The Gateway of India in Delhi is an icon in the city and is located in a very central area surrounded by gardens. Wherever you go, it will appear on your route at some point!
History of the India Gate in New Delhi
What we know today as the Gateway of India originally called the "Memorial of all Indian Wars". It is a 42m high arch, built to commemorate soldiers of Indian nationality who died on the battlefield during World War I and the Afghan wars in 1919. Its construction began in 1921 and took 10 years to complete.
Due to the era in which it was constructed has a colonial style and its architect was inspired by the design of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. On its stone are written the names of the 13,000 soldiers who died in combat. Formerly under the arch there was a statue in honor of King George V but it was removed once India gained independence.
In 1971 a black marble cenotaph was added under the arch and named "Amar Jawan Jyothi" or the light of the immortal warrior. This slab has an eternal flame in each corner and in the center is a rifle and a war helmet.
India Gate is located at the junction of several busy streets in New Delhi, in the Rajpath area. The gardens in the area are very large spaces and have become a favorite place in the city for family picnics on Sundays and public holidays.
Visiting the Gateway of India
No doubt at some point during your stay in India's capital, you will pass this memorial on your way to other places of interest - if you have time, come down and see it!
When to visit the Gateway of India
It can be visited at any time of the year, although I warn you that in the months of May to June in Delhi it is very hot.
Regarding the time of day, any time of day is good but I recommend that you visit between 7 and 9pm. At this hour the temperature is ideal, the India Gate is illuminated and there is a lot of life in the area with street food stalls.
Whenever possible, avoid visiting on Sundays and holidays as the number of visitors tends to be higher.
How to get there
To reach by metro: the nearest station is the Central Secretariat Metro Station (yellow line). It is 1.8km away and is a nice area for walking but if you prefer you can take a tuk tuk or cab from there and it will get there faster!
Another option is to take a cab or tuk tuk directly with the Ola Cabs App from your location.
Practical information on India Gate in New Delhi
Schedule: from dawn to dusk.
Price: is free of charge.
Camera & video: are permitted and free of charge.
Food & beverages: no food is allowed on the memorial grounds.
What to bring: to travel in India, always wear comfortable shoes and a hat to protect you from the sun, and don't forget your camera or cell phone!
Guided tour: it is not necessary to hire a guide for this visit.
Tips: the visit itself is short and to be honest most travelers see it from afar, take the picture and do not approach the Arch or even pass by with the car or Tuk tuk but without stopping. But you decide if you are interested and want to go there.
I trust that this article about the Gateway of India in Delhi will be useful and you will enjoy your visit to the fullest :)
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