A traveler’s guide to New Delhi

Most of us look back and fondly remember the place we grew up in, because why not? It is a place that has shaped us and made us who we are today. It is in this very spirit, that I fondly look back and remember New Delhi, a place of outstanding splendor, beauty and diversity. Read on to look at New Delhi from the eyes of a local who practically lives and breathes the city and recognizes its very soul. For those of you who plan to take an India trip anytime soon, this city should definitely make it to your itinerary and there is every reason why:

All about New Delhi:

New Delhi is the capital city of India, it is the seat of governance; a melting pot of cultures and traditions. You will find diversity in not only the people who inhabit the city, but you will also find it in the food that is eaten, the clothing that is worn by the locals, the culture and traditions.

Legacy:

New Delhi is a legacy left behind by the Mughals- the makers of the TajMahal- a long-standing artifact of Love, one of the Seven Wonders of the World that stands a ground of its own. New Delhi is not only the capital city of India but was once used by the Mughals as their capital city. The city is thus, home to uncountable structures of medieval glory- and is a place whose historical and cultural richness and grandeur tell the tales of the lives lived by those who were once considered the mightiest empires of the time.

Best time to Visit:

Due to its unusually harsh summers and harsher winters, to make the most of your visit, travel to New Delhi in the months between November to March.

How to move around:

New Delhi, being a metropolitan city is very well connected by metro lines. Delhi Metro is the world’s first completely green metro line and is the cheapest mode of travel for tourists. Other options are the one-day tourist bus services, taxis, and Uber.

Places to eat:

New Delhi is known for its richness of cuisine and diversity of food. Good food awaits you in the top 2 local eateries in this city that you just shouldn’t miss!

Parathey ki Galli:

Parathey ki Galli in Chandni Chowk is a traveler’s #1 food destination. Parathey (plural) or paratha (singular) is a stuffed Indian flatbread made with flour. From potato stuffings to lentil stuffed paratheys to paratheys stuffed with bananas, you will find every type of parathey imaginable in this treasure trove.

Karim’s:

Karim’s which is internationally famous for its Mughlai food has its origins in New Delhi. Go to the original Karim’s at ChandniChowk to explore the wonder that is their food. The butter naan whose melt in the mouth kind of texture will definitely have you coming back for more.

Top 7 places to see in New Delhi:

From site seeing to heritage walks to visiting museums to going on food marathons, there is so much you can do in New Delhi. If you are a history enthusiast, this is the city for you:

Red Fort:

If you ever take a trip to New Delhi, the first place you should go visit is Red Fort. The Fort was once, the residence of the great Mughals and interestingly, it is also one of the first sites where the “sepoy mutiny” or the first war of independence, took place. If you are one to indulge in history and time traveling, I suggest you satisfy the time traveler in you and go check this place out!

Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk:

Right after your stint at Red Fort, heading over to Jama Masjid for a meal is an absolute must! This is where you will learn about the culture and food as every bite into the delicacies prepared at the Jama Masjid will fill your belly with a refreshing satisfaction like no other! Once you have eaten to your heart’s content, and trust me, you will, get ready to sweat it out in the busy market of Chandni Chowk which is a marketplace designed by the Mughal princess Nur Jahan herself.

(Fun fact: Nur Jahan was the beloved daughter of Emperor Shah Jahan, a powerful princess in the 18th century. She not only designed the Chandni Chowk but was also in charge of maritime trade and other commercial activities. Given the unusualness of the power wielded by this Mughal princess, it is safe to say that Nur Jahan was one of the first feminists of the time! If you’re a history enthusiast or a feminist traveler, do check this place out!).

Qutub Minar:

Next up, head to the QutubMinar, a monument that gives the Leaning Tower of Pisa a run for their money! This minaret has been of interest to travelers from around the world for years, and truth be told, you will instantly fall in love with this monument and find yourself lost in an unending loop of fascination and appreciation for this medieval beauty. Visit the Qutub Minar for not just its old world charm but for the picturesque photos it will fetch you!

India gate:

India gate is a war memorial of 70,000 soldiers who died in the 1st world war. Constructed as part of the work of the Imperial war graves commission, it now serves as a place pf recreation where people go to unwind at night after a long day with their loved ones.

Lotus Temple:

The Lotus temple is a temple whose flower-like shape continues to be a major tourist attraction. Get in touch with your spiritual side by praying like the locals in this breathtaking place of worship.

Humayun’s tomb:

A trip to Delhi is incomplete without frolicking in the lawns of Humayun’s tomb, the site is a sight to behold! And when you have exhausted your feet, have that zen moment that everyone talks about by simply sitting or lying down on the well-maintained gardens of this complex.

Lodhi Garden and the Garden of 5 senses:

Both these gardens have a reputation of being one of the best maintained gardens in the city. It is a perfect place to frolic around in your PJs. While the garden of 5 senses will take your breath away- a place highly recommended for a date with your loved one, the Lodhi garden is a historical and architectural gem of its own. Inside the Lodhi garden premises, you will find the tomb of Sikander Lodhi, alongside many others, whose presence continues to haunt this exquisite garden.

This brings us to the end of this article. All said and done, I believe that the sophisticated rawness of this city will definitely take you back in time and have you falling for this city like many others before you.