Transcript Slide 1
India’s Capital City
INTRODUCTION
New Delhi, the capital and the third largest city of India is a
fusion of the ancient and the modern. Standing along
the West End of Gangetic Plain, the capital city, Delhi,
unwinds a picture rich with culture, architecture and
human diversity, deep in history, monuments, museums,
galleries, gardens and exotic shows. Comprising of two
contrasting yet harmonious parts, the Old Delhi and New
Delhi, the city is a travel hub of Northern India.
The city that has served as the political, financial and
cultural centre for generations. And to the several
empires of ancient India, most notably that of the
Mughals.
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New Delhi lies in northern India, almost entirely in the
Gangetic plains. Both Old and New Delhi exert a
beguiling charm on visitors.
Narrating the city's Mughal past, Old Delhi, takes you
through the labyrinthine streets passing through
formidable mosques, monuments and forts. You will also
discover lively and colorful bazaars that boast to cater all
sorts of good and items at mind-blowing prices amidst a
barely controlled chaotic ambience. The imperial city of
New Delhi displays the finely curved architecture of
British Raj.
It generates a mesmerizing charm reflecting wellcomposed and spacious streets under the shade of
beautifully lined avenues of trees and tall and imposing
government buildings.
MAP
URBAN LANDSCAPE
New Delhi is structured around two central promenades
called the Rajpath and the Janpath. The Rajpath, or
King's Way, stretches from the Rashtrapati Bhavan to
the India Gate. The Janpath, formerly Queen's Way,
begins at Connaught Circus and cuts the Shantipath at
right angles.
At the heart of the city is the magnificent Rashtrapati
Bhavan (formerly known as Viceroy's House) which sits
atop Raisina Hill. The Secretariat which houses various
ministries of the Government of India, flanks out of the
Rashtrapati Bhavan. The Parliament House, designed by
Herbert Baker, is located at the Sansad Marg, which runs
parallel to the Rajpath.
TRANSPORT
Public transport is an important feature in New Delhi. There
are buses, auto rickshaws, a mass rapid transit system
(otherwise called Delhi Metro), taxis and suburban railways.
Buses
Buses are the most popular means of transport catering to
about 60% of the total demand. The state-owned Delhi
Transport Corporation (DTC) is a major bus service provider
for the city. Delhi Transport Corporation operates many
routes not-only in Delhi, but also many inter-states routes.
The mofussil buses operate around 34 depots, and the interstate buses operate from the Three Inter State Bus
Terminals in Kashmir Gate, Sarai Kale Khan and Anand
Vihar.
Metro
Delhi Metro, operated by the Delhi Metro Rail
Corporation Limited. A world class metro system has
been instituted in New Delhi. In order to meet the
transport demand in Delhi, the
State and Union government
started the construction of a
mass rapid transit system,
including the Delhi Metro.
As of 2007, the metro operates
three lines with a total length of
65 km (40 miles) and 59
stations while several
other lines are under
construction.
Auto Rickshaws & Taxis
Auto rickshaws are one of the most popular means
of public transportation in Delhi. Auto Rickshaws are
popular in New Delhi, and are popularly known as
scooters. Since they run on CNG, they are
environmentally-friendly and a quick way to get around.
They are usually green and yellow.
A cost of a ride is in the range of Rs.20 to Rs.75.Taxis are
not as prevalent in New Delhi as rickshaws,
and tend to be more expensive.
However, both private taxis and
the state-permit Taxis.
FESTIVALS & HOLIDAYS
New Delhi's capital status has amplified the importance of
national events and holidays. National events such as
Republic Day, Independence Day and Gandhi Jayanti
(Gandhi's birthday) are celebrated with great enthusiasm in
New Delhi and the rest of India.
On India's Independence Day
(15 August) the Prime Minister
of India addresses the nation from
the Red Fort. Most Delhiites
celebrate the day by flying kites, which are considered a
symbol of freedom.
Festivals & Holidays
The Republic Day Parade is a large cultural and military
parade showcasing India's cultural diversity and military
might. Religious festivals include Diwali (the festival of
light), Durga Puja, Holi, Lohri, Maha Shivaratri, Eid ul-Fitr,
Eid ul-Adha and Buddha Jayanti.
The Qutub Festival is a cultural event during which
performances of musicians and dancers from all over
India are showcased at night with the Qutub Minar as the
chosen backdrop of the event.
Other events include the Kite Flying Festival, the International
Mango Festival and Vasant Panchami (the Spring Festival)
are held every year in Delhi.
PLACES OF INTEREST
PARLIAMENT
Parliament, the supreme legislative body of the country,
comprises of the President and the 2 Houses – the Lok
Sabha (House of the People) and Raja Sabha (Council of
States). The President has the power to summon and
prorogue either House of Parliament or to dissolve the
Lok Sabha.
The Constitution of India came into force on January 26,
1950. The first general elections under the new
Constitution were held during the year 1951-52 and the
first elected Parliament came into being in April, 1952
Jama Masjid
The largest mosque in India, was built by the great
Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Begun in 1644 and completed
finally in 1658 at a cost of 10 lakh rupees, it has 3 gateways, 4
angle towers and two 40 m high minarets.
Situated on a rocky eminence in Old Delhi on the other side of
road to the Red Fort. One of the finest Specimen of Mughal
structure, its notable features
are its bold treatment in red
sandstone inlaid with black and
white marble, spacious courts,
massive pillars supporting
engrailed arches, elegant bulbous domes - all well
proportioned with decorative manipulation.
Birla House
This is the place where Mahatma Gandhi was assasinated
on January 30,1948. A 3 foot tall stone memorial has
been erected at the site. Scenes from the Mahatma's life
are painted on the walls and ceilings of the nearby red
sandstone portion.
Parliament House
Designed by Sir Herbert Baker, its foundation was laid by
the Duke of Connaught in 1921. With a diameter of 125
yards and a height of 75 ft. it was completed in just 5
years. Located near the Central Secretariat, this marvellous
piece of architecture can be admired only from outside due
to security reasons.
Qutub Minar
About 15 km south of Delhi, in Mehrauli, this 238 feet and
1 inch high Minar has been referred to as "one of the
wonders of world". This soaring tower of victory was built
immediately after the defeat of the last Hindu Kingdom in
Delhi. Qutb-ud-din Aibak laid its foundation in 1200 A.D.
Iltutmish added 3 more storeys. After damaged by
lightning in 1368 A.D. Firuz Shah Tughlaq rebuilt the 4th
story, added the 5th and a harp
shaped cupola. As of now, upper
storeys are closed for visitors,
yet its a treat to watch this
Magnificent monument.
Red Fort
Built in almost 20 years (1639-1648), by the Mughal monarch
Shahjahan, who shifted his capital from Agra to Delhi had a great
significance in historical Delhi.
Built at a cost of Rs 100 lakhs, this imposing building in redstone has
its walls that vary in height from 18 m on the river (Yamuna) side to 33
m on the city side.
Of the 2 gates, Lahore Gate and Delhi Gate, the former facing the
Chandni Chowk is more imposing. The Lahore Gate faces to Lahore
(now in Pakistan) and gives access to Chhatta Chowk (the vaulted
arcade).
Of the prime attractions in the fort are Diwan-i-Am (the
Hall of Public Audiences). It was in the Diwan-i-Am,
wherein a marble dais is said to have
supported Shahajahan’s famous Peacock throne
which was valued at some 6 million pound
sterling was taken away by Nadir Shah when
he looted Delhi in 1739.
India Gate
This 42-metre high free standing arch, designed
by Lutyens was founded on February 10 1921 by
the Duke of Connaught. It commemorates the
70,000 Indian soldiers who died during World War I.
Amar Jawan Jyoti, another memorial, added
under the arch in 1971 is the nation's
tribute to Indian Jawans, who laid
their lives during Indo-Pak War of
1971. The names of the soldiers
are inscribed all along the walls
of the arch.
Jantar Mantar
Of the 5 astronomical observatories built by Maharaja
Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur (1699-1743), Jantar Mantar, at
Delhi is one of them (others were erected at Ujjain,
Varanasi, Jaipur and Mathura).
Built in 1724, it contains 6
masonry instruments, the largest one
Samrat Yantra (Supreme Instrument)
is like a sun dial. Built for observing
the movements of the stars and the
planets, through these Yantras one
can learn about the shortest and the longest
day of the year, days of the week, months, time and other
astronomical data.
CURRENCY &
CREDIT CARDS
The Rupee is the currency of India. The issuance of the
currency is controlled by the Reserve Bank of India. The
most commonly used symbols for the rupee are Rs, ₨ and
रू. The ISO 4217 code for the Indian rupee is INR. In most
parts of India, the rupee is known as the rupee, roopayi,
rupaye, rubai.
Credit Cards: American Express, Master Card, Visa and
Diners Club credit cards are generally accepted by large
establishments including hotels, shops and airlines.
CLIMATE
Summers are very hot, though the humidity levels are not
much as in Calcutta and Bombay. Temperatures in the
summer months can touch 45 degrees Celsius with May
and June being the hottest months.
Rains are spread over a month from early July and humidity
levels at this time can cause uneasiness. The winter
months October-end to February-end are cold and dry and
the minimum temperatures can go as low as 3 degrees
Celsius in late December and January.
Heavy woolens are ideal during this time and can give a
sense of satisfaction and enjoyment. Weather bulletins and
forecasts are given regularly over the television and in the
newspapers and are normally accurate as they are based
on satellite information.
LANGUAGE
Delhi is very much a mini India, attracting people from all
parts of the nation. A perfect example of cosmopolitan
culture. English, Hindi, Punjabi and Urdu are most
commonly spoken.
In hotels and restaurants the staff speak English while the
tourist guides are also well versed with the language.
Indians being friendly can always help tourists who may
not understand any other language than English.
FOOD & CUISINE
You will find the choicest variety of Indian food in Delhi,
a melting pot of the country’s myriad cuisine. From the
many restaurants offering world cuisine to the delectable
street cuisine, Delhi has something to satiate any palate.
Most hotels serve continental food and the city offers a
variety of fast food outlets as well.
TIPPING
Tipping is common for porters in hotels as also the
stewards and bearers and tourist guides, though it is not
the practice with taxi and auto drivers and other means
of transport within the city. The standard tipping amount
in hotels and restaurants is 10% of the total bill.
SHOPPING
There is almost nothing that is not available in Delhi and
within the very recent past outlets of big international
names in fashion and retail have sprung up all over the
city. And for one wanting to shop only for Indian goods
the variety is almost mind-boggling. In fact as far as
shopping is concerned, Delhi could well be termed the
world within a city.
SMOKING
Smoking is banned in public places, public transport and
government offices, inside cinema halls and theatres
located in the state of Delhi. In several other places,
boards prominently display the ban on smoking. Most
hotels and restaurants have separate smoking zones.
Dos & Don’ts
Delhi is a large city that has emerged through the
confluence of many contrasting cultures and traditions.
Hence, there is a lot to explore and experience. It can be
a confusing place for newcomers, especially since it is
always teeming with people from various communities.
To make their visit a pleasant one, visitors should follow
few general guidelines.
It is a good idea to make reservations for
accommodation and transportation facilities well in
advance, so that there is no last minute hitches when
one arrives in the city.
Dos & Don’ts (cont’d)
The best months to visit Delhi are Feb.- March and
Sept.- Nov. Between April and September the extremely
hot weather can be very taxing. If one is visiting during
that time, carrying a bottle of mineral water and
sunscreen lotion is a very good idea.
The tropical sun is strong during summer months, so
guard against sunstroke and dehydration. Wear a hat
and dark glasses when you go out. Drink lots of liquids,
water and fruit juice. Allow sweat to evaporate, wear
loose cotton clothes. Use sunscreen lotions and talcum
powder as a precaution against prickly heat rashes.
Dos & Don’ts (cont’d)
One should keep a fair amount of the local currency,
especially loose change with one while travelling through
the city. This way one can avoid having to pay a bit
extra at any point.
One should trust one's own judgment when it comes to
shopping and should beware of touts and agents.
Bargaining is often the norm here (except in the upmarket areas, of course!), so it is a good idea to be
aware of the prevailing rates before starting the actual
shopping.
If you feel lost or confused approach the traffic
policemen to guide you.
Beware of beggars and even mendicants or anybody
who approaches you for alms or donations. Keep your
wallets safe, as you would anywhere else.
Dos & Don’ts (cont’d)
Stay away from so called ‘Tourist Information
Centres’ which are near New Delhi Railway
Stations, as they are not tourist offices, but
tourist agents out to fleece unsuspecting visitors.
Indian's take sport very seriously and especially
relish cricket victories against the likes of
England.
Delhi has a surprising amount of sporting
facilities for the active traveller including cricket
pitches and a beautiful golf course at the Delhi
Golf Club.
Dos & Don’ts (cont’d)
Bring a phrase book or phrase list with you. You'll get
the most mileage out of a Hindu/Urdu phrase book in
the north. You won't likely need it to get your point
across, but it surely shows a lot of respect to give the
language a try. If you have to learn one phrase, go for
"Your child is beautiful." That will surely get you a lot of
smiles and warm responses... :)
The key is to keep the most valuable things closest to
you. You shouldn't remove the security belt when you're
out and about, so that's where you'll keep you money,
passport, tickets (unless you're about to use them),
medical prescriptions, and the like.
Dos & Don’ts (cont’d)
For travel health, it is best to use your common sense.
Take care what you eat or drink. It is best to carry your
own mineral water. Hot tea and coffee are good
alternatives. Indian travellers do not worry too much
about water, because they are tuned to local conditions.
Even so, contaminated drinking water remains the main
reason for most stomach-related diseases.
Diarrhea (the English call it 'Delhi-belly') is the most
common stomach ailment. Take a three or five-day
course of anti-diarrhea tablets duly prescribed by a
doctor. Along with medication, drink a lot of water with
salt and sugar as diarrhea leads to dehydration. Alcohol,
milk, meat, fried and spicy foods should be avoided.
Porridge, stew and the local khichdi are easy to digest
and, therefore, recommended.
At a Glance
Area: 1483 sq. kms
Altitude: 239 m above sea level
Density: 9294 persons per sq. Km.
Languages: Hindi, English, Urdu and Punjabi
Climate: Extreme Hot in Summer and Cold in Winter
Maximum Temperature: 46 Degree Celsius
Minimum Temperature: 04 Degree Celsius
Winter: December – February
Spring: March to mid April
Summer: April end to August
Autumn: September to November
At a Glance (cont’d)
Best time to Visit: October to March
River: Yamuna
Time Zone: GMT/UTC +5.5
Daylight Saving Start & End: not in use
Currency: Indian Rupee (Rs)
Electricity: 230-240V 50HzHz
Electric Plug Details: South African/ Indian-style plug
with two circular metal pins above a large circular
grounding pin:
European plug with two circular metal pins:
EMERGENCY Nos.
Police: 100
Fire: 101
Ambulance: 102
Accident & Trauma: 1099