the Museum of Arms and Weapons which traces the development of arms from the Mughal age to the First World War.

National science museum - The science museum next to the Pragati maidan, is a great place for both kids & adults to learn and decipher the various mysteries of life through science.

Parks & Gardens

The Mughal Garden -- The famous Mughal Gardens is located in the premises of the Rashtrapati Bhavan - the official residence of the President of India. The building and gardens designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens span an area of about 320 acres that include colourful flowering shrubs and European flowerbeds. The gardens comprise of the Rectangular Garden, Long Garden and the Circular Garden. The Rectangular Garden is the formal garden, which derived its treatment from the water-gardens, which the Mughals brought into Delhi. The small flowerbeds, the four waterways and mown lawns produce a virtual paradise.
The gardens are open to the public from February to March every year.
Shalimar Garden -- It is one of the most important Mughul gardens in the city. The Shalimar Garden, which lies in the suburbs of the city, was once the first-night staging post for the Mughuls on their way to Kashmir and Lahore. In 1658, Aurangzeb was crowned emperor here. Shish Mahal, the beautiful central pavilion built by Shah Jahan is now in a fairly advanced state of decay. Some of the original painted flower decoration has survived.
Tickets: Available at the site and Delhi Tourism office.
Rose Garden - National Rose Garden is situated in the Chanakya Puri area of the capital. This garden has some of the rare and imported rose variety. The best season to visit this garden is during December / January when the flowers are in full bloom. There is another rose garden in Hauz Khas opposite Safdarjang's Tomb.
Lodi Gardens -- In these well-maintained gardens are the domed tombs of Sayyid and Lodi rulers. This garden is known for its fountains, ponds, flowering trees, blossoming shrubs and artificial streams.
In the middle of the garden is Bbara Gumbad (Big Dome), a mosque built in 1494.
The garden has Sheesh Gumbad (Glass Dome), Mohammad Shah's Tomb and Sikander Lodi's tomb. These tombs boast of excellent architecture, and this style was later used in the construction of Taj Mahal.
These gardens are ideal for joggers and for those who seek solitude.
National Zoological Park -- The Delhi zoo, close to Purana Qila, near ITO, was established in 1959 and is spread over a massive area of 214 acres. Is regarded as one of the finest zoos in Asia and efforts have been made to provide an almost natural habitat to the animals and birds. There are more than 2,000 animals and bird species from places like Africa, America, Australia and even Asia. There is a lot of greenery around the zoo and it is an ideal picnic spot especially in winter.
Timings summer 0800 to 1800 hours, winter 0900 to 1700 hours.
Closed on Friday.
Buddha Jayanti Park -- At Palam-bound Sardar Patel Marg via Karol Bagh opp. Assam House is Buddha Jayanti Park founded on the auspicious eve of 2500 years of completion of Buddhas Great Salvation. A plant of Bodhi-Briksha was brought from Sri Lanka and planted in the commemorating park. The park is full of flowers and the garden is pleasant and charming for rest and walk. Ideal for picnic.
Musical Fountain -- Delhi Tourism's musical fountain at Ajmal Khan Park is spread over an area of five acres and provides a refreshing getaway from the bustle of the city. The scintillating lights synchronised with music, and the cascading water turn this complex into a quiet haven, particularly during the heat of summer. If you are travelling with kids or just want to enjoy a pleasant evening with your partner, then pay a visit to the Musical Fountain at Ajmal Khan Park This is spread over an area of five acres and provides a refreshing getaway from the bustle of the city. The musical fountain is in operation for two hours every day after sunset except on Tuesday.
Nehru Park - A park opposite the Ahoka Hotel & at one end of the diplomatic enclave is not just a regular jogger's park or children's park but also a popular venue for many cultural & classical music functions. It is spread over an area of 85 acres landscaped. Popular picnic spot.
Garden of five senses, Saidulazab - A beautiful Garden with fountains, sculptures, fragrant frangipani trees & nooks & corners to explore this garden surely fills all the five senses to the brim. Tucked inside Saidulazab off Mehrauli road, this garden has an unique touch of an architects dream.
Millenium Park - A new entrant to the picnic spot cum, childrens park, cum entertainment & cultural parks in Delhi is the upcoming Millenium park at the Nizamuddin crossing on Mthura Road.

Other Gardens, Parks & Picnic Spots
Children's Park --Near India Gate, has swings, slides and an aquarium. Adults are not allowed if not accompanied with a child.
Deer Park -- A paradise for morning walkers, has huts for staying and is approachable from Hauz Khas Village, Safdarjang Enclave or near the Delhi Lawn Tennis Association courts side.
Dhaula Kuan Complex -- Near Dhaula Kuan. It has an artificial lake, hanging bridge, playground and waterfalls. A cooling experience especially during the summer.
Idhah -- Green area around the Idgah in Hauz Khas Enclave.
India Gate Lawns -- Beautiful lawns over a large area, a popular evening location. Ice cream and other snacks available from mobile vendors.
Jahanpanah -- Ideal place for bird lovers in Chirag Delhi. It also has well developed forests.
Kalkaji District Park -- With lakes and beautiful terraced gardens a quiet spot near the Nehru Place office complex.
Kalindi Kunj -- Near the NOIDA border near Apollo hospital, a good getaway with fountains and colourful lights during the night.
Mehrauli -- On the outskirts of Mehrauli near Qutab Minar, the Phool Walon ki Sair is held there in October every year.
Mahavir Gardens -- Located on the Ridge it is named after the founder of Jainism, Lord Mahavir.
NDMC Lake Park -- Has a musical fountain and is located near the Safdarjang Flyover in Lakshmibai Nagar.
Okhla Dam -- Near the Yamuna Canal it has facilities for fishing. Close to the Holy Family Hospital it is a picnic spot.
Yamuna Water Front -- South of Rajghat, it is a 4 km long boulevard with green lawns and a floral clock.

Amusement Parks
Appu ghar -- India's 1st amusement park, is housed in the capital, New Delhi's heart Pragati Maidan. Inaugurated on 19th November, 1984, by the then Prime Minister, Late Sh. Rajiv Gandhi, on the occasion of the birthday of Late Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi, Appu Ghar has come a long way and has created a niche for itself. It is the almost happening place in the city. The dream child of the Late Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi was formally opened under the aegis of International Amusement Limited, with it's registered office at Gate No.4, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

Spread over 15.5 acres of land, it houses 22 immensely popular rides in its premises, along with a recently opened Water Park - O.Y.S.T.E.R.S. spread over 3.5 acres of land. Apart from the rides, Appu Ghar has fast food centres which serve all kinds of Indian food and a variety of shops selling gift items and wares.

Often referred as a Mini-Disneyland, is a major crowd-puller for the people residing in Delhi and neighbouring NCR cities. Appu Ghar was planned and designed to provide the children their own extended amusing space of recreation. The ideal location of this amusement park makes it easily accessible for tourists and also ensures great fun.

One of the most exciting features of Appu Ghar is the Ice-Games. Appu Ghar has prepared itself to provide the young saplings the real adventurous splash of fun and frolic.

Fun & food village - An amusement park & water park near Gurgaon.

Places of worship

Religious Places
Birla Mandir / Laxmi Narayan Temple -- Also known as the Lakshmi Narayan Temple, it is ideally located in central Delhi (Mandir Marg). This temple dedicated to the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi and Lord Narayana (Lord Vishnu) was built in 1938 by the prominent Indian industrialist Raja Baldev Das Birla and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi. The temple, built in Orissan style, has a large number of idols representing various gods of Indian pantheon. The well-grafted gardens need a special mention.
Bahai's temple / Lotus temple -- The BAHAI HOUSE,called as lotus temple,of worship is a marvel of modern architecture. It is made in the shape of a lotus.it is one of the major attractions for national and international tourists.it repesents the Bahai's faith which is an independent world religion, divine in origin, all-embracing in scope, broad in its outlook, scientific in its method, humanitarian in its principles and dynamic in the influence it exerts on the hearts and minds of men.
ISKCON Temple -- Built on a hilly place in 1998, the ISKCON Temple is a complex of temples. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, this elegant temple is one of the largest temple complexes in India. It has a large number of Hare-Rama Hare-Krishna cult followers.
Chattarpur Mandir -- Chattarpur Mandir is located beyond the Qutab Minar in Mehrauli. The temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, is built in South Indian style. The temple complex is spread over a large area with beautiful lawns and gardens. Though devotees visit these temples throughout the year, the main attraction comes during the Navarathri festival, when devotees come from far and near. During this time, there are special bus services provided to the devotees.
Bala Hanuman Temple -- This elegant temple stands on the south-eastern side of Ranmal Lake. The 24-hour chanting of the mantra 'Sri Ram, Jai Ram, Jai Jai Ram', which has been going on in the temple since August 1, 1964, has earned a place in the Guinness Book of Records.
Kalkaji Mandir -- Situated beyond the commercial complex of Nehru Place lies this temple dedicated to the goddess Kalika Devi. This domed twelve-sided Shakti Kalkaji temple, also known as Kalika or Kalka Devi lies on the same hill as the Baha'i temple. Its oldest section dates back to 1764 and additions were made in the mid-19th century; yet, most of the building is modern. This popular Kali shrine is at the heart of a village and the Hindu worship of its 'Mahants' (important sadhus) makes a fascinating contrast with the new faith of the Baha'is. Thousands of pilgrims throng the temple, especially in October during the nine days of 'navratra', when a huge fair is held over here.
Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir -- Digambara Jain temple dates back to the time of Aurangzeb's reign and is famous as Delhi's oldest temple. It is situated right opposite the Red Fort, at the entrance of the main road. It was built in 1658 AD, but modifications and additions are going on ever since, and it remains a haven of tranquility amidst the noisy and chaotic main street of Chandni Chowk. The temple authorities also run a Bird hospital & hundreds of pigeons and other birds are there in the temple complex.
Hanuman Mandir, Connaught place -- Situated on the Baba Kharak Singh Road (old Irwin Road) about 250m southwest of Connaught Circus, this temple is of little architectural importance. The residents of Delhi are, however, particularly devoted to it. The original temple appears to have been constructed by Maharaja Jai Singh about the same times as the Jantar -Mantar, but has undergone large scale renewals since then.
Nizam-ud-din Shrine -- This is the tomb of the famous sufi saint, Nizam-ud-din Auliya. Built on the way from Humayun's tomb, the premise of the shrine is a tank, which is surrounded by many other tombs. It is said that there was an argument between the rulers of Tughlakabad and the saint over building this tank. The saint had said that the city of Tughlakabad will never prosper and so did it happen. The tomb has been through several renovations ever since it was built. The present mausoleum dates back to 1562.

The complex of the shrine includes several other tombs, including that of the noted poet Mirza Ghalib (1786-1869), Amir Khusbru and the grave of Jahanara, the daughter of Shah Jahan.
If you happen to be there at around sunset on Thursdays, don't miss out the extravagant performance of qawwali singers that takes place after the evening prayers.

Location: West of Mathura Road
St. James Church -- Located very close to Kashmiri Gate in north Delhi, St. James Church is the oldest church in the capital. It was built by James Skinner and consecrated in 1836. It is designed in a cruciform plan with the entrance towards the west and the altar towards the east (the standard norm in most churches the world over). The dome interestingly is very similar to the dome of Florence Cathedral in Italy that was the first renaissance structure built in the world. Porches on the north, south and the west provide the building with three entrances. The central portion of the church is an octagon with circular columns supporting the dome.
Aurobindo Ashram -- Again in the south of Delhi near the Indian Institute of Technology on the road to Mehrauli it has literature on the life of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother and has an ashram where devotees can come to meditate. There is also some accommodation available for devotees of Sri Aurobindo.
Hindu Temples

Gauri Shankar Temple
Chandni Chowk Phone: 327 6832

Shirdi Sai Temple
Lodhi Estate

Ashrams

Osho Rajyoga Dhyana Kendra
C-5/44, Safdarjung Development Area
Phone: 696 4533/686 2898

Shivananda Yoga Vedanta Nataraja Centre
52, Community Centre (East of Kailash)
Phone: 648 0869 / 645 3962

Buddhist Temples

Buddha Vihara
Mandir Marg

Ladakh Bodha Vihara
Bela Road

Tushita Mayahana Meditation Centre
No 9, Padmini Enclave, Huaz Khas

Mosques

Safdarjung Masjid
Inside Safdarjung Tomb
Fatehpuri Masjid
Chandni Chowk

Gurdwaras (Sikh Temples)

Gurdwara Bangla Sahib
Baba Kharak Singh Marg

Gurdwara Sis Ganj
Chandni Chowk
Phone: 327 0093

Rakab Ganj
Near Central Secretariat

Catholic Churches

Sacred Heart Cathedral
Ashok Place, Near Gurdwara Bangla Sahib
Phone: 336 3593

St. Dominic's Church
A-1, Poorvi Marg, Vasant Vihar
Phone: 614 6636

Vatican Embassy Chapel
50-C, Niti Marg, Chanakyapuri
Phone: 688 9187

Protestant Churches

Free Church
10 Sansad Marg
Phone: 336 1331

Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)
YWCA Headquarters
10, Parliament Street

Bible Bhavan Christian Fellowship
50, Amrita Shergil Marg
Near Khan Market

Cathedral Church of Redemption
N. Avenue, Church Road
Phone: 301 5396

Synagogues

Judah Hyam Synagogue
2, Humayan Road
Phone: 463 5500 / 464 1058

Parsi Temples

Anjuman Dharmshala
Delhi Gate, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg
Phone: 323 1228 / 323 8615

Fairs and Festivals

Festivals In Delhi

Delhi being the capital city has the most diverse population and enjoys a large variety of religious celebrations with traditional music, dance and colorful costumes. Apart from the religious festivals several other colorful occassions also bring together the top perfomers from the field of music, dance, drama and art. With the break of the new year in the month of January, the festivity in Delhi starts and gathers momentum through the year.

Lohri (January) : In this festival, the climax of winter is celebrated with bonfires and singing. Traditionally, Lohri marks the end of winter.


Makar Sakranti (January): A major harvest festival of India. It is one of the biggest events in the states of Tamilnadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. But fights and bullock race is an important feature of the celebrations. Also celebrated in the eastern region when millions of piligrims take a holy dip in the Ganges.

Kite-Flying Festival (January): Held on Makar Sankranti day on the green lawns above Palika Bazaar, Connaught Place, this colourful extravaganza attracts national as well as international participants.

Republic Day (January): The national festival in India observed through out the country to make the inauguration of the Republic of India on 26th January 1950. In Delhi, the celebrations include a magnificent parade of the armed Forces, folk dances and floats from all the different states of India.

Basant Panchami (February): The biting winter winds continuing till the end of January-early February, when the Hindu festival of Basant Panchami welcomes the spring. This is also the chosen day to worship goddess of learning, Saraswati. Many schools & Bengali communities celebrate this day.

This is the season when the prestigious Mughal gardens behind Rashtrapati Bhavan are opened to public for a month.

Thyagaraja Festival (February): An enthusiastic display of south Indian music and dance, opposite Jawaharlal Nehru University in Vaikunthnath temple.

Holi (March) - A festival of colours celebrated with much fervour in delhi, with colours, sweets & lots of harmless fun.

Maha Shivratri (March): Maha Shivratri is celebrated on the 'Amavasya' (no moon) night of 'Phalguna'. It is said Lord Shiva danced the 'Tandava Nritya', which means cosmic dance on this dark night. He is worshipped at temples with all night vigils and prayers and unmarried women keep day-long fasts so that Shiva may grant them good husbands.

Amir Khusrau's Anniversary (April): Amir Khusrau's Anniversary is celebrated in April, with a fair in Nizamuddin and prayers and 'qawwali' singing. The event also sees the National Drama Festival, staged mostly at the Rabindra Bhawan.

Baisakhi (13th April): In north India, the Hindu New Year is celebrated on Baisakhi in mid-April just as the sun begins to get fierce and the dusty winds herald summer. It is also known as the beginning of the harvest season.

Easter and Good Friday (April) - Mostly celebrated by Christians in particular but even other people in general.


Buddha Jayanti (May): The first full moon night in May marks the birth of the Lord Buddha. Prayer meetings are held at Buddha Vihar, Ring Road and Buddha Vihar, Mandir Marg. Buddha Purnima is the month of 'Vaisakha', commemorates not just Lord Buddha's birth, but also his 'Enlightenment' and gaining 'Nirvana'.

Mahavir Jayanti (May): The birth of Lord Mahavira, who founded Jainism, is celebrated around this time of the year with prayers and processions.

International Mango Festival (July): A particular event, with over five hundred types of mango on show, usually held in Talkatora Stadium. Tourists can enjoy free tasting and a cultural programme to sample.

Independence Day (August): Like 26 January, 15th August is also celebrated in the city as the Independence Day to mark the Indian independence from the British rule in the year 1947. The Prime minister of the nation addresses the nation from the Red Fort and many people gather around the Red Fort to hear the Prime Minister's address.

Teej (August): A monsoon Festival celebrated by north Indians. Mainly a fun and frolic time for women to wear loads of glass bangle, fine clothes, and henna on their hand. They put up swings in the garden,

Raksha Bandhan (August): Symbolising the bond of love and protection. Also know as Rakhi, when sisters & daughters tie a band of love on the wrists of their brothers & fathers praying for their safety, health and well being. And in turn the brothers give gifts & a promise to protect their sisters. Popularised by.

Janam Ashtami (August): A hindu festival. The birth celebration of Lord Krishna. Children everywhere make little replicas of the story of lords krishna's birth with toys.

Ganesh Chaturthi (August): Celebrated by the Maharashtrians but not up to the level as in Mumbai. Idols of Ganesha are worshiped in a 10 day long festival.

Phoolwalon-ki-Sair (October): In early October, a festival specific to Mehrauli, in Delhi, takes place. This is the Phulwalon-ki-Sair or the Flower Sellers Procession, which originated in the 16th century. The highlight is a procession of people carrying decorated floral fans, which are blessed at the shrine of the 13th century Sufi saint, Khwaja Utb-ud-din Bakhtyar Kaki and at the Hindu temple of Jogmaya, both in Mehrauli. The procession ends with a formal ceremony at the Jahaz Mahal, a 16th century pleasure resort by the side of a lake.

Qutub Festival (October): Delhi Tourism organises the popular Qutub Festival in October. Musicians and dancers perform at night by the city's 12th century landmark, the Qutub Minar. This festival gives tourists a glimpse of the cultural grandeur of India.

Durga Puja (Oct - Nov) - Durga Puja mainly celebrated by Bengalis and other east Indians, commemorates the homecoming of Goddess Durga to her maternal home, along with her four children, Lakshmi - goddess of wealth, Saraswati - goddess of learning, Lord Ganesh & lord Kartikeya. Worhipped both as a mother and 'Mahishasur Mardini' Slayer of the demon 'Mahishasure. The five day long celebration culminates at Dusshera.

Dussehra (Oct - Nov) - Related to the mythology of Ramayana, this day is celebrated as the day when Rama killed Ravana after the battle in Lanka. For nine days, during the navratras various theatre groups perform the story of Rama throughout Delhi. on the final 10th day Huge effigies of Ravan, his brother Kumbhkarn and his son Meghnad are erected, and stuffed with fire crackers.

Kali Puja (November) - Celebrated mostly by the Bengali community. The Kalika form of Goddess Durga is worshipped in the community setting. Sometimes kali puja coincides with Diwali.

Deepawali (November) - Diwali is the celebration of Rama returning home to Ayodhya after slaying Ravan & rescuing his wife Sita. The day is celebrated with houses & streets decorated with lights, lamps, candles on the night of no moon. The weeks of preparation, buying new clothes, & gifts, and making sweets culminates on this. In the evening the entire city decks up like wearing jewellery of lights & people burst firecrackers the entire night. Ganesh & Lakshmi are worshipped.

The Bengali community celebrates 'Kojagari Lakshmi Puja' or the sleepless night. They believe that Lakshmi - the goddess of wealth come to the homes of the lucky few on this day. Being a dark night it's essential to show lights to her & keep up all night to welcome her. Little feet are drawn, with rice paste, from the gates of the houses to her place in the house to guide her way.

Bhaiya Duj / Bhai tika / Bhai Phota (November) - Another festival celebrated by the sisters for their brothers. This time the sisters put a little dot of sandalwood as a symbol of protection from dangers, on the forehead of their brothers. And then exchange gifts & sweets.

Guru Purab (November - December): Guru Purab is the celebration of the birth of first of the ten Sikh gurus, Guru Nanak. 'Nagar Kirtans' are taken out through the streets and in the Gurdwaras, 'Granthees' recite verses from the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of Sikhs.

Christmas (25th December): On 25th of December the capital witnesses special Christian Eve entertainment's at its all-major hotels and restaurants and the midnight mass and services at all churches.

New Year's Eve (31st December): The culmination of the Indian festive spirit is celebrated on the 31st of December, with most hotels and restaurants offering special food and entertainment.

Id-ul-Fitr -- Id-ul-Fitr means the 'festival of breaking the fast'. The fast of Ramadan is broken with special prayers and festivities. 'Fitr' is derived from the word 'fatar' meaning 'breaking'. Another connotation suggests that it is derived from fitrah or 'alms'. Certain Sunni Muslims believe that fitr comes from fitrat meaning 'nature' and Id-ul-Fitr is the celebration of god's magnanimity in providing nature to man. Celebrated on the first day of the new moon, it marks the end of Ramadan.

The 30-day fast is broken on Id-ul-Fitr with sumptuous feasts which people embrace each other three times, as is laid down in the Quran. The festival originated when after proclaiming Ramadan as the period of fasting and austerity, Prophet Muhammad announced a day for celebrations to reaffirm the feeling of Id-ul-Fitr brotherhood. Women prepare sweets at home. Vermicelli cooked in sweetened milk, is popular. People then go for Id get together and socializing. Some people visit cemeteries and stay there for many hours, often even camping out overnight. This is perhaps to honor their ancestors and to be with their spirits. To a devout Muslim, Id is a time to forget all past grievances.

Id-ul-Zuha -- It is one of the grandest Muslim festivals, and is also known as Bakrid. It fails on the 10th day of the Muslim month Zil-Hijja. The sacrifice of a ram or goat also symbolizes that man's position in the creation is far higher than any beast, and any sacrifice, however great, is a small thing for the sake of religion and Allah. The sacrificial ram or goat is reared with great care and is kept quite healthy and fat and the man who does the sacrifice must be a man of a character and deeply religious.

On Bakrid, the Muslims go to the mosques in the morning to offer prayers to Allah. And then sacrifice the animal at home. The cooked meat is partaken by the friends and relations. The poor, needy and sick are given money, clothes, etc., in charity on this day. Children also get money to spend, and gifts from their elders. People embrace one another out of sheer joy and greet each other Hindus also participate in it and offer their good wishes to their Muslim friends and well wishers.

Milad-ul-nabi -- Milad-ul-Nabi, the birth anniversary of Prophet Mohammed, is celebrated with traditional pomp and religious fervour by Muslims.

Fairs In Delhi

The International Trade Fair - The International Trade Fair starts on the 14th day of November every year. This trade fair is held at the Pragati Maidan. This fair is a major event for the Business community. Corporate houses from all over the world come in this fair and business deals are finalised in a big way. This fair is also a major tourist attraction and lakhs of people visit the fair, which ends after thirteen days.

Pragati Maidan -- Pragati Maidan is also host to many other fairs, which includes the Auto Expo and the leather Fair. Through out the year Pragati Maidan is the venue for fairs and expositions. The Shakuntalam theatre is located in Pragati Maidan and regular film shows are held here.

Handicrafts Fair -- The months of September, October and November are busy with various types of fairs. The Handicrafts Fair at Delhi Haat is a major attraction for the lovers of handicrafts. The business fair held by the Delhi Government is also a major attraction for the Business community. The Diwali fairs around the Diwali festival is held in almost every community.

The Surajkund Handicraft Mela - Surajkund is a small ancient kund (pond) in Haryana on the outskirts of Delhi. This picturesque place is the venue for the annual Handicrafts fair. This handicraft fair gives the artisans an opportunity to show their skills on the spot and customers get to see the working style of the artisans. The fair is held on a particular state theme. There are fashion shows and puppet shows, which represent the amalgamation of the traditional art with the modern trends.

Numerous other fairs are held throughout Delhi mainly during the winter season. It's a great time to just amble around the fairs, shopping for knick-knacks, enjoying the sun and sampling the scrumptious food, snack and chaat of Delhi.

Shopping

Delhi is a veritable paradise for shoppers, who can buy objects ranging from the simplest of Indian handicrafts to international designer labels, and often within the same shopping area. Delhi is unique in that it has representative outlets for the handicrafts of each Indian state. This in it self presents a staggering array of goods, and at very affordable prices. In the last decade there has been a dramatic change in Delhi's markets.

Upwardly mobile lifestyle has led to greater sophistication in display and upgrading of various markets in terms of availability of items. Delhi has long been the most important trading centre in Northern India. Many of its localities, like Sheikh Sarai and Yusuf Sarai, derive their names from medieval market towns, which serviced the bygone, shifted capital cities of Delhi. Today, all of these have become a part of the rapidly expanding metropolis. Instead of market towns, there are specific wholesale markets or "mandi's" scattered throughout the vast city, and theirs is another story. For visitors to Delhi, shopping is high on the list of "things to do".

Tourists find a wide choice of items- such as carpets, silks, jewellery, leather and silver ware, handicrafts and hand printed cotton - that are synonymous with India. Each item is available in a range of prices, depending on the quality and the outlet. Another interesting is that each market has its own, distinctive ambience and adds its own flavour to the experience of shopping. Haus Khas Village, Connaught Place and Chandni Chowk are worlds apart from one another, yet each of them reflects an aspect of this many - faceted city. In fact one of the fascinating ways of understanding a city is by wandering through its market places for it is here that contemporary culture is most visible to the outsider.
Chandni Chowk (Closed on Sundays)-- It was the eyes and ears of the Mughal's commercial instincts and is today one of the country's best known wholesale markets for textiles, electronic goods and watches. The entire area was designed by Jahanara Begum, Shah Jahan's favourite daughter and was then inhabited by the well-to-do families of that time. There is however a word of caution and that is; that there are several elements selling duplicate goods and the tourist needs to be careful about this.
Leading off Chandni Chowk are Dariba, the silver market, Khari Baoli, the spice market and Kinari Bazar for trimmings and tinsel. In some of these bazaars the item for sale are manufactured at site, which lands a special charm to the shopping experience well integrated into the culture of the old city, these bazaars offer the visitor a glimpse of life in Old Delhi.
Meena Bazaar -- There are some antique stores behind Jama Masjid, and more lining the entrance to the Red Fort, where the Meena Bazar once was. These offer items arranging from jewellery to painting and furniture, and cater almost entirely to tourists.
Connaught Place (Closed on Sundays)-- One of Delhi's most popular shopping centres built as early as 1931 there is nothing that one cannot buy here and it also has several eating-houses. The state emporia buildings are also located in this area so are the head offices of major banks, airlines and other such things of importance to the tourist. The complex popularly referred to as CP is an important meeting point for all sections of people and is something, which no tourist should miss if for nothing else then for its architecture and the humdrum of everyday life.
Janpath (Closed on Sunday) -- Located in the heart of Connaught Place Janpath is one of the busiest roads in New Delhi. A street market famous for its cheap bargain on cotton clothes & trinkets. Be sure to bargain for the prices. Some famous shoe & music stores are also here in Janpath. A small but fragrant shop here sells original essential oils, "itr" in forms of ready to use concentrate perfumes. Loads of junk & glass jewellery shops dot the lane. For a good variety of stoles & scarves Janpath is an ideal choice.
The Tibetans sell jewellery and ritual objects, while embroideries from Gujarat and Rajasthan, sell wall hangings, shawls, furnishings & readymade garments and bric-a-brac.
The Cottage industry Emporium (Closed on Sunday) - Right in the heart of Connaught place is the govt. run one place mall for every kind of art & craft products made in India. Right from jewellery, silk, sarees, furnishing, carpets, furniture to toys, trinkets, clothes, tea, silver, sandalwood, pottery and brass items.
Khadi Gram Udyog (Closed on Sunday) - Khadi a revolution in weaving initiated by Mahatma Gandhi has come a long way in the last century. It is no longer just some thick cloth and the Gandhi topi or kurta. The Khadi Gramudyog bhavan stores all the products like khadi cloth, ready made & embroidered clothes, silk & woollen clothes, natural, food products, incense, shoes & crafts etc. Also it houses a huge section only dedicated to various types hand made paper for art & craft purposes.
From Oct 2, every year the Khadi gives heavy discounts on it's products for a month, on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti celebrations.
State Govt. Emporia, Baba Kharak singh Marg (Closed on Sunday) - Just the corner form the Khadi bhavan, opposite the Hanuman Temple is the Emporia Complex. Starting from 'Gram shilp' in one street are the emporium shopping malls for all the different states of India. For all authentic regional craft & silk one can directly go to any of these govt. emporiums. And of course the Delhi emporium has something from every state.
Hanuman Temple - a good place to put mehndi, or henna on the hand & feet.
Crafts Museum Shop (Closed on Sunday) - In the corner of Pragati Maidan, diagonally opposite the Old Fort is the crafts Museum. Inside the museum the craftsmen showcase their talent while the shopper can, not just buy but also see how it was made. There is a small shop to sell the same craft items.
Sarojini Nagar (Closed on Monday) - A similar market as the Janpath market, located in south Delhi.
Dilli Haat -- Food and Crafts Bazaar, opposite INA Market, is a one-stop shopping place for tourists, which not only offers various arts and handicrafts of India, but also a taste of the ethnic cuisine. Visitors can also witness the different performing arts of the country.
Qutub Shopping arcade -- A more up market outlet for Indian handicrafts and antiques is the bazaar near the Qutab Minar.
Ansal Plaza / Greater Kailash / South extension markets/ Lajpat Nagar Central Market (Closed on Monday) - Upscale market for all types of goods starting from clothes to electronics. With several malls & restaurants, these are great places to hang around.
Hauz Khas Village - The haunt of the nouveau riche, these markets offer a combination of ethnic chic and designer labels, Indian and international. Hauz Khas Village has set a very interesting trend as market. Over the centuries, a village had developed around the medieval college and the tomb of Firoz Shah Tughlaq. A few years ago, an association called Dastakar - set up a showroom in the village. Now the village has a plethora of boutiques, galleries and restaurants, which coexist with the buffalos, cow pats and men smoking hookahs on charpoys. Far from being a deterrent, the "rural" ambience is a positive attraction. Other villages like Mehrauli, Khirkee and Lado Sarai are fast following suit.
Walk into the quaint shops to find the most exquisite handicrafts, trinkets along with the most renowned designer clothes stores of India. Also in the village are some good eating joints for the traveller to explore.
The Santushi Shopping Arcade - This shopping complex opposite the Ashoka Hotel has become another popular up market haunt. Developed by the Air Force Wives Association, it has a select number of boutiques where apparel, furnishings and accessories are available. A restaurant and patisserie add to the quiet charm of the place.
Sunder Nagar Market (Closed on Sunday) --
Chor Bazaar (only on Sunday) - Behind Red fort there is a weekly market, which sells old & antique things. If not for buying one can go there to just have walk around the flea market & who knows you could find a treasure.
Weekly book Market (only on Sunday) - On Sundays the Darya Ganj Street comes alive with hundreds of shops & buyers browsing the old books Market.

Other Shopping Centres :
Karol Bagh (Closed on Monday)
Yashwant Place (Closed on Sunday)