Guide Note

Delhi, India’s second largest city, is one of the oldest continually populated cities in the world. In centuries past, it served as the capital of several ancient Indian empires and was a major stop on trade routes through the region. Evidence of this is the remains of seven major cities that have been discovered in Delhi. Due to an influx of immigrants, the city, also known as Old Delhi, has become a political, cultural and commercial center.

Fast Facts

1. Country: India
2. Language Spoken: Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu
3. Currency: Indian rupee
4. Country Code: 91
5. Area code: +9111
6. Time zone: IST
7. Average climate: Extreme temperatures range from 30.9 °F to 117 °F, Annual mean temperature is 77 °F

1. Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia: Built in 1325, the tomb of saint Sheikh Nizamuddin Aulia is one of the holiest Muslim pilgrimage destinations in India.
2. Humayun's Tomb: The tomb of the second Mughal emperor inspired much Mughal architecture, even the Taj Mahal, which was built by Humayun's great-grandson.
3. Jami Masjid: This mosque is the largest in Asia and can accommodate 25,000 people. It took 5,000 laborers six years to complete it. Non-Muslims are not allowed inside during prayers.
4. Lal Qila (Red Fort): Named after the red sandstone it is constructed from, the fort was the center of Mughal power from 1639 to 1857.
5. Qutb Complex: The complex surrounds Qutb Minar, a sandstone victory tower, built in 1193 by Qutbuddin Aibak, the first of the Delhi Sultanates.
6. The Crafts Museum: Approximately 20,000 arts and crafts are on display in five different galleries.
7. The National Museum: About 150,000 pieces covering some 5 millennia are on display, but little or no information is listed on them at the displays. Among the artifacts is a 12th-century statue of the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva, an Indian archetype.

If planning a trip, please see Delhi Hotels, Delhi Restaurants and Delhi Tours.

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