A blend of historic past and vibrant present, Delhi the capital city of India typifies the soul of the country. Legend has it, Inderprastha as was known earlier, founded by the Pandavas around 1200 BC. Several times mighty empires arose and fell here. Today, the city is curious blend of the modern and traditional sky scrappers, beautiful gardens, wide tree lined avenues perpetuate the Mughul passion of landscaping and architectural excellence. There are open air cafes, Yoga Ashrams, sophisticated hotels. An walled city build by the Mughuls. Glittering shops, roadside wanderers and a world of culture and tradition to be explored.

Delhi has the most vibrant history of any of the more prominent cities or towns of India. It has been the "capital of seven empires" in Indian history and as per the Archaeological Survey of India, has over 60,000 recognized monuments built over several millennia. The first city of Delhi is believed to be founded by the Pandavas of the Mahabharata around 3000 BC. It was called Indraprastha. Archaeological evidence suggests that Indraprastha once stood where Purana Quila is today. A village called Indarpat existed in Delhi until the beginning of the 19th century.

Map of Delhi and New Delhi (Click on image to enlarge)

Places you can see in Delhi

Purana Quila (Old Fort)
The fort is said to be constructed on the historic site of Indraprastha (900BC) by Humayun and Sher Shah. Covering a circuit of about a mile, the walls of the fort have three gates and are surrounded by a moat fed by the river Yamuna. The wall was built by Humayun while the buildings in the fort are attributed to Sher Shar. The notable buildings that have survived in the fort are the Sher Mandal and the Quila-I-kholina Mosque.

Kabuli or Khuni Darwaja
To the left of Chandni Chowk; there was once a gate across the road that was called Khuni Darwaza or the Bloody Gate. The British reoccupied Delhi on 20 September 1857 after fierce resistance by rebels. On 21 September 1857 Bahadur Shah surrendered to Hudson at Humayun's tomb. On 22 September three Mughal princes, Mirza Moghul, Mirza Khizr Sultan and Mirza Abu Bakr were brought by Captain Hudson in a bullock-cart and shot dead at Khuni Darwaza near Delhi Gate. He ordered the princes to take off their upper garments and killed them one by one. The three bodies were carried to the Kotwali and stripped off all the clothes except a rag around their loins, and laid on stone slabs outside the building before they were buried. The reoccupation of Delhi was followed by massacre and plunder and it was even suggested that whole city be razed to the ground. Mirza Ghalib, the great Urdu Poet, who was a witness to the killings and plunder wrote in his Dastambu: "GOD ALONE knows the the number of persons who were hanged. The victorious army entered the city along the main road. Whomsoever they met on the way was killed." The "Khuni Darwaza" still stands in its solitary grandeur exactly opposite the main gate of the Maulana Azad Medical College.

Feroz Shah Kotla
The ruins of Ferozabad, the 5th city of Delhi, erected by Feroz Shah Tughlaq in 1354 can be found at Feroz Shah Kotla, just off Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg between the Old and New Delhi. The remains of a mosque and a well can also be seen, but most of the ruins were used for the construction of later cities. Feroz Shah was a great builder and so, this fifth city of Delhi was full of splendid palaces, mosques and gardens. The Tughlaqabad area was woefully short of water and this made the Tomars move westward to Mehrauli. Firoz Shah, Muhammad Tughlaq's successor solved this problem by building his new city on the banks of Yamuna. Kotla was the inner citadel of Firozabad, built like Windsor, with great palaces and a magnificent mosque inspiring Timur's envy. Destroyed by the Mughals, Kotla palaces were reduced to mere ruins, exposing to view the subterranean passages and covered cloisters. One can still see the pyramidal structure topped by the Ashokan Pillar brought from Topra, and a three-tiered baoli. Timur's invasion of Delhi reduced the city to a city of ruins as he took away with him elephants loaded with treasures and costly building material, artists, masons and skilled workmen as prisoners. The Saiyyads and Lodis used Kotla as their citadel. Now more famous for the cricket ground, where many important matches were held.

Kutub Minar
The origins of Qutab Minar are shrouded in controversy. Some believe it was erected as a tower of victory to signify the beginning of the Muslim rule in India. Others say it served as a minaret to the muezzins to call the faithful to prayer. No one can, however, dispute that the tower is not only one of the finest monuments in India, but also in the world. Qutab-ud-din Aibak, the first Muslim ruler of Delhi, commenced the construction of the Qutab Minar in 1200 AD, but could only finish the basement. His successor, Iltutmush, added three more storeys, and in 1368, Firoz Shah Tughlak constructed the fifth and the last storey.

Mehrauli
On the outskirts of Mehrauli near Qutab Minar, the Phool Walon ki Sair is held there in October every year.

Tughlaqabad
Tughlaqabad was a magnificent fort when built by Ghiasuddin Tughlaq in 1324. But soon after his death it became a deserted, haunted place. But the great fort & city was never lived in and still has scarce human habitation. This fort was built within four years between 1321 and 1324. It contained a vast number of buildings, mosques, palaces, towers, and tanks surrounded by mammoth bastions. In fact Ghiyasuddin had selected this site for the fort when he was a mere soldier. But soon it became a deserted, and a haunted place. No enemy has attacked the fort nor has anyearthquake destroyed it.

Nizamuddin Aulia / Humayun's Tomb
The Mughals brought with them a love for gardens, fountains and water. The first mature example of Mughal architecture in India, Humayun's Tomb was built by the emperor's grieving widow, Haji Begum, in 1565 AD. Constructed with red sandstone and ornamented marks the beginning of a new tradition of ornate style, which culminated in the Taj Mahal of Agra. Designed by the Persian architect, Mirza Ghyas, Humayun's Tomb shows a marked shift from the Persian tradition of using coloured tiles for ornamentation. Located in the midst of a large square garden, screened by high walls, with gateways to the south and west, the tomb is a square tower surmounted by a magnificent marble dome. The dome stands 140 feet from the base of the terrace and is topped with a copper pinnacle. In addition to the remains of Humayun, the complex also houses the grave of many other distinguished members of the Mughal dynasty.

Lodi's Tomb
Adjacent to the Dargah Complex on the western side Chiragh Delhi is the tomb of Bahlol Lodi, the founder of the Lodi dynasty and reigned from A.D. 1451 to 1488. This tomb was built by his son, Sikander and may originally have been surrounded to a garden. The tomb is crowned by five domes, the central one of which is fluted and higher than the rest. The north, south and east facades have three archways, while the west wall has two which flank mihrab.
About 3 Kms to the west of Humayun's tomb and adjoining the India International Centre are the Lodhi Gardens. In these well-kept gardens are the tombs of Sayyid and other Lodi rulers. Mohammed Shah's tomb (1450) was a prototype for the later Mughal-style tomb of Humayun, a design that would eventually develop into the Taj Mahal.
Other tombs include those of his predecessor, Mubarak Shah (1433), and Sikander lodi(1517). The Bara Gumbad Masjid is a fine example of its type of plaster decoration.

Safdarjung's Tomb
Representing the last phase of the Mughal style of architecture, Safdarjang's Tomb stands in the centre of an extensive garden. Built in 1753 by Nawab Shauja-ud-Daula to house the remains of his father, who was a minister in the Mughal court, the tomb is referred to as the "last flicker in the lamp of Mughal architecture." It shows how the grace and simplicity of he Mughals had been overtaken by decadence. The tomb also has a mosque.

Jama Masjid
Work on the Jama Masjid mosque was begun in 1650 by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to complement his palace at the Red Fort. More than 5,000 workers toiled for six years to complete the largest mosque in India. Every Friday, the emperor and his retinue would travel in state from the fort to the mosque to attend the congressional prayers. A fine example of Mughal architecture, the Jama Masjid has three gateways.

Jantar Mantar
At first sight, the Jantar Mantar appears like a gallery of modern art. It is, however, an observatory. Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur (1699-1743), a keen astronomer and a noble in the Mughal court, was dissatisfied by the errors of brass and metal astronomical instruments. Under patronage from the emperor, he set on himself the task of correcting the existing astronomical tables and updating the almanac with more reliable instruments. Delhi's Jantar Mantar is the first of the five observatories that he built with large masonry instruments. The observatory has the Samrat Yantra, a simple equal hour sun dial, the Ram yantra for reading altitudinal angles; Jai Prakash for ascertaining the position of the sun and other celestial bodies, and the Misra Yantra which is a combination of four scientific gadgets.

Red Fort (lal Quila)
The mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, after ruling from Agra for elleven years, decided to shift to Delhi and laid the foundation stone of the Red Fort in 1618. It is called so because of the red stone with which it is built, the Red Fort is one of the most magnificent palaces in the world. India's history is also closely linked with this fort. It was from here that the British deposed the last Mughal ruler, Bahadur Shah Zafar, marking the end of the three century long Mughal rule. It was also from its ramparts that the first Prime Minister of India, pandit Jawharlal Nehru, announced to the nation that India was free form colonial rule. Daily sound and light shows are held hear in english and hindi.

India Gate
Built as a memorial to commemorate the 70,000 India soldiers killed in World War I, India Gate was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and completed in 1931. Located on Rajpath, the road that leads to the magnificent Rashtrapati Bhawan, the gate is 160 feet high with an arch of 138 feet. Built from sandstone, the arch also houses the Eternal Flame, a gesture in memory of the Indian soldiers who laid their lives in the 1971 war with Pakistan.

India Gate Lawns
Beautiful lawns over a large area, a popular evening location. Ice cream and other snacks available from mobile vendors.

Children's Park
Near India Gate, has swings, slides and an aquarium. Adults are not allowed if not accompanied with a child.

The Secretariat Complex
Popularly known as the North Block and South Block the present seat of the ministry of Finance and External affairs respectively was the original Secretariat built on Raisina hill. These imposing structures are topped with Chatris on the corners giving it a typical oriental look.

Rashtrapati Bhavan & Mughal Gardens
Formely the Viceregal Lodge, the building is the highlight of Lutyen's New Delhi and was completed in 1929 at a cost of 12,53,000 pound sterling. Located in an area of 130 hectares, the palace has 340 rooms. At one time, 2,000 people were required to look after the building and serve the Viceroy's household. The lodge also has impressive garden called the Mughal Garden, which is open to public twice in a year, usually in February and March.

Parliament House
The seat of Indian Parliament is a marvelous piece of architecture designed by the famed architect Lutyens and constructed under the direct supervision of Sir Herbert Baker. Visitors are not allowed to loiter inside the building without special permission, for security reasons. For the foreign visitors permits are given only after they obtain an introductory letter from the respective embassy. Designed as a circular structure, the House is 171 meters in diameter and about one-third of a mile in circumference. The two semicircular house chambers flank the Central Hall with its impressive dome. The building has a continuous open corridor on the first floor fringed with a colonnade of 144 creamy sandstone pillars. The exterior walls of red sandstone are carved in geometric patterns that echo Moghul jaalis. It is a marvellous piece of architecture which can be admired only from outside on account of security restrictions. It is domed almost circular structure about a kilometer in circumference and is the seat of the Indian Parliament. During the sessions of Parliament there is a flurry of activity in and around the structure.

Teen Murti House and Connaught Place
The Teen Murti Bhavan housed the first Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru. It was designed by Robert Tor Russel, the architect of Connaught Place, and the Eastern and Western Courts on Janpath. The Bhavan was originally the residence of the Commander-in-Chief of the British Forces in India. However, after independence the house was taken over as the residence of Jawaharlal Nehru. And on his death, the house was converted into a national memorial comprising a library and a museum. The library is one of the finest ones for information on modern Indian history. The house gets its name after the Teen Murti (three statues) Memorial, which stands on its extensive grounds. The memorial was built in memory of the Indian soldiers who perished in World War I. The Bhavan is closed to public on Mondays and on all public holidays.

The Supreme Court
Located opposite the pragati maidan is supreme court of India.

Raj Ghat
The mortal remains of mahatma Gandhi the founder of the non voilent movement of strugle were cremated on this spot on the west bank of the river Yamuna on the evening of January 31, 1948. A simple open platform inscribed with the Mahatma's last words, 'Hey Ram' (Oh God) is set in a garden with fountains and a variety of exotic trees.

Shanti Vana
To the north of Rajghat is Santiban. 1st Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's last rites were performed here on 27 May 1964. A tombstone has been erected on his funeral place. Next to it, the tomb of Sanjay Gandhi who was died in a plane crash in 1980.

Vijay Ghat
This is the tomb of 2nd Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri. After the Indo-Pak was of 1965. Shastriji went to Tashkent in Russia on peace mission. In 1966 his last rites was performed here.

Vigyan Bhavan
Delhi's most prestigious International Conference Centre

Diplomatic Enclave
A broad street where most of the foreign embassies are located.

The Mughal Garden
The famous Mughal Gardens is located in the premises of the Rashtrapati Bhavan - the official residence of the President of India. The building and gardens designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens span an area of about 320 acres that include colourful flowering shrubs and European flowerbeds. The gardens comprise of the Rectangular Garden, Long Garden and the Circular Garden. The Rectangular Garden is the formal garden, which derived its treatment from the water-gardens, which the Mughals brought into Delhi. The small flowerbeds, the four waterways and mown lawns produce a virtual paradise.
The gardens are open to the public from February to March every year.

Shalimar Garden
It is one of the most important Mughul gardens in the city. The Shalimar Garden, which lies in the suburbs of the city, was once the first-night staging post for the Mughuls on their way to Kashmir and Lahore. In 1658, Aurangzeb was crowned emperor here. Shish Mahal, the beautiful central pavilion built by Shah Jahan is now in a fairly advanced state of decay. Some of the original painted flower decoration has survived. Tickets: Available at the site and Delhi Tourism office.

Rose Garden
National Rose Garden is situated in the Chanakya Puri area of the capital. This garden has some of the rare and imported rose variety. The best season to visit this garden is during December / January when the flowers are in full bloom. There is another rose garden in Hauz Khas opposite Safdarjang's Tomb.

Lodi Gardens

In these well-maintained gardens are the domed tombs of Sayyid and Lodi rulers. This garden is known for its fountains, ponds, flowering trees, blossoming shrubs and artificial streams.
In the middle of the garden is Bbara Gumbad (Big Dome), a mosque built in 1494.
The garden has Sheesh Gumbad (Glass Dome), Mohammad Shah's Tomb and Sikander Lodi's tomb. These tombs boast of excellent architecture, and this style was later used in the construction of Taj Mahal. These gardens are ideal for joggers and for those who seek solitude.

National Zoological Park
The Delhi zoo, close to Purana Qila, near ITO, was established in 1959 and is spread over a massive area of 214 acres. Is regarded as one of the finest zoos in Asia and efforts have been made to provide an almost natural habitat to the animals and birds. There are more than 2,000 animals and bird species from places like Africa, America, Australia and even Asia. There is a lot of greenery around the zoo and it is an ideal picnic spot especially in winter.
Timings summer 0800 to 1800 hours, winter 0900 to 1700 hours.
Closed on Friday.

Buddha Jayanti Park
At Palam-bound Sardar Patel Marg via Karol Bagh opp. Assam House is Buddha Jayanti Park founded on the auspicious eve of 2500 years of completion of Buddhas Great Salvation. A plant of Bodhi-Briksha was brought from Sri Lanka and planted in the commemorating park. The park is full of flowers and the garden is pleasant and charming for rest and walk. Ideal for picnic.

Musical Fountain
Delhi Tourism's musical fountain at Ajmal Khan Park is spread over an area of five acres and provides a refreshing getaway from the bustle of the city. The scintillating lights synchronised with music, and the cascading water turn this complex into a quiet haven, particularly during the heat of summer. If you are travelling with kids or just want to enjoy a pleasant evening with your partner, then pay a visit to the Musical Fountain at Ajmal Khan Park This is spread over an area of five acres and provides a refreshing getaway from the bustle of the city. The musical fountain is in operation for two hours every day after sunset except on Tuesday.

Nehru Park
A park opposite the Ahoka Hotel & at one end of the diplomatic enclave is not just a regular jogger's park or children's park but also a popular venue for many cultural & classical music functions. It is spread over an area of 85 acres landscaped. Popular picnic spot.

Garden of five senses, Saidulazab
A beautiful Garden with fountains, sculptures, fragrant frangipani trees & nooks & corners to explore this garden surely fills all the five senses to the brim. Tucked inside Saidulazab off Mehrauli road, this garden has an unique touch of an architects dream.

Millenium Park
A new entrant to the picnic spot cum, childrens park, cum entertainment & cultural parks in Delhi is the upcoming Millenium park at the Nizamuddin crossing on Mthura Road.

National Museum
It is the premier repository of antiquities. Built in 1960, it has an extraordinary collection representing the entire span of Indian civilization from pre-historic times. Its galleries include finds from the Indus Valley Civilization, superb sculptures in stone, and bronzes from the Chola period, the largest collection of miniature paintings in the world, manuscripts, a Buddhist Gallery, including relics of the Buddha from Piprahwa, the exquisite Jewellery Gallery, the Anthropological Gallery of tribal art; galleries devoted to decorative and applied arts, Maritime Heritage and Pre-Columbian art, and the Central Asian Antiquities, Gallery of Auriel Stein's finds along the ancient Silk Route (the great murals however, are on display at the adjacent Archaeological Survey of India).

The National Gallery of Modern Art
Housed in the residence of Jaipur's former maharajas has a superb collection of paintings dating from 150 years ago to the present day. Company School paintings of the 19th and early 20th centuries and the works of Rabindranath Tagore, Jamini Roy and Amrita SherGil hold pride of place amidst exhibits, which give an overview of the evolution of modern Indian paintings and sculpture. The National Museum and the National Gallery of Modern Art periodically organize special exhibitions.

The Rail Transport Museum
It is a must for rail buffs. Its vintage display includes the oldest locomotive in the world-still working; the Vice regal Dinning Car (1889) and the Prince of Wales Saloon (1876). Children can enjoy a ride on the miniature rail track located in the south of Delhi close to the diplomatic area of Chanakayapuri it traces, through exhibits, the 140 year-old history of the Indian Railways. The museum, established in 1977, and spread over a ten-acre area, is the first of its kind in India.

National Rail Museum
It was built as per plan of British architect M G Satto on 1957, 1st Feb, on the carpet area of 10 acres of land. The museum displays 27 locomotives and 17 carriage. The saloon car of the Maharaja of Baroda (1886), the carriage of the Maharaja of Mysore made of teak covered with ivory; the cabin of the Prince of Wales (1876), the carriage in which the ashes of Gandhiji was carried in 1948; Fairy Queen of 1855 (oldest steam engine in the world); evolution of Indian Rail from steam engine to present era are vividly displayed. Even, the skull of an elephant who struck a Mail train in 1894, with his head is also projected here in the exhibition. The Toy train is running - you may buy here as a souvenir of your visit. Restaurant and Libraries are also there.
 
The Nehru Memorial Museum
Located at Teen Murti House where Jawaharlal Nehru lived for 16 years till his death in 1964. Its special charm is that the rooms have been preserved as they were. Not far from here is the Indira Gandhi Memorial where one gets a glimpse of the life of the late Prime Minister.
 
Indira Memorial Museum
Another national museum has been built at 1 Safdarjung Rd in memoriam of Indira Gandhi, on May 27, 1985. Her own bodyguard assassinated Indira Gandhi on 31 Oct 1984. A glass cage has covered the spot where her body fell down. Before being bullet sprayed in from point blank range, Indira was on her way along the garden road out of her residence. At that place Czechoslovak Govt made a artificial water flow by crystal on steel plate of 33´25 m. The crystal stream on the steel plate is designed and planned by the Czech architect Jaroslav Mirich. 3 rooms are full with articles, which were in use by Indira. Photographs of Indira are also there. The bloodstained sari and other dress materials of Indira are chemically preserved in the museum. You may go inside the private chambers to view reading room, dinning room, Dewan-i-Aam, Dewan-i-Khas etc.
Except Monday open everyday from 10-00 to 17-00 3010094.

The Gandhi Memorial Museum
It has a collection of memorabilia on Mahatma Gandhi.
 
Dolls Museum
Shankar's International Dolls Museum was founded in 1954. More than 6000 Variety representing almost 85 countries of the world is on display in the museum. Dolls of Japan deserve special mention. However, 1/3 of total dolls are Indian - Indian cultural and the cultural life style has been projected in the fashions of dolls. Besides, there is B C Roy Children's Library and children's play corner. The doll museum is situated at Nehru House close to Income Tax Office at Bahadur Sah Zafar Marg near Delhi Gate. Timing : Except Monday open every day from 10-00 to 17-00
 
The Crafts Museum
Situated at Pragati Maidan has galleries displaying India's rich tradition of handicrafts. An added attraction is the presence of craftsperson who are bought here from different parts of the country to demonstrate their skills.
 
National Museum of Natural History
In this central part of the city are also located in the FICCI building, Mandi House. Huge dinosaur and birds of pre historic ages are depicted National Museum of Natural History. The Discovery Room also appreciable.
 
Tibet House Museum
Situated on Lodi Road has a fine collection of tankhas, jewellery and ritual objects. En route to Old Delhi are the Shankar's Dolls Museum of Archeology related to the Mughal era, and the Museum of Arms and Weapons which traces the development of arms from the Mughal age to the First World War.
 
National science museum
The science museum next to the Pragati maidan, is a great place for both kids & adults to learn and decipher the various mysteries of life through science.

Hauz Khas
Hauz Khas is the historical battleground where Timur defeated Mohammed Shah Tughlaq in 1398. One can find the remnants of an ancient college and Feroz Shah's tomb here and on the east to a short distance the Moth ki Masjid built in the finest Lodi style. Once an archetypal North Indian Village in the heart of Delhi's urban sprawl, Hauz Khas is now a shopper's paradise successfully marketing the concept of ethnicity in every possible way. Hauz Khas was a large reservoir built by Allauddin Khilji that was once the water catchments for the city. This village is remarkable for both the ancient and charming ruins in the nearby compound looking down on a still, green tank, as well as for the modern and posh shopping complex, which has sprung up around here. The madarsa, tombs and mosque around it built by Feroz Shah Tuglaq still make for an exclusive and exciting experience. Hauz Khas is also the site of India's first Night Bazaar being built by the Ministry of Tourism.

Deer Park
A paradise for morning walkers, has huts for staying and is approachable from Hauz Khas Village, Safdarjang Enclave or near the Delhi Lawn Tennis Association courts side.
Dhaula Kuan Complex -- Near Dhaula Kuan. It has an artificial lake, hanging bridge, playground and waterfalls. A cooling experience especially during the summer.

Idhah
Green area around the Idgah in Hauz Khas Enclave.

Jahanpanah
Ideal place for bird lovers in Chirag Delhi. It also has well developed forests.

Kalkaji District Park 

With lakes and beautiful terraced gardens a quiet spot near the Nehru Place office complex.

Kalindi Kunj
Near the NOIDA border near Apollo hospital, a good getaway with fountains and colourful lights during the night.

Mahavir Gardens
Located on the Ridge it is named after the founder of Jainism, Lord Mahavir.

NDMC Lake Park
Has a musical fountain and is located near the Safdarjang Flyover in Lakshmibai Nagar.

Okhla Dam
Near the Yamuna Canal it has facilities for fishing. Close to the Holy Family Hospital it is a picnic spot.

Yamuna Water Front
South of Rajghat, it is a 4 km long boulevard with green lawns and a floral clock.

Appu ghar
India's 1st amusement park, is housed in the capital, New Delhi's heart Pragati Maidan. Inaugurated on 19th November, 1984, by the then Prime Minister, Late Sh. Rajiv Gandhi, on the occasion of the birthday of Late Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi, Appu Ghar has come a long way and has created a niche for itself. It is the almost happening place in the city. The dream child of the Late Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi was formally opened under the aegis of International Amusement Limited, with it's registered office at Gate No.4, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
Spread over 15.5 acres of land, it houses 22 immensely popular rides in its premises, along with a recently opened Water Park - O.Y.S.T.E.R.S. spread over 3.5 acres of land. Apart from the rides, Appu Ghar has fast food centres which serve all kinds of Indian food and a variety of shops selling gift items and wares.
Often referred as a Mini-Disneyland, is a major crowd-puller for the people residing in Delhi and neighbouring NCR cities. Appu Ghar was planned and designed to provide the children their own extended amusing space of recreation. The ideal location of this amusement park makes it easily accessible for tourists and also ensures great fun.
One of the most exciting features of Appu Ghar is the Ice-Games. Appu Ghar has prepared itself to provide the young saplings the real adventurous splash of fun and frolic.

Dilli Haat
Situated in the heart of Delhi, the unique Dilli Haat is an upgraded version of the traditional weekly market, offering a delightful amalgam of craft, food and cultural activities. However, while the village Haat is a mobile, flexible arrangement, at Dilli Haat, a permanent Haat, it is the craftsmen who are mobile and ever - changing thereby offering a kaleidoscopic view of the richness and diversity of Indian handicrafts and artifacts.
Spread over a spacious six acre area, imaginative landscaping, creative planning, and the traditional village architectural style have combined to produce the perfect ambience for a Haat or market place. A plaza paved with stone and brickwork skilfully interspersed with grass, flowering shrubs and towering eucalyptus trees, plus a play corner for children have conjured up an oasis in which visitors can browse at their leisure.
The food plaza enable visitors to savour the inimitable flavours of gastronomic delights from the various regions of India. The different stalls offer a wide choice of ethnic food which is clean, hygienically prepared and reasonably priced. It often is a venue for regional food festivals.

The Bahai Temple
Completed in 1986, the Bahai temple is set amidst pools and gardens, and adherents of any faith are free to visit the temple and pray or meditate silently according to their own religion. The structure is in lotus shape so it often called the lotus temple. The view of the temple is very spectacular just before dusk when the temple is flood lit.

Birla Mandir / Laxmi Narayan Temple
It is ideally located in central Delhi (Mandir Marg). This temple dedicated to the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi and Lord Narayana (Lord Vishnu) was built in 1938 by the prominent Indian industrialist Raja Baldev Das Birla and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi. The temple, built in Orissan style, has a large number of idols representing various gods of Indian pantheon. The well-grafted gardens need a special mention.

Badhkal Lake 32 kms
Situated in the Faridabad district of Haryana, the panoramic Badhkal Lake is a natural pool surrounded by vast lawns and lush greenery. Just over 30 km from New Delhi, the lake is a popular picnic spot. It also offers boating facilities to tourists.

Ballabgarh 36.8 kms
The venue of the Kartik Cultural Festival is the historic fort of the king Nahar Singh at Ballabgarh. Around 1739 AD work on the construction of the Fort of Ballabgarh began under instruction of the forefathers of King Nahar Singh. Two gates once guarded it. The four corners of the Mahal were decorated with - 'minars' on which were mounted large cannons.
After Nahar Singh's death in 1857, his palace at Ballabgarh, just outside Delhi, faded into ruin and oblivion. Rediscovered and rescued by the Government of Harayana, the palace was entrusted to a well-known team of experts, under whose direction it has been restored to its original, delicate bearty. In a unique joint venture, the district administration of Faridabad, the Ballabgarh Beautification Society, the Departments of Tourism and Cultural Affairs of the Government of Harayana, the Office of the Director General of Tourism, Government of India, local business leaders, and leading artists and arts venture of international stature.

Karnal Lake 132 kms
Karnal Lake is situated on the National Highway No.1 near Karnal, 124 km from Delhi and about 150 km from Gurgaon. It's a lovely green stretch that celebrates one of the protagonists of the epic Mahabharatha Karna.
The Karna Lake is man-made on a marshy land. The structures round it provide some of the most delightful luxuries for tourists. Designer decorated guest rooms look out to the lake outside. Each room faces the landscaped surrounding. The tall eucalyptus trees shut off the din of the highway. Karna Lake also has twin luxury cottages, quiet and restful. A well-equipped conference hall is an integral part of the complex, complete with steno cabin and allied facilities.
The lake has an identity of its own for its green waters and a small island. The surrounding fringes of bottlebrush have attracted darters and the pled crested Kingfishers. Ducks and geese filt in and around the water, adding to the quiet pleasures of Karna Lake. Boating is an added attraction here.

Dabchick 92 kms
On the border of Haryana as one travels to Agra, Dabchick resort greets the tourists. The resort is cozy, compact and geared to cater to the tourists in a hurry. Here the very best of facilities await the travelers.

Okhla 11 kms
Okhla is un-doubted the No. 1 Industrial Area of the capital city of India. Located in prime area of South Delhi, it has wide roads, clean surroundings and ample parking space. There are negligible power cuts and it has continuous water supply, adequate sanitation and drainage facilities.

Sohna 56 kms
A top the Aravalli hills lies the picturesque health-cum-holiday resort. Sohna literally means `gold' in Hindi. Once, gold dust was collected from the sands of streams around it and so the place came to be known as `Sona', gold.
Sohna is famous for its sulphur springs, reputed for their medicinal properties, with the temperature ranging from 46.10c to 51.70c. The springs are located at the feet of a perpendicular rock, and are capped by a dome believed to have been built in the 14th century. The spa complex with sauna, sulphur and steam bath facilities for the tourists is situated up on the rock. There is also a mini swimming pool, filled with water spewed from a wall mural.
Sohna is also famous for its vintage Car Rally which is held during the month of February every year.

Suraj Kund 18 kms
Situated 11 km from the Qutab Minar on the Mehrauli-Badarpur Road, Surajkund is the site of a perennial lake surrounded by rock-cut steps. The Sun temple stood here during 1000 AD, the remains of which can still be seen here. The temple and the enchanting surroundings of this place won the heart of a Tomar chieftain Surajpal, who belonged to a clan of sun worshippers. Raja Surajpal had a sun pool and amphitheatre built in this area with the sun temple at its periphery. After the chieftain Surajpal, who built the complex, the place was named Surajkund.

Sardhana 24 kms
In a small town in Uttar Pradesh called Meerut you will find an old church and you walk in not expecting much. But the Basilica at Sardhana, which is a village within Meerut, might well surprise you.
In 1857 a mutiny broke out in Meerut, the largest British garrison in Northern India. Soon rebellions against the British rule broke out in other parts of the country.
A beautiful medieval Indian nautch girl marries a gallant European mercenary in India. After his death, she takes over his fiefdom, converts to Christianity, and even builds a beautiful basilica. No, this is not out of the pages of a novel, it happened right here, in Sardhana. The sculptor Adamo Tadolini finished this marble masterpiece in 1842, eight years after the Begum's death. It was installed here in 1870, having travelled all the way from Italy over sea, river and land. On the pedestal below the Begum, stands her adopted son David Dyce and her Vazir. Behind them are her general and Bishop. Greco-Roman figures lie at the base of the sculpture as symbols of prosperity, generosity, prudence, wisdom and death - all symbols of the Begum's love and her conquering spirit. The panels on the front and sides of the sculpture show episodes from the Begum's reign. Apart from the sculptured Tomb, the church itself is impressive, especially the central altar. The altar is made of Jaipur marble with delicate inlay work and dates back to the Begum's reign. Begum Sumru is said to have written to Pope Gregory XVI that the church was the finest in India. It is said to be amongst the most expensive of its time in the country.

Other places
Dasna 40 kms
Dhanaa 41 kms
Dharudara 70 kms
Hindon 19.3 kms
Hodal 90 kms
Maur Bund 32 kms

Events and Festivals of New Delhi

Kite-Flying Festival (January)
Held on Makar Sankranti day on the green lawns above Palika Bazaar, Connaught Place, this colourful extravaganza attracts national as well as international participants.

Thyagaraja Festival (February)
An enthusiastic display of south Indian music and dance, opposite Jawaharlal Nehru University in Vaikunthnath temple.

Republic Day (January)
The national festival in India observed through out the country to make the inauguration of the Republic of India on 26th January 1950. In Delhi, the celebrations include a magnificent parade of the armed Forces, folk dances and floats from all the different states of India.

International Mango Festival (July)
A particular event, with over five hundred types of mango on show, usually held in Talkatora Stadium. Tourists can enjoy free tasting and a cultural programme to sample.

Qutub Festival (October)
Delhi Tourism organises the popular Qutub Festival in October. Musicians and dancers perform at night by the city's 12th century landmark, the Qutub Minar. This festival gives tourists a glimpse of the cultural grandeur of India.

Independence Day (August)
Like 26 January, 15th August is also celebrated in the city as the Independence Day to mark the Indian independence from the British rule in the year 1947. The Prime minister of the nation addresses the nation from the Red Fort and many people gather around the Red Fort to hear the Prime Minister's address.

The International Trade Fair
The International Trade Fair starts on the 14th day of November every year. This trade fair is held at the Pragati Maidan. This fair is a major event for the Business community. Corporate houses from all over the world come in this fair and business deals are finalised in a big way. This fair is also a major tourist attraction and lakhs of people visit the fair, which ends after thirteen days.
 
Pragati Maidan
Pragati Maidan is also host to many other fairs, which includes the Auto Expo and the leather Fair. Through out the year Pragati Maidan is the venue for fairs and expositions. The Shakuntalam theatre is located in Pragati Maidan and regular film shows are held here.

Handicrafts Fair
The months of September, October and November are busy with various types of fairs. The Handicrafts Fair at Delhi Haat is a major attraction for the lovers of handicrafts. The business fair held by the Delhi Government is also a major attraction for the Business community. The Diwali fairs around the Diwali festival is held in almost every community.
 
The Surajkund Handicraft Mela
Surajkund is a small ancient kund (pond) in Haryana on the outskirts of Delhi. This picturesque place is the venue for the annual Handicrafts fair. This handicraft fair gives the artisans an opportunity to show their skills on the spot and customers get to see the working style of the artisans. The fair is held on a particular state theme. There are fashion shows and puppet shows, which represent the amalgamation of the traditional art with the modern trends.
 

Essentials

Reaching  Delhi

Air
Delhi is well connected with major cities in India and world.

Rail
New Delhi is the headquarters of the Northern Railway and is well connected with all of the major places in India.

Road
Delhi is at the intersection of several national highways and is well connected by regular bus services from Inter State bus terminal (ISBT), Kashmiri Gate (2968709), Anand vihar (2149089), and Sarai Kale Khan (4698343). Some of the important road distances are Agra-203 kms, , Almora-373 kms, Amritsar -447 kms, Bharatpur-190 kms, Calcutta-1490 kms, Chandigarh -238 kms, Jaipur-258 kms, Khajuraho-596 kms, Kullu-502 kms, Lucknow 514 kms, Mathura-147 kms, Mumbai Mussoorie-269 kms, Nainital-318 kms, Shimla -343 kms, Shrinagar-376 kms, Udaipur-663 kms, Varanasi-738 kms etc.

Conducted Tours
Delhi Transport & Tourism Development Corporation(DTTDC)
Central Reservation Office, Coffee Home, Baba Kharak Singh Marg
Indian Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC)L-1,
Connaught Place.

Hotels in New Delhi
There are plenty of budget and star hotels in delhi.

Climate : Summer- Max.45, Min.27; Winter- Max.25.5, Min.4.
Best Season : September to March

Languages : Hindi, English, Urdu and Punjabi.

STD Code: 011