New Delhi

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New Delhi

New Delhi is a thoroughly inscrutable onion of a city: every layer you peel off reveals an even deeper layer of history. Rebuilt eight times by its many conquerors, it has been the seat of the Hindu, Muslim, and British empires. All of them have left their mark on the architecture, customs, food and people of this relentless city; all are undergoing a transformation in the capital of modern India.

The City

The plain area to the west of the Yamuna River, where Delhi lies today, has been a centre of civilisation for millennia. Indraprastha, the city of the Pandavas, is mentioned in the 3,000-year-old Mahabharata Hindu text, a city on the site where the Old Fort now stands. Delhi is a city of metamorphosis in terms of physical buildings, people, and culture from the early Hindu rulers to Islam. There was a succession of Islamic dynasties, reaching their zenith with the architectural wonders of the Mughals and, in particular, Shah Jahan, builder of the Red Fort and Jama Masjid. His city, Shahjahanabad, is today’s Old Delhi with its tangled, intoxicating streets and bazaars. This contrasted with the imperial project of the last rulers of India, the British, who in 1911 built their imperial capital to the south of Old Delhi. The broad boulevards and geometric order of New Delhi give the capital its other distinct half. Designed by Lutyens, the European classical grandeur now has a distinctly Indian flavour, and much of New Delhi is fast gaining the shiny glass-and-steel look of the modern Asian metropolises. You will find all races, faiths and customs of every region of India alongside one another on the streets of Delhi.

Do & See Dining Cafés Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

New Delhi is a bustling city full of people and beautiful architecture. There are many temples spread over the region, all worth a visit for anyone interested in these architectural wonders. Just walking the streets of New Delhi is a unique experience. You soon notice that this city has many things to fall in love with.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

The most outstanding Sihk house of worship in town, Gurdwara Bangla Sahib boasts stunning architectural features and a characteristic golden dome. Located near the Connaught Place in the centre of New Delhi, it welcomes people of every status and …

National Gandhi Museum

The National Gandhi Museum has numerous exhibits depicting the life of Indian political activist Mahatma Gandhi. Going back to 1948 when his assassination took place, the exhibition intends to give a fresh insight into the life of the leader of the Indian independence movement and his non-violent opposition and …

Connaught Place

Connaught Place, a prominent commercial and financial hub in central New Delhi, is renowned for its unique colonial-style architecture and hosts several attractions and cultural landmarks. Notable sites include Palika Bazaar, an underground market; Jantar Mantar, an 18th-century astronomical observatory; Hanuman Temple, a historic temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman; and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, a …

Akshardham Temple

A major draw for tourists, Swaminarayan Akshardham temple has a peculiar charm and an architectural structure that enchants Indians and travellers alike. The beautiful gardens exhale more than 10,000 years of Indian culture in a magical show of India's …

Taj Mahal

Another incredible UNESCO treasure, this majestic construction is an early example of the exquisite Islamic style that reached its culmination in the most famous tomb on Earth, the Taj Mahal. Dating back to 1632, the ivory-white mausoleum was built to house the tomb of the Mughal emperor's favourite wife and it is located in …

Lodhi Gardens

An idyllic escapade in the city centre, the park is a green oasis gifted with some stunning constructions dating back to the 15th century, wonderful tombs mosques and elegant bridges. The great contrast with the bustling city is a welcome change, offering a perfect solution for a relaxing …

Sunder Nursery

The recently inaugurated green oasis (the Indian capital's version of Central Park) features Delhi's first arboretum, with multiple species of trees (including a Bonsai House), plants, birds and butterflies. Mughal architecture dating back to the 16th century still remains on park grounds, along with the adjacent Humayun's Tomb. The city zoo is not too …

Jama Masjid

The Jama Masjid was built by the Islamic ruler Shah Jahan to complement his new Red Fort. Completed in 1658 as the largest mosque in India, it boasts a stunning courtyard that provides space for 25,000 worshipers as well as a vast dome and two …

Bahai Lotus Temple

Finished in 1986, the Lotus Temple welcomes everyone, regardless of religious beliefs or background. Although no sermons are delivered nor ritualistic ceremonies practiced, the serenity of the environment offers a great meditation spot and a shady garden to escape …

The Red Fort (lal Quila)

A pinnacle of Delhi’s Mughal architecture, the Red Fort stands near the Yamuna River in Old Delhi with its sandstone walls glowing red in the sun. A perfect example of pre-British Islamic Indian architecture, the Fort still exudes the power and majesty of those times, representing a world heritage of immeasurable …

Purana Quila (Old Fort)

Purana Quila (Old Fort), a massive fortress with three gateways, is located on the ancient part of the city and it allegedly stands on the site of the legendary city of Indraprastha, mentioned in the Mahabharata Hindu text. The fort was completed by the ruler Sher Shah in the mid-16th …

Chandni Chowk

Running from the Fatehpuri Masjid (mosque) in the West to the Red Fort in the East, Chandni Chowk is the main artery of Old Delhi. It is the most crowded, colourful, and cacophonous bazaar in the whole of Delhi, a wonder to delve into by rickshaw and where anything, from knickknacks to delicious street …

Qutub Minar

A tapering tower located south of New Delhi, Qutub Minar rises on a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of the Afghan architecture that sprang up in the Islamic India from 1193. Thought to be a victory tower, it is said to be constructed to celebrate the beginning of the …

The National Museum

Situated in the heart of New Delhi, the National Museum holds exhibits from throughout the whole of Indian history, including relics of the Indus Valley civilisation, sculptures from the Mauryan civilisation, South Indian Vijayanagar artefacts and a Buddhist gallery, representing a cultural centre and a treasure of immeasurable …

National Gallery of Modern Art

The National Gallery of Modern Art houses some of the world's largest exhibitions, boasting thousands of Modern Art works made by Indian iconic artists. Located on the Rajpath near the India Gate, it offers some beautiful gardens where to relax after an intensive journey through India's modern …

The Garden of Five Senses

In the city's hustle lies The Garden of Five Senses, a treasure of over 20 acres where tranquillity and serenity reign. The garden was designed to awaken the five senses with its indescribable beauty and breathtaking attractions. At the Garden of Five Senses you will find a replica of the Mexican Mayan Labná Arc, …

Sulabh International Museum of Toilets

Handling something as unusual and amusing as toilets, Sulabh International Museum integrates some bizarre exhibits with a matter of fundamental importance in India such as sanitation. Founded by Dr. Bindeshwar, an inspiring personality who strongly contributed to integrate untouchables, it aims to educate about sanitation and its development throughout the …

Dining

Indian cuisine is justifiably famous throughout the world. With its use of spices, it conjures up the most subtle and explosive tastes. New Delhi is a feast for food lovers, bringing together not just the best in North Indian cuisine but also offering excellent regional styles, Far Eastern cuisines, and contemporary fusions.

United Coffee House

United Coffee House is located right in the heart of Connaught Place. This restaurant exhales the air of the Raj-era, with an attentive service and a wide menu that is a blend of Indian regional cuisine, Oriental and continental cuisine. The kadai paneer is a must-try at the United Coffee …

Punjabi By Nature

Punjabi By Nature has been one of New Delhi’s most acclaimed and popular fine-dining restaurants for over a decade. It offers a great selection of traditional Punjabi dishes from an open …

Swagath

Swagath is an excellent option for seafood lovers, who can sample the finest South Indian cooking with fresh seafood delivered daily. Swagath also offers different flavours recreating coastal delicacies of the Mangalorean, Mughlai, Chettinad, Chinese, Malabar and Andhra …

Karim’s

Renowned for its delicious Indian cuisine and considered a true Delhi institution, Karim's was founded back in the 1910s. Lying in the shadow of the stunning Jama Masjid, it serves excellent Mughal cuisine, mouth-watering desserts, and non-alcoholic …

Chor Bizarre

A clever name, funky interiors and the milder cuisine of the Kashmir region, Chor Bizarre is a Kashmiri restaurant in the bustling heart of Old Delhi. Well-rated among locals and tourists, it is one of the best eateries in town, boasting a highly acclaimed restaurant in …

Bukhara

Specialising in Northwest Frontier and Mughal cuisine, the menu at Bukhara is dominated by meat. This popular place fills up easily, so it is worth booking ahead. You can find this place at the ITC Maurya …

Indian Accent

If you are looking for innovative Indian cuisine, you can come to Indian Accent. This restaurant offers great dishes in a stylish and cosy setting and can be found at Manor …

Orient Express

This award-winning restaurant can be found at Taj Palace Hotel. Orient Express offers a romantic experience accompanied by impeccable service and international …

The Spice Route

This restaurant itself could be described as a piece of art. At The Spice Route you can enjoy great dishes like Kerala style prawns in an extraordinary interior filled with Asian …

Thai High

At Thai High you can enjoy great Thai food while overlooking the beautiful city of New Delhi from the rooftop of Qutab. Choose between genuine Thai dishes like Tom Yam Koong, Phad Khing Kae and Phad …

Pind Balluchi

Pind Balluchi, a traditional-style restaurant chain found across India, offers an extensive selection of over 100 dishes representing the diverse and rich cuisines of North India. The ambience perfectly captures the essence of traditional Punjabi culture, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that immediately makes you feel at …

The Potbelly Rooftop Cafe

Perched on the 4th floor and offering stunning vistas of South Delhi, The Potbelly Rooftop Café offers authentic specialities of the Bihar region such as 'litti chokha' — dough ball made of whole wheat flour and stuffed with 'sattu' (roasted chickpea flour) and served with 'murgha korma' (a creamy chicken curry) or 'chokha' (a …

Cafés

India has been a nation of tea drinkers for centuries, but in recent decades, coffee has been on the rise. There are cafés all over the place in New Delhi, and big café chains are appearing more and more around the city. However, you will still find small tea shops on every corner where you can grab your daily cup of tea.

Café Turtle

This relaxing café above a bookshop is located in the heart of New Delhi and is popular with expats. Café Turtle serves teas, cakes, and light lunches. Here you can enjoy your tea on the lovely terrace and watch the beautiful …

The Big Chill Cafe

The Big Chill Cafe is a laid-back, movie-themed spot perfect for Italian cuisine enthusiasts, offering a delightful menu specialising in pizza, pasta, and an array of delectable …

Cafe Coffee Day

Cafe Coffee Day, the most pervasive coffee shop chain in India, has numerous outlets throughout the capital. This modern chain offers a variety of espresso-based drinks, teas, and light Continental …

Barista Coffee

Hauz Khas Social

The highly successful Hauz Khas Social is the perfect hangout to enjoy a light meal while unwinding with an outstanding lake backdrop. The restaurant-bar-club, spread across two levels, is acclaimed for its creative cocktails and regular live music …

Farzi Cafe

In the frenetic business and financial hub of Connaught Place, the cheerful Farzi Cafe adds a modern touch on Indian cuisine through the use of 'molecular gastronomy' technology. The menu also offers non-Indian dishes and an array of 'bunta' (traditional homemade) cocktails and liquor options to choose from. There's traditional live music on …

Triveni Terrace Cafe

Triveni Terrace Café—with its alfresco patio overlooking the open-air theatre—is a must-hangout for art buffs and foodies alike visiting the adjacent Triveni Art Gallery. Known for its signature 'pakora' (Indian snack) and cutlets paired with 'chai' and coffee, the small menu lists toasted sandwiches plus other Indian snacks, including 'paratha', curries, and 'thalis' at …

Café Lota

The hidden artefact of the National Crafts Museum showcases a modern take on regional Indian dishes. Patrons recommend fish and chips (amaranth-encrusted batter-fried sole with sweet potato fries), or 'palak patta chaat' (crispy spinach, potatoes and chickpeas topped with spiced yogurt, green chutney, and pomegranate …

The Potbelly Rooftop Cafe

Perched on the 4th floor offering stunning vistas of South Delhi, The Potbelly Rooftop Café offers the authentic flavours of the Bihar region such as 'litti chokha' — dough ball made up of whole wheat flour and stuffed with 'sattu' (roasted chickpeas flour) and served with 'murgha korma' (a creamy chicken curry) or 'chokha' …

Summer House Cafe

With its wooden furniture and comfortable sofas, Summer House Café is more than a simple coffee shop to grab the morning coffee. The coffeehouse-bar-club venue hybrid brings western influences into their dishes, serving a menu of US and western-style food along with an extensive drink menu. The venue also scores bonus points for providing …

Bars & Nightlife

Alcohol is not deeply ingrained in Indian culture, though New Delhi’s bar culture is fast becoming world-renowned. The best bars are found in the more upmarket hotels with ordinary drinking holes, still very much all-male affairs. Popular areas like Connaught Place, Hauz Khas Village, and Cyber Hub in Gurgaon are known for their trendy venues and lively atmosphere. For a more relaxed evening, there are numerous cafés and rooftop bars that provide stunning city views and a more laid-back vibe. New Delhi also offers cultural experiences, such as late-night theatre performances, music concerts, and traditional dance shows, giving a taste of the city's rich heritage.

The Club Bar and Cigar Lounge

Situated at the lobby level at The Oberoi Hotel, the sophisticated Club Bar offers a wide variety of international beverages along with an eclectic collection of cigars in an elegant and comfortable venue featuring wood and leather decor with rich burgundy …

Aura Bar

Aura has transformed nightlife in New Delhi with its seamless blend of luxury and live entertainment. Initially a vodka bar, it now features state-of-the-art soundproofing and transitions into a vibrant club after 11pm. Aura's Art Deco-inspired decor, including Salvador Dali-inspired sofas and a striking emerald amethyst bar, sets a captivating scene. The menu offers …

Kitty Su Night Club

The Kitty Su Night Club is open 6 days a week and offers you a multiple level party place. There are gigs here every …

Summer House Cafe

With its wooden furniture and comfortable sofas, Summer House Café is more than a simple coffee shop to grab the morning coffee. The coffeehouse-bar-club-venue hybrid imbibes western culture in their dishes, serving a menu of US and western-style dishes along with an extensive drink menu. The venue also scores bonus points for providing DJ …

Keya

In the Vasant Kunj area, you'll find the buzzing Keya lounge where the party never ends. With a convivial outdoor terrace and scrumptious finger food offerings, Keya is an easy pick for a night out in New …

Priveé

Located at the beating heart of the bustling capital, Priveé is the perfect spot for party animals. With LED lights, wall to wall people dancing to the club music, VIP lounges, and a state-of-the-art sound system, the club is among the best nightclubs in New Delhi to dance the night …

Bunta Bar Live

Bunta Bar, in the busy Janpath Road, is known for its quirky décor made from recycled 'Bunta' (lemon or orange-flavoured soft drink) bottles, the food ranging from Bengal to Goa to Mumbai cuisine, and live music …

Shopping

Delhi is a shopper’s paradise with just about anything you can think of available somewhere at some price. One thing that often intimidates visitors from abroad is the art of haggling, though, with a few days practices, it can become an integral part of the shopping experience and puts the hunt for a bargain in your own hands. The area around Connaught Place has several state-run emporiums where you can buy Indian handicrafts at fixed prices. The Central Cottage Industries Emporium on Janpath has six floors of merchandise, while the regional State Emporiums on Baba Kharak Singh Marg focus on the arts from their particular region. The thoroughfare of Janpath, running south from Connaught Place, is also a top spot for textile shopping.