One road, one-way and one market would be the best way to define Chandni

Chowk. The area is a perfect example of religious harmony. It will not be wrong to
say that if all religions were flowers they could be weaved together in a garland
called Chandani Chowk. Entering Chandani Chowk, the first thing one can see is
a Jain Temple. The temple was built for Jain soldiers during the reign of Shah
Jahan. Earlier, the temple was a Laskari temple. Later, a Jain soldier put an idol
there for his personal worship and a structure came up. Outside the temple, is a
hoard of cycle rickshaw pullers who shout and call out Fatehpuri, Balli maran,
Town Hall, etc. Earlier, only man- pedaled rickshaws were found there but now
battery charged rickshaws are also available in the area.Moving forward from
there one can see a red temple behind which is Gauri Shankar Mandir. This
temple is made of white marble. The temple is very beautiful. It appears as if the
whole temple has been bathed in milk. The combination of red and white gives
the temple a magnificent look.Samru Begums Kothi A few steps forward from
Gauri Shankar Mandir on the right side was Begum Samrus kothi (mansion).
Begum was the daughter of a Muslim from Meerut and was born in 1751. Begum
Sahiba had married a Christian called Reinhardt who was known as Samroo. In
1781 Begum converted into a catholic Christian. The mansion no longer exists
and has now turned into a big business hub. Near the hub is a Baptist church,
which has a gorgeous building.Close to the area is McDonald restaurant, which
is always brimming with people. Chandani Chowk is famous all over the world for
the fact that it is always packed with people. The market has its own peculiarities,
which attracts people. The area, which is now a big open market, was a big
chowk at some point. There were a variety
Delhi, Capital of India

New Delhi
Delhi is the symbol of old India and new ? even the stones here whisper to our ears of the ages of
long ago and the air we breathe is full of the dust and fragrances of the past, as also of the fresh and
piercing winds of the present.
- Jawaharlal Nehru
Delhi, the capital of India is the third largest city of the world, exceeded in size by Calcutta and
Mumbai. Delhi is situated in north central India and stands on the west bank of Yamuna river. It is
bounded on the east by the state of Uttar Pardesh and on the north, west and south by Haryana. The
eternal Yamuna has witnessed the glory and the tumultuous history of the 3000 year old Delhi. Delhi
is spread over an area of 1483 sq. kilometers, 216 meters above sea level and has a population of
around 14 million. The amalgamation of various cultures, traditions, religions has painted Delhi in
colour which are brought from all over India. Delhi is a true cosmopolitan city always on the move.
Delhi remains the centre of power. Once it was a city of royal power. Then it became the seat of
colonial power. Later it was the seat of bureaucratic power. The seat of political power it has always
been. Today it is emerging as an important centre for corporate power too. It is a perfect introduction
to the cultural wealth, the complexities and dynamism of India. Delhi has always been the hub of
activity, art, culture and the history of the whole country and continues to do so.
It is divided into two parts Old Delhi & New Delhi.
Old Delhi (Shahjahanabad)
'Old' Delhi, the capital of Muslim India between the mid-17th and late 19th centuries, is full of
formidable mosques, monuments and forts. The ancient Delhi of the Mughal emperors was
surrounded by a wall and was a congested city of narrow bylanes. Though better known as Old Delhi,
this area is also called Delhi. Old Delhi , Shah Jahan's seventeenth-century capital

( Shahjahanabad ), lies 2km or so further north.The Delhi Jn rly stn is in Old Delhi, the inter-state bus
terminus is slightly to the north, at the Kashmiri Gate. Buses go to all over north and west India from
the Kashmiri Gate. Near the Delhi Gate lies the Yamuna on the left and the Aruna Asaf Ali Rd on the
right, ending at Ramlila Pavilion, the juncture of Old and New Delhi.
It's a lively area of colourful bazaars, narrow streets and barely controlled chaos. Monuments in
sandstone and marble, which stand in assorted states of repair, make Delhi a veritable museum of
Indo-Islamic architecture, seen at its best in the frenetic streets of Old Delhi. Old Delhi looks entirely
different from the more modern New Delhi and south Delhi areas.
New Delhi
The other Delhi, the imperial city created as the capital of India by the British. In addition to its historic
interest and role as the government centre, Delhi is a major travel gateway. In 1911, the British asked
Lutyens to give new meaning to city development which is reflected in the architectural designs and
sophistication that buildings in Delhi like Parliament House, Rashtrapati Bhavan, India Gate,
Connaught Place and various administrative buildings like the South and North blocks along the
breathtaking view available from Raj Path. The capital of the Indian republic is at New Delhi, the
planned city devised by the British. The smooth roads, modern houses and buildings and offices and
departments attract tourist. As you come out of the New Delhi rly stn, in front is Paharganj and on the
south Chemsford Road which intersect at Connaught Place. New Delhi, the imperial city created by
the British Raj, is composed of spacious, tree-lined avenues and imposing government buildings, and
has a sense of order absent from other parts of the city.
Central New Delhi
The hub of the metropolis is Central New Delhi, an orderly plan of wide roads lined with sturdy
colonial buildings which was established soon after the imperial capital of British India moved here in
1911. At its hub, the royal mall, Rajpath, runs from palatial Rashtrapati Bhavan, in the west, to the
India Gate war memorial in the east. At the north edge of the new capital lies the thriving business
centre, Connaught Place, where neon advertisements for Wimpy, American Express, hotels and
countless airline offices adorn the flat roofs and colonnaded verandas of high white buildings that
curve around a central park to form an almost perfect circle. Most of the airline offices, travel agents,
banks and hotels are here. There are a number of cinemas and performing arts centres around
Connaught Place, but Delhi's strict licensing laws effectively curtail nightlife. Central New Delhi also
has its fair share of more recent high-rise offices and hotels, standing close to pre-British
constructions such as the open-air observatory, Jantar Mantar, and a generous smattering of
excellent museums covering arts and crafts and the lives of India's post-Independence politicians.
South Delhi
Most of the early settlements of Delhi, including its first cities, are to be found not in "Old Delhi" but in
SOUTH DELHI, the area south of Connaught Place and Rajpath. Although the rapid expansion of
suburban Delhi is swallowing up the countryside, the area remains littered with monuments from the
past, and pockets of almost untouched
rural peace make it a fascinating blend of
the contemporary, the pastoral and the
historic.
Delhi at a glance :

Country:

India

State:

National Capital Territory / Union Territory of Delhi

District:

Delhi District

STD code:

011

Delhi History
The history of Delhi is, in many ways, the history of India. Popular Hindu mythology claims that Delhi
was the site of the fabled city of Indraprastha, which featured in the Mahabharata over 3000 years ago,
but historical evidence suggests that the area has been settled for around 2500 years. Since the 12th
century, Delhi has seen the rise and fall of seven major powers. The Chauhans took control in the 12th
century and made Delhi the most important Hindu centre in northern India. When Qutab-ud-din Aibak
occupied the city in 1193, he ushered in six and a half centuries of Muslim rule. The Delhi Sultanate
lasted from 1206 to 1526, despite its inconsistent rule, and was followed by the mighty Mughals from
1526 to 1857. The basis of what is today Old Delhi, including the Red Fort and the Jama Masjid, was
built during the reign of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan (1628-1658). In 1803, the British captured
Delhi and installed a British administrator. Delhi was not the capital of India at the time, but it was an
important commercial centre and had a population of 150,000 by the start of the 20th century. It is from
here that the mughals spread their roots and this is also where the British ruled India from.
Belief has it that Delhi was the capital city of the Kingdom of the Pandavas, the heroes of the
Mahabharata . The earliest known settlement in the Delhi area, thought to have stood close to the
River Yamuna (near the Purana Qila) between 1000 BC and the fourth century AD, has been identified
with the city of Indraprastha, mentioned in the Mahabharata . Unearthed terracotta pots, coins and
jewellery show that Delhi lay on an important trunk route of the Mauryan period, and Ptolemy, who
came here in the second century AD, mentions "Dilli".
However, modern Delhi is usually said to have come into being when the Tomara Rajputs founded Lal
Kot in 736 AD. In 1180, a rival Rajput clan, the Chauhans, ousted the Tomaras and renamed the
walled citadel Qila Rai Pithora, the first city of Delhi. Only a few walls of Lal Kot now remain, in the
Mehrauli suburb of southwest Delhi, but a stone inscription at the Qutb Minar nearby claims that the
stones of the numerous Hindu and Jain temples constructed in Lal Kot were later used to build the
Great Mosque in the Qutb complex. Soon afterwards, in the two successive battles of Tarain in 1191,
the Rajputs first managed to hold off an invading force from Afghanistan led by Muhammad Ghuri, and
then succumbed to it a few months later.
Unlike other invaders from Central Asia who swept into the north Indian plains, Muhammad Ghuri had
come to stay and not merely to plunder. He was assassinated in 1206 and his kingdom did not survive
long in Afghanistan, but his Indian provinces, palaces and forts remained more or less intact in the
hands of his Turkish general, Qutb-ud-din Aibak. This ex-slave, who founded the Delhi
Sultanate (or Slave Dynasty - the first major Muslim rulers of the subcontinent), established himself
at the site of Lal Kot, and commenced the construction of the Qutb Minar. His
successor, Iltutmish (1211-27), was arguably the greatest of the early Delhi sultans.
In 1290, another group of Turks came to power - the Khaljis. Inspired by Ala-ud-din Khalji (12961316), they extended their dominion to the Deccan plateau of central India. His reign, the pinnacle of
the Delhi Sultanate, was marked by agrarian reforms, and the establishment in 1303 of Siri, the
second city of Delhi, built in characteristically ornate marble and red sandstone. Near present-day
Hauz Khas, it grew into a flourishing commercial centre. Ala-ud-din died a disappointed man, however,
as cracks appeared in his dream of empire; the ensuing period of confusion only ended
when Ghiyas-ud-din Tughluq proclaimed himself Sultan in 1320.
Ghiyas-ud-din in turn built a city fortress, at Tughluqabad, 8km east of Qutb, but Delhi's third city
was occupied for just five years from 1321, when the capital was shifted 1100km south to Daulatabad
in Maharashtra at great human cost. Apart from the ramparts encompassing the crumbling ruins, and
the odd building and tomb, little now remains of this third settlement. Water scarcity drove the Tughluqs
back to Delhi in 1327, and as a recompense for the mistake, a new city, Jahanpanah, was built
between Lal Kot and Siri by the eccentric Muhammad bin Tughluq to protect the vulnerable open plain.
The energies of the next sultan, Firuz Shah, were taken up with suppressing rebellion, as the Sultanate
began to disintegrate, but his reputation as an iconoclast is belied by his keen interest in Indian culture
and history. Fascinated by the Ashokan pillars of Meerut and Topra, he had them moved to the new
capital, the fifth city of Firozabad, built beside the river in 1354.
The Tughluq line came to an end in 1398, when Timur (Tamerlane), a Central Asian Turk, sacked Delhi.
His successors, the Sayyids (1414-44), were ousted by Buhlul Lodi who established a dynasty that

left behind the fine tombs and mosques still to be seen in the beautiful Lodi Gardens. As the Lodi
sultans became more absolute, they made many enemies among the nobles, especially the governors
of Punjab and Sind, who invited Babur (a descendant of Genghis Khan) and Timur, who was seeking
his fortune in Afghanistan, to come to their aid. The Lodi dynasty ended when Sultan Ibrahim Lodi died
in battle, fighting the brilliant and enigmatic Babur on the plain of Panipat just north of Delhi in 1526.
Babur's victory marked the dawn of the Mughal (a derivative of Mongol) dynasty, whose lengthy
sojourn in power led to the eventual realization of the dream of an Indian empire that had so eluded the
earlier Delhi Sultans. Babur's reign was brief, and he moved his capital to Agra not long after taking
Delhi; his Babarnama , a chronicle of the times, makes fascinating reading.
Babur was succeeded in 1530 by his son, Humayun, a scholar and astronomer who moved to Delhi
in 1534. All the signs indicated that Humayun's reign would be prosperous, but in 1540, he was driven
to Persia for fifteen years by the Afghan King Sher Shah of Ser, who quickly built the fort, DinPanah, or Asylum of Faith, which still stands on the banks of the Yamuna in the southwest of modern
Delhi and is known as Purana Qila. Sher Shah was surrounded by bickering power-thirsty relatives,
all of whom were overcome when Humayun returned from Kabul to retake Delhi in 1555. When
Humayun died in a fall in 1556, his wife Banu Begum built a sandstone garden tomb for him in
Nizamuddin, in the style that was to set the pattern for the development of Mughal mausoleum
architecture. His son Akbar (who could not read or write) took over as emperor, and the capital was
moved once more to Agra.
Delhi once again became capital under Prince Khurrum, Akbar's grandson, in 1628, who assumed the
titleShah Jahan, "Ruler of the Universe", and began a fruitful and extravagant reign that oversaw the
construction of some of the finest Mughal monuments, including the Taj Mahal in Agra. The new walled
capital of Shahjahanabad, the seventh city, which is now Old Delhi, incorporated the mighty Red
Fortwith its opulent courts and the huge Jama Masjid or Friday Mosque, fringed by bazaars. Shah
Jahan was deposed(and imprisoned in Agra) by his ruthless son, Aurangzeb, who ruled from Delhi until
1681, when he transferred the capital to the Deccan plateau until his death in 1707.
For the next sixty years, Delhi's government was controlled by courtiers, and the city fell victim to
successive invasions. In 1739, Nadir Shah, the emperor of Persia, swept across north India and
overcame Muhammad Shah in the Red Fort, taking away precious booty and wiping out much of the
local population. The relatively plain tomb of Safdarjung (near the Lodi Gardens), built in 1754 for
Emperor Mirza Khan in the same style as the Taj, yet lacking the marble and rich decoration,
demonstrates the decline of Mughal power. Soon after, in 1760, the Hindu Marathas and Jats, in the
wake of fading Mughal supremacy, combined forces against the rulers and besieged and looted the
Red Fort, but did not take power.
The Mughal rulers were reduced to puppet kings, and the British, who had already gained footholds
in Madras and Bengal under the guise of the East India Company, moved to Delhi in 1803 during the
reign of the Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah. They swiftly took control, leaving Bahadur Shah with
his palace and his pension, but no power. British forces fended off a number of Maratha attacks in the
next decade, and faced determined opposition during 1857 when the Indian Mutiny (or "First War of
Independence") broke out. Bahadur Shah was proclaimed Hindustani emperor in the Red Fort, and it
took much bloodshed before the British regained the city.
The British retained a hold on Delhi while administering affairs of state from their capital in Calcutta.
When King George V came to India from England to be crowned as emperor in 1911, it was decided to
make Delhi India's new capital . Fervent construction of sprawling bungalows, parliamentary buildings
and public offices followed, and in 1931 Delhi was officially inaugurated as the capital of Britain's
largest colonial possession.
With India's declaration of Independence in 1947, the British, represented in Delhi by the viceroy,
Lord Mountbatten, lost all authority, and the democratically elected Congress government came to
power withNehru at its head. Independence saw a mass migration of Muslims from Delhi to newly
created Pakistan, taking with them a cultural ambience that the subsequent influx of Punjabis have
failed to replace. Today, Delhi is one of the fastest growing cities in the world, with spiralling population
growth and pollution to match.

Delhi Art and Culture

It is almost impossible to separate Delhi from its Art and Culture. Being the centre of the nation has
also made Delhi the cultural capital which not only boasts of many museums and art galleries but also
plays host to a lot of events involving visual and performing arts.
Interestingly, the styles and forms of craftsmanship took on the personality of many of the rulers, under
their patronage. Around the middle of the 17th century, the mughals ascended the throne and under
many of their rulers, Delhi flourished as a centre for art and craft.
Akbar was well known for his contribution to the arts and craft. He built an extensive library of books
on many subjects, and his capital city at Fatehpursikri still stands as a monumental example of mughal
architecture. Miniature paintings under Akbar were more aggressive and action oriented while under
his son, Jahangir, they took on peaceful hues and calmer subjects.
In the ancient days, rulers and common men looked upon craft as a means to better their lives. Thus
we have stories about how the mughal rulers imported craftsmen from Persia to weave their favorite
carpets. Carpet weavers from Iran and Turkistan were also brought down to India and separate
workshops and dwelling established for them, under the rule of Akbar. The mughals also brought in the
Islamic style and form to many old Indian crafts. Stone craft, carpet weaving and metal craft are
among some of the crafts that evolved a unique style under Islamic influence . This helped evolve a
unique Indo-Islamic style of architecture, metal craft and carpet weaving.
Architecture is another area where the mughals left their mark. Monuments like the red fort, the Jama
Masjid, the Qutub Minor and some of the city's finest gardens stand testimony to the lasting influence
of mughal rule over India.
Delhi saw almost seven generations of mughul rule before the advent of the britishers. Britishers too
contributed liberally to the architecture, leading to numerous architectural masterpieces. Old Delhi was
the capital of mughul India while new Delhi is the creation of the british raj.
Delhi is unique in that it has representative outlets for the handicrafts of each Indian state. This in it
self presents a staggering array of goods, and at very affordable prices. In the last decade there has
been a dramatic change in Delhi's markets.
Upwardly mobile lifestyle has led to greater
sophistication in display and upgrading of
various markets in terms of availability of items Delhi- the capital of India, reflects the cultural diversity
and religious unity of India. It is difficult to define the culture and religion of India. As there is a
continuous inflow of people from all parts of India, the cultural diversity is very prominent. Being an
ancient city Delhi has the shadows of its past. It is said that the Delhi is losing its charm but still the
glory of the past looms large its life-style. Delhi might be changing with time it has always done so but
it has never shelved the past. There are discos for youngsters to swing their body through out the
night, but still the Quwallies at the Nizamuddin Shrine floats in the air, the silence of the night is broken
by the Prabhat ferries and the singing of Gurbani (the verses from the Granth Sahaib), the bells in the
temples still tells about God being every where, the Sunday masses in Churches still attract the
otherwise busy residents of India. People take a break from the hurried life during the ancient fairs and
festivals like 'Phoolwalo-Ki-Sair which are still oraganised in traditional way.
The city fares well on the cultural front. A range of indoor and outdoor venues host performances of
classical dance such as Bharatnatyam and Kathakali; one Sunday a month a classical concert is held
free of charge in Nehru Park - but you'll have to be there very early to get in. Check any of the listings
magazines we've detailed to see what's on at India International Centre, a good place to catch
art exhibitions, lectures and films on all aspects of Indian culture and environment. The colossal new
India Habitat Centre, the British Counciland the art and theatre auditoria around India Gate
are all renowned for their innovative shows and high-standard drama in both Hindi and English
mediums.
Auditorium (Cultural Centres)

Abhimanch
NSD, Bahawalpur House, Bhagwandas
Road.

Vigyan Bhavan
Maulana Azad Rd., Ph: 3022182.

AIFACS Auditorium
Ambedkar Auditorium

Rafi Marg,. Ph:3711315.

1, Ashok Rd., Ph:3389182

Akshara Theatre
AIFACS Auditorium
Rafi Marg,.Ph:3711315

11B, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Ph: 3364326 /

1075, 3732083.

Air Force Auditorium

American Centre

Subroto Park Ph:3292834, 3035590.

24, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, Ph: 3316841.

American Centre

Alliance Francaise

24, Kasturba Gandhi Marg., Ph: 3316341

D 13 NDSE-II, Ph: 6258128.

Alliance Francaise

Australia -India Council (AIC)

D 13, NDSE-II, Ph: 6258128

1/50 G, Shantipath, Ph: 6888223 / 5556, Fax:

6882732.

Bipin Chandra Pal Memorial Auditorium

A-81, Chittaranjan Park.

British Council Division

17, K.G. Marg., Ph: 3711401.

British Council Division

17, K.G. Marg., Ph: 3710111/7306.

Chamber Theatre
Triveni Kala sangam, 205, Tansen Marg.,
Near Bengali Mkt., Ph: 3718833.

Chamber Theatre
Triveni Kala sangam, 205, Tansen Marg.,
Near Bengali Mkt. Ph: 3718833.

Hungarian Cultural Centre

1A, Janpath, Ph: 3011152.

Delhi Music Society

8, Nayaya Marg, Chanakyapuri, Ph: 6115331.

ICCR Auditorium
Azad Bhavan, I.P. Estate, Ph: 3319309/10,
3312463.

Falaknuma & Hansdhwani

Pragati Maidan., Ph: 3317824.

India Habitat Centre

Lodhi Road, Ph: 4691920 / 21.

Delhi Map

Delhi Weather
Delhi is situated on the banks of river Yamuna in the northern part of India. Once a part of the
Aravalies, today Delhi has only the Ridge area to tell the story of the greenery this place once had.
Himalayas
are
in
the
North
of
Delhi.
The capital of India is a land locked city. The distance from the sea gives Delhi an extreme type of
continental climate. The summers in Delhi are very hot and winters very cold. The temperature
range varies from 45 degrees in summers to 4 degrees in winters. The winters are marked by mist
and fog in the mornings and often sun is seen in the afternoons. The cold wave from the Himalayan
region makes winters very chilly. In summers the heat wave is immense and adequate precaution
has
to
be
taken
before
going
out
in
the
hot
summer
afternoons.
The best season to visit Delhi is During the spring seasons of February to April and August to
November. The bloom season of February and March make Delhi colourful. This time of the year
brings
greenery
on
the
face
of
Delhi.

ANNUAL TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL CHART

MONTHS

Distance from Delhi

MAX

MIN

RAINFALL

January

21

07

25

February

24

10

22

March

30

15

17

April

36

21

07

May

41

27

08

June

40

29

65

July

35

27

211

August

34

26

173

September

34

25

150

October

35

19

31

November

29

12

01

December

23

08

05

Important distances from Delhi

PLACES

In Kms.

PLACES

In Kms.

Agartala

2584

Agra

203

Ahmedabad

915

Aizawl

2462

Ajmer

389

Akola

1158

Aligarh

131

Allahabad

628

Ambala

192

Amritsar

447

Asansol

1207

Aurangabad

1209

Bakhtiyarpur

1063

Bangalore

2061

Barauni

1126

Bangalore

2061

Barddhaman

1310

Bareilly

254

Belgaum

1753

Bellary

1866

Bhagalpur

1250

Bhavnagar

1102

Bhopal

744

Bhubaneshwar

1745

Bikaner

460

Bilaspur

1296

Calcutta

1461

Chandigarh

238

Chennai

2095

Chittardurga

1994

Coimbatore

2401

Cuttack

1720

Dehra Dun

235

Dhanbad

1188

Dhule

1066

Dhule

1066

Dibrugarh

2398

Dimapur

2233

Dindigul

2441

Durgapur

1247

Ganganagar

409

Gangtok

1598

Gaya

1030

Ghaziabad

19

Ghazipur

825

Gorakhpur

763

Gulbarga

1691

Guntur

1798

Gurgaon

30

Guwahati

1959

Gwalior

321

Haldia

1512

Hassan

2130

Hissar

164

Hubli

1837

Hyderabad

1499

Imphal

2443

Indore

807

Jabalpur

814

Jaipur

258

Jaisalmer

793

Jalandhar

364

Jammu

583

Jamnagar

1217

Jamshedpur

1321

Jhansi

424

Jodhpur

589

Jorhat

2262

Kakinada

1848

Kandla

1096

Kanniyakumari

2742

Kanpur

408

Kochi

2594

Kohima

2298

Delhi Lifestyle
Delhi shares its borders with Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab, which influence the lifestyles and language of the people. Characteristics of its geographical location, its inhabitants are a race
blend of tradition and intellect. They are extremely receptive to modern ideas, inventions and the
fantasies of the modern social ethos. People belonging to various religious sects, castes and lingual
groups live marvelously with each other, with their socio-economic status taking a back seat. Migrations
from various parts of India has led to diverse culture coming together in various parts of Delhi. Durga
Puja in Delhi celebrated with same enthusiasm as Id is celebrated. The Guru Purab and Christmas carry
the same colour as Dewali or Buddha Purnima. The amalgamation of various cultures, traditions,
religions has painted Delhi in colour which are brought from all over India.
Today Delhi is a crowded and extremely polluted modern city, which has ancient, crumbling structures
cropping up unexpectedly in every area. Although sixty percent of Delhi-ites are born elsewhere, the
city'spopulation has grown over forty percent in the last decade and now stands at around fourteen
million. Rapid growth has seen Delhi spilling into the surrounding states, creating satellite developments
such as Gurgaon to the south. The city has been attracting its fare share of industrial
developmentin the last two decades, with an influx of technocrats, specialists and fortune seekers to
match. In a heady atmosphere of optimism, around 9000 new industrial units sprang up every year
during the 1990s. Despite this new-found affluence, a staggering third of the city's population lives in the
notorious jhuggies - slums often seen clinging to the edge of new developments. With a daily average
of around 200 major incidents of crime ,
including
mindless cases of murder
accompanying simple robberies, Delhi has
gained the dubious reputation of being the crime capital of the country. The poor aren't the only
perpetrators ofcrime - the city's nouveau riche young, burdened with more money than sense, have
been
responsible
for
some
of
the
most
notorious
recent
cases.
Today, very few city residents can lay claim to being 'real' Delhi-wallahs, and most of the population of
New Delhi comprises Hindu Punjabi families originally from Lahore. In the past decade its population
has increased by 50%, largely due to rapid economic expansion and increased job opportunities. The
downside of this boom is increased overcrowding, traffic congestion, housing shortages and pollution.

Delhi Festival
There is perhaps not a single day in the Indian calendar when in some part of the vast country a
festival is not celebrated or a fair held - replete with rituals, colour, music, feasting, pageantry, fun
and frolic. Many of the festivals are subject to the lunar calendar. The Islamic festivals are celebrated
according to the Muslim or the Hijri calendar. Therefore the times the festivals are held can change
from one year to the next. Delhi , being a metropolitan city, is a melting pot of cultures, traditions and
festivals of the country. A whirling dervish of people, culture and religion, Delhi offers a feast of
festivals for every imaginable taste. This city celebrates harvests, seasons and celestial mangos,
worships holy books and sacred stories, burns the devil and pays homage to light, and throws
birthday parties for the founders of Islam, Hinduism, Jainism, Hare Krishna, Sikhism - and India. In
fact , all major Indian festivals are celebrated here by different communities. The seat of empire for
centuries, royal patronage ensured that Delhi remained the cultural epicentre of the country,
attracting the best of painters, musicians and dancers. Delhi Tourism puts on display this rich and
diverse cultural heritage by holding a series of festivals during the year. The scattered citadels of
erstwhile
dynasties which co-exist with high rise residential localities and crowded commercial complexes,
form the picturesque backdrop for the haunting melodies and graceful dances rendered by leading
artists during the festivals organised by Delhi Tourism, amongst which some of the popular ones are
theRoshanara and Shalimar Bagh Festivals. These festivals mirror the multiplicity of cultures
and reflect the fusion of regional diversities which constitutes modern blend most harmoniously into a

whole.
Religious celebrations are a large part of Delhi's multicultural social life, and it's worth trying to take
time out to enjoy the city's fanfare traditional dances and vibrant costumes. The city is a host to
several secular festivals, when performers gather for music, dance and drama events.

Festivals in Delhi
Lohri (January)

The climax of winter is celebrated with bonfires and singing in this Lohri festivities. Traditionally, Lohri
marks the end of winter.
Republic Day(January)

Republic Day falls on 26th January. It is the most colorful of the city's festivals events and also the
biggest crowd-puller. Hundreds of thousands people line the route from Rajpath to the Red Fort to
watch the pageant of soldiers, camel crops, armored regiments, brass bands, folk dancers, school
children, war veterans and elaborate floats representing the cultural diversity of India. The two hour
long parade is usually rounded off with a much-awaited spectacular fly - passed presented by Air
Force squadrons. A special display of folk dances also takes place at the Talkatora Stadium.
Beating the Retreat (January)

On 29th January, the departure of the British is marked by a colourful ceremony with marching bands
from the armed forces, set against the imposing backdrop of the Rashtrapti Bhawan, the secretariats
and the setting sun. A rehearsal is generally held on 28 Jan, for which tickets are also available.
Id-Ul-Fitar(January)

Id-Ul-Fitar is celebrated to mark the end of Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting. It is an occasion
for feasting and rejoicing.
Martyrs' Day (January)

Martyrs' Day on 30 Jan. commemorates Mahatma Gandhi's and others' efforts for India's
independence. Participants gather at Raj Ghat for prayers and music.
Sikh Festival (January)

Sikh Festival is the birthday of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and is celebrated throughout the city.
Kite-Flying Festival (January)

The colourful kites cascade the horizons of Delhi on Makar Sankranti ,from the green lawns of Palika
Bazaar, Connaught Place, this extravaganza attracts national as well as international participants.
Basant Panchami (January- February)

The biting winter winds during the end of January-early February, brings along the Hindu festival of
Basant Panchami as welcome to the spring. This is the season when the prestigious Mughal gardens
behind Rashtrapati Bhavan are opened to public for a month.
Thyagaraja Festival (February)

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

Delhi is one of the greenest capitals in the world, with a long tradition of laying out of gardens, which
dot the city. It is this tradition that Delhi Tourism keeps alive by holding the Garden Tourism
Festival at the Talkatora Garden in February which is generally spread over three days and
generates much enthusiasm amongst the gardening fraternity. This is not only a visual feast since
Delhi is ablaze with flowers at this, but also a useful meeting ground for gardening enthusiasts, as
well as fun and frolic for children of all ages because it is based on particular themes.Highlights
include an on- the- spot painting competition for children , varieties of flower arrangements, cultural
programmes , stalls of rare plants , amusement park, puppet / magic shows , tourism pavilions of
different states of India and martialarts display. In addition , craftsmen from various parts of the
country display and sell their products here.
Thyagaraja Festival(February)

This festival of southern Indian music and dance is held in Vaikunthnath Temple across from Nehru
University.
Suraj Kund Mela(February)

Suraj Kund Mela is the popular Crafts Fair held at Suraj Kund that is set in a rural ambience, with folk
dancing, music and food from the different states.
Delhi Flower Show(February)

Delhi Flower Show An international horticultural exhibition of flowers, including hybrids is held on the
grounds of the Purana Qila.
Holi (March)

Holi, the festivals of colors, marks the onset of spring. On the eve of this exuberant Hindu spring
festival, bonfires burn all over the city, symbolizing the destruction of the devil Holika. The next day, in
celebration of the arrival of spring, people pelt one another with coloured paint.
Maha Shivratri (March)

Maha Shivratri is celebrated on the 'Amavasya' night of 'Phalguna'. It is said , that on this dark night
Lord Shiva danced the 'Tandava Nritya',( cosmic dance). He is worshipped at temples with all night
vigils and prayers and unmarried women keep day-long fasts so that Shiva may grant them good
husbands.
Shankarlal Sangeet Sammelan (March)

Shankarlal Sangeet Sammelan, a festival of Indian music. Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra, 1
Copernicus Marg.
Muharram (March)

Muharram is an Islamic New Year festival that commemorates the martyrdom of Muhammad's
grandson, Iman Husain.
Amir Khusrau's Anniversary (April)

Amir Khusrau's anniversary is celebrated in April, with a fair in Nizamuddin , prayers and 'qawwali'
singing. The event also observed as the National Drama Festival, staged mostly at the Rabindra
Bhawan.
Baisakhi (April)

At the onset of summer, when the sun gets fierce in the mid of April, north India, celebrates the Hindu
New Year as Baisakhi... This is also the beginning of the harvesting season.
Buddha Jayanti (May)

The first full moon night in May i.e the month of Vaisakha is celebrated as Buddha Purnima, not just
to commemorates Lord Buddha's birth, but also his 'Enlightenment' and gaining 'Nirvana'. . Prayer
meetings are held at Buddha Vihar, Ring Road and Buddha Vihar, Mandir Marg.
Mahavir Jayanti (May)

The birth of Lord Mahavira, who founded Jainism, is celebrated around this time of the year with
prayers and processions.

Sikh festival (June)

In June, martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, Sikh festival, is held throughout the city.
International Mango Festival (July)

To celebrate the advent of the king of fruits, Delhi Tourism holds the Mango Festival in the month of
July. Mentioned in the Vedas and Upanishads, the mango is considered auspicious and a symbol of
life and joy forever. The largest producer of mangoes, India grows more than eleven hundred
varieties of mangoes in different parts of the country. The Mango Festival is the place to discover the
magic of mangoes in all their immense variety. Often the Talkatora stadium is a host to this peculiar
event, where over five hundred different types of mango are on show, Tourists can enjoy the taste for
free and view a cultural programmes . It draws people from the country as well as businessmen, both
from home and abroad.
Independence Day (August)

15th August is celebrated in the city as 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 to hear the Prime Minister's address.
Janamashtami (August)

In August, the festival Janamashtami, celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna.

Gandhi Jayanti (October)

On 2nd October, this solemn celebration honours of the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat, the
site of his cremation.
Phoolkwalon-ki-Sair (October)

In early October, a festival specific to Mehrauli, in Delhi, takes place. This is the Phulwalon-ki-Sair or
the Flower Sellers Procession, which originated in the 16th century.
The highlight is a procession of people carrying decorated floral fans, which are blessed at the shrine
of the 13th century Sufi saint, Khwaja Utb-ud-din Bakhtyar Kaki and at the Hindu temple of Jogmaya,
both in Mehrauli. The procession ends with a formal ceremony at the Jahaz Mahal, a 16th century
pleasure resort by the side of a lake.
Qutub Festival (October)

Musicians and dancers perform at night by the city's 12th century landmark, the Qutub Minar which is
the venue for the Qutub Festival held in October . This festival organize by the Delhi Tourism
provides tourists a glimpse of the cultural grandeur of India. Here cultural events are held where
veterans of Indian classical music and dance and folk musicians give spectacular performances.
Dussehra (October- November)

Also in October is Dussehra, commemorating the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king,
Ravana. A month - long Ram Lila dance festival is organized by the Bhartiya Kala Kendra, depicting
scenes from the epic Ramayana, similar presentations of the Ramayana are organized in different
parts of the city. It concludes with the burning of giant effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhkaran &
his son Meghnad.
Navratri (October- November)

Navratri is a Hindu festival, that is celebrated throughout the city.

Guru Nanak Jayanti (November)

The birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, is celebrated with great
devotion.
Martyrdom of Guru (November)

Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji celebrated in November throughout the city

The International Trade Fair(November)

The International Trade Fair starts on the 14th of November every year. Held at the Pragati Maidan it
is a major event for the business community. Corporate houses from all over the world show their
wares and business deals are finalised in a big way. The fair is also a major tourist attraction and is
popular with many.
Pragati Maidan

Pragati Maidan is also host to many other fairs that include the Auto Expo and the Leather Fair.
Throughout the year Pragati Maidan is the venue for fairs and exhibitions. The Shakuntalam theatre
is located in Pragati Maidan and regular film shows are held here.
Diwali(October- November)

This important Hindu festival celebrates the victory of good over evil as depicted in the epic
Ramayana in the homecoming of Lord Rama after defeating Ravana. In the evening, public buildings
and homes are lit up with candles or oil lamps. Fireworks add noise and colour to this festival of
lights. The festival of lights is preceded by several Diwali Melas, where food, handicrafts and a
variety of earthern lamps and candles are sold.
Guru Purab (November - December)

Guru Purab is the celebration of the birth of first of the ten Sikh gurus, Guru Nanak. 'Nagar Kirtans'
are taken out through the streets and in the Gurdwaras, 'Granthees' recite verses from the Guru
Granth Sahib, the holy book of Sikhs.
Indian Dance Festivals(December)

In December, the India International Centre hosts frequent performances of classical Indian dance
and music. 40 Max Mueller Marg, Lodi Estate. Another dance venue is at the Hauz Khas Village,
10km south of Connaught Place. The Trevani Theatre Complex is a popular venue for year-round
student and professional dance and theater performances. 205 Tansen Marg, between Bengali
Market and India Gate.
Christmas (December)

On 25th of December the birth of Jesus Christ is celebrated in India, with the traditional exchange of
greetings and gifts. All major hotels and restaurants in the capital host special Christmas eve
entertainments, while the midnight mass and other services are organized by the churches.
New Year's Eve (December)

The culmination of the Indian festive spirit is celebrated on the 31st of December, with most hotels
and restaurants offering special food and entertainment packages.
Festivals
In addition, Dilli Haat offers tantalising flimpses of the vast storehouse of Indian culture by holding
regional festivals at its open air theatre. These are held from time to time throughout the year. These
festivals reflect the immerse diversity, the colour and the vibrancy of this ancient land, ranging as
they do from the Pongal and the Onam festivals from South India; Ganesh Chaturthi from
Maharashtra; Basant Panchami from North India and Bengal; Teej, the swing festival with which
Rajasthani women in particular, welcome the monsoon Baisakhi, celebrated in various forms all over
India, including Assam where it is known as Rangoli Bihu; and Diwali, the auspicious festival of lights.
Many more regional festivals from all over India are held at the popular Dilli Haat and are advertised
periodically.

Delhi Language

Delhi is very much a mini India, attracting people from all parts of the nation. A perfect example of
cosmopolitan culture. Languages commonly used are Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu and English.
Gardens, Parks & Picnic Spots
Ajmal Khan Park
Near Karol Bagh, spread over an area of five acres, has musical fountains run by Delhi Tourism that
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 heaven, particularly during the heat of
summer. The musical fountain is in operation for two hours every day after sunset except on
Tuesday.
Buddha Jayanti Park
Good picnic spot. In commemoration of 2,500th birth anniversary of Lord Buddha. Get there from
the Ridge Road, Shankar Road or Sardar Patel Marg.
Children's Park

Near India Gate, has swings, slides and an aquarium.

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.
India Gate Lawns
Beautiful lawns over a large area, a popular evening location. Ice cream and other snacks available
from mobile vendors.
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.
Ladakh Buddha Vihar
A closed area next to ISBT on Ring Road.
Lodhi Gardens
Another picnic spot and a joy for morning walkers with lots of greenery and trees. Access from Lodi
Road and near Khan Market.
Mughal Gardens
Located in the Rashtrapati Bhavan complex, it is open to the public only during February and
March.
Mehrauli
On the outskirts of Mehrauli near Qutab Minar, the Phool Walon ki Sair is held there in October
every year.
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.
Nehru Park
Near the Ashok Hotel in the Chanakyapuri, it is spread over an area of 85 acres landscaped.
Popular picnic spot.
Okhla Dam
Near the Yamuna Canal it has facilities for fishing. Close to the Holy Family Hospital it is a picnic
spot.
Rose Gardens
There is one at Shantipath in the Diplomatic Area, Chanakyapuri and another in Hauz Khas
opposite Safdarjang's Tomb.

Yamuna Water Front

South of Rajghat, it is a 4 kilometre long boulevard with green lawns and a floral clock.
Zoological Garden
Designed by the West German zoo specialist, Hergenbeck it is between Purana Qila and
Humayun's tomb. Closed on Fridays, it is a good picnic spot.
Other Adventures
Appu Ghar a Mini-Disneyland in New Delhi is a crowd puller for the residents of the capital as well
as those of neighbouring towns. Children will have a time of their life over here, while enjoying the
various rides like the Roller Coaster, the Big Splash, Dodgem Cars, the Eerie Tunnel, Giant Wheel,
Columbus Jhoola - a ship high up in the sky, the Speeding Cup, a Cable Car, a Saucer that works
on centrifugal force and lots more.
Jogging is popular at Lodi Gardens in South Delhi and Nehru Park in Chanakyapuri
Jain Bird Hospital located opposite the Red Fort is a great family outing. All children will enjoy
visiting this bird hospital, not only will they further learn to appreciate animals as a whole but it will
give both you and your children further insight into the species found in the area. You will find the
hospital in the courtyard of the Digambara Jain temple. The birds are cared for until they are well
enough to be released. In the Jain religion, any living thing is sacred.
Bird Watching in Delhi is a pleasant pastime and can be done at the Ridge and the green areas
surrounding the cities historic monuments. In winter, the Delhi Zoo is transformed into a small bird
sanctuary with migratory birds halting by its artificial lakes. Painted Strokes, Pintail Ducks, Bar
headed Geese and spot bill ducks are among the migratory birds which can be seen here. Delhi's
tree - lined avenues are also reach in avian life. So are the forests of Ridge, which harbour more
than 100 species of birds, from peacocks to predators. The Ridge is accessible through narrow
paths that lead off Sardar Patel Marg.
Azad Hind Gram Tourist Complex at Tikri Kalan is a project developed by Delhi Tourism to
honour Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and to create quality leisure space and wayside amenities for
the citizens. Located within two km of the Delhi Haryana border on NH-10, elaborate mosaic domes
surround a museum and a memorial and are the focus of the complex which offers the facilities of
extensive plazas, an amphitheatre, tourist information centre, souvenir and garden shop, food
kiosks, a restaurant and convention facilities.
Water Park can be found at the Village Club in the Fun "n" Food Village where you and your kids
can enjoy the longest water slide in the country, a 400 ft water channel, called the "Lazy River as
well as an artificial sea-like pool, which generates waves worth body skiing. There is also Aqua
Shoot comprising of two fast racing slides as well as a "Super Slide" which is the first slide of its
type in the world. For tiny tots, a kid's pool has been provided which contains a Frog Slide and
different types of floating toys. Open everyday, seven day's a week. The Fun "n" Food Village is free
entry to blind, physically handicapped children and senior citizens. All other visitors pay a minimal
fee for entry.
Walking Walk the bazaars as the narrow windy streets in the bazaar are themselves a novel
experience. Your kids will be fascinated by the colour and the many oddities on sale.
Jantar Mantar Observatory This "larger than life" stone observatory was built 450 years ago by
the Maharaja of Jaipur. There are plenty of stairs at the Jantar Mantar, making it the perfect place to
satisfy the need for younger kids to simply run around (not always easy to find the space in Delhi)
plus its educational and the older kids and parents will be fascinated by the discoveries you'll make
here. The various abstract structures within the Jantar Mantar are, in fact, instruments that were
used for keeping track of celestial bodies. Nevertheless, the Jantar Mantar is not only a timekeeper
of celestial bodies: it also tells a lot about the technological achievements under the Rajput kings
and their endeavour to unravel the mysteries pertaining to astronomy.
Sound and Light Show at Purana Quila The historic Purana Qila, which has stood witness to
Delhi's rejuvenation, periods of anarchy and the rise and fall of empires, is the venue for the
spectacular sound and light show which brings alive the history of the capital. The viewer is

Delhi Religious Places

Places of Worship
Central New Delhi
Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, Delhi's principal Sikh temple.This was the royal palace of Raja Jai Singh.
He dedicated this palace, to the sacred memory of Guru Harkishan, the eighth Guru of the Sikhs.
This gurudwara also has very warm and welcoming atmosphere like all Sikh places of worship efficient shoe deposit which is free of cost, genuinely devoted guides available at the entrance,
devotional shabads sung constantly from sunrise to 9pm, free food served three times daily, and
prasad.
Colonial churches
No British governmental centre could be complete without a church, and in 1927 work began on the
Church of the Redemption, east of Parliament House. Designed by Russell's successor, Henry
Medd, the robust structure owes more than a passing nod to Lutyens with its high curved vaults,
and subtle yet dominant domed tower - it appealed so much to the then-viceroy, Lord Irwin, that it
became known as "Viceroy's Church". The exterior is plain and boldly linear, while within, high
rounded arches and shafts of strong light streaming through crescent windows impart an
overwhelming sense of space. A company of angels looks down from the curved roof above the
altar.
Birla Mandir
Lakshmi Narayan Temple, popularly known as Birla Mandir, is a large Hindu temple. This
enchanting temple is located in the west of Connaught Place and was build by wealthy industrialist
G. D. Birla in 1938. The temple is dedicated to the goddess of prosperity and good fortune. It has
well crafted gardens. People of all faiths can enter and worship but one must walk barefoot into the
courtyard and further on.
Old Delhi (Shahjahanabad)
Digambara Jain temple and Jain Bird Hospital
Delhi's oldest Digambara Jain temple, directly opposite the entrance to the Red Fort, at the east end
of Chandni Chowk, was built in 1526, but has been modified and added to ever since, and remains
a haven of tranquillity amid the noise and chaos of the main street. Though not as ornate as the fine
temples in Gujarat and Rajasthan, it does boast detailed carvings, and gilded paintwork in the
antechambers surrounding the main shrine to Parshvanath, the twenty-third tirthankara. You'll have
to remove your shoes, and hand them over with your bags and all leather articles to a kiosk before
entering.
Gauri Shankar temple
Tucked behind fragrant mounds of marigolds, roses and jasmine blossoms sold on Chandni Chowk
just west of the Jain temple, the large marble Gauri Shankar temple, dominated by its eighthundred-year-old lingam, is Delhi's holiest Shiva temple. Devotees enter up a narrow flight of
marble steps, flanked by pillars carved with chains and bells, that opens onto a spacious courtyard,
always a scene of animated devotional activity. Inside, offerings for sale include bilva (wood apple)
leaves, chandan (sandalwood paste), marigolds, red powder, rice, and cotton threads. The main
sanctuary holds bejewelled statues of Gauri (Parvati) and Shankar (Shiva) standing beneath a silver
canopy, and the ancient brown stone lingam resting on a marble yoni encased in silver and draped
with silver serpents. Shrines to other deities line the south wall.
Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid is the largest mosque in India, and stands across the road from the Red Fort. Started
in 1644 and completed in 1656, it is the final architectural extravagance of Shah Jahan. More than
5000 workers were employed to complete it.. Built of red sandstone, the structure is 200 ft. in length
and 120 feet in width and the center portion of the dome that measures 201 feet high, is flanked by
two minars measuring 130 feet each. These minars are built in alternate strips of red sandstone and
white marble, each containing 130 steps..Its spacious courtyard holds thousands of the faithful who

offer prayers. This Mosque has three gateways, Four angle towers and two 40 m. high minarets.
You can enter the mosque but take precaution to take off your shoes and make sure that you are
properly dressed before entering. One can also go to the top of minarets and can have a birds eye
view of Delhi.
In the biggest Jama Masjid in India, it has a great treasure kept in the N-East corner of the white
shrine a hair of the beard of Hazrat Mahmmad, his used chappal, a chapter of Quran (original), the
canopy of his tombstone and the foot print of Mahmmad on the stone.
South Delhi
The Baha'i Temple
Situated atop the Kalkaji hill, this distinctive lotus shaped marvel in marble, surrounded by a
landscaped garden, has been dubbed the 'Taj Mahal of the 21st century. Completed in 1986, this
temple dedicated to the Lord Krishna is built by the Hare-Rama Hare- Krishna cult followers This
elegantly built complex of temples is one of the largest temple complexes in India.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.
The graveyard of Mahmood
The oldest graveyard of India lies at 4.08 km to the west of Kutub on way to Palam. It is built in 1229
in Hindu-Muslim sculptural combination. Mahmood the son of Iltutmis is laid here at rest. Very few
tourists come here to visit due to no publicity.
Khirki-ki-Masjid
Firoz Shah's Khirki-ki-Masjid, "The Mosque of Windows", famous for its heavy stone lattice
windows, lies in the middle of one of South Delhi's villages close to the site of Jahanpanah, Delhi's
fourth city, 4km east of Qutab Minar and 13km south of Connaught Place.
Moth-ki-Masjid
The Moth-ki-Masjid, built during the reign of Sikandar Lodi (1488-1517), is now all but abandoned,
isolated in a rural setting within the rapidly spreading suburbs of south Delhi, 2km from Hauz Khas
off the Delhi-Mehrauli Road.
Quwwat Ul Islam Mosque
The contruction of the mosque was begun in 1193 AD by Qutb-Ud-Din Aibak of the Mamluk(or the
slave) dynasty and completed in 1197 AD. A massive stone screen of lofty five arches was put up in
front of its prayer hall, which imparted an Islamic character to the building. The screen is beautifully
carved with borders of inscriptions and geometrical and arabesque designs. Subsequently, the
mosque was enlarged by two later rulers, Shansuddin Iltutmish (1211 - 1236 AD) and Alauddin
Khalji (1296 - 1316 AD). The screens of these two sultans are carved with purely islamic motifs
abounding in geometric patterns. This mosque is also known as the Quwwat Ul Islam (Might of
Islam), as this is the earliest mosque in the country that has survived the blow of time. It consists of
a rectangular courtyard, 43.2 sq metres by 32.9 sq metres, enclosed by cloisters which were
erected by Qutb-Ud-Din Aibak, with carved columns and other architectural members of twenty
similar Hindu and Jain temples.
Iron Pillar
The seven-metre-high pillar stands in the courtyard of the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque and has been
there since long before the mosque's construction. This temple displays a number of relics that has
enabled historians to determine its origin. For instance, an inscription in sanskrit of six lines clearly
indicates that it was initially erected outside a Vishnu temple, possibly in Bihar and was raised in
memory of the Gupta King Chandragupta Vikramaditya, who ruled from 375 to 413. It is supposedly
built in the same era. There's even a hole on the top where there might have been a sculpture of
Garuda, Vishnu's celestial vehicle. The inscription does not tell us that how it was made. The quality
of the iron used for constructing the pillar is exceptionally pure and has not rusted even partially
after 2000 years. It is said that if you can encircle the pillar with your hands whilst standing with your
back towards it, your wish will be fulfilled. But the pillar can't be encircled any longer, since the ASI
has protected it with a railing. Chattarpur Mandir this entire complex of temples is called Chattarpur
Mandir and is located beyond the Qutab Minar in Mehrauli. Dedicated to Goddess Durga, built in
South Indian style the temple complex is spread over a large area with beautiful lawns and gardens.
Though devotees visit these temples through the year, during the navratras, devotees come from

Delhi Sports Facilities

Sports Stadium
Built for the 10th asiad held in 1982. The best known are the Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium with a
seating capacity of 75000, the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium (capacity 25000), the Yamuna
Velodrome (capacity 2250), the Talkotra Indoor Stadium and the Tughtaqabad Shooting Range.
Sports & Recreation
Adventure Activities
From time immemorial Delhi has attracted people with a penchant for adventure for which Delhi
Tourism now provides avenues.
Rock Climbing - Equipment and training is provided to aspiring rock climbers in and around
Delhi from October to March.
Trekking - India is the ultimate destination for a trekking holiday, offering everything from short
and easy excursions that kids can handle to the long challenges of the snowy peaks. To take a trek
in India is to rediscover the awesome majesty and beauty of nature around us. Trekkers are
reminded that it is forbidden to enter Restricted and Protected Areas without the correct
documentation. Please consult the Tourist Office before departure or local tourist offices on arrival in
India to ascertain what restrictions may apply and what documentation may be required. Delhi
Tourism's infrastructural network and trained outdoor staff help you to choose from the endless
trekking options India offers - ranging from some of the world's highest mountains, greatest deserts,
rivers, lakes, sea beaches and rain forests.The trekking season varies from region to region; check
with the Tourist Office for further information. In general, the season runs from April to June and
September to November.
Water Sports - A multi-sports and leisure complex has been created by Delhi Tourism at
Bhalswa Lake, situated at Delhi's northeastern edge. This offers facilities for boating in pedal boats,
kayaks, canoes and speed boats. Keen anglers can also indulge in fishing. Hovercraft and water
scooters have been introduced for the first time in Delhi at this lake. Pedal boats at reasonable rates
are available at the Hari Nagar, India Gate, Purana Qila, Prasad Nagar and Naini Lakes. Special
training programmes in Kayaking and canoeing are organised at Prasad Nagar Lake and Naini
Lake.
Parasailing - For the truly adventurous, parasailing is available at Kanwar Shikha near Sohna in
Haryana, about 60 kms from Delhi. Soar like an eagle under the watchful eyes of professional
instructors.
Adventure Club - Open to all Indian national above the age of ten years, this club promotes
adventure activities. The club provides special packages in all adventure activities - parasailing,
mountain expeditions, trekking, rock climbing, adventure camps and water sports, including river
rafting in the Ganga. Delhi Tourism has also established a water sports club.
Ballooning What better experience could you offer your kids and what a brilliant way to escape
the throng of humanity that is ever present on the ground? The Balloon Club of India on 8-B,
Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg is a wonderful way to view the surrounding area. Balloons generally hold
from one to ten people and can rise to heights of over 800 feet. THe other place to contact
regarding this sport is Wanderlust located opposite the Hyatt Regency, New Delhi.
Bike Safaris are an excellent way to discover Delhi and its surrounds and a good way to keep
burn your kid's energy.
Bungee Jumping Wanderlust Travels has set up a mobile crane for bungee jumping in
Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi. This is a great activity for those brave folk out there. If you
are not up to it yourself, you can get some photos of those who are mad enough to give it a go.

Fishing This is a wonderfully relaxing pastime and if you enjoy this sport or want to try your hand
at it, pop down to the Badhkal Lake, Surajkund, Okhla located on Mathura Road (closed on
Mondays).
Fun "n" Food Village presents reflections of past traditions and is an attempt to promote Indian
culture and traditional arts and crafts. It offers variety of amusement rides catering to all age groups
and provides an opportunity to meet artisans and craftsmen who display their talents and exhibit
their creations before the public. There is also an open-air Theatre, amusement rides and an animal
parade worth seeing. Open everyday, seven day's a week. The Fun "n" Food Village has free entry
to blind, physically handicapped children and senior citizens. All other visitors pay a minimal fee for
entry.
Ice Games Appu Ghar has now introduced ice games at Oysters, where four acres of the Water
Park are blanketed with ice for winter sports. These include sledding, skiing, ice boating, where one
can row through a river full of icebergs and go bowling on ice. Amusements for the grown ups are
also available over here such as Rain Dance, Ice Dance all to the tune of fast music and according
to the seasons in Delhi. This water park is the best place to cool down the sultry summer heat. Entry
to the park is from Gate No. 4 at Pragati Maidan and you can visit the park on Mondays to
Saturdays from 1.30 to 9.30pm and on Sundays from Noon to 9.30pm.
Water Sports A multi-sports and leisure complex has been created by Delhi Tourism at Bhalswa
Lake, situated at Delhi's north-eastern edge. This offers facilities for boating in pedal boats, kayaks,
canoes and speed boats. Keen anglers can also indulge in fishing. Hovercraft and water scooters
are also available here. Pedal boats at reasonable rates are available at the Hari Nagar, India Gate,
Purana Quila and Naini lakes. Special training programmes in kayaking and canoeing are organised
at all the lakes. Call the Tourist Department for more information.
White Water Rafting or River Running is a fairly young sport in India and is really only safe for
the bigger kids among you. The snow-fed mountain rivers that run down from the mighty Himalayas
make northern India one of the best regions in the world for this sport.
Some adventure activities organized by Delhi Tourism & Transportation
Development Corporation are :
Rock climbing is organised at Lado Sarai near Qutab Minar.
Para Sailing on special demand is done at Dhauj in Haryana.
Cycle Tours : The forest around the rock climbing area can be explored on bycycles and walking
towards of the Mehrauli Woodland are an eye opener as the entire area has a large number of
monuments dating back some eight to nine century.
ADVENTURE SPORTS
Delhi Tourism
Adventure Tourism Division, Coffee Home Annexe, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Ph.: 3363607
Kayaking & Canoeing; Hovercraft, Motorboat, Waterscooter Rides, Pedal Boating, Roving Boats at
Bhaleswa lake, Timings: 10 am to 6 pm. daily. Parasailing including training at Sohna, Haryana.

BALOONING
The Balooning Club of India
8-B, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, Ph.: 3317977

BOATING

Badhkal Lake & Surajkund Lake Haryana Tourism, 3324910 Defence Service Sailing Club, Okhla

BOWLING
First Bowl
32, Milestones Complex, Delhi-Jaipur Bypass, Gurgaon Ph: 8-322528
Leisure Bowl
Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, Vasant Kunj, Ph.: 6895247, 6894229
Little paradise
12/7, Mathura Road, Faridabad, Ph.: 8-278469
Qutabowl
Qutab Hotel, Shaheed Jeet Singh Marg, Ph.: 6862711

CYCLING
Yamuna Velodrome
Indraprastha Estate, Ph.: 3731613

FISHING
Badhkal Lake
Surajkund
Okhla
Delhi-Mathura Road, Mon. closed

FLYING
Delhi Flying Club
Safdarjung airport, Ph.: 4618271/4699596

GLIDING
Delhi Gliding Club
Safdarjung airport, Ph.: 4636052, Timings: daily 1 pm till sunset except wednesday.

GOLF
Army Golf Club
Delhi Cantt.
Delhi Golf Club
Dr. Zakir Hussain Marg, Ph.: 4362768
DDA Siri Fort Sports Complex
Ph.: 6467842
Noida Golf Club
Ph.: 8572753
Arawali Golf Club
Surajkund Tourist Complex, Hotel Raj Hans
Faridabad Golf Club
Ph.: 8214810

MOUNTAINEERING
Indian Mountaineering Federation
Benito Juarez Marg, Ph.: 4677935

MOTOR SPORT
Rallying - Performance Car Racing Trust
147, Kilokari, Ring Road, Ph.: 6835258
Vintage Car
Statesman House, 148, Barakhamba Road, Ph.: 3315911-17

POLO
Polo Club
61, Cavalry Cariappa Marg, Delhi Cantt.,
Ph.: 3299444/777 (Polo Season Oct. to March)

RIDING
Delhi Riding Club

Safdarjung Rd., Ph.: 3011891

Children's Riding Club
Ph.: 3012265

SAILING
Defence Service Sailing Club
Ph.: 3019604
Okhla
Ph.: 6830863

SHOOTING
Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range
Surajkund Road, Ph.: 6986802.

SQUASH
At all DDA Sports Complexes and Clubs

SWIMMING
All deluxe and luxury hotels.
Talkatora Pool
Ph.: 3019901
National Stadium Complex
Opp. India Gate, near Patiala house, Ph.: 3389470

NDMC Pool
Nehru Park, Laxmi Bai Ngr. School and Sarojini Ngr.

TENNIS
Delhi Tennis Association
Africa Avenue, Ph.: 6515899
Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium

Bhishama Pitamah Road, Ph.: 4629400

National Sports Club of India
Opp. Purana Qila, Mathu
Delhi Tourism
N-36 Bombay Life Building, Middle Circle, Connaught Place Ph. 011/331 4229.

Delhi Jogging Tracks

Delhi

boasts

of

large

number

of

well

maintained

jogging

tracks.

Hibiscus Garden : It covers an area of 8 acres and adjoins the Dakshin Marg in sector 36. About
40 different varieties of Hibiscus shrubs attracts the city residents in early morning and evening hours
for walk and breath in healthy air.
Delhi Museums

The

National

Museum

The National Museum, Located On Janpath, South Of Rajpath, Has A Good Collection Of Indian
Bronzes, Terracotta And Wood Sculptures Dating Back To The Mauryan Period ( 2nd-3rd Century
Bc), Exhibits From The Vijayanagar Period In South India, Miniature And Mural Paintings, And
Costumes Of Various Tribal People. The Museum Is Definitely Worth Visiting And Is Open Tuesday
To Sunday From 10 Am To 5 Pm. There Are Film Shows Most Days Of The
Week.Ph.:23019272/9352(Monday
closed).
National

Gallery

Of

Modern

Art

The Gallery Near India Gate At The Eastern End Of Rajpath, Was The Former Residence Of The
Maharaja Of Jaipur. It Houses An Excellent Collection Of Works By Both Indian And Colonial
Artists.It Is Open Daily From 10 Am To 5 Pm; Admission Is Free. Ph.:2338-2835/8853(Monday
Closed).

Nehru

Museum

The Residence Of The First Indian Prime Minister, Teen Murti Bhavan, Has Been Converted Into A
Museum.
It
Is
Located
On
Teen
Murti
Rd.
Near
Chanakyapuri.
Photographs And Newspaper Clippings On Display Give A Fascinating Insight Into The History Of
The Independence Movement. It Also Forms The Subject Of A Light And Sound Show Along With
Facets Of Nehru's Life.The Museum Is Open Tuesday To Sunday From 10 Am To 5 Pm. Admission
Is
Free.
Rail

Transport

Museum

Visit This Museum At Chanakyapuri For A Fascinating And Exotic Collection Of India's Railway

Engines. Exhibit's Include An 1855 Steam Engine, Still In Working Order, And A Large Number Of
Oddities Such As The Skull Of An Elephant That Charged A Mail Train In 1894, And Lost. The
Museum Is Open Tuesday To Sunday From 9.30 Am To 5 Pm And There's A Small Admission
Fee.Ph.:26881816(Monday
closed).
Tibet

House

This Small Museum In The Institutional Area, Lodi Rd, Has A Fascinating Collection Of Ceremonial
Items Brought Out Of Tibet When The Dalai Lama Fled Following The Chinese Occupation. There
Is A Shop Selling A Wide Range Of Tibetan Handicrafts. Lecture/Discussion Sessions Are Held
Regularly. The Museum Is Open Monday To Saturday From 10 Am To 1 Pm And 2 To 5 Pm.
Admission
Is
Free.
Ph:
24611515(sat.
&
sun
closed)
International

Dolls

Museum

6000 Dolls From 85 Countries Are On Display In This Museum In Nehru House On Bahadur Shah
Zafar Marg. Over A Third Of Them Are From India. One Exhibit Section Comprises 500 Dolls
Dressed In Costumes Worn All Over The Country. The Museum Is Open Tuesday To Sunday From
10
Am
To
5.30
Pm.
Ph.
23316970-74
Crafts

Museum

This Museum Contains A Collection Of Traditional Indian Crafts In Textiles, Metal, Wood And
Ceramics. It Is Located In The Aditi Pavilion At The Pragati Maidan, Exhibition Grounds,near gate
no. 1. ,Mathura Rd. It Is Part Of A 'Village Life' Complex Where You Can Visit Rural India Without
Ever
Leaving
Delhi.
Admission
Is
Free.ph.:23371641/1370
(Monday
closed.)
Gandhi

Darshan

Located At Raj Ghat, The Gandhi Darshan Is A Display Of Paintings And Photos About The
Mahatma's Life and Deeds. The Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya, Also At Raj Ghat, Has Displays Of
Some
Of
Gandhi's
Personal
Possessions.Ph.:23111793/0619(Monday
closed)
Indira

Gandhi

Memorial

Museum

This Museum Was The Former Residence Of Indira Gandhi At 1 Safdarjang Rd. On Show Are
Some Of Her Personal Effects, Including The Sari (Complete With Blood Stains) That She Was
Wearing At The Time Of Her Assassination. A Crystal Plaque In The Garden, Flanked Constantly By
Two Soldiers, Protects A Few Brown Spots Of Mrs Gandhi's Blood On The Spot Where She Actually
Fell After Being Shot By Two Of Her Bodyguards In December 1984.Ph.:23010094(Monday
closed).
Nehru

Planetarium

Situated At Teen Murti House The Planetarium Holds Film Shows On The Solar System In English
(11.30 A.M. & 3 P.M.) And Hindi (4 P.M.& 1.30 P.M.). A Special Show In Hindi (10.30 A.M.) Is Held
On
Sundays.
Closed
On
Mondays
And
Public
Holidays.
Ph.
23014504.
National

Science

Centre

Museum

Located Near Gate No.1, Pragati Maidan,The Museum Has Working Science Exhibitions As Well As
Exhibits On The History Of Architecture. Open 11.30 Am - 7 Pm. Entry Free. Mondays Closed.Ph.
23371263.

National
Kerala

Children's
Road,

Air

A.M.-12

Force

Noon,

Museum
P.M.

Museum

-5

&

Pm.

Tel:

War

3317856.
Memorial

Situated at Palam. It houses a rare collection of air-crafts, drawings & photographs. Ph.: 25667684.
Closed
Mon.
&
Tues.
Bal
1,

Bhawan
Kotla

Road,

Near

ITO.

Ph.:23267961

(Monday

Field

Closed)
Museum

Field museum is located inside Purana Qila and houses a collection of archaeological findings from
the
excavations
carried
out
by
ASI.
Indian

War

Memorial

A collection of arms and armour from the Mughal period till the 1st World War are displayed in this
museum,
which
is
located
inside
the
Red
Fort.
Ph.:23273703
ISKON
East
National

Vedic
of
Museum

Museum
Kailash,

of

Ph.:26235133
Natural

History

FICCI Building ,Tansen Marg-1, near Bangali Market, featuring stress on ecology, Earth's natural
resources
on
display.
Ph.:23710576,
23319173/4949.
National

Philatelic

Museum

Situated near Patel Chowk on Sansad Marg in Post & Telegraph Office Building.It displays rare
collection of rare stamps & 1st day covers.Counter for sale of stamps from all over the world. Ph.:
23036727(sat.
&
sun.
closed).

Railway Enquiry

General Enquiry

131
3366177/3366162

Arriwal

Central Enquiry
Reservation

3313535
3348686/3348787

Departure

North

1331

North

1336

East

1332

East

1337

West

1333

West

1338

South

1334

South

1339

Roadways Enquiry

I.S.B.T.

D.T.C.

General & D.T.C. Enquiry

2968709

Head Office

3315085

Haryana Roadways

2961262

Local Enquiry (City Office)

3371745

Himachal Pardesh

2966725

Central Distt.(Enquiry)

3317445
ext. 217

Punjab Roadways

2968836

Rajasthan Roadways

2961246

U.P. Roadways

2961246

Telephone Services

Computerised # Check Durectory Enquiry

197

English

1952

Local Assistance

199

Hindi

1951

Fault Repair

exchange
code+2198

Trunk Manual

Inland

International

Booking

180

Booking

186

Assistance(Information)

181

Assistance(Directory Enquiry)

187

Information(Directory
enquiry-Outstation)

183

Tourist Enquiry
Govt. of India(ITDC)

3314229, 3365358

Haryana

3324910, 3324911

Himachal Pradesh

3325320, 3324764

Punjab

3343055

Rajasthan

3383837, 3389525

Uttar Pradesh

3711296/3322251

Other Important Numbers

All India Radio

3715411/3710006

Central Board of Secondary Education

2209252/59

Longitude and Latitude of Delhi

Latitude: 28.38 N

Longitude: 77.12 E

Embassies
Embassies, High Commissions, Honorary Consulates

Afghanistan
F-5/50, Shanti Path, Chanakyapuri
Ph.: 26883601/602
Algeria
E-6/5 vasant Vihar Ph: 26147036,
26176706
Angola
C-17 Malcha Marg, Chanakyapuri
ph: 26110701
Argentina
B-2 , Anand Niketan Ph:
24104836/46/56
Armenia
E-1/20, Vasant Vihar Ph:
26147328, 26153037
Australia
G-1/50, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri
Ph : 26888223
Austria
EP-13, Chandragupt Marg,
Chanakyapuri Ph: 26889037/49
Bangladesh
56, Ring Road, Lajpat Nagar 111
Ph: 26834065
Belarus