Friday, 30 May 2008

Delhi or New Delhi - Are they different?

Lots of people ask me whether Delhi is the same as New Delhi!

People think that these 2 are different cities - but they are one.

The Capital of India is New Delhi, this was made the capital by the then British rulers to showcase their total control over the Indian Subcontinent, in the year 1911.

Before that Calcutta ( now known as Kolkata)was the capital of India.

The task of building the new part of Delhi was given to an architect called Edwin Lutyens. Lutyens designed the new part with particular emphasis to wide tree lined roads, proper layout and a pedestrian friendly approach.

In contrast the Old part of Delhi is congested with narrow lanes and is not pedestrian friendly. Old Delhi houses markets which have been used for centuries for trade and are full of colour and activity.

If you are a traveler and want to visit Delhi, it is best to visit the Old part and the Lutyens part of Delhi - to get a true picture of life in Delhi.

In summary, Old Delhi and New Delhi are the same city. If you decide to travel to India New Delhi, stay at a Bed and Breakfast in Delhi, India and try to get guided Delhi tours to both the old and the new part of Delhi - to get a feel of the city. If you want to see the Tourist Attractions in New Delhi read here. Other places to see in Delhi are India Gate, Jantar Mantar, Jama Masjid and Old Fort.

New Delhi Hotels can be booked via this site. 

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