Travelling for a lot of us consists of planning. And for the obsessive lot, planning with excruciating detail when the thought of another city whisks us away is as natural as the coffee in the morning. So, instead of tick marks to the destinations which you ought to see, and go too, here are a few already been through experiences, which will light up your trip to Delhi in the way that you won’t forget.
Listening Qawwali at Dargah of Hazrat Nizamuddin
Image Courtesy: Conde Nast Traveller India
If you’re the one who’s sat through the song Kun Faya Kun from the movie Rock star, recognition of this glorious dargah might come easier to you. Every Thursday night, you are transported in the land of mystic sufi music, the voice of ardent faith, and soulful words that will your heart and soul sing. But make sure you reach on time, as the crowd musters up after waiting for an entire week. This will be an experience which will pull you back to the dargah, not just for the aura, but for the peace.
Climbing the Minar at Jama Masjid
Image Courtesy: Flickr
Jama Masjid which is famously known as the largest mosque in India, and hosts its ardent devotees every day, also has a secret hidden. When you go for a visit, for a minimal fee, one is allowed to climb up the minar of the masjid. But remember, it’s not for the faint hearted who can’t bear to look down the heights. But the sunset, and just the view of the city from a tiny circle you’re in, surrounded by the greenery, it will be a view of Delhi you wouldn’t have seen before.
Ice Cream at India Gate (yes, in the night!)
Image Courtesy: DailyReporter
With the winters having already knocked the city, and soon setting in, this is the one exception that cannot be missed! With a mild haze, chilly wind, and dim lights lining the streets, there is plenty to do at India Gate! This World War I memorial towers above the city of Delhi, commemorating the 82,000 soldiers of the British Indian Army who fell during the war. And today, it’s turned into a place where the entire city gathers together.
Book Shopping at Daryaganj
Image Courtesy: LocalDrifter
An enormous sea of books lying across the span of the lane, swamped by hundreds of bibliophiles: this is Daryaganj’s Sunday book market. You can locate and find second hand books on virtually every topic available at throwaway prices here. From whodunits and romances to exclusive novels and rare first editions, from schoolbooks to encyclopedias; Daryaganj Book Bazaar is paradise for readers on a budget. Not only do you find the individual books, but if you’re lucky enough you may find yourself the entire collection of your favorite book series! The catch that remains is, it starts at around 10 AM on a busy Sunday morning, and so if you want to get your hands on the books, you better make a run for it.
Zumba at Raahgiri, Connaught Place
Image Courtesy: Aapka Times
The quintessential Sunday morning on a travel break does have to be necessarily spent in bed. (yes, i know, it’s the weekend!) but you can always surprise yourself, and the perfect place to go for that would be CP on a sunday morning. Not only will you be greeted with happy energetic faces and also the sleepy one to give you company, the government of Delhi has found the perfect change in monotony. Dance, yoga, Aerobics, Zumba, Cycling, Running.. you name it, and it will be there.
Langar at Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
Image Courtesy: F-Local
This Gurudwara is the most prominent house of worship for Sikhs in New Delhi; stunning from the outside and beautifully decorated inside. Dedicated to the eighth Sikh Guru, visitors come from all over India to celebrate his life and to take back home some of the Holy Water from the magical Sarovar pond located in the middle of the temple. The people, who serve here, are people who believe in the institution of service. So, from all lengths of life, people gather to prepare and serve food in the service of God, and oh, isn’t it mouth watering delicious. And halwa is to die for!
Cycling around the City
Image Courtesy: DforDelhi
So, this is no Amsterdam, but Delhi has slowly started to initiate the culture of cycling in the city. Available at all the major metro stations, you can grab a cycle for free to stroll around the most bustling and interesting of in the city. If you’re not a seasoned cyclist, worry not; you can make use of cycle paths which have been constructed all around the city for safe cycling and also take it a little slow.
Featured Image Courtesy: jagran
