Embarking on a 7-night, 8-day trip to the north of India, we eagerly set foot in the vibrant city of Delhi. Our itinerary was packed with historical landmarks, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. Join us as we delve into the rich history of Rajpath, the President’s Museum, India Gate, and the National War Memorial. We also explore the happening area of Aerocity.
Our journey started with an early morning Indigo flight from Mumbai to Delhi, which landed around 11:30 am. We had pre-booked sandwiches and beverages on the flight. Overall the experience of flying with Indigo was smooth. After an on-time arrival, our cab took us to Holiday Inn in the vibrant area of Aerocity. The region was abuzz with energy and offered a range of accommodation, dining, and entertainment options.
After a quick and hassle-free check-in at our hotel, we freshened up and eagerly set out to explore Delhi. Our first destination was Rajpath, a prominent boulevard that connects Rashtrapati Bhavan (the President’s residence) and India Gate. Rajpath serves as a significant ceremonial avenue and witness to important national events.
Our first stop along Rajpath was the Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum, a history and art treasure trove. We spent several hours immersing ourselves in the exhibits, enjoying an educational tour that provided insights into India’s rich heritage, the role of the President, and exhibits of gifts received by Indian Presidents over the years. We also got a glimpse of how the massive kitchen of the Rashtrapati Bhavan is maintained and operated. The highlight of our visit was the opportunity to create personalized stamps at the museum, a unique and memorable experience.
The Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum offers both online and on-the-spot ticket booking options. Visitors can book tickets online by visiting the website https://visit.rashtrapatibhavan.gov.in/plan-visit/rashtrapati-bhavan-museum/x9/l5. It is important to note that the museum is closed every Monday. The fee for visitors aged 8 years and above is Rs. 50, while children below 8 years can enter for free.
The museum operates with pre-defined visitor slots, and we managed to book the last slot available at 3:30 p.m. The museum opens at 9:00 a.m., and the first slot begins at 9:30 a.m. It is crucial to arrive before 4:00 p.m. as entry is not permitted after that time. Each slot allows a fixed number of visitors to ensure a comfortable experience.
Visitors can also avail themselves of guided tours at specific times. The museum premises are meticulously maintained, including the washrooms, providing a pleasant and hygienic environment for visitors. So, make sure to plan your visit accordingly, book your tickets in advance, and enjoy exploring the fascinating Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum.
Continuing our journey along Rajpath, we reached the iconic India Gate. This monumental structure is a tribute to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives in World War I. We paid our respects to the soldiers and soaked in the grandeur of the arch, surrounded by lush greenery.
Just a short distance away, we discovered the National War Memorial, a recent addition to Delhi’s historical landscape. This solemn and poignant monument honors the valiant soldiers who have laid down their lives in service to the nation. The memorial’s design and architecture conveyed a deep sense of respect and gratitude.
The monument has four concentric circles – Amar Chakra, Veerta Chakra, Tyag Chakra, and Raksha Chakra, each with its own significance.
Visit https://nationalwarmemorial.gov.in/ for more details and to plan your visit as timings differ depending on the season. There are various events and ceremonies that can be observed by visiting the memorial at specific dates and times.
At the exit point, we spent some time buying souvenirs at the souvenir shop.
As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves exhausted from the day’s activities. Hungry and ready to unwind, we decided to have dinner at a food court near our hotel. Located in the basement but open to a larger area with captivating lights and a mesmerizing wall fountain, the food court offered an array of culinary options to satisfy every palate.
With satisfied appetites and memories of the day’s adventures, we called it a night, eagerly anticipating the exciting experiences that awaited us in the coming days.
Stay tuned as we continue our journey through Agra and Amritsar, uncovering more fascinating facets of India’s cultural tapestry.
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