Delhi, a melting pot of cultures and an intriguing blend of heritage and modernity, is rooted in inclusiveness and embraces diverse cultures with warmth and geniality.
The city is a hub of opportunities and a magnet for global businesses, and enchants tourists with its plethora of offerings, including iconic architectural landmarks, irresistible cuisine, indulgent shopping experiences and spellbinding cultural events. Whether you wish to delve into its storied past or revel in its contemporary charm, this city has something for everyone, making it a true delight for sophisticated travelers in search of authentic luxury experiences.
Architectural Wonders
Widely regarded for its architectural genius, Delhi is renowned for its beautifully crafted forts, buildings and temples. The city boasts landmarks such as the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Purana Qila and Humayun’s Tomb, all built during the Mughal period; the Colonial-era Rashtrapati Bhawan (the official residence of the president) and India Gate; the uniquely designed Lotus Temple of the Bahá’í faith, which looks like Sydney’s Opera House; and the stunning Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple. The Akshardham Temple is not only an architectural masterpiece with fascinating details but also brings 10,000 years of Indian history and culture to life.
A Foodie’s Paradise
Beyond its architecture, the essence of Delhi lies in its food.
No matter how health-conscious you are, it’s still hard to resist the temptation of the street food here. The very sight of tikki chaat (deep fried potatoes topped with chutneys and curd) and gol gappe (crispy shells made from wheat or semolina, and filled with a variety of flavorful ingredients and tangy water) can make you drool, but even if you somehow escape taking the sinful route, it’s nearly impossible not to surrender to the sight of Chhole Bhature—a combination of spiced chickpeas and fluffy, deep-fried bread. While it’s ubiquitous, we love the authentic preparation at the Kwality Restaurant in Connaught Place.
Another street icon is the Jalebi—deep-fried flour spirals soaked in sugar syrup. The best place to have this dessert is at Chandni Chowk’s historic Old Famous Jalebi Wala shop.
Chandni Chowk is also where you will find the original taste of Mughlai food, where you can satiate your cravings for kebabs and biryani. Not visiting Chandni Chowk? No problem! Dum Pukht at ITC Maurya will serve you refined taste of Awadhi cuisine in a sophisticated setting. You can never go wrong with the biryani or the melt-in-your-mouth kakori kebabs here.
Curry lovers, take note: Just like Chole Bhature, Butter Chicken is another dish that’s not just a meal but an emotion in Delhi. This rich, creamy curry is made with chicken roasted in a clay oven and simmered in a tomato-based sauce. While many versions exist, Moti Mahal and Daryaganj restaurants are two iconic spots for this dish. For vegetarians, the go-to dish in the city is Dal Makhani—black lentils slow-cooked with a hint of kidney beans, onions, tomatoes, garlic and spices.
Want to go high-end? Indian Accent, known for its inventive take on traditional Indian dishes, ITC Maurya’s timeless Bukhara, and The Leela Palace’s Jamavar, all screaming opulence, are the crown jewels of Delhi’s fine-dining scene.
We highly recommend Bukhara, which has been serving the robust flavors of the North West Frontier for 45 years. Its signature Dal Bukhara, a slow-cooked black lentil dish, and its enormous, Insta-worthy Bukhara naan are truly unforgettable.
Bars and Nightlife
The new Aerocity, near the New Delhi International Airport, boasts some of the city’s top hotel chains, restaurants and bars, ensuring an evening full of fun and entertainment. Sports fans shouldn’t miss the lively ambiance of Underdoggs; while gin aficionados will love the Juniper Bar at the Andaz Hotel.
Trendy bars and pubs abound in Delhi. Locals particularly throng the Hauz Khas area. Must-visit spots like Social and Matchbox offer rooftop seating with views of the surrounding Deer Park and the tranquil Hauz Khas Lake.
Love jazz and pop? Spend an evening at The Piano Man (there are three locations across the city). They feature a rolling lineup of national and international performers who serenade diners. Check out the calendar on their website, www.thepianoman.in, to see who’s performing during your stay.
For the Shopaholics
Lajpat Nagar and Chandni Chowk are typical Indian bazaars with a blend of road side shops and showrooms. Being cheaper than the posh markets they teem with locals; but while you may get a sense of authenticity, they can be too crowded for your liking. So if you want to get a feel of a typical Indian bazaar, which isn’t too crowded and is full of luxe and authentic items, head to the Dilli Haat, a vibrant open-air market, ideal to buy souvenirs, handcrafted goods, pearls, jewelries, locally designed apparels and sarees, paintings, and more.
For brand hunters, the glittering South Ex market is the top draw. It’s got showrooms of almost all global brands and is a treat for a luxury traveler.
Also unmissable in Delhi is the Connaught Place, a perennial favorite for its top brands and Georgian-style architecture. Looking for luxe shopping in a mall? Head to the Select City Walk at Saket. The fashionable complex also has plenty of fine-dining options.
And For Art Lovers...
Art has a proud place in Delhi’s history and it continues to thrive. One must-visit is the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), a premier art gallery which comes under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. It has over 17,000 works of more than 2,000 noted Indian and foreign artists.
Want more? Check out the rolling exhibitions of India’s top artists at the India Habitat Centre. Be sure to check the calendar at www.indiahabitat.org for events, ranging from theater performances to thought-provoking art installations.
Whether visiting Delhi for the first time or as a repeat visitor, the city always has something new to offer. The best time to visit is between December and March.
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