DelhiDelhi, where an empire rose and fell before the dawn of history; where citadels of emperors appeared and disappeared

Delhi, where an empire rose and fell before the dawn of history; where citadels of emperors appeared and disappeared; a city of mysterious eternity whose old ruins proclaim a majestic and imperial past and whose present pulsates vibrantly with the ever flowing life of India. The eternal Jamuna bears witness to the glorious and tumultuous 5,000 year old history of Delhi. A history which begins with the creation of Indraprastha by the Pandavas and the transformation of this barren gift of the Kauravas into an idyllic haven. A history which encompasses all the

various kings and emperors who fixed their royal citadels here-- Indraprastha, Lal Kot, Quila Rai Pithora, Siri, Jahanpanah, Tughlakabad, Ferozabad, Dinpanah, Delhi Sher Shahi or then Shahjahanabad. But, combined and integrated into one, these 'new cities' have always been called Delhi and however many names it may have acquired, Delhi has always been intrinsically identified with power and imperial sway. There have been at least eight cities around modern Delhi, and the old saying that whoever founds a new city at Delhi will lose it has come true every time -- most recently for the British who founded New Delhi in 1911.

The historic Purana Qila, which has stood witness to Delhi's rejuvenation, periods of anarchy, and the rise & fall of empires, brings alive history of the capital. Amidst the tranquility of the splendidly panoramic environs of Purana Qila, Delhi's historic and legendary past come to life. After Shah Jahan built Red Fort the attention of administration shifted to gorgeous palaces of the fort. Today the fort is open for the public but only limited area can be accessed. More than half of the fort area has been taken over by the Army. But even what is open to visit reminds one of the splendour and lavish lifestyle which our rulers lived. Delhi has seen the death of many empires and resisted bloody attempts to eliminate her. Nadir Shah had ordered his soldiers to plunder and massacre Delhi. It is said that he got so much wealth from Delhi that he was not able to carry in home. Abdali and Taimur Lane were no different; they had tried their best to demolish the city of Delhi but it was some kind of a boon which helped it to regain its lost glory each time Delhi was plundered.

Delhi was the focal point for the first war of independence in 1857. Though the revolt did not reach its desired conclusion, Delhi became a thorn in the eyes of the British. Not only in ancient times or the mediaeval period, Delhi has been the center of any activity at all times. As the Britishers shifted their capital from Calcutta to Delhi, all the activities during the freedom struggle were directed towards Delhi. Thus, Delhi also bears the marks of the freedom struggle. The ultimate goal of the Azad Hind Fauz during the freedom struggle was to capture Delhi and established Swaraj. The slogan 'Dilli Chalo' is still used by leaders and political parties when they organize any rally or demonstration. It was the hosting of the tricolour at Red Fort in Delhi which marked a chapter in the history of India.

Geography

The National Capital Territory of Delhi is spread over an area of 1,483 km² (573 sq mi), of which 783 km² (302 sq mi) is designated rural, and 700 km² (270 sq mi) urban. Delhi has a maximum length of 51.9 km (32 mi) and the maximum width of 48.48 km (30 mi). There are three local bodies (statutory towns) namely, Municipal Corporation of Delhi (area is 1,397.3 km² (540 sq mi)), New Delhi Municipal Committee (42.7 km² (16 sq mi)) and Delhi Cantonment Board (43 km² (17 sq mi)).

Delhi is located at 28°61′N, 77°23′E, and lies in northern India. It borders the Indian states of Uttar Pradesh on East and Haryana on West, North and South. Delhi lies almost entirely in the Gangetic plains. Two prominent features of the geography of Delhi are the Yamuna flood plain and the Delhi ridge. The low-lying Yamuna flood plains provide fertile alluvial soil suitable for agriculture. However, these plains are prone to recurrent floods. Reaching up to a height of 318 m (1043 ft), the ridge forms the most dominating feature in this region. It originates from the Aravalli Range in the south and encircles the west, northeast and northwest parts of the city. Yamuna, a sacred river in Hinduism, is the only major river flowing through Delhi. Most of the city, including New Delhi, lies west of the river. East of the river is the urban area of Shahdara. Delhi falls under seismic zone-IV, making it vulnerable to major earthquakes.

Climate

Delhi has a semi-arid climate with high variation between summer and winter temperatures. Summers are long, from early April to October, with the monsoon season in between. Winter starts in October and peaks in January and is notorious for its heavy fog. Extreme temperatures range from −0.6 °C (30.9 °F) to 47 °C (117 °F).The annual mean temperature is 25 °C (77 °F); monthly mean temperatures range from 14 °C to 33 °C (58 °F to 92 °F). The average annual rainfall is approximately 714 mm (28.1 inches), most of which is during the monsoons in July and August. The average date of the advent of monsoon winds in Delhi is 29 June.

 Arts and Crafts

There is nothing as a unique culture of Delhi. This is so because Delhi is the capital city of India, where people from all over the country have come and settled. Therefore, the culture of Delhi represents the culture of all the states of India in parts. In other words, it is a kind of synthesis and reflection of the culture of India, as a whole. Being the capital of India, New Delhi has also become the main center of politics, from where all the decisions are made and policies passed. However, the city does have a history
of its own which has made some impact on its cultural scenario. Delhi comes as a merger of the modern lifestyles as well as the old traditions and values. On one hand, we can see the Old Delhi still living in the past to some extent and still upholding the values of the past. While, on the other we see culture in New Delhi where people have become slaves of ostentations. There is the sound the Qawwalis of Nizamuddin Shrine, Gurbanis of Bangla Sahib and Aartis of Chattarpur Mandir. At the same time, one can hear the loud and blaring music of pubs and discotheques. Still another aspect of the culture of Delhi is the numerous fairs and festivals celebrated in the city. The Chhat Puja of Bihar is celebrated here with as much festivity as the Durga Puja of Bengal. There is also no difference in the celebrations of the Muslim festival of Eid-ul-Fitr and the Punjabi festival of Lohri. It is interesting to note that the culture of Delhi also shows some influence of the people of Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab, since these states border the capital city. Last but not the least, the various monuments of the city like the Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, etc further add to the culture in New Delhi, India.

The capital of India is not only known for its rich historical background but also for some exquisite arts and crafts. Infact, the arts and crafts of Delhi have been patronized since the times of the royals. As a cultural center of its time, Delhi attracted the best of painters, musicians and dancers. Even though those days have gone, arts and crafts continue to be encouraged in Delhi. As a matter of fact, Delhi has its own "cultural season" that stretches on from October to March. This season is full of various events related to both visual as well as performing arts.

The numerous auditoriums in the city are busy with the various music and dance performances. Not to forget the various theatre groups in Delhi, especially the most famous National School of Drama (NSD). From the Hindi translations of European plays, to regional theatre as well as folk forms, there is a range of plays that serve as the food for your soul. Then, there is a hoard of art galleries that serve as a reflection of the creative streak of the Delhiites. Numerous exhibitions are held in the city that displays the works of both well-known as well as relatively new artists from all over the country.

Just like its arts, handicrafts in New Delhi have been practiced since times immemorial. Especially, the silver and gold enameling and zari (embroidery in gold thread) work and miniature paintings of the city have been quite popular for centuries. Other fine craftsmen of Delhi include potters, wooden toy makers, kite makers, lacquer craftsmen and so on. However, most of the craftsmen in the city live in the Old Delhi area. The best way to enjoy the amazing handicrafts of Delhi is to visit the Crafts Museum at Pragati Maidan, at the State Emporia on Baba Kharak Singh Marg or the famous Dilli Haat.

Forts and Monuments 

Since the city of Delhi has served as the capital of many empires, several forts were built over a period of time. However, most of the forts in Delhi were constructed during the rule of the Mughals over the city. These strong citadels were constructed both for the purpose of defense as well as residence. Forts of New Delhi boast of splendid architecture and are aesthetically magnificent. Following is a list of the famous forts in Delhi, the capital of India:

Red Fort : The Red Fort of Delhi is a massive monument built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It took approximately 10 years to complete the Red Fort of Delhi that was started in the year 1638. Situated on the embankment of river Yamuna, the fort was constructed during the zenith of Mughal Empire. The Red fort was supposed to be the fortress of the Shah Jahan's new capital at Delhi, Shahjahanabad. Today, the Red fort serves as the venue for the Prime Minister's Speech that is given on the Independence Day of the country.

Old Fort : Old Fort of Delhi is believed to be situated on the same site where the city of Indraprastha once stood. As per the great Indian epic Mahabharta, Indraprastha was the capital city of the Pandavas. Now standing mostly in ruins, the Old Fort of Delhi once served as the seat of administration of a number of glorious emperors. Emperor Sher Shah Suri got the fort constructed after he demolished Humayun's city, Dinpanah. Also known as the Purana Quila, the Old fort is more or less rectangular in shape, with a course of nearly two km. The legend has it that Sher Shah could not complete the construction of Purana Quila during his lifetime.

Tughlaqabad Fort : Tughlaqabad Fort, perched on a rocky hill, constitutes one third of the capital city of India. The fort is located on the Qutab-Badarpur Road and was built by Ghiyas-ud-Din Tughlaq, the founder of the Tughlaq dynasty. The Tuglaqabad Fort seems to be more or less octagonal, with a border of approximately 6.5-km. The ramparts of the fort, now in ruins, are between 10m to 15m high with fortresses and gateways at intervals. The Tughlakhabad at Delhi was built to serve a dual purpose, one of providing a defensive structure to the ruler and the second, to serve as his imposing capital.

Qutab Minar : The famous Qutab Minar of Delhi is a tower that claims the distinction of being the highest stone tower in the country. Said to be a tower of victory, it soars to a height of 73 m. Qutab-ud-din Aibak, after defeating Delhi's last Hindu kingdom, started the construction of this tower in 1193. Although Qutab-ud-din Aibak started the construction of the tower, he could not complete the monument during his lifetime.

Humayun's Tomb : Humayun's Tomb, the mausoleum of Mughal emperor Humayun, is situated on the Mathura Road, near it's crossing with Lodi Road. The first significant model of Mughal architecture in India, the tomb was built by Humayun's wife Haji Begum in the year 1565.

Shopping

If you are one of those belonging to the "Shop till you drop" category, then, Delhi is the perfect place for you. Delhi shopping places, a shopper's paradise, offers almost every shopping item that you can think of. From traditional Indian clothing to western outfits to purses to footwear, there is nothing that you won't find in the New Delhi shopping centers. So, tighten your pursue and ready yourself to splurge on the various shopping items that you will find in this amazing capital city of India. In the following lines, we will provide you the answer regarding "where to shop in
Delhi, India". Read on to get a list of some of the most famous shopping destinations in Delhi.
Chandni Chowk is one of the oldest and busiest markets in central north Delhi, India. The area is the historically important Shahjahanabad between the Lal Qila (The Red Fort) and Fatehpuri Masjid. With the most famous mosque of Delhi Jama Masjid (Delhi) in the vicinity, along with Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, and a lot of small temples, the place witnesses a genuine cultural harmony.Chandni Chowk's speJain Mandirciality is the variety of its markets and their Indian-ness. From authentic Indian food, delicacies and sweets of more than 1000 kinds, to sarees with chikan, zaree work. There are lots of narrow lanes with many shops selling books, clothing, shoes and leather goods, electronic and consumer goods and what not. The area, even more so than the rest of the city, is congested. This is also a good area for window shopping. It is the location of the original Haldiram's. A particular local delicacy are the jalebis, which are fried in pure ghee (clarified butter).

South Extension : An upmarket shopping area where quality garments and footwear sell like hot potatoes. Frequent by rich yuppies and delhi’s cash-flush teenagers, the complex has outlets of almost all the top international brands. Huge departmental stores like Ebony, Big Jos, Hopps are extremely popular and their annual sales are a much-awaited feature. Electronic showrooms, popular eatouts and a truly hip crowd make this a very popular hangout.

Karol Bagh : The area around Karol Bagh properly settled after the partition when Punjabis from Pakistan made it there home and opened numerous shops to eke out a living. Today KB is a thriving commercial and business centre and there’s simply nothing that you can’t find here.Ajmal Khan Road, Situated in Karol Bagh, it used to be a place for inexpensive readymades, cotton yarn and embroidered garments but is much more than that now. Fancy stores, big international labels and all kinds Indian munchies and masalas are available here. The weekly haat (usually an informal village market ) held here every Monday, when all the big stores enjoy their weekly holiday, is perhaps the biggest of its kind in Delhi. Arya Samaj Road, A place where you can buy second hand books. But the real McCoy is actually the Sunday book bazaar held at Daryaganj. Bank Street, Just off Ajmal Khan Road, it has shop after shop displaying (and of course selling) gold jewellery. Pick up a handcrafted piece or a machine-made pattern, the variety is mind-boggling. Excellent for those shopping for their trousseau. Ghaffar Market, This labyrinth of alleys and lanes specialises in supplying any imported product that you can dream of buying sitting right here in India. From cosmetics through watches, sunglasses, calculators, electronic diaries to hairdryers you can expect to find everything.

Hauz Khas : This is a great place to while away a sunny winter afternoon. Amble past medieval monuments from the time of Alaudin Khilji and find yourself amid fashion boutiques, art galleries and stylish bistros. The shopping here is likely to cost one"s pocket, but one can find some exquisite antiques and lovely paintings by lesser known Indian artists.

Shopping Malls in Delhi

From designer clothing to electronics to food to entertainment, these places have it all under one roof. So, whether you are looking for that perfect dress or that latest gadget, you will find it all at these popular shopping malls in Delhi.

Select City Walk Mall	Saket
DLF Promenade Mall	Vasant Kunj
DLF Emporio Mall	Vasant Kunj
Ansal Plaza Mall	Andrews Ganj, South Delhi
Ambience Mall	Vasant Kunj
DLF Place Mall	Saket
Pacific Mall	Tagore Garden
TDI Mall	Shivaji Place
City Square Mall	Shivaji Place
Metro Walk Mall	Rohini
DLF City Center Mall	Shalimar Bagh
Cross River Mall	Vishwas Nagar
The Chanakya Mall	Chanakyapuri

 

Cuisines

For gourmets, Delhi is synonymous with Mughlai and Frontier cuisines. The best of Mughlai cuisine can be enjoyed at Karim, (both in Jama Masjid and Nizamuddin) where recipes, dating from the times of the Mughals have been the closely - guarded secret of generations of chefs. Delhi Ka Aangan (Hyatt Regency), Darbar (Ashoka Hotel) and Corbetts (Claridges) are among the many options available in the expensive range, while Gulati Restaurant  

(Pandara Market), Angeethi (Asiad Village) and Degchi (Regal Building) are among those catering to more modest budgets. The finest Frontier cuisine is available at the Bukhara (Maurya Sheraton), Frontier (Ashoka Hotel) and Baluchi (The Hilton). At the other end of the scale are many popular road side eateries around Jama Masjid and Nzamuddin where kababs, rotis and biryani are order of the day. Every five - star hotel in the city has a Chinese restaurant, while most markets in South Delhi have a medium - budget Chinese restaurants.

The popularity of this cuisine can be gauged by the immumerable Chinese food outlets of the "meals- on - wheels" and kiosk variety. The growing sophistication Delhite's palate is discernable in the increasing number of speaciality restaurants- EI Arab (Regal Building), Dum Pukht or the process of slow cooking developed in Awadh (Maurya Sheraton), Kashmiri food at Chor Bizarre (Hotel Broadway), Thai food at Baan Thai (The Oberoi) and Sukothai (Hauz Khas Village), Japenese food at Tokyo (Ashoka Hotel) and Osaka (Hauz Khas Village), Tibetan food at eateries near Chanakya Theatre, and Mexican food at Rodeo (Connaught Place).

Another indication is the frequency and popularity of food festivals organised by Hotels. South Indians food is another favorite, the vegetarian variety of which is best in enjoyed at Sagar (Defence Colony), Sagar Ratna (Lodhi Hotel) and Dasaprakash (Hotel Ambassador). Coconut Grove (Ashok Yatri Niwas) offers excellent non- vegeterian cuisine from South India.

The best of continental cuisine can be eaten at five - star hotels, for instance La Rochelle (The Oberoi), The Orient Express (Taj Palace) and Captains Cabin (Taj Man Singh), though numerous multi - cuisine restaurants also offers continental food. Keeping pace with the changing face of the city are the growing number of fast food outlets which serve all manner of cuisines.

A delightful outlet offering a range of Indian cuisines are the food stalls ar Dilli Haat, here, the cuisine of different states is made available at very moderate rates. Set in the mindset of a spacious crafts bazaar these cafes are a very pleasant place to enjoy food.

For the more intrepid, eateries such as those at Paranthe wali gali, or chaat at Bengali Market and Sunder Nagar, bhelpuri at Greater Kailash and sweetmeats from Annapoorna and Ghantewala can be part of the gastronomical tour of Delhi.

Delhi is also synonymous with the omnipresent tandoori chicken and tandoori roti, which, when freshly had from the tandoor, makes a delicious meal. This is often available at roadside dhabas at a moderate cost.

Restaurants

Not just the capital of India, full of history, art, and culture, Delhi is a destination for food lovers.

Delhi's food borrows flavors and elements from the past as well as from the various cultures, religions and livelihoods it sustains. You can try out the finest dining options here with countless choices in terms of cuisine, from Chinese, Continental, Thai, Mexican, Mughal to South Indian and a subtle dominance of North Indian and Punjabi preparations.
Another equally fine, mouth-watering and vibrant option that begins to define the food culture here is the street food. 

 Delhi has its favourites – dishes that are cherished by the locals and have either originated in the city.

Click here to see good restaurants in New Delhi