Birla Mandir in Delhi - Major Tourist Attractions in Delhi

Other Names	Birla Temple
Proper Name	Laxmi Narayan Temple
Date Built	1939
Dedicated to	Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi
Primary Deity	Laxmi Narayan (Vishnu with his consort Lakshmi)
Important Festivals	Janmashtami, Diwali

About

It is also the NCT of India and is the capital city. Delhi being the union territory is also the political administration today. It is similar to the state of India as it has its own high court, legislature, and also an executive council of ministers which is run by a Chief Minister. The local government of Delhi and the state government of India together administer New Delhi.

History

Previously, Delhi was once the location of the ancient kingdom of Indraprastha also referred to as Khandavprastha. At the time of the Mahabharata, it was the ancient capital of the Pandavas. Delhi surfaced as one of the important cultural, political, and mercenary city on the trade routes between the Gangetic plain and northwest India and during the Delhi Sultanate era. Emperor Shah Jahan in AD 1639 built a new walled city Shahjahanbad in Delhi. From 1649 until the Great Mutiny of 1857 it acted as the capital of the Mughal Empire.

Today, Shahjahanbad is known as Old Delhi. A major section of Old Delhi is even now restricted within the walls of Shah Jahan’s fort. It still has many of the gates which were built during his rule. These gates include Kashmiri Gate, Delhi Gate, Ajmeri Gate and the Turkman Gate all of which are still there. In 1911, the British shifted their capital from Kolkata to Delhi.

Architecture

The primal architectural monuments of Delhi are from the Mauryan period (c. 300 BC). An imprint of Emperor Ashoka was discovered near Srinivaspuri. The ruins of 8 of the main cities have also been discovered in Delhi. It was in the in the southern part of the present Delhi that the first five cities were discovered. The city of Lal Kot was founded by Anang Pal in AD 736 who was of the Tomara dynasty. In 1180, the Chauhans vanquished Lal Kot and renamed it Qila Rai Pithora.

Nearby Attractions

• Red Fort: It is one of the famous monuments in Delhi and stands as a remembrance of the emperors of the Mughal dynasty who ruled India. The walls of the Red fort extend for more than 2 kilometers. It was in 1638 that these walls were built to keep out invaders. However, these very walls could not keep the Sikhs and the British from capturing the fort. When in the Red fort, you can witness a one hour light and sound show of the fort's history which is held every evening.
• Jama Masjid: This is another of Delhi’s marvelous treasure. It is India’s largest mosque. The courtyard of the mosque can hold 25,000 devotees at a time. It took thirteen years to be completed and it was finally finished in 1650. It is advised that you dress as per the mosque’s rules when visiting the mosque or you won't be allowed in.
• Chandni Chowk: It is located in the main street of old Delhi. It is also one of the oldest as well as the busiest markets in India having narrow winding lanes which sell inexpensive jewelry, fabrics, and electronics. If you are fond of eating, then Chandni Chowk is an ideal hang out if you wish to savor some of Delhi's street food. Here, you will also find the famous Karim Hotel, a Delhi dining institution.
• Humayun's Tomb: If you think Humayun's Tomb is similar to the Taj Mahal of Agra, then the reason for this is that it was the inspiration for Taj Mahal's creation. It was built in 1570. It is here that the body of the second Mughal emperor, Humayun lies buried.

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Delhi is during the months of October to March. This is because it is at this time that the weather is excellent. Also, as this time of the year the flowers are in full bloom, the weather is enjoyable and pleasant and to experience Incredible Delhi.

How to Reach

• Air: You can reach Delhi by air as the Indira Gandhi Airport is well linked with all flights to all of the major cities within and outside India. All of the major airlines also operate their flights from this airport.
• Train: You can also reach Delhi by train as Delhi is well linked by an excellent network of railways from all the major cities of India.
• By Bus: You can also reach Delhi by roadways as Delhi is well linked by an excellent network of roads thereby connecting Delhi from all the major cities of India.