India Gate

India Gate is one of most popular tourist attractions in Delhi. It is visited by thousands of people daily at any given time for spending leisure time. Any Delhi Travel Guide is incomplete without the mention of India Gate. Standing in the centre of New Delhi, India Gate looks like a Majestic doorway. It is the 42 m high stone arch which is also known as the All India War memorial. It is situated on the eastern end of the Rajpath in New Delhi. 

Locals and tourists alike come here for picnic in the lawns on either sides of this marvellous structure. India Gate is surrounded by visitors whatever be the season. People come here to enjoy bright sunlight during the day and at night for picnic with their family and friends. Also in rainy season, India Gate and its surroundings look altogether mesmerising.

History of India Gate

Foundation of India Gate was laid by Duke of Connaught in 1921. Later in 1931, it was dedicated to the nation by then Viceroy, Lord Irwin. This magnificent structure was built in the memory of 90,000 soldiers of Indian Army who lost their lives fighting World War I. Names of these 90,000 soldiers are engraved on the arch and sides of India Gate. Along with these names, walls of this grand structure also carry the 13,516 names of the people who lost their lives in the North-West Frontier in the Afghan War of 1919.  

Construction of India Gate

The entire arch of India Gate stands on a low base of red Bharatpur stone and rises to a grand cornice. Below this cornice is inscribed Imperial Suns and above that is written INDIA on both sides with MCM and XIX to the right.  On the top, there is shallow domed bowl.

During your Delhi Travel, you will get an opportunity to witness this memorial which is not just for watching rather it invokes a feeling of patriotism in the people irrespective of the nationality. Amar Jawan Jyoti, another memorial was added to it. This is a flame which burns twenty four hours a day below the arch. It reminds us of the soldiers who died in the Indo-Pakistan war of 1971.

Visit to India Gate is important part of Delhi Tour.