Delhi--the fusion of history and modernity

The capital city of India--Delhi-- is a wonderful place to start your tour of India. No city in India has an intriguing history as Delhi. Many landmarks spread across the city speak volumes about its history. Delhi has seen the rise and fall of many empires right from the times, when Mohammed Gauri after defeating Prithviraj Chauhan set the Muslim rule in India to the coming of the British. Gauri did not stay in Delhi for long and left Delhi's rein in the hands of his slave--Quatab-ud-din Aibak, the man who built Qutab Minar. When you visit Qutab Minar, just for a while think about the times (12th century), when this monument had come into existence. Imagine the life and people of that era and how the times and surroundings have changed in over eight centuries. The Qutab Minar is a mute witness to many changes that Delhi has seen over the centuries. Most of Delhi's historic monuments were either built by a ruler or in memory of a ruler at some point of time in the history. Some of the most popular monuments are Humayun's Tomb, Red Fort, Jama Masjid and Old Fort. In the new league of fine pieces of architecture are the India Gate, Lotus Temple and the recently completed Akshar Dham Temple. But Delhi is just not about history and architecture. The city has embraced the modern outlook. It is a modern city that has clubs, discos, restaurants, cinema halls and hotels . Delhi has a fine infrastructure with wide tree lined roads and a good transport system. In the last few years, metro rail has made its entry to the city effectively providing an alternate to chaotic and slow moving traffic of the city. Authorities are planning to connect different parts of the city by metro rail in the next four-five years. A move that will reduce traffic snarls in congested areas of the city. There are many parks, museums and eating out places (other than restaurants), where one can stroll and connect to the city's people. If you interested in buying some handicraft items, you can visit the Craft Museum and Dilli Haat. Both great places to enjoy your Delhi tour. At Dilli Haat, you can even enjoy various cuisines from different parts of India. If you want a feel of Delhi's cultural scene, there is no dearth of places to visit. Just browse the city's main newspapers to check the latest cultural happenings. Or ask your hotel help desk and they will be happy to provide you many options. Some of the well known places to keep an eye are India Habitat Centre, India International Centre, National School of Drama (NSD) and Lalit Kala Academy. When on a tour of the city, just check various hotels in Delhi to find the best hotel deals. Hotels in Delhi range from cheap and budget hotels to five star and luxury hotels.