New Delhi pocket guide

Believe what you see and not all you hear

New Delhi is an ancient city, which is also the capital of India. This is a fast growing city and development work is evident if you pass through the city. There are upmarket malls, multiplexes, office complexes, many flyovers and not to miss the famous Delhi Metro.

However with so much development, the historical monuments still speak about the ancient city and its long lost glory. New Delhi has always been considered as the center of India and has always served as the capital city of major kingdoms. Old Delhi also known as the “Walled City” was the capital of the Islamic India under the Mughal Rule. Delhi retained its capital status even in the British controlled India. There are magnificent museums, temples, mosques, and a busy cultural scene.

Top 10 places to see in New Delhi:

1) Akshardham Temple: This is a magnificent temple built on the banks of Yamuna River. It is connected by the Metro Train. You can easily spend around 2-3 hours in the temple. There are other various activities in the evening too. Timings 9:30am till 6:30pm (last entry). Closed on Mondays.

2) India Gate: Memorial built in the memory of World War 2 soldiers, with srawling lawns and beautiful views of the Rashtrapati Bhawan (President’s House).

3) Delhi Haat: Food and handicrafts from all over India in a rustic / village type setting. Next to INA Metro Station.

4) Humayun’s Tomb: This is the monument that contains the tomb of a great Mughal Emperor “Humayun”. It contains various substructures inside which provide insight into the famous architectural practices of the Mughal rulers. It is also an Unesco world heritage site. Open all days.

5) Lotus Temple: Built by the Bahai Community originating from Persia (Iran). This is a large lotus shaped monument which attracts tourists from all over the world. Closed on Mondays.

6) Qutub Minar: Indian version of Leaning Tower or Piza. Built in red and buff sandstone, it is the tallest monument tower in India standing at 72.5 mts tall. It was built by the first Islamic ruler of India in 1193 AD. It is currently in the Unesco world heritage site list.

7) Red Fort: Most prominent of Delhi’s ancient forts. This one is build in Red Sandstone. There is a sound and light show in the evening which is a big hit with all the people. There are many small structures inside the 2.2 Km-wide boundary. Closed on Mondays.

8) Lodhi Gardens: Close to Humayun’s tomb is a Lodhi’s tomb which is surrounded by sprawling and manicured gardens. It is favorite with joggers and families. It also has a fine dining restaurant.

9) Jantar Mantar: This is one of the five astronomical observatories built by Sawai Jai Singh II. It contains one of the largest Sun Dials in the country. There is also an interesting maze inside the monument.

10) Walk in old Delhi: This is the old part of Delhi. It is bustling with activity all day long. There are many stalls, hawkers, and shops, etc. Stroll in this area will give a provide exposure into the way businesses used to run in older times. In the many small lanes and by-lanes, even today, wholesale businesses are conducted in the old fashioned way.

Food plays an important role in the lives of an average native of Delhi which is evident from the rounded belies of most Delhi natives. Even the worst cook can’t go wrong with native Delhi foods.

Top 5 street foods to eat in Delhi: Gol Gappe, Papri Chaat, Chole Bhature, Aloo Tikki and Pakoras.

Top 5 Indian cuisines to try in Delhi: Tandoori Chicken, Butter Chicken, Dal Makhani, Kathi Kebabs and Chicken Biryani.

Top 5 sweet dishes to eat in Delhi: Jalebee, Rabree, Kulfi Faluda, Gulab Jamun and Rasmalai.

“India shaped my mind, anchored my identity, influenced my beliefs, and made me who I am. ... India matters to me and I would like to matter to India.” ― Shashi Tharoor

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