Highlights
Historical Sites
No trip to Delhi would be complete without visiting some of the city’s remarkable historical sites. Explore the impressive Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site commissioned by Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan, in 1638, as the seat of the Mughal Empire. A striking sandstone structure, it took ten years to build (1638-48) and was an innovative design for its time. Meanwhile, Humayun's Tomb was commissioned by the widow of Mughal Emperor, Humayun, and is thought to have inspired the design of the Taj Mahal. The tomb is part of a walled complex that incorporates the Lodi Gardens, which were built by the British in 1936.
Religious Monuments
Located in a tranquil setting in the heart of Old Delhi’s bustling streets lies Jama Masjid (meaning Friday Mosque) India’s largest mosque. Built in 1656 by Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan, the building can hold a staggering 25,000 people. Its architecture is equally impressive and highly decorative, boasting plenty of sandstone inlaid with marble and brass. For a much more recent monument, the lotus-shaped Bahai Temple, which was completed in 1986, is particularly beautiful in the evening, when the surrounding pools, gardens and the temple itself are lit up in all their glory.
Shopping
Visit Old Delhi’s historic Chandni Chowk, which has roots dating back to medieval times and is now home to the city's largest marketplace. Especially good for silver jewellery, spices and silk, it’s an excellent place to pick up authentic gifts to take home. Perhaps Khan Market is up your street, hosting Delhi’s most upmarket enclave and a favourite amongst the elites and expats. Wander around its boutiques brimming with fashion, homewares and books, before stopping off for an authentic, flavoursome bite to eat.
Festivals
As the capital of India, festivals are celebrated in a big way in Delhi, and many Indian cultures and traditions can be seen here during this time. Hardly a month goes by without a festival and one of the most interesting, and certainly the most colourful, is the springtime festival of Holi, that falls on the day after the full moon in March. It celebrates good conquering evil and is an opportunity to put differences aside. On the eve of Holi, people make bonfires before, on the actual day, applying colourful powders and pastes and rejoicing with music, food and dancing.