India Gate

India Gate

Designed by Edwin Landseer Lutyens in 1931, this 42-metre-high monument was erected as a memorial in honour of the Indian and British soldiers martyred during World War I and the Third Afghan War, 1919. The names of the 13,516 martyrs are inscribed on this imposing monument.

Under the arch of India Gate is the Amar Jawan Jyoti, or the Flame of the Immortal Warrior. This eternal flame pays homage to the soldiers killed during the

Indo-Pak War in 1971. The black marble cenotaph has a rifle placed on its barrel, crested by a soldier's helmet and guarded by the flags of the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force.

Alongside the monument is a beautiful canopy or domed kiosk with a roof of red sandstone. It was under this canopy that the marble statue of George V, which was later shifted to Coronation Durbar Site, once stood. Visitors can stand on the other side of the canopy and view the Rajpath Avenue, the ceremonial venue of India, in its entirety.

The sprawling lush green lawns of India Gate are perfect for tourists and locals to laze around. Hungry souls have many items to gorge on — Fruit Chaat, Bhel Puri, Chana Jor Garam, Dal ka Pakodas, potato chips, ice cream, candy floss and aerated drinks. Children can blow soap bubbles, play cricket and enjoy camel or pony rides.