My wife and I recently embarked on a whirlwind two-day trip to Delhi, a journey that was both a mission and a mini-vacation. While my wife had a biometrics appointment for her US visa, we seized the opportunity to dive headfirst into the city's rich history and vibrant culture. It was her second visit, but for me, it was a brand-new adventure.
6th August 2025
We kicked off our trip with an early start, leaving home around 8:20 AM and catching our Akasa Air flight at 11:20 AM. After a smooth journey and a packed lunch on board, we landed in Delhi around 2 PM. The first order of business was picking up a rental scooter in Karol Bagh—our trusty steed for navigating the city's bustling streets. With the keys in hand, we zipped over to our hotel near Connaught Place, eager to begin exploring.
The Delhi heat was intense, but after a quick refresh, we were ready. Our first stop was Jantar Mantar, a mesmerizing open-air observatory. It was devoid of people when we arrived.
Modified & renovated over time, some of the instruments' exact functions remain a mystery. However, it was fascinating to walk among the monumental structures built by Sawai Jai Singh. This incredible fusion of Indo-Islamic astronomy was a perfect introduction to the city's deep historical roots. Jantar Mantar is derived
from Sanskrit words Yantra (geometric patterns) Mantra (chants). It comprises of 4 yantras.
Mishra Yantra - translates to 'mixed instrument' because it is a combination of 5 instruments. It is in the shape of an inverted heart.
Rama Yantra - A colosseum enclosing cylindrical structure used to measure altitude of stars and planets.
Samrat Yantra - A 70 foot stairs that doubles as a sundial. It is a perfect right angle triangle with the hypotenuse parallel to the axis of the earth.
Jaya Prakash Yantra - Hollowed hemispheres used to measure co-ordinates of celestial bodies.
From there, we ventured to Ugrasen Ki Baoli, a striking ancient stepwell. It is also known as Agrasen Ki Baoli, named after an ancestor of the Agarwal community who might have owned the well. With its deep symmetrical steps and arched alcoves, It is easy to see why this spot has been a backdrop for several Bollywood movies. Despite the local legends that whispers of hauntings, the atmosphere was peaceful, with dozens of pigeons cooing from the surrounding ledges. The water in the well was dirty and the lower steps were cordoned off.
Our plan to visit India Gate was thwarted by a nearby protest, so we pivoted to the magnificent Humayun’s Tomb which was a 30 minute drive. This UNESCO World Heritage site inside a fortified wall, is a great example of Mughal architecture. As we walked through the sprawling gardens and admired the intricate red and white sandstone structure, it was easy to get lost in its grandeur. The entire monument is symmetric on all four sides with pools of water symbolizing rivers. The ground level has walls with arches and false windows. We climbed the grand staircase, explored the vast chambers that were well lit through carved windows and had several tombs, and were in awe of the central dome. The marble tomb of Humayun was modest.
Exhausted but inspired, we refueled with some delicious aloo tikki chaat and a refreshing lassi before heading to the bustling Janpath Market. I found the perfect souvenir—a fridge magnet to remember our trip by!
Then we visited the Janpath market. It had
clothes, bags, jewelry. I bought a fridge magnet as a souvenir. Then we walked
through the length of the market and back. Then we went to a place called Jain
Chawal wale noted for Rajma chawal. We had Rajma chawal (a bit overrated) &
lassi.
Then we headed back to our hotel.
7th August 2025
The next day began with a quick breakfast of Uppit and Pongal at Café Amudham before heading to the visa application center. Most breakfast places open no earlier than 8 AM! Although the appointment was at 9:30, we arrived at 8:45 and were let in. There were Visa centers for several countries and even a metro station in the same building. The process went smoothly and, we were back on the scooter, ready for more Delhi sights, but only after checking out of our hotel.
Our first major stop was Qutub Minar, another UNESCO World Heritage site. It was an hour drive, through the heat and traffic. We arrived at 11 AM. The 5 tiered towering minaret, with its intricate carvings and historical significance, was a sight to behold. It was commissioned by Qutub-Ud-din Aibak, the general of Mohammad Ghor. There was also another less appealing, half finished minaret nearby.
We also admired the famous Iron Pillar, a metallurgical marvel that stands as a testament to ancient Indian craftsmanship. This pillar has been withstanding the test of time, conquests and weather since 4 AD. It also has a Sanskrit inscription that claims it to be Vishnudhwaja.
The carved pillars and walls of the adjacent halls seem distinct features of a temple.
Next up was the serene Lotus Temple, a modern architectural wonder and a Baha'i House of Worship (Another Abrahamic religion). We were given a briefing to maintain silence & not use phones. Inside, a profound sense of calm prevailed as people from all walks of life sat in quiet contemplation.
After a moment of peace, we headed for a lunch of legendary chole bhature at Sita Ram Diwan Chand. It was yum!
Unfortunately, our day took a turn when we discovered the Red Fort was closed for Independence Day preparations. Tired and defeated by the relentless heat, we found refuge at a Starbucks to regroup. On the way, we made a quick photo stop near the India Gate. India gate is a war memorial for the soldiers from Indian Army who martyred in the first world war. The canopy next to it had a statue of King George V till 1965. A statue of Subhash Chandra Bose was installed in 2022.
Our last cultural stop was the serene Birla Mandir, a beautiful temple dedicated to Lakshmi Narayana. We relaxed in the premises for a while before returning our scooter. Our final culinary adventure included some mouth-watering pani puri at Bikanerwale, and we even packed some samosas and kachoris for our flight home. Our flight back to Bangalore took off late, but we arrived home at 2 AM, with full hearts and even fuller stomachs, ready to plan our next adventure.
