Half Day tour in Delhi

Both Old and New Delhi exert a beguiling charm on visitors. You will lose yourself unwinding the secrets of the city's Mughal past in the labyrinthine streets of Old Delhi before emerging into the wide open spaces of imperial New Delhi, with its ordered governmental vistas and generous leafy avenues.

This half-day tour is meant for people short on time, but still want to know a bit about the place before they go back. The tour takes you around the most important landmarks in Delhi.

You will be set out from your hotel in an air conditioned private vehicle for a sightseeing tour in New Delhi, the capital of India. A local English speaking guide will accompany you on this excursion. You will visit the following famous landmarks of the city:

Qutub Minar: The tallest hand carved brick minaret in the world at 72.5 meters, it is one of the finest examples of Indo- Islamic architecture. The construction began in the 12th century by the slave king Qutubuddin Aibak, from whose name the minaret gets its name. In the same complex is a mosque and iron pillar, which has not rusted even after 1,500 years.

Humayun's Tomb: The mausoleum of the Mughal Emperor Humayun. It was built in 1570 by the emperor's widow, Haji Begum. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was the first garden tomb of India and a forerunner of the Mughal style of architecture, with high arches and formal gardens (charbagh).

India Gate: A 40-meter high war memorial arch dedicated to Indian soldiers who died in World War I.

Rashtrapati Bhawan: The President's residence and formerly the Viceroy's Palace, this building is constructed on top of Raisina Hill. As the highlight of Lutyen's Delhi, it is an impressive sight, particularly when it is lit up.

Parliament House and the Secretariat buildings: These buildings are an interesting blend of Victorian and 20th century architecture and formed part of Lutyen's plan for Delhi.

Lakshminarayan Temple: The temple was constructed by the Birla family of industrialists in the 19th century. The presiding deity is Lakshmi Narayan and the temple has a hall decorated with beautiful paintings depicting scenes from Indian mythology.

At the end of the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel.

Cost includes:

• All transfers in air-conditioned vehicle.
  
• English speaking guide.
  

Cost does not include:

• Entrance fees to monuments.
  
• Expenses of personal nature such as table drinks, telephone calls, laundry, camera fees (still or video).
  
• Tips to drivers, local guides.