About Place
- "A city where ancient and modern blend seamlessly."
- "The heart of India with a rich tapestry of history and culture."
- "A bustling metropolis that retains its historical charm."
Reasons to Visit
- Historical Significance : Delhi, the capital city of India, is steeped in history with a multitude of monuments and historical sites dating back centuries. From the majestic Red Fort, a symbol of Mughal grandeur, to the Qutub Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world, Delhi offers a peek into India’s glorious past.
- Cultural Diversity : Delhi is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions. The city's cultural tapestry is visible in its vibrant festivals, diverse culinary offerings, and the numerous museums and art galleries that celebrate its rich heritage. Delhi’s markets, like Chandni Chowk and Dilli Haat, showcase the city's traditional arts and crafts.
- Political and Economic Hub : As the political capital of India, Delhi houses important government buildings, including the Parliament House and the Presidential Palace. Additionally, it is a significant economic center with bustling markets, business districts, and a thriving IT sector.
Visa
- From the US, UK, and Canada : Tourists from these countries can apply for an e-Tourist Visa online. The process is straightforward, requiring a completed application form, a valid passport, and a recent photograph. The e-Visa is typically granted for a stay of up to 60 days.
- From Australia and EU countries : Similar to US citizens, Australians and EU citizens can also apply for an e-Tourist Visa online, with a stay of up to 60 days.
- From Asian countries : Travelers from neighboring Asian countries like Nepal and Bhutan do not require a visa to enter India. For other Asian countries, an e-Visa application is necessary.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from destination :
- Round-trip airfare for two from New York to Delhi : $1,200 per person x 2 = $2,400.
- Hotel cost :
- Average hotel cost per night : $100.
- Total stay : 3 nights.
- Total cost : $100 x 3 nights x 1 room = $300.
- Food cost:
- Average meal cost per person : $20 (lunch and dinner).
- Total meals : 6 meals (3 lunches, 3 dinners) x 2 people.
- Total cost : $20 x 6 meals x 2 people = $240.
- Activity cost :
- Red Fort entry fee : $7 per person x 2 = $14.
- Qutub Minar entry fee : $7 per person x 2 = $14.
- Humayun's Tomb entry fee : $7 per person x 2 = $14.
- Kingdom of Dreams show : $50 per person x 2 = $100.
- Total activity cost : $142.
- Near destination travel cost :
- Rented car cost per day : $50.
- Total days : 3.
- Total cost : $50 x 3 days = $150.
Total Estimated Travel Expenses : $3,232
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive in Delhi in the morning and check into the hotel. Start your day with a visit to the India Gate, a war memorial dedicated to Indian soldiers. Spend time at the nearby Rajpath, enjoying the serene surroundings. For lunch, head to Saravana Bhavan for a taste of authentic South Indian cuisine. In the afternoon, explore the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its impressive architecture and history. Later, visit the bustling Chandni Chowk market, where you can try street food like parathas at the famous Paranthe Wali Gali. For dinner, dine at Karim’s, renowned for its Mughlai dishes. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around Connaught Place and soak in the vibrant nightlife.
Day 2 : Begin your day with a visit to Humayun's Tomb, an exquisite example of Mughal architecture. Next, explore the Lotus Temple, a Bahá'í House of Worship known for its unique flower-like structure. For lunch, try the North Indian thali at Gulati Restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Qutub Minar complex and marvel at the ancient structures. Later, head to Dilli Haat, an open-air market offering crafts, food, and cultural performances. Enjoy dinner at the on-site food stalls, sampling cuisines from different Indian states. In the evening, attend a cultural show at the Kingdom of Dreams in Gurgaon, showcasing Indian arts and entertainment.
Day 3 : Start your day with a visit to the Akshardham Temple, a modern architectural marvel. Spend the morning exploring the temple complex and its various exhibits. For lunch, try the vegetarian delights at the temple's food court. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum to delve deeper into India's history and art. Later, explore the Lodi Gardens, a peaceful retreat with historical tombs and lush greenery. For dinner, head to Indian Accent, known for its contemporary Indian cuisine. In the evening, enjoy a light and sound show at the Purana Qila, depicting Delhi's history through a mesmerizing display.
Safety Tips
- Always carry a copy of your passport and visa.
- Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.
- Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps.
- Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.
- Drink bottled water and avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
- Keep your belongings secure and within sight.
- Be aware of local customs and dress appropriately.
- Avoid traveling alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
- Use a money belt or hidden pouch for valuables.
- Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and locations of nearby hospitals.
Flights
- Air India : Non-stop flight from New York to Delhi, approximately 14 hours, $600 per person.
- United Airlines : Non-stop flight from New York to Delhi, approximately 14 hours, $620 per person.
- Emirates : One-stop flight via Dubai, approximately 19 hours, $580 per person.
- Qatar Airways : One-stop flight via Doha, approximately 18 hours, $570 per person.
- Lufthansa : One-stop flight via Frankfurt, approximately 16 hours, $590 per person.
Hotels
- The Oberoi, New Delhi
- Taj Palace, New Delhi
- Shangri-La’s - Eros Hotel
- ITC Maurya
- The Claridges
Contacts
- Indian Embassy : +91-11-2419-7900
- Police : 100
- Ambulance : 102
- Firefighters : 101
Country
Closet Airport
Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)
Nearest City
New Delhi
Heritage Sites
Red Fort
Qutub Minar
Humayun's Tomb
Airlines
Air India
United Airlines
Emirates
Qatar Airways
Lufthansa
British Airways
Currency
Indian Rupee (INR)
Languages Spoken
Hindi
English
Punjabi
Urdu
Real Story
The 1857 Revolt - The Siege of Delhi
The Indian Rebellion of 1857, also known as the First War of Indian Independence, was a significant uprising against British rule. Delhi, the erstwhile seat of the Mughal Empire, played a crucial role in this revolt. The Siege of Delhi was one of the pivotal events during this period, marking a major confrontation between the British forces and the Indian rebels.
The rebellion in Delhi began on May 10, 1857, when sepoys (Indian soldiers in the British army) in Meerut mutinied and marched to Delhi. They were joined by Indian soldiers and civilians, who saw the revolt as an opportunity to challenge British dominance. The rebels entered Delhi and declared Bahadur Shah Zafar, the last Mughal emperor, as the symbolic leader of the uprising. This proclamation was a significant move, as it gave the rebellion a legitimate figurehead and rallied more Indians to the cause.
The British forces, taken by surprise, initially retreated. However, they soon regrouped and launched a counterattack to reclaim Delhi. The siege began in earnest in June 1857, with British troops surrounding the city and cutting off supplies. The rebels, although determined, faced challenges due to limited resources and internal conflicts among different factions. Despite these difficulties, they managed to hold out for several months.
The siege saw intense and brutal fighting, with both sides suffering heavy casualties. The rebels fortified their positions within the city's historic walls, utilizing the Red Fort as a defensive stronghold. The British, meanwhile, employed heavy artillery and systematic assaults to breach the city's defenses. The siege also witnessed acts of extreme violence and retribution, with atrocities committed by both sides.
On September 14, 1857, the British launched a final assault on Delhi. After a week of fierce street-to-street fighting, the British forces successfully captured the city on September 21. The fall of Delhi marked a turning point in the rebellion, leading to the eventual suppression of the uprising by the British.
The aftermath of the siege was devastating for Delhi. The city was plundered, and many of its inhabitants were killed or displaced. Bahadur Shah Zafar was captured, tried, and exiled to Rangoon, marking the end of the Mughal dynasty. The rebellion was ultimately quelled, but it left a lasting impact on both the Indian population and the British colonial administration.
The Siege of Delhi remains a significant chapter in India's history, symbolizing the struggle for freedom and the resistance against colonial oppression. It highlighted the widespread discontent with British rule and sowed the seeds for future movements that eventually led to India's independence in 1947.
Cuisine
Delhi's cuisine is a delightful amalgamation of flavors, reflecting its rich cultural heritage and diverse population. Street food in Delhi is legendary, with a wide array of snacks like chaat, golgappa, and aloo tikki tantalizing the taste buds. These savory treats, often bursting with tangy and spicy flavors, are a must-try for any visitor.
The city is also renowned for its Mughlai cuisine, a remnant of its historical ties to the Mughal Empire. Dishes like biryani, kebabs, and butter chicken are synonymous with Delhi’s culinary scene. Restaurants such as Karim’s in Old Delhi have been serving these traditional delicacies for generations, offering an authentic taste of Mughal-era recipes.
Additionally, Delhi embraces modern culinary trends, with numerous fine dining establishments offering contemporary takes on traditional dishes. Indian Accent, for instance, is celebrated for its innovative approach to Indian cuisine, blending traditional flavors with modern presentation. Overall, Delhi's food scene is a gastronomic adventure, catering to a wide range of palates and preferences.
Culture and History
Delhi's culture is a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of ancient traditions and modern influences. As the capital city of India, Delhi is a microcosm of the country’s diverse cultural heritage. The city's history dates back over a thousand years, having been the seat of various dynasties and empires, including the Mughals and the British. This rich historical backdrop contributes to Delhi’s unique cultural landscape, characterized by a mix of architectural styles, languages, cuisines, and festivals.
Architecture and Heritage : Delhi is renowned for its architectural splendors, which span different eras and styles. The Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, and the India Gate are iconic landmarks that reflect the city’s historical and cultural richness. Modern architectural marvels like the Lotus Temple and Akshardham Temple add to the city’s diverse skyline. Each monument tells a story of Delhi’s past, from its ancient origins to its status as a significant Mughal capital and its role in India’s struggle for independence.
Festivals and Celebrations : Delhi celebrates a plethora of festivals with great fervor, reflecting its cultural diversity. Diwali, the festival of lights, and Holi, the festival of colors, are celebrated with grandeur, showcasing the city’s exuberance. The annual Qutub Festival, featuring cultural performances near the Qutub Minar, and the International Mango Festival, celebrating the king of fruits, highlight Delhi’s cultural vibrancy. Additionally, events like the Delhi International Arts Festival bring together artists from across the globe, fostering a spirit of cultural exchange.
Culinary Delights : Delhi’s cuisine is a blend of flavors from across India, with a distinct emphasis on North Indian dishes. Street food in Delhi is legendary, with delicacies like chaat, golgappa, and parathas drawing food enthusiasts from far and wide. The city is also home to numerous fine dining establishments that offer a range of cuisines, from traditional Mughlai dishes at Karim’s to contemporary Indian cuisine at Indian Accent. The diverse culinary scene is a testament to Delhi’s cosmopolitan nature.
Language and Traditions : Hindi and English are widely spoken in Delhi, but the city is also home to speakers of Punjabi, Urdu, Bengali, and various other languages, reflecting its multicultural population. Traditional arts and crafts thrive in Delhi, with markets like Dilli Haat showcasing handicrafts from different Indian states. Dance forms such as Kathak and Bharatanatyam, along with classical music concerts, are integral to the city’s cultural fabric.
Modern Influences : While deeply rooted in tradition, Delhi is also a bustling metropolis embracing modernity. The city’s art galleries, fashion boutiques, and music festivals highlight its contemporary cultural scene. The Delhi Metro, an extensive public transport system, symbolizes the city’s progress and connectivity. The juxtaposition of the old and new is evident in areas like Hauz Khas Village, where ancient ruins coexist with trendy cafes and art spaces.