The capital of the largest democracy in the world, Delhi is a blend of several historical eras. From past to present Delhi has been considered the seat of power. This ancient city has seen the rise and fall of many rules; it has witnessed movements of different ethnic groups, invasions, colonization, the fight for freedom and finally democracy. The narrow alleys, the wide avenues, the crumbling walls of the once imposing forts, all have a story to tell.

A conglomeration of eight cities, Delhi showcases the architectural styles of different eras in its medieval citadels, palaces, tombs, mosques, and an ever-expanding modern concrete jungle.

An UNESCO World Heritage Monument, the minar is India's highest single tower and marks the site of the first Muslim Kingdom in North India.

The first mature example of Mughal architecure in India, Humayun's Tomb was built by the emperor's grieving widow Haji Begum in 1565 AD. Humayun was the second Mughal Emperor.

The seventh city of Delhi now known as Old Delhi, Shahajahanabad houses the famed Chandi Chowk, once an elegant boulevard. Today the area is the heart of Old Delhi, and its bazaars have a charm of its own that integrates into the culture of the Old City.

More that 5,000 workers toiled for six years to build the largest mosque in India. Built by Shah Jahan the mosque can accommodate 20,000 persons during prayers. The Jami Masjid is a grand mosque with three imposing black and white, marble domes and a fine example of Mughal architecture.

Commissioned by Shah Jahan, when he decided to shift the capital from Agra to Delhi, the Red Fort derives its name from its red sandstone battlements. It was from here the British deposed the last Mughal Emperor and it is from its ramparts only that the first prime minister of India announced to the nation that India was free from colonial rule. Even today the Red Fort remains a powerful symbol of Indian nationhood.

Built as a memorial to commemorate the 70,000 Indian Soldiers killed in Wolrd War I, India Gate was designed by Sir Edward Lutyen and completed in 1931. The 160 ft high arch also houses the Eternal flame, a gesture in memory of the Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in the 1971 war with Pakistan.

Formerly the Viceregal Palace, building is the highlight of Lutyen's New Delhi and was completed in 1929 at a cost of 12,53,000 pound sterling.

Popularly known as the North Block and South Block it is the present seat of the ministry of Finance and External affairs respectively. These imposing structures are topped with chattris on the corners giving it a typical oriental look.

The seat of Indian Parliament is a marvelous piece of architecture designed by the Sir. Edward Lutyens and constructed under the direct supervision of Sir Edward Baker.

It is a premier repository of antiquities. Built in 1960, it has an extraordinary collection representing the entire span of Indian civilization from pre-historic times.

Housed in the residence of Jaipur's former maharajas, the gallery has a superb collection of paintings dating from 150 years ago to the present day.

The museum displays 27 locomotives and 17 carriages. The carriage of the Maharaja of Mysore made of teak covered with ivory and the cabin of Prince of Wales (1876) is also on display.

The galleries display India's rich tradition of handicrafts. AN added attraction is the presence of craftsperson who are brought here from different parts of the country to demonstrate their skills.

The City of the Taj Mahal is accessible from Delhi by road and by train. It is located at a distance of 203 kms South-East of Delhi.

Known as the City of the Holy Ganges, Haridwar is one of the seven holiest places in India. The Ganga aarti perfomed everyday is an event to witness. Haridwar can be reached from Delhi by road or by train. Itis located 230 kms North-East of Delhi. Rishikesh is a few kilometers further of Haridwar and the starting point of the pilgramage to Chardham - Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath & Badrinath. Rishikesh is an ideal destination for river rafting and trekking.

Approprieted by the British as a residential resort the town is a cool retreat from the hot summers of Delhi. The climate is conductive to the growth of fruit and the region has many fruit orchards. Located 242 kms North-East of Delhi, Dehradun is accessible by road and by train from Delhi.

The city of grand forts and beautiful palaces, jaipur is the gateway to Rajasthan. Located 258 kms South West of Delhi, the city can be reached by road, by train and by air.

The national park has a spectacular animal and bird diversity. Large herd of elephants, leopards, jungle cats and tigers. Loacted 264 kms North-east of Delhi, Corbett is accessible by road and by train.

The Queen of Hills. Located on the Garwal Hills at a height of 2500 metres above sea level, Mussorrie ois an excellent respite from the hot and sultry conditions of the plains. The town can be accessed from Delhi by road and by train.

The best time to visit is November - March. Nights are cold but day time normally it is cool and sunny. Also many festivals take place during this time. Summers in Delhi start from April and the temeperature climbs to more that 45 °C in May and June. The monsoons in July bring down the temperature but it also brings intense humidity.