Exploring Delhi with Ho Ho Bus

It is the most prominent Sikh gurdwara, or Sikh house of worship, known for its association with the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Har Krishan. Gurdwara Bangla Sahib was originally a bungalow belonging to Raja Jai Singh, an Indian ruler in the seventeenth century, and was known as Jaisinghpura Palace. The eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Har Krishan resided here during his stay in Delhi in 1664. During that time, there was a smallpox and cholera epidemic, and Guru Har Krishan helped the suffering by giving aid and fresh water from the well at this house. Soon he too contracted the illness and eventually died on March 30, 1664. A small tank was later constructed by Raja Jai Singh over the well, its water is now revered as having healing properties and is taken by Sikhs throughout the world back to their homes.

Next up is your date with the red architectural masterpiece of Delhi. Red Fort popularly known as Lal Qila is one of the most haunting spots for tourists. This magnificent fort on the banks of the river Yamuna, is a living piece of history from 17th Century Delhi. This fort was constructed by Shahjahan who also built the wonder of the world Taj Mahal as a symbol of his love. The whole structure is made of Red stone. Construction of Red Fort started in 1639 and within a span of 9 years, the colossal structure was built. The Red Fort has the highest pedestal as a historical monument in Indian democracy as the site plays a host for the Prime Minister of India as he addresses the nation on August 15. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

The calm yet dignified ambiance of your next destination will probably take you back to an era when great leaders were born. Surrounded by deep green lawns, Rajghat a simple black granite platform marking the site where, on January 31, 1948, Mahatma Gandhi’s last rites were performed. ‘Hey Ram’, his last words, are engraved on the black memorial stone. At the center of the square stone, an eternal flame burns to symbolize eternity of the great leader. To mark Gandhi’s birthday (Oct. 2) and death anniversary (Jan. 30), prayer ceremonies are held. The foreign leaders visiting Delhi pay their respects to Gandhi at Rajghat.

If you are an Art fanatic, you are at your Mecca. The former residential palace of Maharaja of Jaipur was later transformed into National Gallery of Modern Art. It is situated at the eastern end of Rajpath near India Gate and is administered by the Government of India. Former Vice President of India, Dr. S. Radhakrishnan inaugurated the gallery in presence of Jawaharlal Nehru on March 29, 1954. The gallery has a wonderful collection of around 15,000 paintings, sculptures and works of arts by Indian as well as international artists. The National Gallery of Modern Art bears witness of the transition taken place in the field of art in last century. The gallery obtains, preserves and displays works of modern art from mid 19th century till date. Explore the history of Indian contemporary art through ages under one roof. It is a tribute to art in the nation.

India Gate was built in 1931 as a memorial to 90,000 Indian soldiers who laid their lives fighting in the First World War. The name of 90,000 men who died during these conflicts are inscribed on the uprights of the arch. Under the arch is the memorial to the Unknown soldier – an inverted rifle, and an eternal flame, guarded round the clock by a ceremonial guard drawn from three wings of the armed forces. On one side of India Gate, at the far end of the Raj Path, stands the Rashtrapati Bhawan, and on the other side stands a canopy under which a statue of King George V stood before independence.

This destination will transport you to 5000 years back in history of great Mughals and Afghans. In the city of Dinpanah, Refuge of the Faithful, Purana Qila stood with its royal might. It was started by Humayun in 1533 AD and was completed by the Afghan ruler Sher Shah in five years time. This monument is a perfect blend of Hindu elements with Muslim style of arches and domes. Simply said, the style of architecture of the Purana Qila can be considered as a secular architectural style.

Like a true example of Mughal imperial architecture, your next destination has a royal aura about it. Humayun’s Tomb was built by his widow Hamida Banu Begam, also known as Haji Begam in 1569 after his death in 1556. Mirak Mirza Ghiyath, a Persian, was the architect employed by Haji Begam for this tomb. It is considered as the first distinct example of proper Mughal style inspired by Persian architecture. The influence is evident as it was the first garden tomb built in the Indian Subcontinent. Humayun’s Tomb was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.

Inspired By Transport Museum in London, DMRC has set up a south asia’s first “Metro Museum” at Patel Chowk station ,Metro museum Founded in 1995 but the museum was opened to the public on December 2002 and since then it has become a favorite attraction in the city. The museum showcases visitors in detail about management style and work culture of the DMRC, the construction, the technology involved such as the Automatic Train Control System, Automatic Fare Collection system, In the museum you can see photographs, model of the metro train, stations and more. The museum also has two large touch screen monitors which plays movies and presentation describing how the Metro and its stations were and are built.

This is the destination for those who are looking for nirvana. A visual delight, Lotus Temple is one of the most remarkable architectures of Bahai faith. This splendid structure is considered as the modern ‘Taj Mahal’. Since its dedication to public worship in December 1986, this Mother Temple of the Indian sub-continent has drawn to its portals more than 70 million visitors, making it one of the most visited edifices in the world. The place provides immaculate environment for meditation, peace and wisdom. The temple has no restrictions for visitors and is open to people from all religions. Fariborz Sahba, Canadian architect of Iranian origin, spent 10 years in designing and project management, and with the help of a team of about 800 engineers, technicians, artisans and workers brought to realization one of the most complicated constructions in the world.

The National Philatelic Museum at Dak Bhawan, is operated by the Department of Post, which has a post office with an outlet for philatelists interested in Indian stamps. The museum was designed by Dr. Anand Burdhan of the Delhi Institute of Heritage Research and Management The building has an extensive stamp collection including the first stamp issued in India by the Sindh Dak (1854) and stamps issued before Independence by the rulers of the Princely States.

An Embassy is the diplomatic representation of a country’s government in another country. It transmits messages of its home government to the government of the host country and vice versa. It informs its home government about important political, social, economical, military and other events happening in the host country. It prepares international treaties and official state visits. It promotes its own home culture, economy and science in the host country. It is situated at chankyapuri where you can see different countries embassies. The road knows as shanti path, covered with lush green gardens. Out of every countries embassy you can see their national flags.

Get ready to meet one of the architectural marvels in the world. Qutub Minar is one of the most famous tourist destinations in India. The minaret was constructed by Qutab-ud-din Aibak and later completed by his successor Iltutmish in 1192. Qutub Minar holds the title for the highest individual tower in the world with a height of 234 feet. It also makes it into the list of the tallest and most famous towers in the world. It proudly displays the beauty of Indo-Islamic Afghan architecture untouched by the time it has seen. Qutub Minar is a World Heritage Site. It is India’s most visited monument attracting around 3.9 million visitors every year.

If you are looking for a place with a different ambiance, you’ve reached the right place. Hauz Khas Village is the hub of designer studios and themed restaurants. All the top designers of the country own a studio at Hauz Khas Village. If we look back at the history of the place, it is the historical battleground where Timur defeated Mohammed Shah Tughlaq in 1398. It was established by Alauddin Khilji in the year 1284. Hauz Khas is a blend of worlds. The Hauz Khas Complex has a water tank, tomb of Feroz Shah Tughlaq, six domed Pavilions, Madrasa and an Islamic Cemetery built during the reign of the Delhi Sultanate in 13th Century.

It’s a treat for those who swear by traditional artisans and food. This place is bubbling with sheer energy of the visitors enjoying various craft products at 62+ stall and 25 + food stalls located within the complex. Craftsmen from different corners of India come over to showcase their products which are reasonably priced. Delhi Haat presents two passions in a platter- food joints and crafts market – both inspired from the village style. The regional food stalls offer the rich traditional delicacies from all regions. Thus this place offers a kaleidoscopic feel of the richness and diversity of Indian culture and handicrafts.

The National Rail Museum is a museum which focuses on the rail heritage of India it opened on the 1 February 1977. It is located in over 10 acres of land with both indoor and outdoor exhibits. The most amazing feature of the rail museum that attracts the children as well as train buffs is the toy train that provides a joyful ride. The National Rail Museum is a highly informative place in Delhi that educates us of the history of railways in India. It has a unique museum which has a collection of over 100 real size exhibits of Indian Railways,Static and working models, signating equipment’s, antique furnitures, historical photographs and related literature etc. The line-up of old coaches includes the handsome Prince of Wales Saloon, built in 1875. Mysore’s Saloon built in 1899 with its brocade covered chairs and an elegant rosewood bed; one can peer in through the windows for a good look. The star attraction here is the Fairy Queen, built in 1855 and considered to be one of the best preserved steam locomotive engines of her age. A ride in joy train and mono rail is the most exciting experience besides boating. Do not miss the handsome Fire Engine on your way out.