Delhi

Delhi, the capital and a Union Territory of India, is often referred to as the “City of Gardens and Parks.”

Delhi – The Heart of India

It is a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity, where two distinct worlds coexist — Old Delhi and New Delhi.

New Delhi was inaugurated in 1931 by the British as the imperial capital and today serves as the seat of the Indian government.
Old Delhi represents the heart of the metropolis, bustling with narrow lanes, centuries-old monuments, and a vibrant traditional lifestyle.

Geographically, Delhi is often described as lying within the Delhi Triangle, covering about 70 square miles. Its southern edge is marked by the Aravalli Hills, and its western border by the Delhi Ridge, giving the city both natural beauty and a unique topography.

Eye-Catching Places to Visit in Delhi

India Gate

Constructed in memory of over 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives during World War I, India Gate is one of the most iconic war memorials of the country. Designed by Edwin Lutyens, it stands on a Bharatpur stone base. The Amar Jawan Jyoti (Flame of the Immortal Soldier) was later added to honor soldiers martyred during the Indo-Pak war. The surrounding lush green lawns make it a popular picnic spot, especially during summer evenings and winter afternoons.

Lotus Temple

This architectural marvel is one of the seven Bahá’í Houses of Worship in the world. Shaped like a lotus flower, the structure has 27 marble-clad petals and is surrounded by serene ponds and gardens. Open to people of all religions, the temple symbolizes peace, unity, and harmony. Its quiet, meditative atmosphere offers a perfect space for reflection and spiritual rejuvenation.

Red Fort (Lal Qila)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Red Fort was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1639 and gets its name from its massive red sandstone walls. Spread over 254 acres, this octagonal fort blends Mughal, Persian, Timurid, and Hindu architectural styles. Today, it is not only a historical monument but also a cultural hub, housing Mughal-era artifacts like miniature paintings, royal carpets, and weapons.

Jantar Mantar

Constructed by Maharaja Jai Singh II, Jantar Mantar is one of five astronomical observatories built in India. The site features 13 unique astronomical instruments used to track the movements of celestial bodies with the naked eye. This blend of science and art continues to fascinate astronomers, architects, and historians alike.

Qutub Minar

Standing at 239 feet, Qutub Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world. Built in 1193 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the minaret has five tapering storeys — the first three made of red sandstone and the upper two constructed using sandstone and marble. At its base lies the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the first mosque built in India. The spiral staircase of 379 steps is a testament to the brilliant engineering of its time.

Activities Not to Be Missed

Light and Sound Show at Red Fort – Witness the history of Delhi come alive through a spectacular show.
Explore Old Delhi – Take a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, visit spice markets, and try authentic street food.
Garden of Five Senses – A beautifully landscaped garden perfect for evening walks.
National Gallery of Modern Art – Explore Indian contemporary and modern art collections.
Nehru Planetarium – A favorite for science and space lovers.
Delhi Eye (Kalindi Kunj) – A giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city. Located inside an amusement park, it makes for a full day of fun with rides, water slides, and a perfect sunset view.

Festivals Celebrated in Delhi

Lohri (January 13): Marking the end of winter, celebrated with bonfires, music, and dance.
Makar Sankranti (January): Popularly known as Kite Festival, the sky fills with colorful kites across Delhi’s rooftops.
Independence Day (August 15): The Prime Minister hoists the national flag at Red Fort, followed by a 21-gun salute and a nationally broadcast speech.
Flower Show (February): Hosted at Purana Qila, displaying exotic blooms, gardening competitions, and workshops — a paradise for nature lovers.

Mouthwatering Meals of Delhi

Delhi is the food capital of India, offering everything from mouthwatering street food to luxurious fine dining.

Chandni Chowk: The heart of Old Delhi’s food scene, offering parathas, kebabs, jalebis, and chaat.
Paranthe Wali Gali: Famous for its crispy, stuffed parathas served with tangy chutneys and pickles.
Hudson Lane: A hub for students and foodies, with trendy cafés and budget-friendly eateries near Delhi University.
Connaught Place: Perfect for all budgets, featuring international food chains, Indian cuisine, and roadside delicacies.

Shopping in Delhi

Delhi is a paradise for shopaholics, offering everything from designer brands to street-side bargains:

Dilli Haat: A cultural bazaar with handicrafts from all over India, street food, and live performances.
Sarojini Nagar Market: Known for export-surplus branded clothes at bargain prices — new stock arrives every Tuesday.
Lajpat Nagar: A vibrant market for Indian ethnic wear, accessories, and henna art.
Karol Bagh: Famous for bridal wear, jewelry, cosmetics, and Ajmal Khan Road for western fashion and electronics.