India Gate, formerly known as the All India War Memorial commemorates the soldiers who died in the First World War and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. Located near the Kartavya path, formerly called Rajpath, at India Gate, every year the Prime Minister of India pays tribute to the Amar Jawan Jyoti, marking the start of the Republic Day parade.
Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, India Gate in Delhi is not just a monument; it’s a testament to India’s glory and sacrifice.
History of India Gate
- Originally called the All-India War Memorial, India Gate was built between 1921 and 1931.
- Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, it was inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
- Made of red sandstone and granite, India Gate stands at a height of 42 meters and has a width of 9.1 meters.
- The foundation stone was laid by the Duke of Connaught on February 10, 1921, and it was inaugurated by the Viceroy, Lord Irwin, on February 12, 1931.
- India Gate honors the sacrifice of over 70,000 Indian soldiers who fought and died for the British Empire in the First World War and the Third Anglo-Afghan War.
- Their names are inscribed on the walls of the memorial, along with the dates of their death.
Architecture and Design
Architectural Roots: India Gate’s architectural roots trace back to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Designed by visionary architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, it seamlessly blends Western and Indian architectural elements.
Imposing Structure: The monument is an oblong sandstone arch, about 138 feet (42 meters) in height. It stands at the eastern end of Rajpath, the ceremonial boulevard from Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate.
Indo-Saracenic Style: India Gate is a manifestation of Indo-Saracenic architectural style. Its vaulted fenestration creates a dramatic play of light and shade.
Symbolism: Lutyens avoided Asian motifs, opting for classical simplicity. The result resembles the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
Amar Jawan Jyoti: Today, four eternal flames sheltered at the base mark the Amar Jawan Jyoti, India’s tomb of the unknown soldier since 1971.
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Best Time to Visit India Gate
The best time to visit India Gate in Delhi is during the cooler months, which typically span from October to March.
Offers pleasant weather with cooler temperatures, ranging from 12°C to 22°C, making it ideal for daytime explorations and enjoying a picnic in the nearby lawns.
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Entry Timings and Fees for India Gate
- The timings for visiting India Gate are from sunrise to sunset every day.
- No entry fee or ticket required to visit India Gate or its surroundings.
- Additional charges may apply for activities like boating.
Things To Do At India Gate
Boating on Rajpath Pond: Visitors can enjoy boating on the serene Rajpath Pond, located behind India Gate. Boating is available daily from 2 pm to 9 pm (except Mondays) for a fee of Rs. 50 per person.
Picnicking on Lush Green Lawns: The expansive lawns surrounding India Gate provide an ideal spot for relaxation, games, kite flying, and enjoying street food. It is open daily from 5 am to 11 pm and are free to access.
Amar Jawan Jyoti Memorial: This solemn memorial honors India’s fallen soldiers. It consists of a black marble plinth with a reversed rifle and a perpetual flame.
Rajpath Boulevard: The ceremonial boulevard connects India Gate to Rashtrapati Bhavan (the presidential palace). Don’t miss the annual Republic Day parade held here on January 26th, showcasing India’s cultural and military diversity.
Best Photography Spots at India Gate
India Gate Monument: Capture the grandeur and architectural beauty of the India Gate monument itself, especially during different times of the day when the lighting enhances its features
Rajpath Boulevard: The wide boulevard leading up to India Gate, known as Rajpath, provides a stunning perspective for capturing the monument against the backdrop of the surrounding greenery and open space
Food Options Near India Gate
Veg Gulati, Pandara Road: Highlights: Known for its special North Indian and Mughlai dishes, offering a variety of delicious vegetarian curries and breads
Gulati Restaurant, Pandara Road: Known for its special North Indian and Mughlai dishes, offering a wide range of mouthwatering dishes like Veg Kebabs, Dal Makhani, and paneer dishes
Chor Bizarre: Offers a unique dining experience with authentic Kashmiri and North Indian cuisine in a traditional setting
Diggin: Highlights: Known for its lovely ambiance and tasty Italian food, offering a delightful dining experience near India Gate
Khan Market: Visit Khan Market for upscale dining options, including cafes, bakeries, and restaurants serving a variety of cuisines.
Connaught Place: Head to Connaught Place, a short distance away, for a wide range of dining options, including Indian, international, and fast food restaurants.
Best Places To Stay Near India Gate
The Oberoi New Delhi: This is a five-star hotel offering luxurious rooms and suites, a spa, a fitness center, a swimming pool, and several dining options. The hotel is located in Sundar Nagar, about 1.6 km from India Gate.
Ambassador - IHCL SeleQtions: Housed in a 1947 heritage building, Ambassador, New Delhi - IHCL SeleQtions is just next to Khan Market. It offers a health club and spa.
Thoughtfully planned rooms include Egyptian cotton towels and evening turndown service. Each room has a balcony and lounge area.
The Claridges New Delhi: This is a five-star hotel that features elegant rooms and suites, a spa, a gym, an outdoor pool, and several dining options. The hotel is located on Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Road, about 1.9 km from India Gate.
Taj Mahal, New Delhi: The hotel features elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each designed with plush furnishings and luxurious amenities. The hotel's central location makes it an ideal choice for travelers looking to explore the city's attractions and landmarks.
Le Méridien New Delhi: Le Méridien New Delhi is a contemporary luxury hotel with a variety of dining options, including Indian, Italian, and Asian cuisine, as well as a selection of fine wines and cocktails. Also offers a range of facilities including a fitness center, spa, and outdoor swimming pool.
The Lalit New Delhi: Offers 461 luxurious rooms and suites, each elegantly designed with modern amenities and stylish decor. The Lalit New Delhi boasts a range of restaurants and bars, including Baluchi, which serves authentic Indian cuisine.
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Places To Visit Near India Gate
Connaught Place: Connaught Place is also known for its colonial architecture and circular layout, which makes it a unique and attractive place to visit. It is also called the cultural hub of Delhi
National Museum: National Museum is one of the largest and oldest museums in India. The museum has over 2 lakh artifacts that span over 5,000 years of history, covering various periods, regions, dynasties, religions, and civilizations.
Lodhi Gardens: Lodhi Gardens, a historical park that covers 90 acres with beautiful gardens, fountains, ponds, bridges, walkways. The park contains several monuments and tombs that date back to the 15th and 16th centuries, belonging to the Lodhi and Sayyid dynasties.
National Gallery of Modern Art: Housed in a heritage , NGMA showcases modern and contemporary Indian art, including works by renowned artists like Raja Ravi Varma, Amrita Sher-Gilbuilding, and M.F. Husain.
Jantar Mantar: Built in 1724, Jantar Mantar is a collection of architectural astronomical instruments. It includes the Samrat Yantra, a massive sundial that can accurately measure time to within two seconds.
Red Fort: Explore the majestic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance as the residence of Mughal emperors in Delhi
Lotus Temple: Visit the serene Lotus Temple, a Bahá'í House of Worship known for its distinctive lotus-shaped architecture and tranquil ambiance, offering a peaceful retreat in the bustling city
Humayun’s Tomb: Humayun's Tomb is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing Mughal architecture and beautiful gardens, making it a popular spot for history and architecture enthusiasts
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How to Reach India Gate
- Nearest metro station: Central Secretariat on Yellow Line and Violet Line, approximately 2 km away.
- Visitors can take auto-rickshaws or cycle-rickshaws from Central Secretariat to India Gate.
- Buses and taxis are also available from different parts of Delhi to reach India Gate.
