Delhi Tourism Official

Welcome to the Official Account for Delhi Tourism (DTTDC). For any enquires email us at [email protected]

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TRIP TO OLD DELHI

Rarely seen anywhere else, the streets of Old Delhi have their own charm. Just take a walk down the winding lanes of Old Delhi and you’ll frequently come across sights like a cycle rickshaw parked in front of an antique gate, a woman gazing through a jharokha or a huge haveli-styled building aglow in the early morning sun giving  you a deeper insight into the typical lifestyle of Old Delhi.

In 1639, Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan decided to shift his capital from Agra. After much research and deliberation, his astrologers and architects decided on Delhi as the site of this ambitious project. The capital that took shape in the following years has been revered as one of the greatest planned cities in the history of the world. Named as Shahjahanabad at the time of the Mughals, it was later rechristened Old Delhi by the British. 

Over 350 years have passed, but this section of Delhi still retains an old-world charm, making it one of the most-visited areas in the city. So, for a glimpse into the city’s glorious history, plan a trip to Old Delhi and enjoy all the delights it has to offer.

Discover a Sense of Awe

One of the most iconic structures that the world knows Delhi and India by, is the majestic Red Fort. As one enters Old Delhi and treads along to find themselves standing across the robust yet sublime red outer walls of the fort, a combined sense of pride and wonder grace one’s features. Every step taken within the complex, one cannot help but marvel at the beautiful pavilions, serene stretches of white marble with coloured inlay work and majestic bastions. Everything about this fort leaves one in awe. 

Another Mughal wonder that stands tall and mighty, stirring a kind of reverence for its elegance is the Jama Masjid. Known as the largest mosque in India, its vast central courtyard can host 25,000 devotees at a time.

Shop at Famous Markets

While you are at the Red Fort, don’t forget to visit the Meena Bazaar behind Lahori Gate. Designed as a vaulted arcade, it was originally known as Bazaar-e-Musakkaf. Today, the market has become the souvenir destination of Old Delhi and offers intricately designed carpets, pashmina shawls, jewellery and crockery pieces.  

For your next phase of shopping, head to the Chandni Chowk Market. One of the main boulevards of Shahjahanabad, it continues to be one of the busiest markets of the city till date. 

For literary shoppers, the market has endless street-side shops as well as dedicated lanes like ‘Nai Sarak’ and ‘Urdu Bazaar’, offering a wide range of books at budget-friendly prices. If it’s the wedding season, definitely visit its ‘Kinari Bazaar’, selling beautiful embroidered fabrics, zari borders, fancy textiles and embellished clothes. For silver shopping, head to ‘Dariba Kalan’, commonly referred to as the “home to silver” in the capital.

Besides these, the other major attraction of Old Delhi is ‘Khari Baoli’, known as Asia's largest wholesale spice market. So, to replenish your pantry, shop here and find an amazing variety of spices, dry fruits, herbs as well as products like tea and rice. Apart from Chandni Chowk, there is also the smaller ‘Bazaar Chitli Qabar’, nestled within the narrow lanes of Old Delhi. This is especially a great place to go on weekends when its Sunday Market buzzes with vendors selling traditional apparel, semi-precious jewellery, lac bangles and even home décor stuff.

Relish Delectable Street Food

Street food of Delhi has always been very popular among tourists and the locals. Delicacies from the world over and the nation have secured a place in the list of delectable cuisines the state offers. However, if you want to get the real regal taste of Delhi then Old Delhi is the place to be.

Dotted with numerous eateries, a walk down the lanes and by-lanes of Old Delhi will leave one engrossed in myriad aromas of spices and food. This place has a dish for every palette, every appetite - from the light Bun Maska-Chai, tangy Aloo Chaat, Golgappe & Dahi Bhalle to a heavy Parantha & Lassi, spicy Rajma Chawal and delicious Chole Bhature  to the seasonal Daulat Ki Chaat and Kulfi. For non-vegetarian enthusiasts, there are several eateries that serve the quintessential Khamiri Naan with Mutton Nihari, an assortment of kebabs and other Mughlai delicacies. Old Delhi also has an equal share of avenues that serve delicious vegetarian dishes at the Matia Mahal. But, what makes the food here special and worth trying is the fact that each dish here has been perfected over generations. 

So, when in the capital, make sure that exploring Old Delhi falls within the top five to-do things in the city.

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TAKE A TRIP TO MEHRAULI

Just as Delhi continues to be the seat of power for centuries, it has retained its status as a treasure trove of history. Not many people know that the present day Delhi is an integration of seven old cities of Mehrauli, Siri, Tughlqabad, Shergarh, Firozabad, Qilai Rai Pithora and Shahjahanabad. Each city has a story worth listening, culture and traditions worth experiencing. We recommend starting that unforgettable experience with a trip to Delhi’s first city - Mehrauli.

Located on the outskirts of the capital, the ancient city of Mehrauli is believed to have derived its name from the Persian, ‘Mehr’, which means grace and ‘Auliya’, which refers to a saint. Once known for its grandeur, Mehrauli continues to survive as a ‘village’. As home to more than 400 monuments, it is the best place to relive history, from the time of the Mamluks to the British. 

Start your Mehrauli trip with a walk inside the Qutub Complex.

Qutub Complex:

This historical place was part of Delhi’s first urban complex, Lal Kot, which was built by the Tomar rulers. Later on, the rulers of the Mamluk Dynasty built other structures that are visible till date. Upon entering the complex, you can marvel at the ruinous beauty and architectural nuances of the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque and the Alai Darwaza. However, the most prominent monument within this complex that garners maximum attention is the majestic Qutub Minar, one of the three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Delhi. Another masterpiece that draws a lot of tourists is the 2,000-year-old Iron Pillar that hasn't garnered a spec of rust till date. 

Continue your tryst with the city’s rich history through a tour of the vast Mehrauli Archaeological Park.

Mehrauli Archaeological Park and Around:

Bordering the Qutub Complex on the north is a hidden charm of Delhi - the Mehrauli Archaeological Park. Spread over an area of 100 acres, it is home to some important monuments like the Jamali Kamali Mosque - dedicated to Sufi poet Jamali, Madhi Masjid, Balban’s Tomb and the Quli Khan Tomb, to name a few. The park is also known for some significant constructions of the colonial period. Thomas Metcalfe (Commissioner of Delhi in the 1840s & 1850s) renovated the Quli Khan Tomb and converted it into his personal retreat with landscaped gardens, terraces and guesthouses. In addition to these, one can also catch a glimpse of the famous Metcalfe’s Folly, Metcalfe’s Bridge and Metcalfe’s Boathouse on their visit to the park.

Within the Mehrauli village, towards the southern side of the park lies the remains of Zafar Mahal - the summer palace of Bahadur Shah Zafar II, the last Mughal Emperor. Besides these, one can also visit the vast Hauz-e-Shamsi reservoir, the Jahaz Mahal - the ship palace of the Lodi dynasty, the Rajon Ki Baoli, one of the most beautiful stepwells within the city, Gandhak ki Baoli, Jharna, etc.

One can also visit the Adham Khan’s Mausoleum located just on the outskirts of the Mehrauli village.  

A trip to this part of the city is never complete unless you visit the famous Yogmaya Temple and Dadabari Jain Mandir.

Yogmaya Temple:

Image Source: www.astrolika.com

Right behind the Qutub Minar lies the renowned Yogmaya Temple that is dedicated to the sister of Lord Krishna, an incarnate of Goddess Durga.

Dadabari Jain Mandir:

This Jain Mandir is located on the north-west of the Madhi Masjid in Mehrauli, and dedicated to a 12th century Jain saint. It is well-known for its ornate marble columns & brackets, and reverse glass paintings that depict stories of Jain saints. 

Once in Mehrauli, a visit to the expansive Sanjay Van is a must. It gives you a first-hand experience of nature in its best form.

Sanjay Van:

Mehrauli attracts many nature lovers as well because of the sprawling and lush Sanjay Van. Located on the New Mehrauli Road it is considered to be one of the greenest areas in South Delhi. From the Purple Sunbird or the Eurasian Golden Oriole to Nilgai and Samb Deer, catch a glimpse of these fascinating avian and animal species in plenty at this green space.  

That’s Not All! If you believe Mehrauli is all about heritage and nature walks, think twice. This place incidentally has some of the most affluent and well-renowned restaurants, trendy cafes like Olive Bar &Kitchen, Bo Tai, Thai High and SOHO Bistro and Cafe to name a few. You can also find some of the biggest fashion designers of the country with their showrooms here. One such place worth visiting is ‘The Kila’ at Seven Style Mile, near the Qutub Minar. The complex sports an old fort look and has more than 50 brands and labels from India’s finest fashion designers.

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SEVEN ‘MUST-TRY’ DISHES IN DELHI

Delhi is not just the administrative capital of India, but also the food capital for many, especially for street food enthusiasts. From spicy to sour, sweet to tangy, there is no flavour that the city doesn’t proffer.

As a melting pot of various cultures, Delhi has adopted the best of each and created a unique cuisine by adding its distinctive touch to it. 

So, to experience the irresistible charm of Delhi’s cuisines, here are seven dishes that you must-try when in the city.

Parathas

With families making Parathas as a healthy morning breakfast and college students devouring them as late-night snacks, Delhiites have a special place for these Indian flatbreads in their heart. Though the Parathas can be eaten simply, what makes them special in Delhi is the varied kinds of fillings available for them. Be it potatoes, onions, radish, cauliflower, Keema, banana or even Rabri, whatever stuffing you crave, the city has a Paratha for that. 

Where should you try Parathas in Delhi?

Laxman Dhaba at Qutub Institutional Area, Paranthe Wali Gali in Chandni Chowk, Moolchand Parathe Wala in South Delhi

Chole Bhature

Chole Bhature is often dubbed the backbone of Delhi’s food scene. Though it can be relished any time of the day, it’s best to savour this delicacy on an empty stomach. Rich, heavy and spicy, this Punjabi dish is served by all North Indian restaurants as well as several street stalls in the city. 

Where should you try Chole Bhature in Delhi?

Sitaram Diwan Chand in Paharganj, Baba Nagpal Corner in Lajpat Nagar, Chache Di Hatti in Kamla Nagar

Dilli ki Chaat

While the capital is famous for many dishes, it’s the spicy Chaat that keeps Delhi’s popularity ticking. People here love Chaat in all forms, from Dahi Bhalla, Papri Chaat, Aloo Chaat, Aloo Tikki, Golgappe or Raj Kachori. When savouring these street foods, it’s best to top them either with green chutney, tangy sweet chutney or yoghurt to add an extra kick to its taste.

Where should you try Chaat in Delhi?

Bittu Tikki Wala in Karol Bagh, Natraj Dahi Bhalla in Chandni Chowk, Pappu Chaat Bhandar at KG Marg

Kebabs

Kebabs are some of the greatest legacies left behind by the Mughals. Prepared by marinating and grilling the desired meat (either chunks or minced) in aromatic Indian spices, this Mughlai delicacy is one of the best street foods for non-veg lovers in Delhi.

Where should you try Kebabs in Delhi?

Ustad Moinuddin Kebabs in Lal Kuan, Aap Ki Khatir at SDA Market, Alkakori Alkauser in R K Puram, Salim’s Kebabs at Khan Market, Ghalib Kebab Corner in Nizamuddin.

Kathi Rolls

The food joints of Delhi are home to several delicious variants of Kathi Rolls. From street side stalls and supermarkets to opulent dining restaurants, these delicacies are found everywhere in the city. Rolls are much-loved by busy Delhiites as they are the perfect option to have on the go.  

Where should you try Kathi Rolls in Delhi?

Khan Chacha at Khan Market, Nizam’s in Connaught Place, Qureshi’s Kabab Corner in South Extension-II.

Momos

Momos are one of the most popular street foods in Delhi. Vendors selling momos can be seen everywhere in the capital, from residential areas, office complexes to marketplaces. These delicious dumplings are usually served with spicy red chilli sauce and mayonnaise and available in many varieties like vegetarian, non-vegetarian and paneer as well as fried, steamed and tandoori.   

Where should you try Momos in Delhi? 

University of Delhi, North Campus; Sikkim House on Panchsheel Marg; Nagaland Food Stall in Dilli Haat; Yashwant Complex at Chanakyapuri; Cafe Brown Sugar at GK market; Majnu ka Tilla, North Campus, Hunger Strike at Amar Colony Market.

Desserts

For Delhiites, sweets are a must-have after heavy meals. The city is known for its impressive variety of desserts that not just leave you with an amazing dining experience but also make you crave for more. Some of the most-loved sweets of Delhi include the creamy Rabri Falooda, steaming hot Jalebis, milky Khurchan, Pista and Kesar Kulfis, pure desi ghee Motichoor Ladoo and Rasmalai to name a few.

Where should you try Desserts in Delhi?

Old and Famous Jalebiwala in Chandni Chowk, Giani’s di Hatti in Chandni Chowk, Hazari Lal Jain Khurchan Wale in Chandni Chowk, Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfiwala in Chandni Chowk, Chaina Ram in Chandni Chowk and a host of Haldiram stores all over the city. 

The fascinating amalgamation of different cultures and traditions has led to the varied cuisines of Delhi. Though the city has several more delicacies to explore, it’s best to start with the above seven to connect with the culinary heritage of the capital.

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FIVE UNCOMMON THINGS TO DO IN DELHI

Delhi, India’s seat of power, offers an amazing potpourri of history, commerce, culture and cuisine. The beauty of this city lies in its ability to preserve the vestiges from its glorious past while matching its pace with the ever-evolving present. With its countless sights and attractions, Delhi promises an adventure you’ll remember forever.

So, for the experience of a lifetime, make sure to do these five things in India’s capital where there is never a dull moment:

ACTIVITY 1: Experience the Best of Delhi with Ho-Ho Bus Tours

Image Credit: Surojit / Wikimediacommons

Home to more than 1,300 historical monuments, one could spend months exploring the rich heritage of the city. If only we had that kind of time! So, to continue showcasing the essence of the city’s history, the Ho-Ho bus tour takes one to Delhi’s biggest landmarks such as Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, Lotus Temple, Rashtrapati Bhavan, etc. Allowing for tourists and keen city explorers to explore these sites, this bus tour runs at regular intervals throughout the week except Mondays. With half-day, one-day and two-day tours to choose from, it enables everyone to experience the rich culture and heritage of Delhi in a short time.

ACTIVITY 2: Savour the Delicious Street Food & Chai

One of the biggest delights of Delhi is its delectable street food. Stalls selling spicy Aloo Tikki (fried potato cutlets topped with yoghurt, chickpeas, and tangy chutneys) and crunchy Golgappe (hollow crispy fried puffs of dough filled with potatoes and chickpeas) can be found in every nook and corner of the city. Follow it up with a steaming cup of roadside chai and relish an experience you will never forget.

For sweet lovers, the capital offers Rabri Falooda (sweetened vermicelli topped with a creamy, milk-based chilled dessert) and Jalebis (fried swirls of dough steeped in sugar syrup) amongst other things. This and a lot more is what the streets of Delhi have to offer. So hop onto some wheels and don’t be shy of trying out the real flavours of Delhi.

ACTIVITY 3: Experience the Soulful Qawwalis at the Dargah

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/5Plm8bBlBd7wXjZN2zdb8Fm/a-beginners-guide-to-qawwali-music

Qawwalis are a beautiful blend of music and devotional poetry that came to fore in relation with the Sufi and their Islamic mysticism A celebration of God, love and music, Qawwalis are all about the union of the three and offer a memorable spiritual experience.

The best place in Delhi to treat yourself to some enchanting Qawwalis is the Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah. As the sun goes down, the area in an around this revered Sufi shrine resounds with the soulful rhythms of the Qawaalis and takes visitors on a mystical journey.

ACTIVITY 4: Go On a Shopping Spree at the State-run Emporiums

Shopping is one of the greatest joys when in Delhi. The city offers everything from flea markets, high-street shops, to classic emporiums. The Baba Kharak Singh Marg, near Connaught Place, is home to such a string of emporiums. Here, you can find state-run as well as centrally-owned stores that sell authentic products handcrafted by the regional artisans of India.

To score some amazing and authentic articles at pretty decent prices, check out the Delhi Emporium, the Rajasthan Emporium for some amazing handicrafts, Khadi Emporium for not just clothes but also natural skincare and haircare cosmetics, and many other state emporiums for exclusive gift items, clothes, jewellery, footwear and home décor artefacts.

ACTIVITY 5: Relive History at Old Delhi

A trip to the city is incomplete without visiting the historic Old Delhi. The erstwhile capital of the Mughals – Shahjahanabad, as it was earlier known as, abounds with bustling markets, grand monuments and several medieval-era structures. Apart from the Red Fort, Old Delhi is also famous for the majestic Jama Masjid – India’s largest mosque and is home to the haveli of the legendary Urdu poet, Mirza Ghalib.

If you have an interest in wholesale markets, you’ll be astounded by Khari Baoli, the largest spice market of Asia and Bhagirath Palace - hailed as Asia’s largest market for lights, fixtures and electronic goods. Lastly, after a hectic Old Delhi tour, there’s the Chandni Chowk market to take care of your hunger pangs. The market is replete with street food outlets in lanes like ‘Paranthe Wali Gali’ as well as some of the best dining restaurants in the city.

So, while you can do endless things in Delhi, the above five should top your to-do list to enjoy a wholesome experience of the city.