20 Great Facts About Delhi

20 Great Facts About Delhi

The most fascinating aspect of Delhi is its liveliness, which extends from the food to the people. If Delhi is the country’s beating heart, it is always racing. And there’s no way to avoid the intensity that comes with all that Delhi has to offer. Yes, the country’s capital is also the capital of excellent things.

There is literally nothing that the capital of India does not offer you, from diplomatic and bureaucratic enclaves to old markets that refuse to lose their edge, from verdant parks to narrow lanes, from being a foodies paradise to a fashion designer’s dream, from harboring ancient relics to showing off its grand new malls there’s something for everyone. From the greatest colleges to the best coliving complexes, we’ve got you covered. When people say that Delhi is more than just a city, they are not mistaken. So prepare to be amazed by these 20 fascinating facts!

1. Delhi is one of the world’s oldest inhabited cities

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According to the ancient Indian literature ‘Mahabharata,’ Delhi is close to 5000 years old. It is widely assumed that it was the location of Indraprastha, the legendary metropolis of the Pandavas during the time of the Mahabharata, which was constructed around 3500 BC. However, archaeological evidence to back up the argument is limited and inconclusive.

The discovered clay pots and layers of the ancient city appear to match what the Mahabharata verses imply. Another piece of evidence in its favor is the presence of a settlement called Indraprastha, which was demolished by the British during the creation of Lutyens’ Delhi.

Read also; Top 10 Remarkable Facts about the Red Fort, Delhi

2. The city was destroyed and rebuilt several times

Delhi was built, destroyed, and rebuilt numerous times, especially during the medieval era, as foreigners who successfully invaded the Indian subcontinent would loot the pre-existing capital city in Delhi. Those who came to conquer and stay would then be so impressed by the city’s strategic location that they would choose to make it their capital and rebuild it in their own style.

Whatever records remain of Delhi, they crown the city as the capital city of some empire or another throughout, with brief random pauses in between, making Delhi one of the world’s longest-serving capitals and one of the oldest inhabited towns.

3. It has been the capital of several empires and dynasties throughout history

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As the capital of successive dynasties, Delhi has played a significant role in the political life of India. The Tomar kingdom in the eighth century marks the beginning of Delhi’s historical record.

It is thought to have been built, destroyed, and rebuilt more than once because those who successfully invaded the Indian subcontinent looted Delhi, the country’s capital, and those who stayed were so impressed by the city’s advantageous location that they chose to make it their capital and rebuilt it in their own image.

From 736 until 1193, Delhi was controlled by the Chauhan and Tomara dynasties during the Middle Ages. The term “Delhi Sultanate” refers to a group of five succeeding dynasties that ruled the Indian subcontinent with Delhi as their capital.

4. The city is known for its remarkable architectural heritage

Forts, step wells, and temples are all around the medieval city of Delhi. Particularly fortunate to have a number of historic structures and timeless landmarks is South Delhi. South Delhi has a distinct personality, from the Qutub Minar and Mehrauli Archaeological Park to the Jahaz Mahal and Zafar Mahal.

In the past, Delhi’s growth occurred in a triangle-shaped area of land bounded by the northern Aravalli hills on two sides and the Yamuna River on one. The Uttarapatha, an important commercial route that traveled over the Gangetic plain and connected to the Silk Route, is where Delhi is strategically located, giving it a greater regional significance.

The first city of Delhi, Lal Kot, was constructed by the Tamar dynasty in 1060 AD. Archaeological discoveries have revealed continuous cultural layers from the third to fourth century BC to the Mughal Period, as well as pottery fragments that date from around 1000 to 500 BC. In the middle of the 12th century, the Chauhans took the Tomars’ place and expanded Lal Kot to create Qila Rai Pithora.

5. The largest Asian spice bazaar is located in Delhi

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Delhi is one of the best cities on the subcontinent, if not the entire continent, to restock your spice cabinet. In particular, Khari Baoli, Asia’s largest spice market, draws traders from all over Northern India who travel here to purchase spices, nuts, pulses, and grains in bulk.

You can practically brush shoulders with wholesalers at this perennially crowded market, many of whose families have been operating stalls here since the market’s founding in the middle of the 17th century. Even if you aren’t much of a culinary magician, the trip is still worthwhile to capture images of enormous mounds of vibrant seasonings or just for the enjoyment of being overwhelmed by smells.

6. Diverse cultures, languages, and religions coexist in Delhi

‘The Melting Pot,’ a metaphor for the synthesis of diverse civilizations, is used to describe the oneness in multiple essences or the existence of different hues in a single spot. India is a cultural melting pot, comprising many languages, traditions, music, art, and so on. Since time immemorial, different elements have been incorporated into this melting pot, those elements combining, sharing their value system, and therefore reaching out to everyone in every aspect to create a delicious and sense attractive dish. As a result, as compared to any other homogeneous society, India’s beauty is its diversity.

Read also; 10 Unbelievable facts about the Jama Masjid, Delhi

7. Delhi is renowned for its vibrant street food scene

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They are inexpensive, plentiful, and Delhi’s favorite street snack! In Delhi, street food seeks you rather than the other way around. Do you get up early and go for a walk in the morning? The simple chole-kulcha stand can be found here. Do you want some late-night snacks? Parathas are here to satisfy your midnight appetite. Is it too hot outside? Look for the sound of someone shredding ice for that sour kala khatta chuski. Need something to keep your hands toasty this winter? Get a package of freshly baked nan khatai, Delhi’s favorite biscuit.

In Delhi, there is something for everyone in every season, and while they may not be the cleanest, the Delhiites feel that nothing can’t be fixed with a good gulp of antacid. Street food is so popular in Delhi that street food carts are required at weddings, and you will almost certainly see people lining up for a dish of golgappe or four. From boiled eggs to a hearty bowl of chicken biryani, Delhi is a foodie’s dream.

8. The city houses several prestigious educational institutions

With many central institutes, a technical university, the University of Delhi, and a slew of prominent coaching institutes, Delhi is regarded as an educational powerhouse in North India. Given that the majority of students live in Delhi, close to both the Delhi University campuses and diverse neighborhoods throughout the city.

The city has gradually established numerous regions that provide affordable housing and other services that students living in these areas require. Due to a lack of organized hostel infrastructure in Delhi in comparison to the number of students arriving, the majority of these accommodations are in the form of Paying Guest (PG) facilities and individual/sharing rented lodgings, where the greatest care has been taken for all of the student’s needs.

These regions are the most suited spots for students to crash in for their long-term to short-term needs, with infinite late-night food outlets, great local connectivity, local libraries, and furnished rooms. The presence of such facilities also allows students to bond with other students in their respective courses and participate in group study sessions.

9. The city is a shopaholic’s paradise

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Delhi is a shopaholic’s dream, with retail therapy reaching new heights! This vibrant city boasts a variety of stylish shopping venues that are sure to leave even the most discerning fashionista in awe, from busy bazaars to stylish malls and hidden gem boutiques. Whether you’re looking for fine traditional crafts, high-end brand labels, or wacky street clothes, Delhi has something for everyone.

10. Delhi boasts an extensive network of beautiful gardens and parks

The city is noted for its green cover as well as its perfect blend of modern and historic architecture. With its many small and large parks, Delhi provides citizens with a place to spend time in nature. The beauty of the city is reflected in the aura that these gardens exude. There are also several good parks, and parks are an important element of Delhi’s city life.

11. Delhi is India’s most important commercial center

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The service sector is the city’s main employment and the most important portion of its economy. After a boom in the 1980s, manufacturing has remained significant. Agriculture used to be very important to the national capital territory’s economy, but it currently plays a little role.

The majority of Delhi’s workforce is employed in trade, finance, governmental administration, professional services, and a variety of communal, personal, and social services. Indeed, Old Delhi has long been a significant trading and economic center in northern India.

12. Delhi used to be surrounded by 14 gates

Originally, Delhi was surrounded by 14 gates Delhi Darwaza, Rajghat Darwaza, Khizri Darwaza, Calcutta Darwaza, Nigambodh Ghat Darwaza, Kela Ghat Darwaza, Lal Darwaza, Kashmiri Darwaza, Badarroo Darwaza, Kabuli Darwaza, Pathar Ghat Darwaza, Lahauri Darwaza, Ajmeri Darwaza, and Turkman Darwaza, only five of which remain.

The northernmost gate of the city is ‘The Kashmere gate,’ erected by Robert Smith in 1835. The ‘Ajmeri gate,’ which was built in 1644, faces Ajmer. The main entrance to the Red Fort is known as “the Lahori gate.” The ‘Dilli Darwaza,’ also known as the ‘Delhi Gate,’ is another entrance to the Red Fort. Finally, Shahjahanabad is home to ‘The Turkman Gate,’ which was built in the 13th century.

Read also; Top 10 Amazing Facts about Delhi Gate

13. The tallest minaret in the world may be found in Delhi

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The Qutub Minar is one of three World Heritage structures in India’s capital, Delhi. Qutub Minar, inspired by the victory tower at Ghazni, was begun in 1192 CE by Qutub-ud-din-Aibak, who established the Mamluk dynasty (1206-1290) in India. Unfortunately, Qutub-ud-din-Aibak did not survive long enough to see it completed. The tower is a tapering building with the Quwat-ul-Islam Mosque, India’s first mosque, at its foot.

14. It has hosted major international sporting events

In recent decades, India has hosted a number of major sporting events most notably the Commonwealth Games in 2010 which were the most expensive and no country has yet surpassed. Also, the Asian Games, the Hockey World Cup, the Cricket World Cup, and the FIFA U-17 World Cup were hosted in the city.

15. The city attracts a large number of medical tourists

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At the recent Global Investment in Ayush Summit, India’s visionary Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke passionately about India being a global medical tourism hub, serving and saving millions of lives each year. With all macro elements favoring major investments in the Indian Medical Tourism sector, he established the vision of Heal in India becoming one of the most powerful brands of the decade.

The medical tourism sector in India began to acquire traction at the beginning of the previous decade, as more private hospitals began to go out to neighboring nations to service their patients. To supplement these hospitals’ efforts, an industry of Medical Travel Facilitators emerged, promoting these hospitals and establishing offices in these countries to advertise Indian Healthcare.

16. Delhi offers a vibrant nightlife scene

In addition to its rich cultural legacy, historical landmarks, and bustling markets Delhi also has a thriving nightlife scene with something for everyone. The club and lounge scene in Delhi is thriving, with several locations offering amazing music, cuisine, and drinks. If you prefer a more relaxed setting, there are numerous clubs and pubs to pick from in Delhi.

The skyline of Delhi is peppered with rooftop bars that give breathtaking views of the city. These bars are ideal for unwinding after a hard day and taking in the cool evening breeze. While Delhi’s nightlife scene is active and entertaining, some precautions should be taken. Go with friends whenever possible, and avoid strolling alone late at night.

17. It has the world’s 13th-largest metro rail network

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The Delhi Metro is a mass rapid transit (MRT) system in India’s National Capital Region that serves Delhi and its satellite cities of Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Gurugram, Noida, and Bahadurgarh. The network is made up of ten color-coded lines that serve 255 stations and span 348.12 kilometers (216.31 miles). It is India’s largest and busiest metro train system.

18. Delhi is the world’s second most bird-rich capital

If there is one thing that Delhiites will never complain about, it is the lack of birds in the sky! After Nairobi, Delhi is the world’s second most bird-rich capital city, and if you want to see some unusual and difficult-to-find winged friends, simply head to Okhla Bird Sanctuary or Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary and gaze up at the sky or around you.

19. IGI Airport has been named Asia’s best airport

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Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi has been named the ‘Best Airport by Size and Region’ in Asia-Pacific for four years in a row, according to Delhi International Airport Limited, a GMR Group-led consortium. Delhi residents are proud of this accomplishment, which is a credit to the airport employees’ hard work.

20. Delhi features Asia’s largest wholesale market for fruits and vegetables

When it comes to fruits and vegetables, the city has a plethora of wholesale marketplaces that cater to shops, hoteliers, and individual shoppers. These markets not only offer a wide variety of fresh goods but also reasonable prices and a lively environment. Azadpur wholesale market in Delhi is Asia’s largest fruit and vegetable market. Approximately 3000 trucks provide fruits and vegetables to this market for retail sale.

Delhi is without a doubt one of the most amazing cities in which to explore numerous sites. This is due to an incredible blend of culture, people, and Lutyens architecture. Thriving, developing, and prospering on the banks of the Yamuna, Delhi has been through a lot historically and culturally. This is the land that witnessed the British marching vigor, the Mughals’ empirical reign, and so on.