Delhi/Central Delhi
Central Delhi is a district in Delhi. The district contains (in its southern part) the historic core of Delhi, also known as Old Delhi. The northern parts of the district were developed mainly during the days of British rule, and are known for their Raj era buildings and institutions. The most important attractions here are the Red Fort an UNESCO World Heritageand the Jama Masjid, the principle mosque of Delhi. It also has several markets and iss known for its variety of street food.
Understand
Central Delhi contains a interesting mix of architecture from the Sultanate, Mughal and the colonial period. It contains two of Delhi's ancient citadels, Firozabad (Feroz Shah Kotla) and Sahajanabad. Ferozabad was constructed in 1354 by Feroz Shah Tughlaq. The Shahjahanabad was constructed by the fourth Mughal ruler Shahjahan and consisted of a wall city centred on the Red Fort (an UNESCO Heritage Site) and Jama Masjid. Central Delhi is centred round the Chadni Chowk a paradise for street food lovers. It is also a favourite hunting place for shoppers. The area contains several gateways, hunting lodges and stepwells of the Sultanate period. There are also two Ashokan Pillars which were brought to Delhi by Feroz Shah Tughlaq. A significant amount of colonial architecture is present in the area and includes war memorials, churches and a couple of Christian Cemeteries.
Get in
By train
Central Delhi houses the two major stations of Delhi, thus providing a direct access to visitors coming to Delhi by train.
By bus
- 3 ISBT, Kashmir Gate (Interstate Bus Terminus). Kashmere Gate is the major bus terminal in Delhi. It connects Delhi to rest of India. Central Delhi is also connected to the rest of the city by Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses. Private Blue Line buses (orange colour) also connects central Delhi to the rest of the city.
By metro
- 4 New Delhi Metro (Orange Line). Connects the Airport with New Delhi Railway Station thus providing direct access to Central Delhi for air passengers arriving in Delhi
Apart from the orange line Central Delhi area has four other metro lines. Kashmere Gate lies at the junction of Yellow Line, Violet Line and Red Line of Delhi Metro. The three lines connects Central Delhi to the rest of Delhi. The blue line passes through the southern edge of the Central Delhi.
Geting around
Map of Delhi/Central Delhi
Metro
The orange line of Delhi Metro connects the airport to the New Delhi station. The region has three other lines red, yellow and violet line. These line meet at the Kashmere Gate Metro Station and provides an easy access to most of the tourist spots of the region. The blue line also runs along the southern edge of the central Delhi region.
- 5 Kashmere Gate. Kashmiri Gate lies at the junction of Yellow Line, Violet Line and Red Line of Delhi Metro
Red line
Violet line
Yellow line
Blue Line
Bus
Delhi Transport Corporation(DTC) operates both air conditioned and non air conditioned buses in these area. Blue line (orange coloured) private buses are also in operation.
Auto Rickshaw
Auto rickshaws (also called three-wheeled scooters, tuk-tuks or simply autos) are good for shorter trips. They don't run on meters and prices are fixed before the trip. Fares are generally over quoted and needs to negotiated before the trips begins.
Cycle Rickshaw
Three wheeled paddle/electric rickshaws are ideal for very short trips. Prices needs to be negotiated and fixed before the trips start.
See
Red Fort
- 1 Red Fort (Lal Qila) (Lal Qila metro station (Vilet Line)). is one of Delhi's top tourist sights and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A brilliant red sandstone fort built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan (who also built Agra's Taj Mahal) as his ruling palace. Completed in 1648, the years since have not treated the buildings kindly: the rooms have long since been stripped of all objects, the marble inlays are long gone and quite a few buildings are off limits. Still, the scale remains imposing and the gardens are kept lush and green even in midwinter. The Red Fort buildings within include
- 2 Chatta Chowk (Covered Bazaar). True to the name, this is a covered bazaar between the gate and the fort itself, now filled with souvenir hawkers.
- 3 Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience). This building separates the outer court from the inner court, and has a marble platform for the emperor's throne.
- 4 Hayat Bakhsh Bagh (Life-Bestowing Gardens). Once a grand garden of full of fountains and streams, now sadly all dry — only dry channels and acres of green grass remain. Near here will you find the Sawan Pavilion
- 5 Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience). Built completely of marble, this is where the emperor received special visitors.
- 6 Khas Mahal (Private Palace). The Emperor's main residence. The octagonal Mussaman Burj tower looks out toward the Yamuna River, and is where the Emperor used to appear before the public for each morning.
- 7 Rang Mahal (Colour Palace). The residence of the Sultan's main wife.
- 8 Mumtaz Mahal (Jewel Palace, Persian/Urdu ممتاز محل [mumˈt̪aːz mɛˈɦɛl]; meaning "beloved ornament of the palace"). Contained six apartments for the Sultan's harem. Now used as a museum of court textiles, carpets, weapons, etc. free.
- 9 Daawat Khana (at the northmost end of the Fort). A minor palace, this was originally the residence of a prince, but it was converted into a tea house by the British, a function it continues today. Basic meals cost around ₹ 60, drinks ₹ 10-20, and it also has the cleanest toilets around.
- 10 Swatantra Sangrama Sangrahalaya (Museum of the Independence Movement). To the left after the Chatta Chowk, this is a reasonably well-presented museum on the history of independence activism in India, starting from the Mutiny of 1857 all the way to Gandhi.
The only open entrance is Lahore Gate, on the west side. Security in and around the Fort is very heavy, as it was the scene of a terrorist attack in 2000 that killed three people. Bags are allowed, but they'll be X-rayed and you'll be patted down. Tickets cost ₹30/500 for Indians/foreigners, photography free, video cameras ₹25 extra. Tickets can be bought online at the official Archaeological Survey of India website. Open sunrise to sunset daily except Monday. Allow for 3-4 hr in your schedule in case of long weekends and national holidays as lot of tourists flock around then. The most scenic way of reaching the fort is to take the Metro to Chawri Bazaar and then a cycle-rickshaw through the incredibly packed bazaar to the Fort (price negotiable, aim for ₹20).
The fort has a light and sound show (₹50) in the evenings from 7:30-9PM, depending on the season.
Be careful buying tickets at the booth, as the ticket sellers will attempt to shortchange you. Try to have a small bill. Due to enhanced security the parking can be a bit tricky as the walk from the now distanced away parking at nearby alternative slots is quite a bit. The congested traffic makes crossing the road even trickier.
- 11 Salim Garh Fort.
Feroz Shah Kotla
Feroz Shah Kotla is the Delhi's cricket stadium. It also houses the ruins of the fifth city of Delhi Feroz Shah Kotla or Ferozabad. It was founded by Feroz Shah Tughlaq. The area also houses the notorious Khooni Darwaza.
- 12 Feroz Shah Kotla. Feroz Shah Kotla is the fifith citadel of Delhi and was built by Feroz Shah Tughlaq in 1354. The previous citadels of Delhi were abandoned due to lack of water, so Feroz Shah Kotla was built right next to the Yamuna River. Today the ruins of Feroz Shah Kotla lies nestles between the cricket stadium, of the same name, and the Ring Road. The ruins of the Feroze Shah Kotla is said to be the abode of friendly djinns (spirit) and every Thursday hordes of devotees, irrespective of religion, visit the ruins of Feroz Shah Kotla with photocopies of letters, citing there problems. They stick the letters on different strategic spots of the citadel and offer prayers to the Djinns. Feroz Shah Kotla still houses several interesting ruins, although minimalist in nature, they still reveal the former glory and splendor of the ancient citadel. The ruins of the citadel are scattered over a large area and consists of a handful of prominent structures like the Hawa Mahal, Jami Masjid and Circular Stepwell.
- 13 Hawa Mahal (A three stage steeped pyramid with the Ashokan Pillar at the top). Hawa Mahal or Kushk-i-Shikar lies on the northern end of the citadel and is crowned with the Ashokan Pillar (Minar-e-Zarreen). It is built with a central solid core and vaulted cells around it. Stairs at the comers lead to the uppermost terrace where the Ashokan pillar is planted. The pillar waas originally from Topar in Ambala. It was shifted to the present location by Feroz Shah Tughlaq. The pillar has inscription in Prakit language. Stairs leads to the very top of the stepped pyramid providing close views of the inscription of the pillar along with a bird's eye view of the entire complex and beyond.
- 14 Jami Masjid (Feroz Shah Kotla) (Main Mosque of the citadel). The Jami Masjid, or the main Mosque. lies just south of the Hawa Mahal. It is a gigantic mosque and approached by a long flight of stairs. During the time of construction it was the largest mosque of Delhi and was a inspiration for the Jama Masjid, the present largest Mosque in Delhi. The mosque is built of quartzite stone. It rests on a series of cells on the ground floor. Entrance is through a domed pavilion on the north, the pavilion in turn is approached by a long flight of steps. The roof of the mosque has long collapsed and apart from the side wall and a few pillars are all that is left of the grand prayer hall. Strangely the Jami Masjid is still an active mosque and attracts thousand of devotees during the time of eid. Even on normal days large groups of local Muslims along with Muslim office staff from nearby offices drop in for there daily namaz.
- 15 Circular Baoli (A circular stepwell). Just in front of the step pyramid of Hawa Mahal lies the circular stepwell. Delhi has a number of stepwell but the one at Feroz Shah Kotla is unique as it is the only circular stepwell in Delhi. Sadly the stepwell is kept under lock and key and interiors are not accessible.
- 16 Khooni Darwaza (Bloody Gate), Bahadur Shah Zafar Road (Opposite Feroz Shah Kotla Palace. Metro: Delhi Gate (Violet)). It is here in this gate that Major William Hodson shot dead the last Mughal ruler Bahadur Shah Zafar's sons Mirza Mughal and Mirza Khizr Sultan as well as grandson Mirza Abu Bakr after the defeat in Revolt of 1857. The gate served as a execution chamber under Sher Shah. The served heads of those executed were put on display in this gate. Here Jahangir ordered the killing of two sons of Rahim Khan-I-Khana who was a Navaratna in Akbar's court. The gate was part of a defensive mechanism set up by Sher Shah and was known as Kabuli Gate, as it faced the city of Kabul now in Afghanistan. But because of its bloody incidence it came to be known as the Khooni Darwaza. The 15.5 meter double storied structure is made of Delhi quartzite stone and is topped with battlements. The windows and the archways have red sandstone ornamentation. Three are three different sets of stairways leading to different levels of the gateway, but these are kept under lock & key.
- 17 Gurdwara Mata Sundri, Mata Sundri road (Behind JP Nayak Hospital. Metro: Barakhambha Road (Blue), 15 min walk), ☏ +91 11 2323 4448. The temple is a tribute to Mata Sundri, the wife of the 10th Guru – Guru Gobind Singh (1666–1708). The Guru was a Warrior, Poet and Philosopher. The Gurdwara built in brick and lime mortar, on the farther end of the hall is a marble-paved gallery. The carved weed beam of the gallery bears an inscription in Gurmukhi script in bold letters. There is a marble slab in the center which surrounded by the inscribed sacred emblem of the Sikhs. It has a standard square-domed sanctums, arched copings and a traditional styled entrance.
Mahatma Gandhi sites
The area consists of Raj Ghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. The area also contians memorial of former Prime Ministers, Presidents and other national leaders. The are also contains two museums related to Mahatma Gandhi. These sites are located in close proximity, 5 minutes walk east of Delhi Gate metro station (Violet Line).
- 18 Raj Ghat and associated Monuments. Raj Ghat is the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. The area surrounding contains several memorials of former Prime Ministers, Presidents and other national leaders.
- 19 Raj Ghat. 09:30-17:30. Memorial to Mahatma Gandhi at the site of his cremation. Check for closure dates/security checks around national holidays/Gandhi's death anniversary.
- 20 Shantivan. 09:30-17:30. Jawaharlal Nehru
- 21 Vijay Ghat. 09:30-17:30. Lal Bahadur Shastri
- 22 Shakti Sthal. 09:30-17:30. Indira Gandhi
- 23 Sadaiv Atal. 09:30-17:30. Atal Bihari Vajpayee
- 24 Gandhi Smriti, ☏ +91 11 2301 2843. Tu-Su 10AM-5PM (closed Monday). This estate is the site of Mahatma Gandhi's martyrdom. Includes a museum celebrating his life and the room he lived in during his final days.
- 25 National Gandhi Museum, Vikram Nagar.
Kamal Nehru Ridge (Delhi North Ridge)
Delhi Ridge, or simply The Ridge, is a an extension of the ancient Aravalli Range and runs through the heart of the National Capital Territory (NCR) of Delhi. The Delhi Ridge covers a distance of about 35 km and refereed to as the green lung of Delhi and protects the city from the hot winds of the deserts of Rajasthan. The Delhi Ridge is divided into four parts. North Ridge or Kamala Nehru Ridge is one of the four parts and is located near the Delhi University Campus. It was declared a Reserve Forest in 1915. It initially covered an area of 170 hectares but have now shrunk to 87 hectares. The ridge houses several monuments and structures from the Sultanate period right up to the colonial period.
- 26 Mutiny Memorial (Ajitgarh). After the Mutiny of 1857 several memorials were erected all over the sub continent in memory of the Britishers and Indian soldiers who fought for the British. The Mutiny Memorial at North Ridge (Kamala Nehru Ridge) Delhi was the most prominent of the mutiny memorials of the sub continent. The 1863 built Mutiny memorial is an octagonal tapering red sandstone tower built in Gothic style. It has a richly ornamented faced and is crowned with a marble crucifix. The four tiered tower rests on a two tiered platform. The total height of the tower in 33 meters. Flights of stairs from four side of the platform leads to the base of the tower. The entry of the tower is through a gate on the western side and a flight of spiral stairs leads to the balconies of the four tiers. Sadly entry inside the tower is restricted for tourist. Apart from the gate the remaining seven sides contains marble plaques embedded inside decorated sandstone archways. Each side has a total of three plaque one large and two smaller ones at the bottom. Three of the bigger plaque narrates the incident in English, Hindi and Urdu. Among the remaining four plaques one lists the regiments present during the siege of Delhi while the second one lists actions fought at or near Delhi. The remaining two plaques list the KILLED, WOUNDED and MISSING soldiers of the mutiny, which is again sub divide into sub categories like Europeans & Natives and Officers & Non Commissioned Officers. On 15 August 1972 the Delhi’s Mutiny Memorial was renamed Ajitgarh (Place of the Unvanquished) and a plaque was put at its pedestal. Written in four languages Hindi, Urdu, English and Punjabi. It says that the “enemies” mentioned in the inscription were actually the freedom fighters and martyrs of India, who fought bravely against the repressive colonial rule in the First War of Indian Independence.
- 27 Ashokan Pillar. The Ashokan Pillar lies 200 meters north of the Mutiny Memorial and on the same side of the road. It is located opposite the Hindu Rao Hospital. The entire ridge area was one a favourite hunting location of Feroz Shah Tughlaq. This pillar was shifted from Meerut by Feroz Shah Tughlaq (reign 1351 – 1388) and was placed at the emperors favourite hunting location. Incidental this region of Delhi contains another Ashokan Pillar shifted by Feroz Shah Tughlaq from Topra and set up in Firoz Shah Kotla. The pillar contains the Ashokan Edicts, I – V, partly or almost fully. Durng the reign of Farrukhsiyar (1713 – 19) the pillar was severely damaged and broken into five pieces. The pieces were shifted to Asiatic Society of Bengal in Kolkata. In 1866 they were received back and were erected together in 1867.
- 28 Pir Ghaib. Delhi has countless monuments and they are located in the most unusual places. The Hindu Rao hospital houses a couple of ruined buildings dating back to the Delhi Sultanate. The ridge was once a favourite hunting ground for Feroz Shah Tughlaq (reign 1351 – 1388). Pir Ghaib, located inside the Hindu Rao Hospital complex is a remains of one of hunting lodges of Feroz Shah Tughlaq. Later on it was abandoned and probably served as a mosque and even as a astronomical observatory. It also probably served as a residence of a Muslim saint, who disappeared mysteriously. No wonder Pir Ghaib literally translates into the vanished saint!! Today the gate of the Hindu Rao Hospital is located just opposite the Ashokan Pillar, a winding road through the hospital complex leads to the Phir Ghaib. The structure has remained intact and a stairs leads to the terrace of the two storied structure. The terrace houses a cylindrical structure. which was probably a part of the observatory.
- 29 Hindu Rao Hospital Baoli. Very next to the Pir Ghaib is a step well or baoli, dating back to the same period. It is a large well with a flight of steps leading to the water . A simple structure with almost no ornamentation.
- 30 Chauburja Mosque. From the Hindu Rao Hospital gate a long walk northwards along the North Ridge leads to the park maintained by Delhi Development Authority (DDA). Next to the entrance of the park is the Chauburja Mosque. This was also constructed by Feroz Shah Tughlaq and along with Pir Ghaib and the baoli was part and parcel of the hunting expeditions. Literally meaning the Mosque with four towers (or probably domes), sadly only the dome of the south – east corner survives to this day. The eastern side has three arched entrances and four bastions.
- 31 Southern Gurad House. A walk along the wanding roadways of the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) park leads to the Southern Guard House and then to the Flagstaff Tower. A couple of yards to the left of the main walkway is the Southern Guard House. A small rectangular structure with a pedimented roof. Built in the first part of the nineteenth century the Southern Guard House along with the nearby Flagstaff Tower, was part of the cantonment area of the armed forces of the British East India Company.
- 32 Flagstaff Tower. Just north of the Southern Guard House and the highest point of the North Ridge (Kamala Nehru Ridge) is the Flagstaff Tower. The stout, circular, one room castellated tower was built around 1828 as a signal tower. The Flagstaff Tower played a important role during the Sepoy Mutiny (Indian Rebellion of 1857).
- 33 Roshanara Garden, Dronacharya Guru Hanuman Marg, Roshanara Garden (Nearest metro station is Pratap Nagar.). Begum Roshanara.was Aurangzeb's sister. She was the second daughter of Shah Jahan and Mumtaj Mahal. She was a supporter of her younger brother Aurangzeb and played an active role during the war of succession which took place after Shah Jahan's illness in 1657. Shew was a talanted poet and a powerful lady in Mughal politics.However she is best remembered for Raoshanara Bagh, a pleasure garden laid out by her in 1650. She was discretely poisoned by her brother Aurangzeb. She died in great pain in 1671. She was laid to rest in a tomb inside her favourite garden. The tomb is popularly known as baradari (literally meaning 12 doors). The brick built structure houses four domed chatirs in the corners. The garden is centred round a lake, which attracts migratory birds during winter. The garden has recently been laid out in Japanese style.
Jama Masjid Area
- 34 Jama Masjid (Opposite the Red Fort. Metro: Jama Masjid (Violet), Chawri Bazaar (Yellow)). 7AM-sunset, tourists are not allowed in from 12:15-1:45PM or in the half-hour before sunset.. – The largest mosque in India and a must-see while in Delhi. Entry is officially free, although if you have a camera with you (even if deep in your bag) the aggressive "guards" will not let you go in without paying the ₹300 fee, and this includes camera phones. If you just walk in they will grab you and "carry" you out. Beware of dishonest guides who will try and convince you that a tour guide is mandatory and is included in the ₹200 camera fee; they will give you an extremely hurried 'tour' of the mosque and then demand a further payment of ₹200-300 for the tour. You can climb to the top of the minaret for ₹100 (locals maybe ₹20). The climb is steep, dark and somewhat claustrophobic, but you'll get great views over the complex and the city. You'll need to cover up your shoulders and legs (scarves and lungis available for rental - about ₹10), and take off your shoes (expect to tip the shoe minder, ₹5 is plenty, or carry your shoes with you in your own bag). - Pictures should not be taken during prayer hours. If you're going to sit down don't look too comfortable. Certainly don't eat or become too engrossed in any reading material you may be carrying, the rule is that non-Muslims must make their visits brief and guards will usher along visitors who linger. Free, ₹300 if you have a camera, (this is include the ₹ 100 minar climb).
- 35 Razia Sultana's Tomb, Sitaram Bazar (The surrounding area is called Pahari Bhojla. Turkman Gate is the nearest landmark (North of it).). 8:30AM - 6PM. Raziya Sultana was the only women ruler of Delhi (Reign 1236 - 40). The grave of Razia is located at Mohalla Bulbuli Khana near Turkman Gate in Old Delhi. The tomb was built by Razia's half brother Bahram. The dome of the tomb has long collapsed. The tomb houses two graves exposed to the open sky. The said grave is said to be of Razia;s sister Shazia. Sadly the area round the grave is heavily encroached upon and is approachable by a narrow winding lane.
- 36 Turkman Gate, Asaf Ali Rd (Jawaharlal Nehru Marg), Katra Chobey Lal, Old Delhi (from New Delhi (Orange Line, Yellow Line) metro station walk ten min eastward. East 200 of Hanuman Vatika (Temple)). This gate is named after Sufi saint Hazrat Shah Turkman Bayabani, located in southern edge of Shahjahanabad (Old Delhi). The gate the tomb of Hazrat Shah Turkman Bayabani. The tomb dates back to 1240 and predates the gate by over three centuries. The gate was part of the defensive mechanism of Shahjahanabad. It has a square plan with high arched openings.
Chadni Chowk Area
- 37 Gurudwara Sis Ganj, Chandni Chowk (Old Delhi) (Metro: Chandni Chowk (Yellow)). An important Sikh place of worship. Built on the spot where their ninth guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, was beheaded on the orders of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. The trunk of the tree beneath which the head of the Guru was severed and the well used by him for taking bath during his prison term have been preserved in the shrine. The Sikh regiment of the Indian army salute the Sis Ganj Gurudwara after saluting the president of India since 1979, the only instance of saluting twice in the Republic Day parade by a regiment of Indian army. The Gurudwara came up in 1783. However, due to volatile political climate in the coming century, the site alternated between being a mosque and a gurudwara.The dispute was finally settled in 1930 when the case was settled in favour of the Sikhs. The Sikhs celebrated there victory by adding gold gild to the domes. It is an oasis of calm in the chaos of Old Delhi's Chandni Chowk. You will need to cover your head (scarves provided for free) and stash your shoes in the shoe storage run by volunteers (also free).
- 38 Fatehpuri Masjid (Metro: Chandni Chowk (Yellow), then rickshaw or 10 minutes walk). Fathepuri Masjid stands at the very western end of the Chadni Chowk. Fatehpuri Masjid was built in 1650 by Fatehpuri Begum, one of emperor Shah Jahan's wives who was from Fatehpur Sikri. After the revolt of 1857 the Muslims were driven out of the city amd the mosques became function less. Several them were auctioned out including the Fathepuri Masjid. Rai Lala Chunnamal purchased the mosque at a stagering sum of Rs. 19,000 Rai Lala Chunnamal, whose descendants still live in the Chunnamal haveli in Chandni Chowk, made a fortune during the revolt of 1857 by supplying provisions to the British. Strangely the mosque was not demolished and Rai Lala Chunnamal kept it under lock and key. During the first durbar of Delhi in 1877 the prohibition against Muslims entering (or living in) Delhi was lifted. The mosque was acquired by the British and made available to Muslims for prayers. Lala Chunnilal family received an estate of four villages in exchange for the mosque. The mosque is built using red sandstone and has a fluted dome with mahapadma and kalash on the top. Flanked by minarets, the mosque has a traditional design with the prayer hall having seven-arched openings
- 39 St Stephen's Church, Church Mission Road (Old Delhi Junction station). Built in 1862, by Anglican missionaries and Department of Public Works Engineers in the style of Italian Gothic architecture, highly influenced by the Romanesque style. Apart from its ornate walls and ceilings the Church has a unique feature which is the stained glass rose window which is exclusive in Delhi. The baroque styled church has arched windows which allow the sunlight to brighten the interiors. the interiors are well maintained with motifs, pictures, carvings and beautiful furniture. A series of fine plasters form arcade on either side lined with beautiful carvings columns made of sandstone.
Kashmiri Gate Area
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The area surrounding the historic Kasmiri Gate is also known as Kashmiri Gate area. THe locality houses the Delhi Station and the Interstate Bus Stop (ISBT). The three metro lines of yellow, red and violet converge at the Kashmere Gate Metro station.
- 40 Kashmiri Gate. The gate was part of a defensive mechanism set up by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and was known as Kashmiri (or Kashmere) Gate as it faced Kashmir. The entire locality is now known as Kashmiri gate. The Kashmiri Gate was the site of a fierce battle during the revolt of 1857. A sandstone memorial plaque mentions the names of the British Army Soldiers (British and Indians) who died at the Kashmri Gate area during the recapture of Delhi by the British. The architecture consists of two arched passageways. The passageways are separated by two recessed arch one below the other. Both side of the passageways have similar recesses arches.
- 41 Qudsia Bagh. Qudsia Bag was constructed by Qudsia Begum. wife of Mughal emperor Muhammad Shah and mother of Mughal emperor Ahmad Shah Bahadur. She was born as a Hindu and her initial name was Udham Bai. She was a dancing girl in the court of Muhammad Shah, who later married her as his third wife. After Muhammad Shah's death in 1748, her son Ahmad Shah Bahadur (1725–1775) became emperor. As a widow, she took the title Qudsia Begum. She constructed the Qudsia Bagh in 1748. Formerly a splendid palace, has now much dilapidated and neglected.Large part of it was destroyed during the Revolt of 1857. Today the entrance gate, the Sahi (Royal) Mosque and remains of the stables are all that is left of the spectacular Mughal gardens.
- 42 St James' Church (Skinner's Church) (Near to Tikona Park). Worship at 8:30AM (Apr-Sept.): Worship at 9AM (winter). It is an Anglican church, built in 1836 by Colonel James Skinner. It is one of the oldest churches in the city. It was designed by Major Robert Smith. Construction started in 1826 and completed in 1936. The design follows the Renaissance Revival architectural style and the church is laid out on a cruciform plan. The church has three porticoed porches and is crowned with a central octagonal dome. The done is topped with a copper ball topped with a cross. The interior of St' Jame's Church are laid out with beautiful stained glass windows depicting the crucifixion, ascension of Christ and his resurrection. The church and the compound contains several graves.
- 43 Nicholson Cemetery. Located near the Kashmiri Gate the Nicholson Cemetery is an active cemetery and the final resting place of hundred of Christians (both British and Indian). The cemetery in named after Brigadier General John Nicholson, who is often considered by the British as the hero of the Revolt of 1857. During the reclaiming of Delhi in 1857 Nicholson was shot near the Lahore Gate and was carried back to the camp. He died a slow and painful death. Nicholson Cemetery is approached through a beautiful cottage styled arched gateway, which doubles up as the living quarters of the cemetery’s caretaker and his family. The grave of John Nicholson lies just right of the entrance and is fenced by an iron railing. The epitaph reads: "The grave of Brigadier General John Nicholson who led the assault of Delhi but fell in the hour of victory mortally wounded and died 23rd September 1857 aged 35." Another important person to be buried in the Nicholson Cemetery is Yesudas Ramachandra, professor of Mathematics at Delhi Government College.
- 44 Lothian Cemetery. Lothian Cemetery is southeast of St. James's Church and northwest of the Red Fort. It is the first Christian cemetery of Delhi. The cemetery operated between 1808 and 1867, and is now closed. It contains several graves of fallen British soldiers of the Revolt of 1857. The cemetery is said to be haunted.
- 45 Nili Chhatri Temple, Yamuna Bazar, Kashmere Gate (On the banks of the Yamuna river). A Hindu temple is the tomb of Naubat Khan. Naubat Khan was a mansabdar (state official) during the time of Akbar. He built it during his lifetime in 1565. The tomb stands almost midway between Purana Qila and the tomb of Nizamuddin Auliya. It is built in an enclosure of several acres. Though the walls of the tomb are not extant in its entirety, some portions of it can still be seen in the surrounding area. But the gateway is relatively in good shape. At the entrance of the tomb is written the inscription, the letters of the inscription are of black marble inlaid on sandstone.
Tibetan Colony Area
- 46 Majnu ka Tilla Tibetan Colony, Outer Ring road (Bus 53, 169). One of the more accessible Tibetan resettlement areas in India. A nice piece of variety for Delhi, and a popular backpacker hangout. To get there head north along Ring Road just past Majnu ka Tilla Gurudwara, or take the Metro to Vidhan Sabha station, and a cycle-rickshaw is ₹15 from there.
Museums
- 47 National Handicrafts and Handlooms Museum (राष्ट्रीय हस्तशिल्प एवं हथकरघा संग्रहालय), Pragati Maidan, Gate #5, Bhairon Road, New Delhi-110001 (M Blue: Pragati Maidan), ☏ +91 11 2337 1887-2337 1641, fax: +91 11 2337 1515, nhhm-mot@nic.in. 10AM-5PM. Also sells handicrafts. Foreigners: ₹150, Indians: ₹10.
- 48 National Science Centre, Near Gate No.1, Bhairon Road, Pragati Maidan, ☏ +91 11 2337 1945, nscdl01@gmail.com. Although the name is sounds very grand, the museum is definitely a must see for science enthusiasts, especially those who are young. Has a recently built section on DNA Science and also a section on Dinosaurs. A section on ancient Indian Science and Technology, including Vedic Mathematics & Ayurveda. The "Energy Ball" display near the entrance is interesting and perhaps the most captivating of all.
- 49 International Doll's Museum, 4, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, Nehru House, New Delhi (Metro: ITO (Violet)), ☏ +91 11 2331 6970. Tu-Sa 10AM-6PM. A museum of dolls from all over the country. You get to see the costumes and art from all over India, as well as some nice crafts. ₹10.
Do
- 1 Arun Jatley Cricket Stadium (Feroz Shah Kotla Cricket Stadium). Watch cricket at the Arun Jatley Cricket Stadium, which is popularly known as the Feroz Shah Kotla Cricket Stadium. Watch India play in One day or T20 international in the crowded stadium with a capacity of 41,820. Five day test cricket is another option with lesser crowd. Also watch the local club Delhi Capitals (formerly Delhi Daredevils) play the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Buy
Bazaars
- 1 Chandni Chowk, Chandni Chowk Rd, Chatta Pratap, Chandni Chow (Next to Gurudwara Sis Ganj. Metro: Chandni Chowk). This is the place to go for the full-on Indian experience of crowded, twisting alleys and tiny shops. The Fountain serves as a useful orientation point, and there are great Delhi-style snacks to be found in the vicinity too (see Eat)..
- 2 Karol Bagh (West Delhi Market, Gaffar Market, Sabka Bazaar), Saraswati Marg, Beadonpura (Bus 39, 39A, 71, 82N, 89, 166, 181, 212, 214A, 218, 309, 350, 351, 352,450 to 'D B Gupta Market'). known for traditional Indian Wear, sarees and shawls. Huge area and big brand showrooms. - Reputed to be the largest shopping area in Asia with 20,000 shops and traders. There are many tailors experienced in western styles (suits etc.). Also a growing number of hotels .
- 3 Paharganj, Arya Nagar (Opposite New Delhi Railway Station. - Bus 12N, 19, 19A, 39, 39A, 82N, 166, 181, 214A, 309, 351, 753, 838, 853AC, 857 to stop 'Paharganj'). Oriented toward backpackers, this strip of shops sells items such as Indian perfumes, shawls, tablas, rugs, jewellery, etc.
- 4 Cycle Market, Block E 4, Jhandewalan Extension, Jhandewalan (M 'Jhandewalan' Blue 0.5km S). Deals not just in bicycles, but in cameras as well.
- 5 Kamla Nagar, Kamla Nagar, Shakti Nagar (next to Delhi University's North campus. - Bus 19A, 62, 92, 100A, 102, 106, 114, 115, 116, 125, 127, 128, 131, 133, 136 to stop 'Kamla Nagar'. Near Pulbangash Metro Station.). Popular with college students and known for its spicy street food.
- 6 Khari Baoli (Naya Bazaar), Khari Baoli (Local train: Sadar Bazar, then walk 300m east. Metro: Chandni Chowk (Yellow), then walk 600m southwest), ☏ +91 98 73736846, fax: +98 71232629. walking away from the Red Fort through Chandni Chowk will lead you here, which is the main spice market in Old Delhi where most restaurants shop from. Great place to buy individual spices (especially cardamom in bulk), masala chai mix, and various masala mixes for vegetables, meat, fish, meat, chicken, and rice. Afghan Store (lot# 6553). - Reputed to be the largest outdoor, pedestrianized shopping area in Delhi. Huge bargains on all sorts of western and Indian wear. If you are lucky, you can also get many reputed western brands as export surplus. It is also a great market for fresh fruits, vegetables and household goods.
- 7 Meena Bazar, Meena Bazaar (Eastward from Jama Masjid). a popular flea market with antiques (and not-so-antiques) — it's also known as Chor Bazar or "Thieves' Market," so hold onto your wallet and don't believe every claim you hear.
Handicrafts
- 8 Handicrafts and Natural Products Emporium (Ratan Lal Market), Main Bazar, Pahar Ganj, Pahar Ganj, Ratan Lal Market, Kaseru Walan, Paharganj (near the New Delhi Railway Station). One of the largest and oldest emporiums of handicrafts and herbal products in Delhi. It was founded in 1932, and offers a large variety of gift items from different parts of India. Textiles, handmade crafts and furniture made by artists and craftsman are sold at affordable prices. Ayurvedic and plant remedies, herbal soap, shampoos, oils and natural fragrances are also manufactured. This complex of two four-storied buildings is welcoming and a popular place for foreign visitors to Delhi.
- 9 Nirula Bazar, Gole Market, Doctors Lane, Panchkuian Rd, Aram Bagh, Sidarth Basti, Aram Bagh, Paharganj, (in Gole Market, - a 15min walk North-West of Connaught Place. - M Blue 'Ramakrishna Ashram Marg'). Be sure to try a number of the shops in this area as all are selling similar goods. They will try to sell you is a hand-made Kashmiri rug.
- 10 R. Expo House, Paharganj (near the New Delhi Railway Station).
Books
- 11 Nai Sarak Bookshop Area (near Chawri Bazaar. Metro: Chawri Bazaar or Chandni Chowk (Yellow)). Narrow alleys where most publishers are based. This is very popular with students, particularly college students as course books are available here. They carry books in nearly all major languages spoken in India. Don't expect bargaining to work here as shopkeepers are too busy to argue. The shopkeepers do more business than any proper branded shop, selling at least 5,000 books daily. There are also many wholesalers. Very few books will be on display and you need to ask for a particular type of book as the variety of books sold is huge. Most books are original and the shopkeepers get very irritated if you question the book's genuineness. You can either take a rickshaw or walk. One of Delhi's oldest shopping complexes, you can find any book there after a day of searching. Also good areas for sightseeing.
- 12 Daryaganj and Asaf Ali Road. Similar to Nai Sarak, but a little better organised. Hindi Book Centre on Asaf Ali Rd is well known, stocks many Hindi books, and has a good website.
- Kamla Nagar Bookshops, F-Block (opposite to Birla Mills compound and on the road leading to Roop Nagar roundabout). This shop provides a range of books and stationery.
Tea
- 13 Aap ki Pasand, Sterling House, 15 Netaji Subhash Marg, Daryaganj (Opposite the post office, walking distance from Red Fort), ☏ +91 11 23260373. Tea Shop, A great place to sample Indian chai and the exotic Darjeeling and Assam teas and buy tea in handcrafted fabric bags. Located in an old colonial era building, its teas have been savored by Bill Clinton, Gorbachov, Koizumi and are taken as official state gifts of India.
Eat
Mid-range
- 1 Karim's, ☏ +91 11 2326 9880. Jama Masjid, Gali Kababian. As you'd expect from a restaurant on Kebab Lane, the main dish is Mughal-style meat (mutton and chicken), served up since 1913. Is down a little alley just South of the Jama Masjid southern entrance (past the auto supplies market). Favourites include badam pasanda (boneless mutton cooked with yogurt, almonds and spices) and chicken noor jahan, but if you're really hungry, try Tandoori Bakra; an entire stuffed goat for ₹4,500, 24 hr notice and down payment is required. Some of the dishes have huge puddles of oil on top, which you're supposed to drain off before eating. Under ₹200 at the original; more at the branches..
Drink
Sleep
Budget
Paharganj is an area directly west of the New Delhi Railway Station, bordered by Panchkuian Road in the south, Igdah Road in the north, and Deshraj Bhatia Marg/Chitragupta Road in the west. The neighborhood is noisy, filthy, and full of touts, but it's also centrally-located and has many cheap hotels and thus very popular with budget travellers. Paharganj is considered a safe area.
- 1 Durga International, 8715, D.B. Gupta Rd (500m from New Delhi Railway Station), ☏ +91 98 9942 3411. Basic hotel. Single: From ₹1,900; Double: From ₹2,100; Family Suite:₹4,500; Honeymoon Suite: ₹6,500.
- 2 Hare Rama Guest House, 298 Main Bazaar (Down the side road near the Khanna Cinema), ☏ +91 11 2743 3017. Popular hotel and place to book sleeper buses if you're heading to Dharamsala or Pushkar. They're very laid back staff which makes a nice change. 24 hour hot water and check in, and 24 hours stay from when you arrived. ₹400 single, ₹500 double for an OK non-air-con room. Extra 50% for air-con.
- 3 Metropolis Tourist Home, 1634 Bazaar Hand, ☏ +91 11 2351 8074. More expensive than the average Paharaganj hotel. It also has a good restaurant. Double: ₹2,500-3,500.
- 4 Hotel Namaskar, 917 Chandiwalan, Main Bazaar, Paharganj (located down a side alley), ☏ +91 11 2358 3456, +91 11 6526 3010 , +91 11 2358 2233, hotelnamaskar@hotmail.com. Only 5 min from the train station. Be prepared for a somewhat gloomy hotel, with possibly roaches in the rooms. No sheets or towels. Primary school right next to the hotel makes sleeping past 9AM nearly impossible. Double Room: ₹400-650. Breakfast not included..
- 5 (on a side street off main bazaar at the intersection with the vegetable market), ☏ +91 11 2356-1922. Cheap and cheerful. Single: ₹300; Double: ₹400..
- Sai Palace, 22, Main Market Road, Pahar Ganj (Middle lane opposite railway station, Paharganj). Double: ₹550-₹1,350.
- Sham Nath Villa, 12, Sham Nath Marg, Civil Lines (Opposite Oberoi Maidens), ☏ +91 11 2397 6660, +91 11 2392 3925, fax: +91 11 2392 3925, shamnathvilla@hotmail.com. Double rooms with air-con US$90. Breakfast included..
- 6 Smyle Inn, 916, Chandiwalan,Main Bazaar, Paharganj (Take right street before Masjid coming from New Delhi station in Main Bazar), ☏ +91 11 23584076, +91 11 2358 9107, fax: +91 11 28542651, smyleinn@hotmail.com. Breakfast and internet access included in price. Single: ₹940-1,090; Double: ₹980-1,180; Triple: ₹1,200-1,380.
- Tashkent Hotel. Hotel with clean rooms and fast Wifi. Can arrange airport transportation. Single: ₹1,000.
- 7 Vivek, 1534-50 Main Bazaar, Paharganj (about a ten minute walk from the railway station), ☏ +91 11 2351-2900. This has a pleasant rooftop restaurant, but rather bland food . Economy Room (Single: ₹650, Double: ₹750); Standard Room (Single: ₹750, Double: ₹800); Luxury Room (₹1,100-1,200); Club Room (₹1,500-1,600).
- 8 Ginger Delhi (Rail Yatri Nivas), IRCTC- Rail Yatri Niwas, New Delhi Railway Station, Bhav Bhutti Marg (opposite New Delhi Railway Station or take Rail Yatri Nivas exit from New Delhi Metro station). Run by Tata group, known for clean and cost effective no-frills budget hotels ₹1,500-1,800.
- 9 Maidens Hotel. A Raj era hotel.
- 10 Ajanta, Main Bazaar, Paharganj, ☏ +91 11 23620925, +91 11 23620926, +91 11 23620927, info@hotelajanta.com. Decent restaurant and nice atmosphere on rooftop bar, although rooftop seems like a construction site. The staff are often rude and may try to offer overpriced tour package bookings as often as they can. The rooms are small and many do not have windows. Bath/shower facilities are archaic. The hotel does not offer a luggage storage service. US$24.
- 11 Ajay Guest House, 5084-A, Main Bazaar, Paharganj (Opposite Khanna Cinema), ☏ +91 11 4154 1226, +91 11 2358 3125, fax: +91 11 4154 1701, ajay@anupamhoteliersltd.com. Has a good restaurant and German Brown Bread Bakery. Single: ₹700-900; Double: ₹800-1,200; Triple: ₹1,200-1,800.
- Ashiana, 50 Ara Kashan Rd, Ram Nagar (500m from the New Delhi Railway Station and within minutes of Connaught Place), ☏ +91 11 2362 7617. Single: ₹1,290-3,190; Double: ₹1,490-₹3,490.
- 12 Rail yathri Niwas, New Delhi Railway Station (Metro: New Delhi - Line 2), ☏ +91 11 2323-3484. ₹450.
- 13 Bloomrooms @ New Delhi Railway Station, 8591 Arakashan Road (2 blocks north of the exit of the New Delhi Railway Station), ☏ +91 11 412 25666, book@bloomrooms.com. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 11AM. Extremely modern and comfortable rooms. Rooms are noisy due to the location near the station. Single: ₹1,700; Double: ₹2,000-2,600; Breakfast: ₹250.
- 14 Chanchal Deluxe, 8524 Arakashan Road, Paharganj (Behind Sheela Cinema), ☏ +91 99106 09222, info@chanchal-hotels.com. 54 rooms. US$24.
- City Inn DX, 5415-16, Ladoo Ghati, Nehru Bazaar, Paharganj (about a 10 min walk from the railway station), ☏ +91 11 2358 7706, fax: +91 11 2358 7343, city.inn.dx@gmail.com. Rooms with double bed, flat screen TV (with HBO, VH1, CNN, lots of Hindi channels), clean bathroom with Western toilets. Each bathroom has its own hot water heater. Room service, computers in the lobby for ₹30/hr. Very friendly staff. Located just around the corner from Hotel Relax and the vegetable market. Single: ₹400-900; Double: ₹600-2,000.
- Delhi Resort, Main Bazaar, ☏ +91 8130591111, sales@hotelstourandtravel.com. Facilities of meditation, spider web, Burma Bridge, cliff jump, nature walk, rappelling, trust fall, and more. US$24.
- 15 Ivory Palace, 14A/27 WEA, Channa Market, Karol Bagh, ☏ +91 11 25744106, +91 99903 81291, reservationsivorypalace@gmail.com. From ₹1,200.
- On The House, B-4/120 Safdarjung Enclave - 110029, ☏ +919625784154, aradhna.lanba@gmail.com. In a quiet corner of Safdarjung Enclave in South Delhi.
East of New Delhi Railway Station
- Hotel Broadway, 4/15A, Asaf Ali Road (across from Maulana Azad Medical College & Hospital, just 5 minutes away from Connaught Place), ☏ +91 11 4366 3600, broadway@oldworldhospitality.com. India's first hotel to get ISO 9002 certification. ₹1,800.
Chandni Chowk
Chandni Chowk is in Old Delhi and is close to historical sights such as the Red Fort and Jameh Mosque. It is served by the Chandi Chowk metro station.
- 16 Tara Palace, 419 Old Cycle Market, Chandni Chowk (opposite Delhi Parade Ground, near the Red Fort), ☏ +91 11 2327 6465, fax: +91 11 2327 3555, tarapalace@gmail.com. Check-in: 1PM, check-out: noon. Friendly budget hotel, free breakfast and free airport pickup. From $40.
Majnu ka Tilla
Majnu ka Tilla is a compact Tibetan settlement and the place of departure and arrival for buses to/from Dharamsala, the home of the Tibetan Government in Exile and the Dalai Lama. Stay here if you have an interest in Tibetan culture, politics and religion, or if you need something quieter (and just slightly more expensive) than Paharganj. Rooms are mostly doubles averaging ₹700, but some ₹400 singles can be had (2015). An auto-rickshaw from New Delhi train station should cost around ₹ 50 (use the prepaid stand). The Vidhan Sabha metro station is also nearby and popular. From there cycle-rickshaws charge ₹ 15 and take about five minutes.
- Ama Rabsel House, House No 47, New Aruna Nagar (Behind Dolma House restaurant), ☏ +91 11 23816977, +91 11 23812284, amarabselhouse@gmail.com. Check-out: noon. A surprisingly large and modern hotel, hidden down a dark alleyway next to Dolma House restaurant. Friendly staff appear to be constantly cleaning. The attached restaurant, on the other hand, is of low quality. ₹500-1,000.