Rajpath, Delhi | Timings, Images, History, Nearest Metro

Rajpath, Delhi Overview

Rajpath, which means the "King's Way:, is a ceremonial avenue that is located in the heart of New Delhi, the capital state of India. Rajpath runs from the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Raisina Hill on one end to the National Stadium on the other end and passes through Vijay Chowk and India Gate. Also popularly referred to as 'The Royal Road', Rajpath is surrounded by beautiful and lush green gardens, rows of trees and canals on both sides. It was constructed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, who was instrumental in designing and building New Delhi and was the main architect of numerous monuments including the India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan. Rajpath was built to provide an unhindered view of Delhi, as Lutyens wanted to have a panoramic sight from the Viceroy's palace.

Rajpath is undoubtedly one of the most important roads that New Delhi houses and is also the yearly site for the Republic Day Parade that takes place on 26 January. The Republic Day Parade showcases a vast display of Indian arms and ammunition, as well as other sophisticated weaponry on hold for the security of the country. At the same time, the rich and distinct culture of the nation is presented to the millions of onlookers who throng either side of the Rajpath.

It is bordered by the North and South Blocks of the Secretariat Building on its either sides. The long lanes have trees running and the gardens located around Rajpath make the area more colourful. The entire area is well maintained and is home to delegates.

Landmarks at Rajpath

Rashtrapati Bhavan: The Rashtrapati Bhavan was initially the Viceroy's Residence during the times of the British India, and is now home to the President of India.

Vijay Chowk: Vijay Chowk means 'Victory Square' and is a spacious plaza where the Beating the Retreat Ceremony takes place on 29 January each year to mark the end of the Republic Day Celebrations.

Secretariat Building: The Secretariat Building houses the North and South Block, which are home to the offices of Finance and Home ministries and External Affairs and Defence ministries respectively. Other important offices like some of the Prime Ministers Offices are also in the Secretariat Buildings.

India Gate: The India Gate is India'ss war memorial arch that has been built in honour of the soldiers who died in the First World War and the Second Anglo-Afghan War. It is also known as India's memorial of the Unknown Soldier.

History of Rajpath

The beautiful and well constructed Central Delhi that we see today is the result of twenty years of hard work and effort on the part of Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker. When the city plan of New Delhi was made, Rajpath was of central importance to it. Lutyens wanted a panoramic view of the entire city of Delhi from the Viceroy's place, and the whole avenue was constructed accordingly. The view from the Raisini Hill runs unhindered across India Gate and Rajpath, with National Stadium being the only obstruction.

Architecture of Rajpath

Lutyens was one of the leading and most talented British architects of the 20th century. Known for his creativity, he adopted different styles of designing that beautifully blended in the traditional and western techniques of construction. This architectural style is visible all over New Delhi, including Rajpath and the structures that are located nearby.

Rajpath is flanked by the north and south blocks, which are also known as the Secretariat buildings. The northern block is home to the offices of the Home and Finance Ministers, while the Defence and External Affairs Minister operate from the southern block. The area also houses numerous offices of the Prime Minister. Rajpath terminates at the Presidential Palace, which is also known as the Rashtrapati Bhavan. This avenue has witnessed the funeral processions of various Indian political leaders.

The entire street of Rajpath is thoughtfully planned. Beautiful ponds, lush green lawns and tall trees on either side complete the elegant look of the area. The most noticeable aspect of this street is the Jamun trees and the Java plum, which have been planted all along the roads to reduce heat during the scorching summer days.

Tips For Visiting Rajpath

1. There is parking facility available at Rajpath, so you do not have to worry about parking if you wish to take your vehicle. The parking fee is fixed for all visitors.
2. For those who want to view the India Gate, the ideal time to visit the place is in the early morning hours. However, picnickers and sightseers enjoy more in the evening when the area is beautifully lit up.

How To Reach Rajpath

Rajpath is readily accessible from any corner of the capital city. You can hire local taxis, buses and auto rickshaws to reach your final destination. In case you are travelling by metro, the nearest Metro Station is the Central Secretariat on the yellow and purple line. From Connaught Place (CP), Rajpath is at a walkable distance.