Modern Delhi. Entertainment and relaxation

- one of most interesting cities peace. In it, splendor and poverty, civilization and the Middle Ages coexist side by side. If you immediately come from a comfortable European city (or even a boring one in some places) to the Indian capital, then there is a risk of drowning in its color and exoticism.

is one of the largest and bustling metropolises in the world and home to more than 20 million people. Its streets are teeming not only with residents, but also with an incredible number of cars and rickshaws. All this mixes in a noisy stream and raises clouds of dust.

Not even really central region, the city deafens with different sounds, hits your eyes with the acidic colors of clothes, goods and fruits and knocks you off your feet with a mixture of smells of spices and garbage lying everywhere. very quickly turns his head, and just as quickly takes him into his arms.

With all this, it is the most developed city in India. The concentration of educated people here is higher than anywhere else in the country. It's very good roads, wide streets, a lot of greenery and neat European-style blocks. Therefore, it is not surprising that the capital is the ultimate dream for provincials, who come here in thousands in search of a better life.

And yet, despite the fact that it is the most progressive Indian city, most of its population lives in squalid shacks and huts. Of course, there are plenty of rich people, but you won’t see them on the streets. They live behind massive gates in their luxurious palaces and communicate only with “peers”.

As befits all cities of the world, it is divided into Old city(Old) and New City (New-). By the way, it is the New district that is the official capital of India, where the state government and the city government are located.

Yes, it is a very hectic city, but when you come to it, you should by no means rush after all its attractions at once. IN main city India needs to be immersed slowly, and only then will it truly open up to you from all sides.

How to get from the airport to the city?

The main airport of the capital of India. Indira Gandhi is located 16 kilometers southwest of New. Once you land at this airport, you can easily reach the city in several ways.

Metro

The Ysky metro is the fastest way to get to the center of the capital. The bullet train connects Terminal 3 (the main terminal) with the central part of New. The first train leaves at 4.45, and the last at 23.15, the interval between departures is 20 minutes.

Bus

Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) also provides shuttle buses, running every 30 minutes between the airport and the city center: Kashmiri Gate bus station and Connaught Place. All buses depart from Terminal 3 from the site opposite the Centaur Hotel. It is worth warning that this option is not suitable for lovers of comfort, since buses are usually filled to capacity with passengers.

Taxi

You can take a metered taxi at the airport, but it is better to use a pre-paid car. Yi airport cooperates with three carriers: Meru Cabs, Mega Cabs and Easy Cabs. In the arrival hall there are special counters of these operators, where you can see the price list of trips to various points of arrival and pay immediately. The number of the car whose parking lot is located near the exit will be written on the receipt. At the end of the trip, you give the ticket to the driver, but it is not customary to tip taxi drivers in India.

If you arrived at your “home” Terminal 1, then you can also get to Terminal 3 by a free shuttle departing every 20 minutes.

Intracity transport

Being the capital of the state, it is a huge city with a developed transport infrastructure, which includes several types of vehicles.

Public transport

The metro system consists of six lines that crisscross the city and serve the most important tourist areas. In the metro you can use disposable tokens, top-up with transport cards (smart cards), and it also makes sense to purchase a one-day or three-day tourist map, giving the right to an unlimited number of trips. The metro operates from 6.00 to 22.00.

In addition to the “subway” there is a huge number of public and private buses. However, finding the necessary route often turns out to be a very difficult task, as is getting into the transport itself, because most of them stop right in the middle of a busy road, or even rush past.

In addition to the metro and buses, there is another exotic means of transportation - the rickshaw. There are auto and pedicabs. When choosing the first option, agree on the price in advance, even if meters are installed: drivers rarely use them. And keep in mind that the cost of travel after 23.00 and before 5.00 is 25%. The second option (pedicabs) is perfect for exploring the Old City, but here it is worth noting that bicycle taxi drivers often value their work more expensive than drivers of motorized rickshaws.

Taxi

You can ask to order a car at the hotel reception or find one of the many government taxi stands. These include yellow-black and yellow-green Ambassador cars and white Tata cars with blue stripes. Such a taxi is equipped with meters; the main thing is to make sure that the driver turns on and resets the equipment. Of course, there are also private traders, but it’s up to everyone to trust their services or not.

Self driving

There are always those who want to travel around the city in a personal car. However, I would like to warn you that the driving process is not for the faint of heart. Traffic rules are usually ignored, and in Old vehicles they fight for space with oxen harnessed to carts, wandering cows, goats and dogs. At night, driving alone is completely dangerous. As an option, you can always rent a car with a driver.

While in, you will every now and then come across one or another interesting temple or other structure. Of course, all the sights of the city are important to visit: the famous Red Fort, the world's tallest brick minaret, the Qutub Minar, and the largest mosque in India, the Jami Masjid. Nevertheless, I would like to recommend trying out other remarkable, and some not so well-known, objects of the Indian capital.

Lotus Temple

This grandiose temple structure, made in the shape of a lotus - a sacred flower of many Eastern religions - is one of the most spectacular attractions of the Indian capital. While the whole city is full of noise, hustle and bustle, amazing calm and detachment from the outside world reigns here.

Akshardham Temple Complex

Akshardham is one of the largest and most beautiful Hindu temples in the world, which through its architecture, exhibitions, gardens and even a musical fountain tells about the culture of India and its history.

Humayun's Tomb

If, while in, you were unable to get out of the city and look at the famous Taj Mahal in Agra, then the tomb of Humayun, located in the eastern part of the capital, can be an excellent alternative. True, it was erected almost 80 years earlier, becoming not a replica, but a prototype of the legendary mausoleum of India.

Garden of the Five Senses

Spread over almost 8 hectares, the Garden of the Five Senses in New was opened in February 2003 as a recreational space where you can relax and gain strength. The goal of the park's creators is to awaken all the senses of visitors to this a unique corner Indian capital.

Tughlaqabad Fort

Many people know about such a Delhi fortress as Lal Qila (Red Fort), but few have heard about a more ancient and mystical structure like Tughlaqabad Fort, which is also located in the capital of India. Standing next to the ruined walls of this once grandiose structure, it’s as if you are transported back into the depths of centuries and involuntarily ask the question: “Why did the owners leave the fortress just six years after the start of its construction?”

Museums and galleries

Museums and galleries may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of India, but it has an astounding collection of such institutions, no worse than any European capital.

National Museum

It will take a huge amount of time to capture at least the “top” of Indian culture in Delhi National Museum. Its main attractions are archaeological finds from the sites of the Harappan civilization, carved columns and statues of various Indian empires, antiquities from Central Asia and Tibetan manuscripts. And yet that's not all: one of the galleries houses more than 300 musical instruments, while the other displays Mughal clothing, tapestries, jewelry and weapons.

National Gallery of Modern Art

Located in the former palace of the Maharajas of Jaipur, this National Gallery contains an extensive collection of contemporary Indian art, including works by one of India's most renowned artists, Maqbool Fida Hussain. There are also paintings by Bengal Renaissance painters and paintings by British artists Thomas Daniel and his nephew William from the 19th – early 20th centuries. In addition, there is a reference library on the gallery premises.

Crafts Museum

Built like a village, this charming museum strives to preserve the traditional crafts of India from handloom weaving to Mithila wall paintings. Highlights include a huge carved ratha temple (in the shape of a chariot), a model of a traditional Indian haveli, and a place of worship made from giant terracotta figures. In the back courtyard of the museum complex you can purchase products directly from the hands of the artisans.

Gandhi Smriti

This living memorial is the home where Mahatma Gandhi was shot dead by a Hindu fanatic on January 30, 1948, after campaigning to eliminate communal violence. Concrete steps lead to the site where the politician was assassinated, today marked by a small pavilion. The Mahatma spent his last 144 days in the adjacent building, and the rooms have been preserved as Gandhi left them. Here you can even explore a detailed account of the independence fighter's last 24 hours and vivid scenes from his life through specially installed boxes in the shape of 1950s televisions. In the room where Gandhi himself lived, you will see his meager possessions - a cane, glasses, a spinning wheel and a pair of sandals.

Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum

The residence of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi is now a museum telling the story of her life. The politician's personal belongings are on display here, including the blood-stained sari she wore when she was assassinated in 1984. Many of the rooms have been preserved in their original condition, thereby opening a window into the life of India's political elite. There is also an exhibition dedicated to Indira’s son Rajiv, who also tragically died 7 years after the death of his mother. In the garden, a closed path marks Gandhi's last steps, and the area with the bloody footprints is covered with a glass slab.

Sulabh International Toilet Museum

Just recently, the capital of India was drowning in feces. Hundreds of people died from infections, so one day the authorities decided to cleanse the city. They installed outdoor toilets on every corner and began to explain to residents that it was unhygienic to relieve themselves anywhere. To educate the people, they even opened a museum of the Sulabh toilet (translated from Hindi as “With relief!”). Now this museum is one of the main attractions of the city.

Exhibits from different countries and eras form a large "closet" collection, which includes all sorts of strange and funny toilet devices, toilets, chamber pots and much more. The exhibition also contains various innovative mechanisms developed for modern restrooms.

By the way, the museum not only educates, but also brings practical benefits. There is a free toilet and a plant for processing human excrement. A special installation converts human waste products into natural gas. In addition, all secretions are purified to the state... drinking water! They then sell it right away.

Railway Museum

This is one of the most visited and most interesting museums explores the fascinating history of the world's largest railway system that connected India into a single country. Visitors of all ages will be delighted by the steam locomotives and rolling stock located under open air. On an area of ​​4.5 hectares, there are 30 trains with vintage carriages, among which you can see luxury carriages that belonged to the British and Indian nobility. Also on display is an 1855 steam engine. The indoor gallery displays model trains, antique clocks, railroad furniture and historical photographs.

International Shankar Doll Museum

From decrepit Spanish bullfighter figurines to dainty Japanese geisha dolls, this artsy but haunting museum has 6,500 dolls in its possession from 85 countries, from Brazil to Japan. This exhibition will definitely appeal to both adults and children.

Shopping tour

Shopping in is truly a fun pastime. Get ready to haggle everywhere except government stores.

One of the most elite shopping areas is Khan Market. Here you can find both boutiques of world famous brands and charming ethnic shops. Among the best are the Amrapali jewelry trading house and the Anokhi store, specializing in handmade fabrics and modern national clothing. Located in the south, the architectural and historical complex of Haus Khaz has luxury boutiques, first-class furniture stores, antique shops and art galleries. The state-owned Central Cottage Industries Emporium on Janpath Road is famous for its wide range of handicrafts, textiles and jewellery. Baba Kharak Singh Marg is also full of shops selling locally produced goods from all over India. In addition, you can make good purchases and also have a tasty snack in Connaught Place, an area consisting of two-story buildings with shops and restaurants located in a circle.

Markets

The bazaars surrounding Chandni Chowk Street in Old offer a complete immersion in the flavor of Indian life. This famous shopping area is a maze of stalls that sell everything from fish and poultry to second-hand household goods, gemstones, turbans, fabrics and even car parts. Another very authentic place is the Main Bazaar shopping street in Paharginj, where they sell good cheap T-shirts and much more. The indoor Gadodial market is a large wholesale spice market, characterized by a riot of colors and smells, and the ancient Charai Bazaar is lined with stalls with paper products, as well as copper and brass figurines.

Shopping centers

The Select Citywalk shopping complex in the Saket area is generally similar to any other good mall in Europe. It’s great to come here if you suddenly get tired of Delhi’s noise, dust and heat. The green area in front of the shopping center, a cinema, restaurants, bars and cafes provide additional attractiveness. In addition, there are shopping centers such as Ansal Plaza near South Extension and Metro Walk adjacent to the amusement park.

Souvenirs

While neighboring cities are famous for their handicrafts (marble inlay, Jaipur for jewellery), it is less focused on handicrafts but still has a lot to offer. Here you will find handicrafts from all over India - sarees, jewellery, homespun khadi cotton and homewares sold in many markets and shops. Also at your disposal are precious stones, carpets, antique furniture, handicrafts, fabrics and spices.

What and where to eat in ?

There is no such thing as Delhi cuisine, because there is no single face of the city. For a long time, people from various regions of the country came and settled in the capital, making it “diverse.” Slowly and gradually absorbed aspects of identity from all its inhabitants and became a city with many faces. As a result, even local food lacks any individual character. It includes South Indian and North Indian cooking, Punjabi cooking, Gujarati cooking, Rajasthan cooking and so on.

One note: 80% of Indians are vegetarians. And it’s not even about religion or a great love for animals. It’s just that the country’s population is so poor that they cannot afford such luxury as meat. If they meet in the local kitchen meat dishes, then this is the legacy of the country's Islamic past. It was Muslims who introduced Indians to chicken and, of course, lamb.

The most common Indian food is rice and several plates with different spices. Thus, simple rice produces many dishes with different tastes.

Also, have you ever heard of Indian wine? It really does exist, despite the fact that it remains an amateur drink. But Indian beer is really excellent, but just be sure to ask for it to be served chilled.

Famous for its street stalls offering amazing local cuisine. However, you should make sure that the “establishment” is clean and tidy. The city is also filled with wonderful restaurants to suit every taste and budget.

Bukhara- a widely advertised restaurant, and accordingly, not the cheapest. Particularly good here are tandoor dishes (pronounced “tandur” in India), traditional cream soup dhal and kebabs. If you come with a large group, they will bake a giant cake for you naan. The atmosphere of the establishment is quite simple, which cannot be said about its visitors. Another high-end restaurant national cuisine is Veda. They serve delicious food and have an extensive wine list.

Iconic Delhi restaurant Kwality has been thriving for nearly 60 years with its consistently delectable North Indian cuisine. This place attracts the country's middle class, and the menu ranges from hearty meat curries to sophisticated cheese appetizers paneer. However, the undisputed leader of the table here is the airy, deep-fried yogurt bread - chana bhature. You can enjoy dishes of South Indian cuisine in the establishment Spice Water Trail. Amazing seafood dishes are prepared here. And when you get tired of local cuisine, go to one of the branches of the network The Big Chill Cafe, which offers delicious Italian cuisine.

You can get a hefty portion of meat for little money in an almost legendary restaurant Karim's. In 1913, it was opened by the son of a chef who served at the royal court of the Mughal Empire. This very casual place near the Jama Masjid in Old serves delicious tandoori chicken and lamb, as well as succulent kebabs served with rice and different types Indian bread - very thin lavash roti or flatbreads filled with various fillings paratha And naan. Keep in mind that during the month of Ramadan, Karim's opens only after sunset.

For some traditional Indian street food, stop by Nizam's Kathi Kabab, and vegetarians will definitely appreciate the “non-animal” South Indian dishes in the restaurant Saravana Bhavan, including lentil pancakes idli, rice cakes uttapami, crispy pancakes dosa and dessert balls gulabjamun.

And so-called espresso bars are becoming more and more popular. The two most valuable chains of such establishments are Barista And Cafe Coffee Day.

Night life

Delhi scene nightlife has grown significantly over last years. Now, as well as 5-star hotels, afternoon fun can be enjoyed around Connaught Place or in the thriving southern suburbs. Many bars can act as restaurants and nightclubs at the same time, and more advanced establishments offer both local and foreign alcohol.

One of the most chic bars in the city is 1911 , located at the Imperial Hotel. Named after the year in which it was declared the capital of British India, this bar has a luxurious neo-colonial style and serves an excellent selection of drinks. You can endlessly study the photographs on the walls, and one even displays a collection of British Empire awards.

A pub Pebble Street– a more modest but cozy option for an evening pastime with a sports TV program, rhythmic music, a hearty menu of snacks and friendly bartenders. Another recommended establishment is Raasta, a self-described reggae bar. Only you are unlikely to hear reggae rhythms here, but you can enjoy the hits of the 1940s, a relaxed atmosphere and take part in karaoke evenings.

If you still prefer nightclubs to bars, then you can have a great time, especially with a large group of friends, in the place Shroom. This night club new generation, where ultra-modern lighting equipment and a high-quality audio system are installed. Another dance establishment is Urban Pind, although it is more of a restaurant, but with a good bar and dance floor where talented DJs perform.

It also offers a rich mix of music, dance and theater shows.

You can attend live music performances - from rock to reggae and soul - in the bar Blue Frog, bar TLR and cafe Morrison. You can listen to the performances of the Yi Symphony Orchestra in concert hall Kamani Auditorium. Not only traditional Indian tunes sound here, but also international music. And those interested in choreographic art may be interested in performances of folk and tribal dances, as well as ballet, at venues such as India International Center and theater Triveni.

Festivals and holidays

Arian Zwegers

When traveling around another country, it is always nice to catch some local national holiday, because such events help to penetrate deeper into the country and feel the spirit of the people. In India, there are so many original and exotic holidays throughout the year that immersion in the vibrant cultural and religious flavor will be very intense.

mango festival

It is one of the world's largest producers of mangoes, and in the summer the country hosts a two-day festival celebrating the national fruit. During this event, the indoor cultural fair complex Dilli Haat, which usually sells art, handicrafts and exclusive products, is transformed into a real mango market. The holiday includes various quizzes, competitions, demonstration of more than 400 types of mangoes and, of course, tasting of the country's fruit “hero”.

independence Day

This national holiday commemorates India's independence from British rule on August 15, 1947. In the capital, celebrations center around the spectacular Red Fort, where ceremonial speeches are made and the Indian Prime Minister hoists the national flag, after which the main festive procession starts from the fort. There are also numerous cultural and social events held throughout the city.

Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan is a festival dedicated to brothers and sisters and celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Shravan (July-August). On this holiday, sisters tie sacred bracelets known as “rakhi” (“sacred threads”) around the wrists of their brothers, and the brothers, in turn, present sweets or other gifts to their sisters and pledge to protect them for the rest of their lives. The event mainly relates to North India and covers the entire capital. The traffic in the city during Raksha Bandhan is such that they even allow additional transport.

Janmashtami

At the end of August - beginning of September, another important Hindu festival takes place in India - Krishna Janmashtami, which marks the appearance of the god Krishna. At dawn, Delhiites take a ritual bath and then flock to the brightly decorated temples that dot the city. And yet the center of the festival is the stunning ISKCON and Lakshmi Narayan temples.

Navratri

This ten-day, nine-night (Navratri translates to "nine nights") Hindu celebration honors Goddess Durga with dance, song and worship twice a year in the spring and fall. Navratri is one of the holiest Hindu festivals, during which the above-mentioned goddess purifies the minds of her followers, driving away evil thoughts and bestowing true knowledge. At the end of the festival, special respect is paid to young girls who are believed to be the personification of Durga. The festivities culminate in the Dandiya dance 'fiesta'.

Diwali

The festival of lights, Diwali, is considered the most important Indian and Hindu festival, lasting for five autumn days. The celebration consists of gift-giving, fireworks and the lighting of many oil lamps to celebrate the return of Lord Rama after 14 years of exile. It's an exciting and colorful time in the Delhi calendar when the entire city dresses up in its special festive 'garb'.

Holi

Perhaps Holi is the most famous festival in India due to its colorfulness. It takes place at the very beginning of spring as a sign of attracting happiness, abundance and a rich harvest in the coming year. On the main day of the holiday, the streets are filled with people who pour water on each other and shower each other with bright colored powder. On the eve, bonfires are lit throughout the city, symbolizing the victory of good over evil, and effigies of the demon Holika are burned. Of course, the celebration is not complete without a communal feast.

Also bright events of spring are the Ramnavami festival, which marks the day of the appearance of Rama, and Vesak - Buddha's Birthday, very revered in the Buddhist communities of India. In addition, since 2011, in the town of Greater Noida, 40 kilometers from the city, the newly built Buddha International Circuit has been hosting a world-scale event - the Formula 1 Grand Prix.

Where to go near?

When arriving in another country, travelers always strive to capture as many places and cities as possible. So, being in the Indian capital, tourists involuntarily ask the question: “Where can I go near?” Most often, the answer to this question is the city with its Red Fort and the epic Taj Mahal. Of course, both sites are grand attractions, but within a one-day reach there are other beautiful places that will remain in the memory for a long time and that are not much visited by tourists.

Keoladeo National Park

Formerly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary national park Keoladeo is located in the state of Rajasthan in the Bharatpur district. Keoladeo declared as a target World Heritage UNESCO thanks to the rich wildlife in general and avifauna in particular. Watching birds here is really interesting not only for ornithologists.

Neemrana Fort

Neemrana Fort is one of the most beautiful and little-known attractions in India, located in the town of the same name in the state of Rajasthan. This is a great place for history buffs and ancient architecture. Today the fort is a heritage hotel.

Where to go with children?

At first glance, chaotic and noisy will probably not seem like the best suitable place for families with children, but with a little planning, India's hectic capital can easily be turned into a family-friendly destination.

Deer Park

This spacious park with rose gardens and ancient monuments can make not only a child want to take off and run. And despite the name, there is no animal discrimination here, and therefore, in addition to deer, you can see peacocks, rabbits, ducks, swans and guinea pigs in the park. There is also a wonderful lake here.

National Zoo

Of course, the Delhi Zoo is not the best in the world, but it will definitely delight children. On the vast territory of the park they will get acquainted with many interesting animals: elephants, leopards, tigers, hippos, rhinoceroses, giraffes, all kinds of artiodactyls, birds and other representatives of the fauna. By the way, if your child gets tired of walking, you can board special open minibuses that travel around the zoo.

Nehru Planetarium

Stars are also always a win-win entertainment for children. India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru was a proponent of developing strong minds for the future. Now the former home of the politician has been transformed into a center dedicated to space, where various exhibitions related to the universe are held. It is a haven for astronomy enthusiasts, providing interesting and educational information about the solar system, space heritage, the famous Comet Hale and much more.

Kingdom of Dreams

It's hard to feel anything less than awe at this theater and entertainment complex, which is a palace straight out of an Arabian fairy tale, especially as you walk past the decorated elephants and men on stilts. Here you can attend impromptu dance performances or buy a ticket (which is best done in advance) to a Bollywood-style theatrical and musical show with real Indian film stars. A veritable feast of traditional treats awaits you at the local food stalls.

Stellar Children's Museum

This is the first museum of its kind in India, based on some of the best children's museums in the world. Interactive and play-based exhibits provide a fun and safe environment for children to explore and explore the world around them in exciting ways.

Adventure Island

Adventure Island is a huge amusement park designed for... unforgettable holiday. Located next to shopping center Metro Walk complex consists of 26 attractions, a wonderful water park and several themed areas.

In addition, in the evening, children will enjoy a walk in the vicinity of the Gateway of India, a part of which sellers of delicious ice cream have long been a part of, or you can simply sit in a comfortable, air-conditioned metro and ride around the city - the metro is mostly above-ground.

What must be done in?

• Get lost in the streets of the Old.
• Buy something original at the colorful Chandni Chowk market.
• Try as many types of curry as possible.
• Take a leisurely stroll through the Lodi Gardens.
• Climb to the very top of the minaret of the Jama Masjid mosque and enjoy the views of the city.
• Ride around in a rickshaw.

What should you not do in?

• Drink tap water, even filtered and boiled - only bottled water.
• Trying to enter a temple where access to foreigners and people of other faiths is prohibited. This is usually indicated by signs like “Only for Hindu”.
• Take photographs in temples or the façade of a temple with open doors, unless specifically permitted.
• Entering the temple without taking off your shoes and bringing leather items with you is considered desecration of the shrine.
• Pointing your feet towards someone is an insult.
• Touching children and stroking their heads is considered as causing damage.
• Taking photographs of people without asking their permission.
• Do not show due respect to Indians, their culture, religion, traditions, customs, sacred places.
• Staying alone in unfamiliar and suspicious places, especially when carrying money and equipment.

Useful contacts

Here you will find the most important emergency numbers for extreme cases and other useful numbers.

• Police – 100
• Fire service - 101
• Ambulance – 102
• Tourist information service in New (tourist office): +91-11-332-00-05

Different people may have completely opposite impressions of traveling to. Someone will see in the capital of India a progressive metropolis, where there is a place for luxury and wealth, and life is vibrant, as in Indian films. For others, it will seem like a hectic and dirty city in Asia. However, whatever one may say, it is worth recognizing that the heart of India is one of the brightest corners of Hindustan, which attracts a large number of tourists from all parts globe. Rest assured, after leaving, negative impressions will disappear, and memories of color and exoticism will remain for a long time and will call you again to this amazing Indian city.

India is a country with centuries-old traditions, with ancient religion and culture. While in the country, foreign tourists are advised to follow certain rules of conduct so as not to offend the feelings of local residents.

Thus, the traditional greeting in India is “namaste” - the Indian equivalent of “hello” (नमस्ते, “bow to you”, pronounced “namaste”). When pronouncing this greeting, you should fold your hands in a special gesture - slightly bow your head and fold your palms at chest level, as during prayer. If for some reason you cannot fold both hands (for example, one is occupied), when answering a greeting, you can raise only one hand to chest level, but always the right one! The fact is that in India, as in the rest of Asia, the right hand is considered clean: it is used to eat, bless, give and take things, money. The left hand is unclean, Indians consider it so because they use it for hygienic purposes (traditionally there is no toilet paper). In addition, the legs are also an “unclean” part of the body. You cannot sit with your feet pointing at another person or towards the temple; you also cannot point your foot at anything or anyone.

Remember that in India any demonstration of personal relationships, even between spouses, such as walking by the hand, hugging and kissing, is not accepted.

Only men and men can shake hands in the Western style. Women should fold their hands in a namaste gesture.

Consumption of all types of alcohol in India in public places is strictly prohibited and is punishable by a fine of up to 5,000 rupees or imprisonment of up to 3 months. It is not customary to carry bottles of alcohol along the street in your hands.

Sanitary rules for visiting India are not complicated - the country is not among the states that require a set of vaccinations for entry. Medical insurance is not required, but highly recommended. But be sure to take with you a first aid kit, in which, in addition to the medications you personally need, it is advisable to have an antibiotic, a sufficient amount of drugs for intestinal infections, and antiseptics (green stuff/iodine/peroxide, manganese, bandage, cotton wool). Don’t forget also repellents for mosquitoes (which, by the way, are carriers of malaria, dengue fever, etc.) and other insects (fleas, bedbugs).

To stay healthy, you need to follow a small set of rules: wash your hands often and thoroughly, food should be freshly prepared and thermally processed, drink only bottled water, tea, coffee, cold drinks factory production (Pepsi/Cola/Fanta, etc.). You should not feast on vegetables and fruits that cannot be peeled - grapes, dried fruits.

In case of intestinal disorder (symptoms - upset stomach, pain, fever, high temperature that does not go away within 3 days), you should not self-medicate - you need to contact one of the local clinics, where medicine is at a very high level. After a paid consultation with a doctor (inexpensive, 100-300 rupees) and tests (done within an hour), you will be prescribed a medicine that will put you back on your feet within 3-4 days.

Attractions

Guide

The Indian capital is one of the most ancient cities in the world. According to a popular theory developed by Indian scholars, the history of Delhi includes the history of about 8 different cities that existed here at different times.

The oldest mentions of Delhi relate to the legendary events described in the famous epic Mahabharata. It was here, on the banks of the Yamuna River, that stood Indraprastha- the fortress of five brothers from the royal family of the Pandavas.

The first historical mention of Delhi dates back to the 1st-2nd centuries. AD, when the Rajput prince Dehlu (from the anglicized version of whose name the modern name Delhi comes from) founded a settlement here, on the territory of which the Lalkot Fort was later built to protect against Muslim raids. Under the legendary prince Prithviraj (Rai Pithore) the fort Lalkot grew to the size of a full-fledged city.

Delhi Sultanate

At the end of the 12th century, the territory of Northern India was invaded by Muslim conquerors from the territory of modern Afghanistan. In 1192, Sultan Muhamed Ghori defeated the troops of the last Hindu ruler of Lalkot and captured the city. His successor Qutb al-Din Aibak founded the Delhi Sultanate in 1206, which became the main power on the North Indian Plain for the next three centuries of Indian history. The city became the capital of the Delhi Sultanate Mehrauli, which was located in the southwestern part of modern Delhi.

The power of the Delhi sultans gradually declined by the end of the 14th century. First, a vast region in the Western Deccan broke away from the Delhi Sultanate, whose rulers formed the new Bahmanid Sultanate. Then the great Mongol conqueror Tamerlane completely ravaged Delhi during the campaign of 1398-99.

Delhi - capital of the Mughals

The Delhi Sultanate finally fell under the blows of a new wave of Muslim conquerors from the north-west, armed with new tactics and actively using firearms in battle. In 1526, one of Tamerlane’s descendants, Khan Babur, completely defeated the troops of Sultan Ibrahim Lodi and took Delhi.

Babur made the captured city one of the main centers of the state he created - the Mughal Empire. From here he continued his conquests, expanding his new empire from Western Afghanistan to the banks of the Ganges by the end of his reign.

Babur's son Hamayun moved the Mughal capital from Agra to Delhi. However, the emperor failed to retain the new royal residence, and in 1536 the rebel Afghan ruler of Bihar, Shershah, captured Delhi and a significant part of the lands that belonged to the Mughals. The new ruler ordered the destruction of the buildings of his predecessor and began the history of Delhi with a new leaf, founding a city in their place Shergarh(the remains of this city are known today as the Old Fortress - Purana Qila).

Hamayun still managed to retake Delhi after 25 years of foreign rule. Today, the capital of India is decorated with his majestic tomb, which is considered one of the main attractions of Delhi. But his son Akbar, under whom the Mughal Empire reached the zenith of its power, moved the capital to new town Fatehpur Sikri, the ruins of which still adorn the outskirts of Agra.

Delhi was able to regain capital status under the great builder of the Taj Mahal, Shah Jahan. The Great Mogul founded his new residence in the vicinity of Delhi - the city Shahjahanabad, which was built 10 years later. Shahjahanabad (now called Old Delhi) included such world-famous landmarks of Delhi as the Red Fort and the Jama Masjid.

Delhi under British rule

The second half of the 18th century became a tragic era in the history of Delhi and the entire Mughal Empire. In 1739, Delhi was subjected to a devastating sack by the troops of the Persian ruler Nadir Shah.

At this time, the rulers of the growing Maratha Confederation joined the struggle for possession of the main city of India. Over the course of a series of battles, Delhi changed hands several times until, in 1771, the Marathas managed to finally liberate Delhi and place the emperor Shah Alam II under their control on the throne.

However, in 1803, during the 2nd Anglo-Maratha War, the British East India Company defeated the Maratha Confederation and took control of the Mughals ruling Delhi. After suppressing the Sepoy Mutiny (1857-1859), having finally established their power in India, the British briefly moved the capital to Calcutta. In 1911, King George V restored Delhi as the capital of British India.

The new masters of Delhi decided to modernize the capital of their main colony according to the British model. For this purpose, a new part was added to Old Delhi, called without further ado New Delhi. The main government and administrative buildings of the colonial administration were located here. The main designer of New Delhi was the British architect Edwin Lutyens, after whom an entire district of the new capital of British India was named.

Modern history of Delhi

After India's independence in 1949, Delhi was officially declared the capital and seat of the country's government.

Today Delhi is a modern metropolis with a population of more than 14 million people, which is recognized as one of the most dynamically developing capitals of the world.

One of the most beautiful cities countries. The government sits in Delhi, located in the north of the country. The growing metropolis, larger than Beijing and New York, is bustling with life. Life in the city is in full swing, the city is crowded with people.

In ancient times, Delhi was the center of various religions and empires, each of which tried to immortalize itself in temples and monuments. The monuments and buildings of Delhi reflect the unity of antiquity and modernity of a country that is trying to take its place in the global economy.

Sights of Delhi

South of New Delhi, in the old part of the city, rises 73 meters - the tallest brick minaret in the world and the main attraction of Delhi. This is not a straight tower, it was specially built slightly inclined so that if it falls, it will not fall on the mosque. On the territory of the Qutub Minar architectural complex, there is also black iron pole, dated to the 4th century. This iron column reaches a height of 7 meters and weighs about 6 tons. The pillar was first forged and then rolled on sand, and now the silicon contained in the sand preserves it from corrosion.

One of the main attractions of Delhi is the architectural miracle -. This is one of seven such temples in the world - one on each continent. The building was probably called the Lotus Temple because of its shape, which resembles this sacred flower. Since its construction in 1986, it has been visited by 50 million people. About 10 thousand people visit it every day, it is one of the most visited buildings in the world.

Akshardham - the largest Hindu temple in the world. This building is quite new - it was opened in 2005. The temple was built using voluntary donations, which totaled 500 million US dollars. This grandiose building reaches a height of 42 meters, its width is 94 meters, and its length is 106 meters. This architectural complex It amazes with its luxury and beauty of decoration - it is decorated with more than 20 thousand sculptures. Also, the temple is decorated with numerous columns, domes and pyramidal towers.

The Taj Mahal Hotel opened in New Delhi in 1903., is best numbers in the country. Starting from the ancient white marble to beautifully appointed guestrooms, the hotel combines old-world aesthetics with modern amenities. Each of the 565 rooms is tastefully decorated and represents architectural perfection.

The famous India Gate is located in Delhi- a memorial built in memory of the fallen soldiers who fell during the First World War and the Anglo-Afghan Wars. The memorial is an arch 42 meters high, at the foot of which an eternal flame burns, and on the arch itself are carved the names of more than 90 thousand fallen soldiers.

After the first Indian War of Independence in 1857, it established control over Delhi. To commemorate the struggle for independence, they have installed monuments to the great spiritual teacher Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi is one of the most respected world leaders of all time.

In the center of Delhi is the city's first open bazaar. The stalls sell goods from all over India - a veritable kaleidoscope of rich and varied goods produced by Indian artisans and artists. "Dilli" means Delhi and "Haat" means bazaar. At this bazaar you can see products from all states of India.

1. Best time For a trip to the city of Delhi, the period from February to April is considered.

2. If you go on a trip to Delhi, you should definitely take sunscreen with you to avoid unpleasant consequences associated with this factor.

3. Don't forget to drink water in plastic bottles. Water from the local water supply can be used exclusively as technical water.

4. Vegetables and fruits purchased at local markets should definitely be washed several times before consumption, or better yet, rinsed with a weak solution of potassium permanganate.

5. The most optimal means of transportation (both in terms of price and speed) is the metro. If you come to Delhi for several days, then it is best to buy a tourist card, which gives the right to free travel for a day (such a card costs 100 rupees) or for three days (costs 250 rupees).

6. In Delhi, it is customary to leave a tip, and this applies to almost all services. The most optimal tip would be from 3 to 5 rupees.