India Gate Delhi: History, Timings, Attractions & Travel Tips

Overview

India Gate, an imposing structure in New Delhi, India is a war memorial dedicated to 82,000 Indian and British soldiers who gave their lives during the First World War and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. Because of its size and appearance, historical importance, and the serenity that surrounds it in a city like New Delhi, it is one of the most important attractions to be visited.

About it

Indian Gate was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and was commissioned in 1931. India Gate is not to be confused with Gateway of India located in Mumbai. It is also the scenery for the Republic Day and Independence Day parades. The monument also contains the names of the brave martyrs to whom it is dedicated. Laying right at the base is the Amar Jawan Jyoti, a flame that continues to burn for soldiers who died during the Indo-Pak war of 1971.

Related Information 

  • Timings (Operation Hours) – Open 24 hours | Light Show – 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
  • Entry Fee – No Entry Fee 
  • Time Required –  1 to 2 hours
  • Best Time to Visit – October to March

How to Get There

By Bus – Plenty of DTC buses are available from different routes to India Gate in Delhi.

By Metro – One can reach India Gate by travelling through the Violet or Yellow Line of Delhi Metro to Central Secretariat Metro Station located about 2 km from India Gate. From there you can either walk or take a rickshaw. 

By Taxi/Auto – App-based taxis and local autos are available aplenty to travel to India Gate from any corner of Delhi.

Nearest Restaurants

Gulati – It is an institution in New Delhi that opened its doors in 1959. Gulati t is known for its famous Butter Chicken. It is one of the top places to eat in Delhi. 

Pindi – A casual dining restaurant serving Mughali, North Indian and Chinese cuisines. It is a favourite amongst the Indian Gate visitors. 

Nearest Market 

Janpath Market – Famous for handicrafts, clothes, ornaments etc. It is one of the very popular markets in Delhi frequented by tourists and locals alike. 

Khan Market – This is is luxurious market with shops and restaurants of various types ranging from cafes with unique themes to old institutions.

Hotels – Best Places to Stay

The Imperial, New Delhi – A colonial high-end hotel that offers all modern comforts and facilities at a prime location.

The Park New Delhi – A contemporary hotel situated close to India Gate. It offers also the necessary amenities at a reasonable price. 

History of India Gate 

India Gate was designed to be a war memorial dedicated to soldiers of the British Indian army who lost their lives in World War I as well as the Third Afghan War. The foundation of this monument was laid by the Duke of Connaught in 1921 and the construction of the building was completed in 1931. The Amar Jawan Jyoti, dedicated to soldiers who lost their lives during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971, was installed in 1971.

Main Attractions 

  • Amar Jawan Jyoti – The flame burning beneath the arch of India Gate has been lit for well over five decades. It was constructed in memory of the fallen soldiers of the Indo-Pak War of 1971.
  • Illuminated India Gate at Night – The true beauty of this monument comes alive at night when it is illuminated. 

Travel Tips 

  • It is recommended to visit early in the morning or a bit late in the evening to enjoy the quiet surroundings and the beautifully illuminated monument.
  • Take drinking water along with you and wear good walking shoes because the place is huge.
  • It is advised not to visit the park during national holidays or weekends due to the congestion.

Architecture of India Gate 

India Gate- a 42-meter-tall arch is one of the most significant monuments in the country, located in New Delhi. It is simple yet majestic and it embodies the Indian spirit and honors its soldiers. The structure was designed by taking inspiration from the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. 

Constructed with sandstone, it is a masterpiece of Lutyens’ style. It has a broad arch and detailed ornamentation. India Gate seamlessly blends the different architectural styles of the Indo-Miughal Era with the right amount of inspiration from European architecture. The Amar Jawan Jyoti added later to the monument adds a layer to its design philosophy. 

India Gate is not just a mere structure but the spirit of bravery, the pride of being an Indian and the fusion of history, art and emotions. The names that are carved on the walls tell tales of brave feats and huge sacrifices and as you stand here you feel a great sense of honour. Visit India Gate to pay homage to the martyrs, marvel at the grand architectural displays and enjoy the surreal atmosphere of the place.