Old delhi: through the 16th century The Old Delhi or walled city was established during the 17 th century by Mughal emperor Shahjahan. He made Delhi his capital and built several monuments of repute. Today, this part of Delhi is still surrounded by crumbling city walls, three surviving gates, mosques, Fort and with its vibrant, bustling lanes is very much a separate city. It is predominantly a labyrinth of tiny lanes crowded with rickshaws and lined with 17thcentury havelis (Indian mansions), their balustrades broken and onceornate facades defaced with rusted signs and sprouting satellite dishes. You will explore the city partly by cyclerickshaw and partly on foot. This tour will introduce you to the Mughal history and architecture which is an important part of the history of India and will give you a glimpse into the day today life of old Delhi. ~ Itinerary ~ • • • • • After breakfast at the hotel, proceed for half day sightseeing of Old Delhi Explore the Old City of Delhi by Cycle Rickshaws visiting Jama Masjid, the largest mosque of India and Sisganj Gurudwara. The cycle rickshaw will take you through narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk where you will witness day to day life of residents of the old city. Walk through the Asia's largest wholesale spice market and learn about the various spices. Lunch in a local restaurant. RICKSHAW RIDE After Rajghat, you will experience a 'Cycle Rickshaw' ride through the following places including Chandni Chowk and sorrouding areas, which is one of the city’s most crowded, chaotic and captivating areas. GURUDWARA SIS GANJ SAHIB It is one of the nine historical gurdwaras in Delhi. First established in 1783 by Baghel Singh to commemorate the martyrdom site the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur. It marks the site where Sikh Guru was beheaded on the orders of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb on the 11th of November, 1675, for refusing to convert to Islam. JAMA MASJID Also called “the Friday mosque”, it is the country's largest and the most magnificent mosque. The great mosque of Old Delhi is the final architectural extravagance of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan with a courtyard capable of holding 25,000 devotees. Situated in the ancient town of Old Delhi, this monument was built by five thousand artisans. It combines the best of Hindu and Muslim styles of architecture. CHADNI CHOWK Literally meaning “moonlit square or market”, Chandni Chowk is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Old Delhi. Built in 17th century by the great Muslim Emperor Shah Jahan and designed by his daughter Jahan Ara, the market was once divided by canals to reflect moonlight. The market remains one of India's largest whole sale markets. Enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through the lanes and bylanes of the market (Sunday closed). KHARI BAOLI Asia's largest wholesale spice market. The local name for the spice market, pronounced ‘curry bowly’. As you stroll through the crowded alleys, a pungent aroma of exotic condiments catches your senses. The display of rows and rows of spices, nuts, sugar, and herbs arranged in colorful piles is indeed a visual treat. While you bargain for exquisite herbs, soak up the energy and clamor of the market as it goes through its daily routine. Watch locals pick spices with great flair, while labourers wrestle with loads of spices, onto or off long wooden handcarts. Though the market is largely chaotic, you will realize how systematically the trading of small items is carried out daily. ~ Tour Cost ~ Cost in $ Cost based on minimum 6 paying persons 55/- Per Person Price Inclusions • Transportation by AC Vehicle • Services of locally appointed English Speaking guide • Cycle Rickshaw Ride in Old Delhi • Lunch in a local restaurant • Bottled water during drives • Currently applicable entrance fees to places of visit • Presently applicable Government taxes, which are subject to change • Professional and service charges for preparation and operation of the tour program. Price does no include: Any item which is not specifically mentioned in the inclusions above. Items of a personal nature such as table drinks, laundry, camera fee, tips etc. For further details, bookings and customised Packages, please contact at : Contact: Dr Sandeep Tiwari (Wildlife Trust of India); Swati Yadav; Tanuja Sah Email: [email protected]; [email protected], [email protected] Tel: 91 11 4716 5500