Where is the India Gate?
Less than a mile from Connaught Place, the magnificent India Gate stands at
the eastern end of Rajpath in the city of New Delhi.
How will you gain access?
The Indira Gandhi International Airport flies planes connecting New
Delhi to all the major places of the
world. The New Delhi Railway Station is a prominent railhead and links the
city with almost all the cities of the country. Kendriya Terminal is the
nearest metro terminal. There are regular bus services available as well
taking passengers from New Delhi to the major cities of the country.
What are the timings and the entry charges?
The gate is open on all days and there is no entry fee involved. Though the
preferred timings are from 0700 hours to 0930 hours.
What does the past say?
Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, the India Gate was erected in the year 1931.
The splendid arch was built to honour the Indian Army Soldiers who died in
the First World War and the Afghan War. It is looked upon as an arch of
victory. The India Gate was previously known as the All India War Memorial.
What
goes behind the architecture?
Built in sandstone, the massive arch soars up to a height of 42 metres. An
eternal flame of Amar Jawan Jyoti was lit under the arch in the year 1971.
It was Edwin Lutyens who gave shape to this gigantic structure. The Amar
Jawan Jyoti was lit to commemorate the valour and bravado of the Indian Army
soldiers. Near the flame stands on a high platform, a shining rifle with a
helmet on it. The memorial can be best viewed after sunset when it is
illuminated with floodlights. Beautifully laid-out gardens surround the
structure. The exquisite fountains and refreshing lawns attract a fair
number of locals including children and the aged. Visitors can also enjoy
boating in the water bodies near the lawns.
What are the nearby attractions?
Rashtrapati Bhavan (the presidential mansion), the Parliament House, the
North and South Block are must-see sites around. The National Museum
exhibits an exquisite collection of historical handicrafts. The National
Gallery of Modern Art is also worth visiting.
Which are the nearby hotels?
Grand Intercontinental, at Connaught Place, is a 5-star deluxe with 444
rooms and 53 suites. The facilities include room service, safe deposit, bar,
restaurant, beauty salon, florist, gift shop, newsstand, business centre,
parking, pool, fitness center, sauna etc. Hotel Intercontinental at Nehru
Place is another 5-star deluxe hotel. The Le Meridien, New Delhi hotel
offers a wide array of choices to satisfy the needs of the visitors. Hotel
Ajanta, on 36, Arakashan Road, gives you an opportunity to experience 2-star
luxury at Budget price. Hotel Clark International at Karol Bagh is among the
best budget hotels in New Delhi, providing all the 3-star amenities.
Where should you shop?
Connaught Place is a place that offers everything ranging from jewellery
items, books, leather goods, artifacts to wide choice to designer clothes
and accessories. And if you wish to buy some Indian handicrafts and curios
then you should head to the Central Cottage Industries Emporium. Baba Kharak
Singh Marg, Janapath and Palika Bazar are other popular shopping points.
