Mariam Nihal

Saudi Gazette

 

Delhi represents a dream for billions. Conditioned by struggle, love and agony, it belongs to one of the oldest civilizations in the world.



Delhi has served various kingdoms and empires. Diverse ranges of cultural, spiritual and moral facets live in harmony in one of the most populated cities in the world.



Delhi alone, boasts of a metropolitan population of about 16.3 million. But it does so for reasons beyond measure.



Not only does the dynamic capital represent the best opportunities in the country but its rich and awe-inspiring heritage makes it one of the best cities in the world.



Exploring Delhi can take a lifetime. The city is full of surprises and every corner tells a tale of history.



People mostly speak Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi and English but are endearing in every aspect in the same way Bollywood taught you.



This week Saudi Gazette takes you on a journey to remember, on board Jet Airways to your first home in Delhi- The Oberoi hotel.



Stay at The Oberoi



It is only right to pay homage to the capital’s first luxury hotel. The property faces the world heritage site Humayun’s Tomb on one side and the Delhi golf course on another.



The iconic structure remains true to its origin and is the signature of Indian hospitality. For those new to Indian customs, Indian hospitality is famous for being the leader in its industry.



The Oberoi looks after you completely.  The hotel is designed with bespoke motifs including a marble lotus fountain and a hand carved Tree of Life - the leitmotif of the hotel.



The walls are adorned with profound images that speak volumes about India’s history and several art pieces.



Their largest premium suite that attracts statesmen, celebrities and Arab guests, is the Kohinoor Suite.



The artsy suite comes with a personal reception area and is spread across 3600 square feet with a large master bedroom, open bathroom, fitness area, office space, a pantry and a private butler.



The suite includes security features and accommodation for security personnel. Basically, it’s a high-end affair if you want it to be.



For Saudi women traveling alone, The Oberoi ensures personal female butlers are allocated for women and children.



The hotel structure reminds you of the British rule over India, which pictures of important statesmen during the time but also tells you about modern day India that is progressive yet traditional.



The Oberoi hospitality is a vision of India, in the way they dress- women staff clad in beautiful saris, the way they welcome you- with ‘namaste’ and a smile and the way they treat every wish like a necessity. 



While you are there do not miss out on the exclusive Oberoi signature therapies with Ayurvedic massages and holistic beauty ritual that only in-house guests have access to.



Of course, group yoga sessions are held daily. You can even book private ones. For Indian food, do try their buffet for an overall experience.



In fact one of the best places to dine every morning is the Oberoi. Their breakfast spread includes south and north Indian cuisine with international choices on the menu.



Their three restaurants include Taipan for Chinese cuisine, Threesixty and Travertino for Italian food.



The concierge looks after your traveling needs and is able to offer you a tour around the city with a personal guide.



With various summer offers including extending and upgrading your stay, log on to their website and book yours.



Explore the city around The Oberoi, New Delhi. Your journey begins now.



Rashtrapati Bhawan



Is the official residence of the President of India. It was where the Viceroy once lived. The massive structure consists of 340 rooms and it is the largest residence of a Head of State in the world.



India Gate



Right in the center of New Delhi stands the 42 meter high iconic structure- India Gate. It commemorates the 82,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during World War I. Much like the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, it is a memorial that bears the names of soldiers.



Red Fort



The fort was originally known as the “Blessed Fort” and the residence of the Mughal emperor of India for nearly 200 years. The huge fort built of red stones, houses a number of public buildings, such as Diwan-e-Aam, Diwan-e-Khas, Rang Mahal, Sheesh Mahal and Moti Masjid. A sound-and-light show is also available during the evenings. The world heritage site is where the Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag and delivers a nationally-broadcast speech on Independence Day every year.



Jama Masjid



Mughal emperor Shah Jahan built the largest mosque in India in 1656. Jama masjid is made of glowing red sandstone with marble and brass.



Located in Old Delhi, Jama masjid can host up to 25,000 devotees.



Nizamuddin



Nizamuddin Dargah is the dargah (shrine) of one of the world’s most famous Sufi saints, Nizamuddin Auliya.



You have recently seen this place in Rockstar, the Bollywood blockbuster. Don’t go looking for the same ambiance but if you are lucky and love qawwali, you can find it on a Thursday.



The tombs of poet Amir Khusro and princess Jehan Ara Begum are located next to it.



Qutab Minar



A 73 meter high tower, Qutub Minar was built in 1193 using materials from demolished remains of 27 Hindu temples as some believe it was built to signify the beginning of the Muslim rule in India.



Built by Qutab-ud-din Aibak it is made of red sandstone and marble. Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the first mosque to be built in India is located at its base.



Humayun’s Tomb



Was built nine years after the death of Humayun, by his widow Bega Begum and designed by Mirak Mirza Ghiyas, a Persian architect chosen by her. 



Also chosen as UNESCO’s world heritage site, it was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent.