heritage walks
Delhi is dotted with monuments of archaeological and historical importance. While most monuments are typically visited by car, heritage walks provide an interesting and atmospheric alternative. Experts in architecture, culture, history and art will guide you through the city’s historical areas, adding an in-depth cultural perspective to every sightseeing expedition.
Mehrauli Archaeological Park
The Mehrauli Archaeological Park covers some 100-acres adjacent to the World Heritage Site of Qutab Minar and the Mehrauli village settlement. Exploring this historical park, scattered with monuments and relics spanning a full thousand years of India’s history, you’ll be exposed to architectural marvels from the earliest Hindu settlements to those built during the British era.
Shahjahanabad
What is known as Old Delhi today was once the Mughal city of Shahjahanabad, built by the Emperor Shah Jahan (1628-1658) to facilitate the moving of his capital from Agra to Delhi in 1648. To walk through the area’s narrow lanes, colourful neighbourhoods, and old havelis (town houses) that still have historic, religious and cultural significance is, in a sense, to take a journey back in time.
An important focal point of this medieval city is the awe-inspiring Red Fort. Within its walls lie an array of breathtaking structures including mosques, hammans, thrones, royal apartments, diwans and prayer rooms.
The Jama Masjid, one of the largest and best-known mosques in India, is also found in Old Delhi and, as an eloquent reminder of the glory of the Mughal era, it remains a haven of peace, despite the bustling city that surrounds it.
A highlight of a walk through Shahjahanabad is the intricate network of lanes known as galis, where everything from spices, wedding trousseau items, brassware, antiques, jewellery and perfumes are sold.