The capital city is a vibrant melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and histories. Delhi has passed through the hands of many empires, all of which have left an indelible imprint on the city’s skyline and ethos. Once you’ve explored the city’s fabulous monuments and holy shrines, veer off the beaten track and experience a different side to the capital. Here are 3 wonderful experiences in Delhi.
Heaps of golden turmeric and crimson chilli powder greet you as you enter the maze of narrow alleys in Khari Baoli. This is Asia’s largest, loudest, liveliest spice market, housed in the heaving bylanes of Old Delhi. And it’s an experience for all your senses.
The spice market dates back to the 17th-century, first set up in the Mughal era. Shopkeepers loudly hawk their wares at old world stores, where baskets of tamarind, cumin, and every spice imaginable form a dazzling display at the storefronts. Explore the heady sights, sounds, and smells of this buzzing market on a cycle rickshaw for a truly immersive experience.
Delhi is magical at dawn. As the sun rises, the streets are quiet and only the birds sing. Cycle through the city at this magical hour to see some of the city’s finest architecture and wide avenues lined with grand old trees.
Explore the heart of Lutyens’ Delhi, designed during the British Raj in the early 1900s. You’ll see the grand Presidential Palace and the iconic India Gate, surrounded by lush lawns and gardens. Cycle past the colonnaded buildings of Connaught Place market and stop for a refreshing chai and snack break along the way.
Medieval ruins are scattered across a vast, lush park with stunning views of the Qutub Minar. Join an expert on a guided walk through this historically significant area. You’ll see a grand 16th-century stepwell and tombs from the 1200s, the Jamali Kamali mosque and Sufi shrines. With varying styles of architecture and beautiful natural landscapes, the park is a photographer’s delight.
