The capital city of Delhi is the tiny reflection of India. From its vast political establishments, slippery diplomatic areas, and tree-lined avenues to the evocative relics of the Mughal era, the bustling bazaars of Old Delhi and the fragrant lanes of Khari Baoli, each and every part of Delhi coexists in complete harmony.
Delhi attracts tourists from all corners of the world to witness its rich heritage and splendor and Delhi, being the perfect host that it is, caters to all of them, no matter their demands.
Since everyone comes for a different reason and all other tourists are in town for varying lengths, it is a big task to map out a general itinerary suitable for everyone.
Depending on where you are from and what you would like to do with your trip, here is what you can do on your next visit to Delhi:
1. Central Delhi – In the heart of the city is Connaught Place, a hive of activity and one of Delhi’s largest business, financial and commercial centers. It’s a logically planned cloister filled with a variety of restaurants, pubs, and shops and one of the country’s first air-conditioned underground shopping complexes, Palika Bazaar. Connaught Place is filled with everything cultural, from contemporary art galleries to vintage movie theaters. Some of the popular places around are Janpath, a clothing market, Bengali market, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Birla Mandir, etc.
2. North Delhi: North Delhi includes places like Daryaganj, Kashmere Gate, Civil Lines, Old Delhi, Chandni Chowk, etc. Bounded by the Yamuna River to the east, North Delhi is primarily a rich reflection of Delhi’s heritage. While the areas around Old Delhi are reminiscent of the classic Mughal royalty era, the rest of the places represent its modern half. The main attractions in the surrounding area are Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Colonial-style Oberoi Maidens, etc. North Delhi is also home to the largest fruit and vegetable wholesale market in Asia, called Azadpur Mandi.
3. South Delhi – The posh district of Delhi with the highest number of millionaires in India, South Delhi boasts of modern infrastructure with state-of-the-art facilities. Best known for its lavish nightlife and parties, it boasts places like Hauz Khas village and Shahpaur Jat, the medieval parts of the city. Despite their rich history, they are now home to art galleries, stylish boutiques, and popular restaurants and pubs. The main attractions here are Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, Humayun’s Tomb, etc.
4. East Delhi: One of the biggest attractions in the sector is the imposing Akshardham Temple, a Hindu house of worship and a cultural campus dedicated to harmony, spirituality and devotion. Constructed of intricately carved marble and sandstone, the temple is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan and comprises themed gardens, stepped well courtyards, and numerous bodies of water. There are various luxury accommodations available such as The Hilton, the Ginger hotel, etc.