I’m Manasvi, a B.Tech. student at ITS Girls Hostel in Greater Noida. Despite the hostel being my second home, a break from academics is essential. Recently, I enjoyed a one-day girls’ trip to Delhi with my three closest friends. After the sessionals, we eagerly planned our adventure, excited for a day away from books and the academic hustle.
Route :
Our journey started with a ride on the Delhi Metro from Knowledge Park 2 in Greater Noida to Sector 52 in Delhi. From there, we walked to Shri KalkaJi Temple, then to the Lotus Temple, and took an autorickshaw to India Gate. After that, we visited Bangla Sahib Gurudwara and ended our day at Akshardham Temple.
Places to visit in Delhi:
- Shri KalkaJi Temple: A popular Hindu temple with intricate architecture and a spiritual ambiance. Our first stop was the Shri KalkaJi Temple on a bustling Sunday. We waited in line for darshan, and the enriching spiritual experience made the wait worthwhile. The temple’s surroundings featured food stalls with tempting street food and shops selling beautifully crafted deity idols. The temple provided plenty of parking for anyone who chose to drive, although it did charge a nominal fee.
- Lotus Temple: After the spiritual experience at Kalka Ji Temple, we strolled for 10 minutes to reach the iconic Lotus Temple. Despite the crowd, the stunning architecture amazed us. Upon entering, we left our slippers and embraced the serene ambiance. The temple was surrounded by a peaceful pond, offering visitors comfort in its peaceful surroundings. A beautiful temple known for its lotus-like architecture and serene surroundings. The vendors nearby were selling delicious street food and cool drinks, which we couldn’t resist.
- India Gate: A prominent landmark and war memorial, surrounded by food vendors and souvenir shops. We hopped into an autorickshaw for the 8-kilometer ride to India Gate. The quick 18-minute ride cost us only 20 rupees each. India Gate buzzed with activity, featuring street vendors offering tempting food and souvenir shops. Walking around, we experienced street performers, some in quirky owl costumes, adding a whimsical touch to our day.
- Bangla Sahib Gurudwara: A sacred Sikh shrine where visitors can offer prayers and experience the warmth of the Langar. Our journey from India Gate led us to the calm and peaceful Bangla Sahib Gurudwara. Although there were many people around, we discovered a sense of peace within its sacred grounds. After paying our respects, we were fortunate to be able to join in the Langar, a communal meal that brought comfort to our hearts and satisfied our hunger.
- Akshardham Temple: As the sun dipped below the horizon, our final destination for the day was the grand Akshardham Temple, about 9.9 kilometers away. A 20-minute auto ride, costing 50 rupees each, took us there. The entrance ticket was 170 rupees per person. Though we missed the water show due to our late arrival, it didn’t dampen our spirits. Despite phones not being allowed inside, preventing us from capturing its beauty, the grandeur of the temple left vivid images etched in our minds.
Accommodation in Delhi:
Since it was a one-day trip, we did not require accommodation. However, there are numerous budget-friendly hotels available in Delhi for those who wish to stay overnight.
Best Food in Delhi:
Delhi is known for its street food, and we made sure to indulge in the mouth watering treats. When it comes to food, there’s a wide variety available, from delectable vegetarian options to tempting non-vegetarian dishes. We tried various snacks and beverages from the food stalls near the temples and India Gate. We also had the opportunity to enjoy a langar, a community meal, at Bangla Sahib Gurudwara.
Travel Tips:
- Use the Delhi Metro for convenient and affordable transportation.
- Carry a water bottle, as it can get hot during the day.
- Pack a power bank to keep your phone charged for capturing memories.
- Dress modestly and respect any dress codes at religious places.
- Take your time to explore each destination fully and savour the experience.
My friends and I had an amazing experience with an approximate expense of 700 rupees per person, making it a budget-friendly adventure that we’ll treasure for years to come.
As the day came to an end, we headed back to the metro station, making our way to ITS Girls Hostel in Greater Noida. Our one-day girls’ trip had been a thrilling blend of spirituality, culture, delicious food, and, most importantly, the joy of each other’s company. It was a refreshing break from our busy hostel life and a day filled with laughter, bonding, and unforgettable moments.
