With Independence Day right around the corner, what could be a better way to celebrate than getting to know the regal history and culture of India’s capital state New Delhi? This vibrant and iconic city mesmerises you with its powerful stories of courage, sacrifice, and resilience, all of which are packed in its plethora of iconic landmarks.
No matter whether you are a fellow Indian rejoicing in the freedom of the nation or a tourist attracted by the city’s long history and carefully-preserved monuments, Independence Day gives you a great reason to go out there and explore.
So without further ado, let’s dive into 5 Delhi sites and attractions you absolutely must visit this Independence Day!
1. India Gate
One Delhi attraction that you definitely shouldn’t skip out on this Independence Day is India Gate. The towering archway, built by Sir Edwin Lutyens, is a solemn reminder of the ultimate sacrifice the brave Indian soldiers made during the battles of World War I. The moment you lay your eyes on India Gate, its magnificence and significance will strike you as a testimony of national pride and unity in citizens of all ages. The perfectly maintained green lawns of India Gate, in addition to adding to the charm of this monument, provide the ideal, peaceful location for locals and travellers to pay respect to the immortal soldiers.
At the centre of India Gate, is Amar Jawan Jyoti, also known as the Flame of the Immortal Soldier. The flame is kept lit 24 hours a day in memory of the unnamed soldiers who died for their country. Indeed, as you stand before Amar Jawan Jyoti, you cannot help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude towards the heroic individuals who sacrificed themselves so that we could enjoy the freedoms of today.
But make no mistake, India Gate in Delhi is more than a war memorial. Every year, it is a lively and vibrant monument, where people of all ages come together and celebrate Independence Day. Flag hoisting ceremonies, colourful cultural performances, and mouth-watering Indian street food are some of the features you can expect to encounter in India Gate, so you can be sure that you’ll make the most of the day when you visit this iconic landmark.
Top Tip: If you’re feeling super inspired by the spirit of patriotism, consider capturing your experience at India Gate and using it to create an Independence Day poster online, commemorating the significance of this historic day.
2. Red Fort
If you only have time to visit one attraction this upcoming Independence Day, let it be the world famous Red Fort. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the seventeenth century, this fortress is not just a relic from history — it’s a living testament to India’s fight for independence. With its extensive red sandstone walls, which span 2 kilometres in length, the Red Fort is a world of opulence and mystery that is just waiting to be explored.
There is also an extra special reason to why the Red Fort takes on special significance on Independence Day. In 1947, the first Indian Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, hoisted the national flag and delivered the now-famous “Tryst with Destiny” speech. Visiting the Red Fort and listening to stories of passion that filled the air that day provides you with a front-row seat to India’s history and self-governance.
Beyond that, the Red Fort is filled with Mughal history and beauty that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. From the majestic Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience) to the exquisite Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), every corner tells a story of power, elegance, and resilience. So this Independence Day, immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Red Fort and witness history come alive in the company of your beloved friends and family.
3. National Museum
Situated in the heart of Delhi, the iconic National Museum is a time machine that will take you on a journey through our country’s incredible history and culture. This Independence Day, why not plan a trip to visit with your friends and family to enjoy a blast from our country’s past.
The National Museum is packed full of ancient relics, paintings (over 17,000 believe it or not), and sculptures that shape the tale of our country’s past. As you explore the museum, you’ll come across some of the priceless treasures that will enlighten you on the different aspects of our country’s past. More importantly, it’s an opportunity to get in touch with your roots, appreciating the beauty of the legacy of our past.
Not to mention, on this particular day, the National Museum has more meaning than you might realise. The entire building is a living symbol of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped the course of Indian history, starting from the ancient civilizations in the Indus Valley and ending with the modern era of independence. Whether it’s ancient history, mediaeval art or contemporary artefacts, the National Museum will give you the opportunity to learn so much more about our beautiful country. Whether you’re admiring the intricate details of a Gupta-era sculpture or marvelling at the kaleidoscopic colours of a Rajput painting, there’s something to captivate every visitor.
4. Raj Ghat
Next up on our list of sites and attractions to visit this Independence Day is Raj Ghat. Nestled in the peaceful surroundings along the banks of the Yamuna River, this quiet memorial is dedicated to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. This sacred site holds special significance in the hearts of both Indians and visitors alike, serving a peaceful sanctuary for reflection and homage.
At the very heart of Raj Ghat lies a black marble platform marking the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated after he was tragically assassinated in 1948. The phrase “Hey Ram” is etched on its surface, symbolising Gandhi’s commitment to truth and non-violence. Surrounding the memorial are meticulously landscaped gardens, providing a calm and relaxing place for visitors to pay their respects to Gandhi.
Most importantly, visiting Raj Ghat on a special occasion such as Independence day allows us to honour the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi and the principles he stood for. It’s a place where visitors can connect with the timeless ideals of truth, justice, and compassion that continue to inspire generations (both in India and around the world), making it a must-visit destination on this historic day of celebration.
5. Purani Dilli
Last but not least, another attraction to add to your Independence Day itinerary is Purani Dilli, also known as Old Delhi. This part of the town is essentially a time-travel machine that flings you back into a time filled with history, culture, and colour. So, if you want your day to be filled with yummy eats, lots of people, and infinite quantities of things you can buy that you’d never actually need, Purani Dilli is the place for that.
A must-visit place in Purani Dilli is one of Delhi’s most talked about markets — Chandni Chowk. It’s a place where your sense are overwhelmed in the best way possible – the smell of spices seeping from every corner, colourful Indian textiles and trinkets at market stalls, and the cacophony of sounds including street food vendors’ yelling and rickshaw horns reminding you that yes, you really are in India.
But visiting Purani Dilli isn’t just about eating and shopping. At every corner, one also gets to interact with history. While you walk through the narrow streets, history will catch up with you at every corner. One of the places you should definitely not miss is Jama Masjid, one of the most glorious mosques in the city, showing off peak Mughal architecture skills. Climb up the minarets to see the breath-taking view of the city below, or just sit back and relax in the mosque’s courtyard – either way, Purani Dilli is something you can’t miss this Independence day!
And there you have it — 5 must-see Delhi sights and attractions to visit this Independence Day. Whether you’re a history buff, a passionate foodie, or simply looking to honour the spirit of, you can be guaranteed that Delhi has something to offer for everyone.
So pack your bags, lace up your shoes, and set out to uncover the timeless charm and heritage of India’s capital city!
