Delhi beyond Clichés: - 7 things nobody told you to do in the Capital.
Each of the Delhi attractions has been endlessly recounted, recommended or ridiculed depending on its individual merit. Of course these clichés have become so for a reason but what to do in Delhi if you have already seen it all?
Thereby, here is a complied list of things beyond the must do tourist attractions that when in Delhi, should be visited at least one Also this will remind the natives that Delhi's beauty is not skin-deep.
1. INDIAN MOUNTAINEERING FOUNDATION IN MOTI BAGH
Usually we think of mountaineering in a place full of scenic mountains! But to your surprise Indian Mountaineering Foundation in New Delhi takes a pride in hosting of such things. When you have less time and money in hand and you want to experience what an adventurous trip could be, step out and visit this place for a ‘FUN’tastic day out. P.S don’t miss the sport climbing wall when there!
When?- 9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and 4.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m., all days except Mondays.
Cost: INR 200 /-per session with numerous fun activities
2. TRAVEL TO THE SPACE
Ever wanted to be an astronomer, not for fame but to visit the celestial world? Nehru Planetarium is one such place that charms all the astronomical fans out there. So escape the hotness of Delhi going into the galaxy far away at this place! Fully air conditioned it offers a treat to your eyes and soul with a mesmerising display of stars, solar system and planets in the sky that will seem surreal.
When?:English show is at 11:30 AM and 3:00 PM
Hindi Shows are at 1:30 PM and 4:00 PM
Typical show duration is 30-35 minutes.
3. DELHI BY CYCLE
Every person living in the streets should take this experience once a while. Sundays are the days you want to relax and spend time with family. Why not go for this? Not only you contribute to the safe environment but it will also be a good exercise for you! Ride through the streets of Delhi surfing the land and learn more about its culture and diversity. Further end your day at any famous food stall. Just be an observer on two-wheels! If a traveller, with the help of a well-informed guide, you can push your way through the traffic, just as Delhites do every day through metro.
It's safe, fun, hassle-free and smart. Why not give it a try?
Recommended length of cycling: 1.5 - 2 hours
Travel tips: Comfortable clothing and shoes.
4. TOUR THE TOILET MUSEUM
Weird, right? So is it. Considered as one of the weirdest museums in the world, the Sulabh International Museum of Toilets is actually a museum exhibiting basic chamber pots to fancy Victorian toilet seats and even one that appears as a pile of booksand a replica throne/toilet for French king Louis XIV so he could hear kingly business while doing his kingly business.
The gallery hopes to educate people on the importance of sanitation and the evolution of toilets. NOT fancy but definitely interesting!
Where?- Sulabh Bhawan, Mahavir Enclave ,Delhi
When?-10:30 am to 5 pm from November to March and 10 am to 5:00 pm from April to October.
5. EXPLORE SUFISM BEYOND NIZAMUDDIN
The Dargah of Nizamuddin Aulia is the place where everyone goes for a soul stirring Sufi experience in Delhi and rightly so. But it is not the only one. Aforementioned Mehrauli boasts of the Dargah of Bakhtiyar Kaki, the oldest of all the Sufi shrines in Delhi also has sufi sessions every Thursday, that is must to hear formerly.
This shrine has interesting myths and anecdotes associated with it to give peacefulness to your soul.
Is it free of cost and anyone can go on Thursdays from 6P.M onwards.
6. PARTICIPATE IN RAAHGIRI IN CONNAUGHT PLACE ON SUNDAY
If you are a morning person you definitely should head up for this experience. Pedestrians claim the streets of the heart of Delhi once again and just do their thing. Cars are barricaded allowing people to indulge in physical activities and exercise till 9 am every Sunday. It is that feeling what rests your soul and cheers you up for the entire day. NO judgements nothing, just be yourself and showcase your talents that you till now couldn’t.
When?-6 A.M onwards
Where? - Connaught place every Sunday!
7. CHOR MINAR IN HAUZ KHAS
We all know HKV is famous for all the partying stuff and its fort with a lake. But guess what there another Minar is called Chor Minar. Not considered as a famous monument but it definitely is charming! The tower of thieves aka Chor Minar is a 13th century minaret situated near Aurobindo Marg in Hauz Khas. Built by Ala-ud-din Khilji, it was used for displaying severed heads of thieves and criminals on a spear through the 255 holes on it. It’s like charminar with 255 windows!
Where?- Block L-Padmini Enclave , Hauz khas ,New Delhi
Timings- 9 AM to 5 PM
These are few non cliché things to do in Delhi that will not only add up to the memory book of your brain but also give you hope that nothing in the world is limited except the natural resources , to have a fun and frolic day! If not always but at least once in your life you must experience this when in Delhi!
