Explore the India Gate in Delhi

The India Gate is a war memorial located at Kartavya path, New Delhi, India

India Gate at sunrise, famous landmark of New Delhi, no people

The Canopy and the India Gate at sunset, New Delhi, India

January

3.6 - 25.2 °C

February

6.8 - 29.4 °C

March

10.5 - 36.2 °C

April

16.3 - 42.8 °C

May

19.7 - 45.9 °C

June

20.6 - 45.6 °C

July

22.8 - 41.5 °C

August

23.1 - 38.3 °C

September

21.5 - 37.2 °C

October

14.5 - 36.2 °C

November

9.8 - 32.2 °C

December

3.2 - 27.7 °C

Major Airports :

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), Delhi

Nearest Railway Station :

New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS)

Homage to the brave

In the heart of New Delhi stands a monument that captures the spirit of a nation and the sacrifices of its heroes. India Gate, an awe-inspiring 42-meter-high archway of sandstone, rises majestically against the backdrop of Rashtrapati Bhawan, inviting you to step into a realm where past and present intertwine.

Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, this iconic landmark is more than just a stunning feat of architecture—it's a poignant memorial to the 70,000 Indian soldiers who laid down their lives during World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. As you approach the gate, you're walking in the footsteps of history, tracing a path that began in 1921 when the Duke of Connaught laid its foundation stone.

For a decade, this monument took shape, stone by stone, until Lord Irwin, the then Viceroy, dedicated it to the nation in 1931. Today, India Gate stands not just as a testament to the valour of those who fought on distant shores, but as a symbol of India's journey through time. It beckons you to pause, reflect, and connect with a pivotal chapter in the story of a nation that saw its sons fight bravely in a global conflict.

A tribute to the fallen heroes

As you stand before the towering archway of India Gate, take a moment to pause and connect with the deeper purpose of this magnificent monument. The names etched into its stone are not mere inscriptions, but windows into the lives of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Adding to the patriotic spirit of the India Gate, honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji also inaugurated the statue of brave freedom fighter, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose on his 125th anniversary at India Gate.

Inspiration behind the design

Sir Edwin Lutyens envisioned India Gate as a structure that would blend Western architectural elements with Indian cultural motifs. The result was a triumphal arch reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The grand archway, adorned with intricate carvings and decorative motifs, stands as a testament to Lutyens' architectural genius.

The entire arch stands on a low base of red Bharatpur stone and rises in stages to a huge moulding. The cornice is inscribed with the Imperial suns while both sides of the arch have INDIA, flanked by the dates MCMXIV (1914 left) and MCMXIX (1919 right).

It is said that the construction of India Gate posed numerous challenges. But meticulous planning and the use of durable materials ensured its completion. Sandstone, chosen for its strength and aesthetic appeal, dominates the monument's facade. Intricate carvings, including floral patterns and sunburst motifs, adorn the archway, adding to its splendour.

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Timings

Open throughout the day (Some areas are not accessible to visitors after dark).

Embracing the spirit of India Gate

As you approach this iconic landmark, you'll find yourself immersed in a world of sensory delights and enriching experiences. The sprawling gardens that surround the monument offer a perfect backdrop for strolls, inviting you to bask in the lush tranquillity. For photography enthusiasts, the monument's graceful arches presents endless opportunities to capture stunning images, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.

Throughout the year, the area comes alive with food festivals, marathons, and other events. But perhaps the most awe-inspiring spectacle unfolds on Republic Day, when India Gate becomes the focal point of national pride. Every January 26, a grand parade is held along Kartavya Path (earlier known as Rajpath), and you can see contingents, tanks, vibrant floats, weapons all being conducted in a neat file. School children and folk dancers join the parade and add a cultural touch to the whole affair.

India Gate after the sunset

As the sun dips below the horizon, India Gate undergoes a magical transformation that captivates visitors and locals alike. The monument, bathed in the warm glow of floodlights, takes on a new persona against the darkening sky. Its majestic silhouette, now dramatically illuminated, stands as a beacon of remembrance and national pride. The scene is further enhanced by the nearby fountains, which spring to life in a dazzling display of colour and motion. This nocturnal spectacle offers a unique perspective on India Gate, one that contrasts beautifully with its daytime appearance.

As you stroll through the area, the interplay of light and shadow, coupled with the soothing sounds of the fountains, creates an atmosphere of enchantment and reflection. It's a perfect time for a leisurely evening walk amidst the beauty of one of Delhi's most iconic landmarks.

Other wonders around India Gate

There are several notable places worth visiting around India Gate. You can begin with a short walk to the National War Memorial, and adjacent to the India Gate, you will find the Rashtrapati Bhavan. You can also visit the National Gallery of Modern Art. Situated near India Gate, this gallery houses a rich collection of modern and contemporary Indian art. Located on Janpath, National Museum boasts an extensive collection of artefacts, art, and relics from Indian history and culture. Then there is Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory built in the early 18th century that is known for its intriguing geometric structures and astronomical instruments.