I was both excited and fearful when I was nominated by my PMI Chapter to attend the PMI Leadership Region Meeting in New Delhi. I have never been to Delhi before, but I have heard a lot about the city through various news sources. Thankfully, the trip went smoothly and I had a pleasant stay in New Delhi.
PMI India had arranged for us, myself and Dr. Oscar D’suza to stay at The Leela Palace in New Delhi. The Leela Palace in Chanakyapuri is a luxurious and opulent hotel that is known for its grandeur and excellent service. Located in the diplomatic district of the city, The Leela Palace is surrounded by lush gardens and is conveniently located near many popular attractions and landmarks. The Leela Palace boasts a large outdoor pool surrounded by beautiful gardens, providing a tranquil oasis in the city. The hotel also has a fitness center and spa for guests to relax in after a day of sightseeing.
During our two-day conference in Delhi, we took the opportunity to visit many of the city’s attractions. I specifically visited thes few locations;
- The Red Fort: Due to the long queue for tickets, we were unable to enter the Red Fort, but we were still able to admire the outer architecture and enjoy the gardens.
- The India Gate: The India Gate is a war memorial that is located in the heart of New Delhi. Built in the 1920s, the India Gate was designed to honor the Indian soldiers who fought in World War I, and it is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. The India Gate is a large archway that stands 42 meters tall and is made of red sandstone. It is located at the eastern end of Rajpath, a ceremonial boulevard that runs from Rashtrapati Bhavan (the official residence of the President of India) to the India Gate.
- Chandni Chowk: Chandni Chowk is a overcrowded, busy market located in Old Delhi that is known for its colorful stalls, very narrow and crowded streets,. If you’re in Delhi and want to experience a bit of the local culture, Chandni Chowk is a great place to visit. One of the standout features of Chandni Chowk is its wide range of shopping options. You can find everything from spices and fabrics to jewelry and handicrafts at Chandni Chowk, and it’s a great place to pick up souvenirs or try some local street food. The market is also home to many small shops and stalls that sell traditional Indian items such as saris, kurtas, and handicrafts.Cycle rickshaws are a common mode of transportation in Chandni Chowk and other parts of Delhi. They are small, three-wheeled vehicles that are powered by a person pedaling a bicycle. Cycle rickshaws are a popular and economical way to get around the city, especially in crowded or congested areas where cars and other vehicles may have difficulty navigating. If you’re visiting Chandni Chowk and want to try a cycle rickshaw, you can find them easily in the market area. You can either hail one on the street or hire one from a cycle rickshaw stand. It’s a good idea to agree on the fare before you start your journey, as prices can vary.
- The Rashtrapati Bhavan: Unfortunately, we didn’t have much time to visit this place, but we did catch a glimpse of it from the car while on our way to the Red Fort.
- The Swaminarayan Akshardham: The Swaminarayan Akshardham is a beautiful and ornate Hindu temple complex that is known for its intricate carvings and peaceful gardens. Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, the Swaminarayan Akshardham is a popular attraction for tourists and Hindus alike, and it is a great place to learn about Hindu culture and religion. The Swaminarayan Akshardham was built in 2005 and is dedicated to Swaminarayan, a 19th-century Hindu saint. The temple complex is made of pink stone and is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures that depict Hindu deities and scenes from Hindu mythology.In addition to the temple itself, the Swaminarayan Akshardham has a number of other attractions, including a large garden with fountains and sculptures, a food court, and a cultural center that offers exhibitions and demonstrations of traditional Indian arts and crafts. The Swaminarayan Akshardham is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit in New Delhi. Whether you’re interested in Hindu culture and religion or just want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Swaminarayan Akshardham is a great place to go. I would definitely consider going back to Delhi just to visit this place again.
I was interested in experiencing the nightlife in New Delhi because I had heard a lot about it. However, I was traveling alone on a professional trip and not with my wife, so I decided not to pursue that idea. My wife, Supriya, and I will definitely come back to Delhi in the future to check out the nightlife scene. Althrough, I did manage to visit a small pub called Molecule in Green Park for lunch with my colleague, Vishesh Kapoor. We had a good experience at the pub – the food and ambiance were good, and the staff was cooperative.
Overall, I would definitely consider visiting New Delhi for a short trip of two days in order to see places like the Swaminarayan Akshardham. However, I think that living in Delhi long-term might be difficult for someone like me, who has spent their entire life in Mumbai.