Delhi is a city that bridges two different worlds. Old Delhi, once the capital of Islamic India, is a labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with crumbling havelis and formidable mosques. In contrast, the imperial city of New Delhi created by the British Raj is composed of spacious, tree-lined avenues and imposing government buildings. Delhi has been the seat of power for several rulers and many empires for about a millennium. Many a times the city was built, destroyed and then rebuilt here. Interestingly, a number of Delhi's rulers played a dual role, first as destroyers and then as creators.
The city's importance lies not just in its past glory as the seat of empires and magnificent monuments, but also in the rich anddiverse cultures. No wonder chroniclers of Delhi culture - from Chand Bardai and Amir Khusro to present days writers - have never been at a loss for topics. In Delhi, you will discover that the city is sprinkled with dazzling gems: captivating ancient monuments, fascinating museums and art galleries, architectural wonders, a vivacious performing-arts scene, fabulous eating places and bustling markets.
Area | 1,483 sq km |
Latitudinal parallel | 28.3oN |
Longitudinal meridian | 77.13oE |
Altitude | 293 m above sea level |
Population | 16.78 million (Census 2011) |
Average Temperature | 45oC (Max) - usually in May - Jun, 5oC (Min) - usually in Dec - Jan |
Desirable Clothes | Woollen for winters and light cotton for summers |
Rainfall | 714 mm |
Monsoon | July to mid-September |
Season | Extreme climate with very hot summer and very cold winter |
Best time to visit | October to March |
STD Code | 011 |
Languages | Hindi, English, Urdu and Punjabi |
Religions | Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism, Christianity |