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Bustling Delhi is a showstopper of an Indian city: a riot of colour, excitement and traffic. Scattered amongst the hustled crowds are serene temples, ancient monuments and brilliant bargains. Of course, the real star in India is the food. Eye-watering curries, healthy chaat and puffy samosas are on the menu, so tuck in.
1/tab.galleryImage.size}Vibrant, colourful and just a little chaotic, Main Bazaar in New Delhi’s Paharganj neighbourhood is a shopper’s paradise selling everything from bedspreads to Indian tea
2/tab.galleryImage.size}Constructed in the 16th century for the Mughal emperor, Humayun's Tomb’s pleasing proportions and symmetry are said to have been the inspiration for the Taj Mahal
3/tab.galleryImage.size}Iconic and imposing, the India Gate stands in the centre of New Delhi and commemorates the 90,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives in World War I
4/tab.galleryImage.size}Once the main residence of the Mughal dynasty, the historical Red Fort now houses a number of fascinating museums
5/tab.galleryImage.size}The Jama Masjid is India’s largest mosque and a tranquil spot to catch your breath amidst the hustle and bustle of Old Delhi
6/tab.galleryImage.size}Made of white marble topped with glittering gold domes, the magnificent Sikh temple of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is said to have healing powers
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Vibrant, colourful and just a little chaotic, Main Bazaar in New Delhi’s Paharganj neighbourhood is a shopper’s paradise selling everything from bedspreads to Indian tea
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Constructed in the 16th century for the Mughal emperor, Humayun's Tomb’s pleasing proportions and symmetry are said to have been the inspiration for the Taj Mahal
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Iconic and imposing, the India Gate stands in the centre of New Delhi and commemorates the 90,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives in World War I
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Once the main residence of the Mughal dynasty, the historical Red Fort now houses a number of fascinating museums
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The Jama Masjid is India’s largest mosque and a tranquil spot to catch your breath amidst the hustle and bustle of Old Delhi
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Made of white marble topped with glittering gold domes, the magnificent Sikh temple of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is said to have healing powers
Things to do
We've chosen the must-see highlights of this fantastic city.
We've chosen the must-see highlights of this fantastic city.
Do
National Gandhi Museum
Learn about Mahatma Gandhi's life and philosophy at this expansive museum, which houses some of his personal effects, including the blood-stained dhoti and shawl he was wearing at the time of his assassination in 1948.
This 12th-century, 72.5-metre-tall structure, one of the first great Muslim monuments in India, is the tallest minaret in India. Historians believe it may be a victory tower for the mosque next door, built by the first Sultan of Delhi.
This intimate, wood-panelled bar exudes classic masculinity. Kick back in a leather armchair and enjoy a fine spirit or cocktail. The cigar-smoked honeycomb martini comes with a serving of raw honey on a silver spoon, to be nibbled between sips.
Location
The Leela Palace New Delhi, Chanakyapuri, Diplomatic Enclave
Strolling through the neat gardens of this expansive park at sunset is a local favourite. Marvel at the 15th-century tombs, dodge squirrels and dogs, and listen to the plethora of birds in the treetops. Sundays are for picnics and casual games of cricket.
Location
Lodi Road, South Delhi
Do
Qawwalis at Nizamuddin Dargah
Every Thursday evening, tourists and locals flock to the mausoleum of Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya to hear qawwalis, or Islamic devotional songs, played in the open-air courtyard. It can get crowded, but it's worth it: the trance-inducing music is magical.
Location
Nizamuddin West, South Delhi
Eat
Kainoosh
Celebrity chef Marut Sikka spent a decade collecting recipes from across India. He offers refined versions of these regional dishes in this upmarket restaurant. Try the excellent thalis, which present a selection of some of the finest dishes.
This has everything from book shops to boutiques, patisseries to pet shops. Pick up a pair of jeans at Levi's or choose a contemporary salwar kameez (tunic and trousers) from Anokhi. Silvermine is great for jewellery while Anand Stationers offers handmade cards.
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