Pedalling along the footsteps of Shahjahan

This is an intriguing tour around 1500 acres of Old Delhi, for a glimpse into the city of the great Mughal Emperor Shahjahan, the creator of the eternal beauty – Taj Mahal.

The creator of one of the wonders of the world, Shahjahan lived a life of a successful ruler and a devoted husband. He contributed most of the incredibly spectacular pieces of architecture in and around Delhi, most of which still remains awe-inspiring. During this three and a hour tour, you will pedal around the city which was formerly known as Shahjahanabad after its creator.

The starting point of this trail is the Delite Cinema, an easy enough pickup point to locate, from where you will ride to the Turkman Gate. This is the gate at the Southernmost edge of Delhi and was named after a Sufi saint. A tomb in the honour of this saint is located at the eastern side of the gate. Pedal through the lanes of Chawri Bazaar where you can look at the wholesale and retail shops of brass, copper and paper products as you navigate the crowds. Two guides well-versed in the history and heritage of the city will accompany you on this trail.

Fatehpuri Masjid is the next on the route, a red sandstone monument that was built by one of Shahjahan’s wives – Fatehpuri Begum. The monument follows the traditional style with domes and minarets and you will see seven stunning arched openings in the prayer hall. Continue through the spice infused atmosphere of the oldest spice market in Delhi, after which the trail goes through a Madras Colony and to the Civil lines. Here you can stop for a refreshing ‘Chai’ break with some biscuits for sustenance.

The tour continues to the Old Delhi Railway Station, another red sandstone building that was structured to complement its neighbour – The Red Fort. Enlightening narrative on the history of each of the monuments keeps you going, as you pedal along the magnificent Red Fort and the Jama Masjid.

The tour concludes on a delicious note with a breakfast of the famous Delhi delicacies in one of the oldest and most popular restaurants of Old Delhi. The trail leads back to your starting point in time to head back for home, away from what was one of the most prosperous cities in the world.