delhi cityscape
Travel Guide

Delhi: Capital of Empires

Where History Meets Modernity

Delhi, India's capital, is a city where ancient monuments stand alongside modern architecture. With over 2,000 years of history, it has been the seat of numerous empires and dynasties, making it a living museum of Indian culture and heritage.

Historical Journey

Delhi has served as the capital of various empires that ruled India, from the Delhi Sultanate to the Mughal Empire and finally the British Raj. Its strategic location and political importance have made it a crucial center of power throughout Indian history.

1192
Establishment of Delhi Sultanate
1526
Mughal Empire's reign begins
1911
Delhi becomes British India's capital
1947
Capital of Independent India

Cultural Heritage

Red Fort

Red Fort

UNESCO World Heritage site and symbol of India's sovereignty

Location: Old Delhi

Hours: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Best Time: Early morning

Qutub Minar

Qutub Minar

UNESCO site featuring the world's tallest brick minaret

Location: Mehrauli

Hours: 7 AM - 5 PM

Best Time: Sunset

Humayun's Tomb

Humayun's Tomb

Magnificent Mughal architecture that inspired the Taj Mahal

Location: Nizamuddin East

Hours: 6 AM - 6 PM

Best Time: Morning

Festivals & Celebrations

Diwali

Festival of lights celebrated with grand decorations and festivities

October-November

Duration: 5 days

  • Light displays
  • Fireworks
  • Shopping festivals

Republic Day

National celebration with grand parade at Rajpath

January 26

Duration: 1 day

  • Military parade
  • Cultural performances
  • Air show

Local Cuisine

Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken

Delhi's iconic curry dish with rich, creamy tomato gravy

Paranthe Wali Gali

Paranthe Wali Gali

Famous street food lane known for stuffed flatbreads

Getting Around

Delhi Metro

Modern, extensive metro network covering most of the city

Tip: Use Metro smart cards for discounted fares

Auto Rickshaw

Convenient for short distances and narrow lanes

Tip: Insist on meter or negotiate fare beforehand

Bus

Extensive public bus network

Tip: Download DTC app for routes and timings

Where to Stay

Luxury

The Imperial

Area: Connaught Place

Price: ₹20,000+

The Oberoi

Area: Dr Zakir Hussain Marg

Price: ₹18,000+

Budget

Zostel Delhi

Area: Paharganj

Price: ₹800-2,000

Hotel Palace Heights

Area: Karol Bagh

Price: ₹2,000-4,000