New Delhi: India Gate & Humayun's Tomb

New Delhi is the modern counterpoint to Old Delhi—broad boulevards, green parks, and imperial architecture, designed by British architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker from 1911, when the colonial capital was moved here from Calcutta.

The India Gate is Delhi's landmark: a 42-meter-high triumphal arch commemorating the 70,000 Indian soldiers who fell in World War I for the British Empire. In the evenings, the monument is spectacularly illuminated. The surrounding lawn area (Rajpath, now Kartavya Path) then transforms into Delhi's living room: families picnic, ice cream vendors do business, and couples stroll in the evening light. On January 26 (Republic Day), the impressive military parade takes place here.

Humayun's Tomb (1570) is the architectural model for the Taj Mahal—and for some visitors, even more beautiful because it is less crowded. The tomb of the second Mughal emperor stands amidst a geometric Charbagh garden (four quadrants, symbolic of paradise) and is a masterpiece of Persian-Indian architecture. UNESCO World Heritage since 1993. The perfect proportions, the red sandstone with white marble inlays, and the garden make it one of Delhi's most beautiful buildings.

The Qutub Minar in southern Delhi is a 72.5-meter-high victory tower from the 12th century—the oldest surviving structure in Delhi and the tallest brick minaret in the world. The surrounding complex includes India's first mosque (Quwwat-ul-Islam) and the enigmatic Iron Pillar, which has not rusted for 1,600 years. UNESCO World Heritage.

The Lotus Temple (Bahá'í House of Worship) is an architectural masterpiece: 27 free-standing marble petals form a giant lotus blossom. The temple is open to visitors of all religions and non-religions—inside, there is absolute silence. A surprisingly peaceful place amidst the chaos of Delhi.