The 10 Most Interesting Facts about New Delhi

New Delhi, the capital of India and a city that has been inhabited for thousands of years, is a fascinating destination for travelers around the world. This vibrant and diverse city is steeped in history, culture, and tradition. Here are 10 interesting facts about New Delhi that you may not know:

1. It was designed by a British architect

New Delhi was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, an English architect, in 1911. He designed the city with wide boulevards, green spaces, and grand government buildings that reflect the grandeur and power of the British Raj.

2. It is home to the largest mosque in India

The Jama Masjid in Delhi is the largest mosque in India and was completed in 1656. The mosque can accommodate up to 25,000 worshippers at once and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Delhi.

3. It has the busiest road intersection in the country

The Connaught Place intersection in New Delhi is considered one of the busiest road intersections in India. The circular market houses some of the oldest and most famous restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls in the city.

4. It is a city of festivals

New Delhi is a city of festivals, with a calendar full of celebrations throughout the year. Some of the famous festivals celebrated in the city include Diwali, Holi, Eid, and Christmas, among others.

5. It is home to the largest spice market in Asia

The Khari Baoli spice market in Old Delhi is the largest wholesale spice market in Asia. The market has been in operation for more than 400 years and sells a wide variety of spices, herbs, and teas.

6. It has an ancient history

New Delhi has been inhabited for over 5,000 years and has been the site of several empires and kingdoms. The city has a rich history that is reflected in its architecture, culture, and traditions.

7. It is home to one of the tallest brick minarets in the world

The Qutub Minar in New Delhi is one of the tallest brick minarets in the world, standing at 73 meters high. The minaret was built in the 12th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

8. It has the world’s largest number of registered cars

New Delhi has the largest number of registered cars in the world, with over 10 million registered vehicles. The high number of cars is a major contributor to the city’s air pollution problems.

9. It has one of the largest metro systems in the world

The Delhi Metro is one of the largest metro systems in the world, spanning over 390 kilometers across the city. It is a popular mode of transportation for commuters and tourists alike.

10. It is home to some of the best street food in India

From chaat to kebabs to parathas, the street food in Delhi is legendary. Some of the most famous street food areas in the city include Chandni Chowk, Karim’s, and Paranthe Wali Gali.

With its fascinating history, vibrant culture, and bustling city life, New Delhi is truly a city like no other. Whether you’re exploring the ancient ruins, sampling the street food, or taking in the colorful festivals, there is always something new and exciting to discover in this dynamic city.

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to New Delhi

New Delhi, the capital city of India, is a blend of history, culture, and modernity. A melting pot of various cultures and religions, the city has something to offer for everyone. From ancient heritage sites to modern marketplaces, from traditional cuisine to global flavors, New Delhi has it all. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that you just can’t miss during your visit to this vibrant city.

Top Attractions in New Delhi

New Delhi has a plethora of attractions to offer tourists from all walks of life. Here are some of the must-visit attractions in the city:

1. Qutub Minar

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a towering 73-meter-high minaret made of red sandstone and marble. Built in the early 13th century, Qutub Minar is a symbol of Hindu-Muslim unity and is surrounded by lush green gardens. It’s a popular spot for tourists, history buffs, and photographers.

2. Red Fort

The Red Fort, or the Lal Qila, is an iconic landmark in New Delhi. Built in the 17th century, the red sandstone walls of the fort are a testimony to the grandeur of the Mughal era. The fort has several beautiful structures inside, including Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, and the stunning Rang Mahal.

3. India Gate

The India Gate is a war memorial located at the heart of New Delhi. It’s a popular picnic spot among locals and a favorite spot for evening walks. The arch-shaped structure glows beautifully at night, making it an ideal destination for a late-night hangout.

4. Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple, also known as Bahai House of Worship, is a unique structure shaped like a lotus flower. The temple is open to people of all religions and is a symbol of unity and peace. The serene environment of the temple makes it an ideal spot for meditation and reflection.

Top Dining Spots in New Delhi

New Delhi is a paradise for food lovers. The city has a variety of cuisines to offer, ranging from traditional Indian dishes to global flavors. Here are some of the top dining spots in the city:

1. Karim’s

Karim’s is a legendary restaurant that serves mouth-watering Mughlai cuisine. The restaurant is over a century old and has maintained its quality and taste over the years. Try their signature dishes like Mutton Korma, Mughlai Chicken, and Seekh Kabab for an unforgettable culinary experience.

2. Sita Ram Diwan Chand

This small eatery is famous for its Chole Bhature, a spicy chickpea curry served with fluffy fried bread. Sita Ram Diwan Chand has been serving this delicious snack for over 70 years and has become a favorite spot among locals.

3. Bukhara

Bukhara, located at the ITC Maurya Hotel, is one of the best North Indian restaurants in New Delhi. The restaurant has won several awards and is famous for its mouth-watering kebabs, curries, and tandoori dishes. Bukhara is a fine-dining restaurant, so dress to impress.

4. Paranthe Wali Gali

Paranthe Wali Gali is a narrow street in Old Delhi that serves delicious stuffed parathas. Choose from a variety of fillings like potato, cauliflower, paneer, and more, and enjoy the freshly made parathas with spicy chutneys and curries.

Cultural Experiences in New Delhi

New Delhi is a vibrant city that has a rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the top cultural experiences that you shouldn’t miss during your visit:

1. Attend a Bollywood Movie

Bollywood, the Hindi film industry, is a major part of Indian culture. Experience the glamour of Bollywood by attending a movie at one of the city’s many cinemas. Some of the popular cinemas are PVR Cinemas, DT Cinemas, and Wave Cinemas.

2. Visit the Akshardham Temple

The Akshardham Temple is a massive Hindu temple that showcases the beauty of Indian architecture and culture. The temple has stunning architecture and portrays the history and culture of India through multimedia displays, exhibitions, and light shows.

3. Explore the Crafts Museum

The National Handicrafts and Handlooms Museum, popularly known as the Crafts Museum, displays a rich collection of Indian crafts and textiles. The museum has a vast collection of traditional crafts like pottery, textiles, jewelry, and more.

Local History and Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

New Delhi has a rich history that goes back centuries. Here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions that can offer a glimpse into the local history:

1. Haveli Dharampura

Haveli Dharampura is a 200-year-old mansion that has been converted into a heritage hotel. The mansion has beautiful architecture, and the hotel offers an immersive experience into the Mughal era.

2. Agrasen Ki Baoli

Agrasen Ki Baoli is a stepwell that dates back to the 14th century. The structure is believed to be haunted, but it’s a popular spot among locals for its serene environment and beautiful architecture.

3. Delhi Walks

Delhi Walks offers guided tours that explore the hidden gems of the city. The tours offer a glimpse into the local culture, history, and cuisine and are an ideal option for off-the-beaten-path exploration.

In conclusion, New Delhi is a city that has something to offer for everyone. From its rich history and culture to its mouth-watering cuisine and vibrant nightlife, the city has it all. With this insider’s guide, you can explore the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will help you make the most out of your visit to this beautiful city.