India's bustling and enthralling capital
‘The air we breathe is full of the dust and fragrances of the past, and also of the fresh and piercing winds of the present…what a tremendous story is here.’ These were the words uttered by India’s first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, when describing Delhi. India’s capital captures the past, lives in the present and looks to the future in a way that few other cities do.
With a population of over 18 million, Delhi is an international metropolis. Perhaps daunting at first sight, a little exploring soon reveals a rich, diverse and fascinating culture. Throughout most of its history it has served as the capital of various kingdoms and empires, captured and rebuilt time and time again. Every dynasty left its mark and as you start to explore, you’ll discover reminders and relics from this colossal game of pass the parcel.
A sprawling city, its boundaries are constantly changing, but at its heart are Old and New Delhi. Old Delhi was built for the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan and surrounded by more than 8km of ramparts. The walls crumbled long ago, but you can still delve into its past with a visit to the Red Fort and the Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque. Join the flocks of birds that swarm around its minaret and climb to the top for a spectacular view over Old Delhi.
New Delhi was built by the British to serve as the capital of their empire. The area is characterised by broad avenues and tree-lined boulevards, the longest of which is the Rajpath, stretching from the Presidential Palace to India Gate. New Delhi is also where you’ll find most of the city’s museums and shopping areas, centred around Connaught Place.
As well as centuries worth of history to explore, Delhi is also one of the best places in India to experience the buzz of a city where its millions of inhabitants are going about their daily business. And if weaving your way in and out of the rickshaws and cyclists ever starts to get too much, turn the corner and you’ll find a tranquil garden or a quiet enclave in which to stop, gather your thoughts and recharge.
Highlights
Explore Old Delhi, home to the Jama Masjid and the Red Fort
Wander along the Rajpath in New Delhi towards India Gate
Shop for goodies at Connaught Place and Chandni Chowk
Visit the immense Qutb Minar and the peaceful Humayun’s Tomb
Take a rikshaw ride through the bustling streets
Enjoy morning yoga in Lodi Gardens
Rachel O’Leary
Travel Designer
Marvel at the impressive Red Fort, stroll through the intoxicating spice market in Old Delhi and settle down for a picnic in Lodi Gardens at sunset. Delhi is always bound to make a lasting impression.
Rachel O'Leary
Travel Designer
Luxury accommodation in Delhi
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Where else to go in India
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Rajasthan’s second largest city, historic Jodhpur may just be its most photogenic. Labyrinthine streets, bustling spice bazaars and flitting multihued saris make for an overwhelmingly vibrant sight at every turn.
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Kanha Tiger Reserve is the largest national park in Madhya Pradesh. Right in the heart of central India, this sprawling protected is regarded as one of the best parks in the country for its safari.
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Equidistant between Agra and Varanasi in the state of Madhya Pradesh, is the small town of Khajuraho. Its remote location means it could easily slip under the radar of travellers keen to get to India’s more well-known cities, were it not for its remarkable collection of temples, famous for their erotic carvings.
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Discover moreMeet your Indian Subcontinent team
When to visit India
The best time to visit is between October and March. September and April are considered the shoulder months when it is very hot in the middle of the day but mornings and late afternoons are lovely. From the end of December until the middle of January, mornings and evenings can be foggy and nights cold, but during the day the weather is great for sightseeing.
National Parks
October - June
Trekking
October - November / February - May
India Travel Guides
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