It has been over a year since we first heard of Covid. The journey from March 2020 to March 2021 has been a long and tedious one, and yet, just when there was a glimmer of hope, we slipped back to where we started. The second wave of Covid continues to engulf us, wreaking havoc and claiming thousands of life. During such times, we hope that you are not venturing out and are staying safe at home.
Experiencing the world in all its glory is currently a far-fetched dream, and we know that this could be one of the many reasons why you are stressed, anxious and worried. So we have found a little solution that may distract you for a few minutes. Here is a list of monuments and museums in Delhi that you can visit virtually to keep you company while you follow the curfew like the responsible citizen you are!
1. Red Fort
This majestic red-sandstone fort built in 1638 doesn't really need an introduction. The Red Fort or Lal Quila served as the main royal residence of the Mughal Emperors when they transferred their capital from Delhi to Agra. Today, it is one of the most visited tourist spots of Delhi, thanks to its beautiful Indo-Islamic architecture, rich heritage and the Independence day celebrations, of course. We know you can't go and visit it in person at this point, but you can take a virtual tour of it while sitting at home.
Virtual Tour Link | http://www.indiavirtualtour.com/Delhi/VirtualTour.asp?monumentID=9
2. Qutub Minar
Standing tall in the skyline of Delhi, Qutub Minar represents the victorious spirit of Delhi. Built in the 13th century, this tower is built of marble and sandstone and engraved with intricate carvings. Surrounding this tower is the Qutab Complex which consists of some other historical buildings for the inner tourist in you to explore. Even though you cannot enjoy the tower in its real glory, a virtual tour will help you explore this Minaret and the surrounding complex.
Virtual Tour Link | http://www.indiavirtualtour.com/Delhi/VirtualTour.asp?monumentID=11
3. India Gate
Everyone's favourite picnic spot and our very own 'Arc de Triomphe,' India Gate is situated in the heart of Delhi. A war memorial, it commemorates more than 80,000 Indian soldiers who were killed during World War I. The monument is an imposing 42 meters high arch which was designed by the famous architect Edwin Lutyens. It also has another memorial, Amar Jawan Jyoti, in the form of a flame that burns all day and night, which was added much later. You cannot enjoy it's lush green lawns at the moment, but you can still appreciate this marvellous monument through its virtual tour.
Virtual Tour Link | http://www.indiavirtualtour.com/Delhi/VirtualTour.asp?monumentID=8
4. National Museum
Museums are the greatest source of information and artefacts. National Museum is one of the largest museums in the country with an array of collections and galleries. The collection there ranges from pre-historic era artefacts to modern era paintings. With a collection of more than 2 lakh pieces of art spanning 5,000 years of history, this place will surely take you back in time and help you trace the history of our country. Even though you can't witness this artistic hub, you can enjoy every bit of it from the comfort of your room with the virtual tour.
Virtual Tour Link | https://nmvirtual.in/
5. Mughal Gardens
Located inside the Presidential Palace, Mughal Gardens is considered the soul of Rashtrapati Bhawan. Designed in the 1900s by Sir Edward Lutyens, these gardens are a glorious amalgamation of British and Mughal architecture and style. Spread across 13 acres, these gardens are home to a variety of Garden styles such as Musical, Spiritual and Bonsai gardens. Open to the public in the months of February and March, you can witness more than 70 varieties of flowers at these Gardens. With the quarantine, you might be stuck at home but there is no better way to cheer yourself up than some beautiful flowers.
Virtual Tour Link | http://www.indiavirtualtour.com/Delhi/VirtualTour.asp?monumentID=1
6. National Gallery of Modern Art
It doesn't matter if you're an art aficionado, an art lover or just an explorer, NGMA is the gateway to appreciating art for all Delhites. One of the world's largest modern art museums, this place is home to more than 1,700 artworks by hundreds of national and international artists. It is a surreal place where you can witness art from the likes of Rabindranath Tagore and Amrita Shergil. Located in the heart of Delhi near Rajpath, this place is one of the busiest museums in the country. A virtual tour of this place will give you the opportunity to explore all art pieces in vivid detail without any time restrictions.
Virtual Tour Link | http://ngmaindia.gov.in/virtual-gallery.asp
So, don't waste more time and explore away while staying inside!