Information about flights to Delhi
Visit Delhi and prepare to be overwhelmed. This ancient city, which has been conquered and rebuilt many times since it was founded, is rich in history, monuments and a heady mix of cultures. Home to 17 million people, it boasts fabulous cuisine that is now popular throughout the world. Shop for great handicraft bargains at some of the city's bazaars. Take a class in Bollywood, Bhangra and belly dancing, see some big hitting at a T20 cricket match, or revel in some of the city's nightlife.
Attractions
Any visit to Delhi is going to want to take in the Red Fort, Delhi's most famous monument, which was built by the Mughal emperors in the 17th century to repel invaders. It's the subject of a sound and light show of its history every night. Another treasure of old India is Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque which was built in the 17th century. Its southern tower offers stunning views over the city. You'll probably experience déjà vu when you visit Humayun's Tomb which houses the body of the second Mughal emperor because it provided the inspiration for the Taj Mahal.
Escape from the hubbub and head to Lodi Gardens. This vast complex was built by the British in 1936 around the tombs of 15th and 16th-century rulers. Two other sights definitely not to be missed include India Gate, a towering 42-metre high monument to the 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British in World War I, best visited at night when it's illuminated. Another far more ancient attraction is the medieval Indo-Islamic Qutab Minar, the tallest minaret in the world which is covered with intricate carvings and verses from the Koran. Its purpose is unclear.
Arts and culture
Two museums well worth catching are the National Museum, which showcases Indian history from ancient civilisations on, and the National Gallery of Modern Art which has more than 14,000 paintings by Indian painters from the 19th century in a converted palace. Other museums include one to India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, and to Mahatma Gandhi. And come nightfall, check out the Kingdom of Dreams, an entertainment complex with shows, exhibitions and gadgetry celebrating Indian art and culture
Eating and drinking
Delhi gave the world a delicious form of cuisine that includes the kebab, biryani and tandoori, among others. In recent years street food has developed rapidly but some caution is advised. As well as Mughal cuisine, a variety of international cuisines are also popular. Try the ersatz roadside eatery of Dhaba at the Art Nouveau Claridges Hotel or the thali at the Chor Bizarre at the Hotel Broadway.
Shopping
No visit would be complete without some shopping. Try Chandhi Chowk, Delhi's most famous shopping strip, Hauz Khas Village, an arty enclave packed with boutiques, or Kamala for crafts.
Nightlife
Head to Urban Pind for nightly DJ beats, Attic for free classical concerts, films and cultural talks, or upmarket Q'BA which has a roof terrace.
