Things to Do at India Gate

Complete Guide to India Gate in New Delhi

About India Gate

India Gate stands as one of New Delhi's most iconic landmarks and a symbol of national pride. This magnificent war memorial, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, was built to honor the 82,000 Indian and British soldiers who died in the First World War and the Third Afghan War. The 42-meter high sandstone arch, reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, was completed in 1931 and has since become the heart of ceremonial Delhi. Located at the eastern end of Rajpath, India Gate serves as the focal point for national celebrations and is surrounded by lush lawns that transform into a bustling hub of activity during evenings. The memorial bears the names of 13,300 servicemen inscribed on its walls, while the Amar Jawan Jyoti (Flame of the Immortal Soldier) burns eternally beneath the arch to honor unknown soldiers. The area around India Gate has evolved into a popular recreational space where families gather for picnics, children play, and vendors sell local snacks and souvenirs.

What to See & Do

The Memorial Arch

Marvel at the imposing 42-meter high sandstone structure with names of fallen soldiers inscribed on its walls, offering a solemn tribute to military sacrifice

Amar Jawan Jyoti

Pay respects at the eternal flame that burns continuously beneath the arch, commemorating unknown soldiers who died serving the nation

Rajpath Boulevard

Walk along the grand ceremonial avenue stretching from India Gate to Rashtrapati Bhavan, experiencing the grandeur of British colonial architecture

India Gate Lawns

Relax on the expansive green lawns surrounding the monument, perfect for picnics, evening strolls, and enjoying the illuminated monument after sunset

Canopy Structure

View the empty canopy that once housed a statue of King George V, now standing as a historical reminder of India's colonial past

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Open 24 hours daily, though best visited during daylight hours or early evening when illuminated

Tickets & Pricing

Free entry - no tickets required to visit the monument and surrounding areas

Best Time to Visit

October to March for pleasant weather; evenings (5-8 PM) for cooler temperatures and beautiful illumination

Suggested Duration

1-2 hours for a leisurely visit including walks around the lawns and photo opportunities

Getting There

India Gate is easily accessible via Delhi Metro, with Central Secretariat Station (Yellow and Violet Lines) being the closest, approximately 1.5 km away. Alternatively, take the metro to Udyog Bhawan or Race Course stations. Numerous buses connect to India Gate from different parts of Delhi, including routes 620, 615, and 413. Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cabs are readily available throughout the city. For those driving, paid parking is available in nearby areas, though traffic can be heavy during peak hours and weekends.

Things to Do Nearby

Rashtrapati Bhavan
The official residence of the President of India, featuring magnificent Mughal Gardens and stunning colonial architecture just 2 km away
Red Fort
UNESCO World Heritage site and former Mughal imperial residence, showcasing Indo-Islamic architecture and housing several museums
Humayun's Tomb
Magnificent Mughal tomb complex and UNESCO World Heritage site, considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal's architectural style
Connaught Place
Historic commercial hub with colonial architecture, shopping centers, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife in the heart of New Delhi
National Museum
Premier museum showcasing India's rich cultural heritage with artifacts spanning 5,000 years of history, art, and archaeology

Tips & Advice

Visit during early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and harsh sunlight, plus enjoy the beautiful illumination after dark
Bring a picnic mat and snacks to enjoy on the lawns, but be prepared for vendors selling food and souvenirs throughout the area
Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be doing considerable walking on paved surfaces and grass areas
Keep your belongings secure and be cautious of pickpockets, especially during crowded weekend evenings and national holidays

Tours & Activities at India Gate