MODULEV:HISTORICAL/MONUMENTAL/ ARCHITECTURAL

DESTINATIONS

Tourism in Delhi
Delhi is the capital union territory of India. A fine blend of old and new, ancient and
modern, Delhi is a melting pot of cultures and religions. Old Delhi has been the capital of
numerous empires that ruled India, making it rich in history. New Delhi, on the other hand, is a
modern city designed by Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker. New Delhi is famous for its British
colonial architecture, wide roads, and tree-lined boulevards. Delhi being National Capital
Territory, receives 62% of foreign travellers and NRI visiting India. Delhi is home to numerous
tourist attractions which are as under:

Purana Quila
The Purana Quila (Old Fort) is a very good example of Mughal military architecture.
Built by Pandavas, renovated by Humayun, with later modifications by Sher Shah Suri, the
Purana Quila is a monument of bold design, which is strong, straight forward, and every inch a
fortress. It is different from the well-planned, carefully decorated, and palatial forts of the later
Mughal rulers. Purana Quila is also different from the later forts of the Mughals, as it does not
have a complex of palaces, administrative, and recreational buildings as is generally found in the
forts built later on. The main purpose of this now dilapidated fort was its utility with less
emphasis on decoration.

Qutub Minar
The Qutub Minar is located in Qutb complex, Mehrauli in South Delhi. It was built by
Qutub-ud-din Aibak of the Slave Dynasty, who took possession of Delhi in 1206. It is a fluted
red sandstone tower, which tapers up to a height of 72.5 meters and is covered with intricate
carvings and verses from the Qur'an. Qutub-ud-din Aibak began constructing this victory tower
as a sign of Muslim domination of Delhi and as a minaret for the muezzin to call the faithful to
prayer. However, only the first storey was completed by Qutub-ud-din. The other storeys were
built by his successor Iltutmish. The two circular storeys in white marble were built by
Ferozshah Tughlaq in 1368, replacing the original fourth storey.

Akshardham Temple
Akshardham Temple it is the third largest Hindu temple in the world. It was built in 2005.
In the sprawling 100-acre (0.40 km2) land rests an intricately carved monument, high-technology
exhibitions, an IMAX theatre, a musical fountain, a food court and gardens.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

One of the most prominent and largest Gurdwaras in Delhi, Gurdwara Bangla Sahib is the
most visited one in the Delhi. Millions visit this Gurdwara from all over the world and of all
religions to offer their prayers at this elegant yet historical Gurdwara in Delhi. The Gurdwara
marks the place where the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Harkrishan lived his last breath serving the
helpless population ravaged by smallpox and cholera epidemic.[2] The Gurdwara offers free food
(langar) to all visitors and devotees throughout the day.
Jama Masjid
The Masjid-i-Jahan Numa, commonly known as Jama Masjid, is the principal mosque of
Old Delhi. Commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and completed in the year 1656, it
is one of the largest and best known mosques in India.It can accommodate around 25,000 people
at once.

Lotus Temple
The Lotus Temple is an exceptionally beautiful structure, created by the Bah' House of
Worship, situated in South Delhi and looks like a white lotus. It was built by the Bah'
community.

National Museum
The National Museum, New Delhi is one of the largest museums in India. It holds variety
of articles ranging from pre-historic era to modern works of art. It is run by the Ministry of
Culture, part of the Government of India. The museum is situated on the corner of Janpath and
Maulana Azad Road.
Raj Ghat
On the banks of the Yamuna River, which flows past Delhi, there is Raj Ghat, the final
resting place of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation. It has become an essential point of
call for all visiting dignitaries. Two museums dedicated to Gandhi are situated nearby.

National Zoological Park

The National Zoological Park is a 176-acre (71 ha) zoo near the Old Fort in Delhi, India.
The zoo is home to about 1350 animals representing almost 130 species of animals and birds
from around the world.

Rashtrapati Bhavan
Built with a mix of European and Mughal/Indian styles, Rashtrapati Bhavan was
originally built for the Governor General of India. Inaugurated in 1931 as the Viceregal Lodge,
the name was changed in 1959 after India became a republic. Now it is the Presidential Palace of
India.

Red Fort (Lal Quila) in Delhi

Mughal ruler Shah Jahan, when in 1639, shifted the capital of his empire from Agra to
Delhi in order to heighten the esteem of his regime and fulfill his motivated building plans, a
new city named Shahjahanabad was founded which we today see as Delhi or more specifically
Old Delhi. Along came the foundation of a fort called Red Fort in the northern side of the town.
It took about nine years to complete the construction of the fort from 1639 to 1648 for the
Mughal ruler. Red Fort was utilized as the residential purpose by the Mughal ruler but was also
capital of Mughal rulers till the regime of Bahadur Shah Zafar. In 2007, UNESCO included the
Red Fort in the list of World Heritage Site. The feature of the fort that it was made up of large
sand stone of red color gave it the name Red Fort. The fort was previously also known as Qila-
e- Mubarak or the Blessed Fort due to the fort being residence to the royal family. Spreading
over an area of more than 250 acres of land, Red Fort was constructed with superior architecture
than that of the Agra Fort by Shah Jahan. Red Fort held a significant focus in the time of Mughal
Rule and is one of the best examples of apex of Mughal architecture and zeal for precision,
grandeur and finesse reflected especially during the era of Shah Jahan.

Tourism in Jaipur

Jaipur - Rajasthan , the glistening Pink City, was founded by and named after Sawai
Jai Singh II. It beckons tourists with a magnificent display of its royal Rajput heritage in its
imposing forts and impressive palaces.
Added bonus is the warm hospitality of its colorful people and of course a plethora of
handicrafts to shop for. In fact, this is a paradise for all the ethnic lovers. The ethnic dresses
one will find here are hard to get from anywhere else. Also all the dresses are reasonably
priced. Tourists can enjoy watching and participating in various festivals that Jaipur hosts-
from the modern Jaipur Literary festival to the traditional Teej, Gangaur and Kite festival.
Summers are very hot in Jaipur, with temperature almost 45C while the winters are cool and
ideal to plan for a holiday, although the temperature may dip down to 8.3C in winter.
If you love palaces and crave to have an insight on the lifestyle of the rulers of the
bygone era, Jaipur is the city for you. If you are passionate about the strong forts and
marvelous architecture that flaunt the expertise of the artisans of the past, Jaipur is where you
need to be on your vacation. If you long to experience the flamboyant lifestyle of the past
rulers even if it is only for a few days, Jaipurs palaces-turned-heritage hotels are where you
need to stay for a lifetime experience. If you fancy elephant rides, you need to be in Jaipur to
have a royal ride on the elephants. You can customize the rides the way you need, take
elephant rides on jungles, through villages, in Biological Park and many more. If these were
not enough to decide in favor of Jaipur, go ahead to have a look at the top list of attractions in
Jaipur and you cannot resist any more.

City Palace
Once you are in Pink City, you will naturally be inclined to visiting City Palace, which is
situated in Pink City. It was constructed by Sawai Jai Singh II between 1729 and 1732 AD. The
palace complex comprises of Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal. Now, Chandra Mahal has
been converted into museum that houses exclusive handcrafted products and other products that
depict the cultural heritage of the kingdom.
Hawa Mahal
A stunning presentation of the rich architectural expertise of the past, Hawa Mahal is a
not-to-miss tourist places in Jaipur. The Mahal was constructed by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh
in 1799. True to the name it earned as the Palace of the Winds, Hawa Mahal has 953 windows
to provide ventilation. The five-storey building does not have steps to reach upper floors. Slopes
connect the storeys and it is said that the Mahal was constructed to enable the Royal women of
Rajput family to view the happenings in the city.

Amber Fort
Also known as Amer Fort, it is located in Amer, which is around 11 kilometers from
Jaipur. It was constructed by Raja Mansingh in the year 1592. It was later expanded by Raja Jai
Singh I. The red sandstone and marble stone construction reflect a blend of Hindu-Muslim
architecture. The main entrance faces east and there are three more entrances. There are four
courtyards in Amber Palace. One of the courtyards has the Public Audience Hall, called the
Diwan-i-AAm. The place provides you an opportunity to ride on elephant.

Jantar Mantar Observatory

If you have any doubts about having to spend your time at an observatory on your tour,
reconsider it. Jantar Mantar is not just like any other average observatory; it is ranked amongst
the largest observatories of the world. Built during the period of Maharaja Jai Singh II, the
astronomical observatory has the largest sundial of the world. Maharaja Jai Singh II had avid
interest in various subjects including architecture, astronomy, philosophy and astronomy. His
keen interest in astronomy led him to construct the countrys largest observatory. The geometric
devices available here are used in measuring time, observing constellations and orbits around the
biggest star. The astrological instruments attract astronomers and architects from all parts of the
world.

Dera Amer Elephant Safari

Being in Jaipur, you would not want to miss elephant safari. If you are keen to engage
the adventurous spirit in you, the hills behind Amer fort is the right place. This is where Dera
Amer is situated and it is the foothills of Aravali Range. You will enjoy the elephant safari in the
serene atmosphere. The ride will take you through fields, fortress and to the camp in the middle
of Aravali forests. The picturesque landscape and the stunning beauty of the forest will elevate
your spirits. If you love to experience your adrenaline rush, you need to opt for night safari.

Jaigarh Fort
This beautiful creation by Maharaja Jai Singh, located at Amber, Jaipur stands on the
Cheel Ka Teela (Hill of Eagles), a promontory of the Aravalli Hills. Located 400 metres above
and similar in structure with the famous Amber Fort, it was meant to protect the latter. One can
reach the Amber Fort through the secret subterranean passage from Jaigarh Fort. This fort is 3
km long and 1 km wide. It has the world's largest cannon on wheels, called Jaivana; a few palace
complexes which served as the residences of the royal families; a well maintained garden; and a
museum

Nahargarh Fort
Standing on the edge of the hills of Aravalli, the Nahargarh Fort gives a mesmerizing
view of the pink city of Jaipur. Nahargarh literally means "abode of tigers", evoking the royal
legacy of Rajasthan. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, who founded Jaipur, built this fort. The fort has
been part of important historical events: treaties of the Marathas were signed here, and it was the
refuge of British women during the Sepoy Mutiny. The fort served as a hunting residence for the
kings. The rooms of this beautiful fort are linked with long corridors.

Jal Mahal
Literally translated to "Water Palace", this beautiful architecture is situated in the middle
of a lake called the Sagar Lake, in the city of Jaipur. Both these were renovated as well as
enlarged by King Jai Singh in the 18th century. The halls inside the palace at the first floor are
well decorated, but cannot surpass the aromatic beauty of the Chameli Bagh upstairs. The area is
surrounded by the Aravallis, other forts, temples, and mesmerizing natural beauty. The lake has
well established drainage system, required depth for fishes to be alive, and five man-made
islands for attracting migratory birds.
Albert Hall
It is one of the oldest museums in Jaipur as well as in India, and was built by Sir Samuel
Jacob in the 19th Century. It is known as the state's museum for Rajasthan and is also well
known as the Government Central Museum. The beautiful building is located in the Ram Niwas
garden, and stands as the epitome of the conglomeration of the Indo Saracen architecture. Here
one can find a rich collection of numerous artifacts like carpets, paintings, stones, ivory,
sculptures made up of metal, crystal works decorated with colours and every item that depicts the
royal culture of Rajasthan.

Tourist in Agra
The next stop on the Golden Triangle tour will be the amazing city of Agra. En route the
tour to Agra from Delhi is the tomb of Akbar at Sikandra. The monument enclosed in the
gorgeous green gardens has an entry through a gigantic gateway called the Buland Darwaza. The
gateway has been has been beautifully done with huge mosaic patterns inspired by the gateway
constructed in Fatehpur Sikri after the successful invasion of Gujarat by Akbar. The four
minarets in wondrous white marble add to its elegance besides the calligraphy that is a perfect
example of grandeur. Further the char bagh style and the stucco paintings that best pieces of
work seen on any of the Mughal buildings will charm you with their beauty. Sikandra has made a
mark of its own amongst the many examples of the excellence of the Mughal architecture.
Agra the city is home to the wonder in white marble Taj Mahal. The visit to the city with
the forts, mosques and tombs amidst the greens will be a great way to enjoy the holiday. This
tour to one of the Indian wonders of the worlds is not to be missed. More than being the
mausoleum of the Mughal Empress Mumtaz Mahal and the labour of love by the Mughal
emperor Shahjahan the Taj Mahal is the pride of India. The beauty of the poem of internal love
has attracted people from the world over since long. The majestic monument on the banks of
river Yamuna stands in all its magnificence as if to preach the world that love is the greatest gift
of God. The masterpiece of art in white makrana marble has been worked on by several precious
gems like jade, crystal, turquoise, lapis, lazuli, sapphire, coral and diamonds to add to the beauty.
The tourists from the various parts of the globe visit this most visited and photographed
monuments of the World. It is the respect for love that brings together people overcoming all
other differences. The breathtakingly beautiful landscape will seem to add to the magic of the
Mughal architecture. The Taj is the perfect holiday spot to be at on a full moon night. Agra is
also known as the Land of palaces. Not just palaces, it also has a lot of intricate and beautiful
architecture. Even the tombs are elaborately adorned. Agra is the perfect spot for a tourist and
students of Architecture. Even the climate in Agra is very inviting and suitable. The city is well
designed, where even the houses show huge detailing in their design. On close inspection, even
the interiors of the buildings show the unreal imagination that the architects probably had. Every
building, looks like it had been designed to adorn the city, designed artistically from every angle.
Even the food speaks greatly about the spicy Indian Cuisine. It is a city with rich cultural,
historical, architectural and religious attachments. It is a city which is synonymous with the
history of India.

Places to See in Agra

The heritage of the Mughal dynasty and their fascinating tombs, forts and mausoleums
can be easily observed in and around the city of Agra. There are also other monuments and
places that are famous for their beauty and significance in Agra.

Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is one of the most famous tourist attractions in India and across the
world. It's one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Completed in 1653, The Taj Mahal was built
by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, as a symbol of
eternal love. Taj Mahal is built on a red sandstone base, topped by a huge white marble terrace
on which rests the dome flanked by four tapering minarets. The floors and walls have intriguing
calligraphy and mosaic work adorned with precious stones.

Agra Fort
Agra fort was commissioned by the great Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1565. During Shah
Jahan's era, the red sandstone fort was reformed into a palace and extensively repaired with
marble and pietra dura inlay. Distinguished buildings in the fort are the Pearl Mosque,
Jahangir's Palace, Diwan-e-Am, Diwan-e-Khas (public and private audience halls), Shish
Mahal, Musammam Burj and the Khas Mahal. The fort is semi-circular shaped, flattened on the
east with a long, nearly straight wall facing the river.

Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb
This Mughal Mausoleum in the city of Agra was built at the command of Noor Jahan
(wife of Jahangir) for her father Mirza Ghiyas Bagh, who was honored with the title of Itmad-
ud-Daula (pillar of the state). This is where the mausoleum took its name from. The walls of
the mausoleum are built in white marble and embedded with semi precious stones. The
cenotaphs of both the father and mother of Noor Jahan lay side by side in the tomb.

Fatehpur Sikri
It was founded by by the great Mughal emperor Akbar, in the year 1569, Fatehpur Sikri
served as the capital of the Mughal Empire during the years 1571-1585. Named as Fateh
(meaning victory) in the beginning, it was later known as Fatehpur Sikri. It was home for the
birth of navaratnas (9 jewels). It stands as a representation of the infamous Mughal architecture
with unique designs and artworks. The building was made of red stones and Akbar intended to
revive the Persian court splendors made by his ancestor Timur, but eventually it came through as
the classic Indian embellishments. The Fatehpur Sikkim was deserted after its completion due to
natural calamities of insufficient water further triggered by the proximity of the Rajputana areas.
The city is a piece of art that surrounds brilliant works by great minds of the strong Mughal
period influenced by the emperors

Akbars Tomb
It was built solely for the great Mughal emperor, the Akbar Tomb was built in 1605-1613.
It covers a good area of 119 acres in the Sikandra. It was Akbar himself who initiated the works
in 1600 as per the Tartary tradition. Located in the suburbs, about a kilometer away lies the tomb
of Miriam, Akbar's wife. The southern gate is similar to those of the Taj Mahal with 4 white
marble chhatri and also serves as the entrance to the tomb. A wall of 105m square surrounds the
tomb. The fake tomb is located in the marble pavilion placed inside a 4 tier pyramid building
while the true tomb is safely kept in the basement. The building is made up of red sandstones
with touches of white marble. One of India's greatest assets, the tomb is an attractive tourist spot,
with people eager to see the tomb flooding the place.

Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid Built in the 1648s, by Shah Jahan, Jama Masjid stands facing the Agra fort
and overlooks the Agra Fort Railway Station in India. It was built by Shah Jahan in dedication to
his favorite daughter. In order to create the Agra Fort Railway Station, the octagonal Tripolia
Chowk was destroyed. The main entrance is on the eastern side. The prayer chamber is decorated
with slender turrets with alternate kiosks. It is said to be the largest dome among the three and
also the highest, crowning the sanctuary. The archway of the central portal has Persian
inscriptions on white marble inland with black stones, in praise of Shah Jahan and Jahanara, his
daughter. Made of red sandstone and marble, took 5,000 workers a period of 6 years to complete
the magnificent building. It stands on a high plinth and has 5 arched entrances leading to the
courtyard.