Delhi - The Tourism and Shopping Capital of India

Delhi happens to be one of the most historical cities in the whole world, and consequently offers much scope for tourism. Dating back to the 6th century BC, it has played host to dynasties across time, and saw a succession of kings and queens come and go. Its history is as layered as its architecture, which survive to make it a tourism hub.

But it is not just a place where the shadows of the past have found repose, it is also the modern capital of the world's largest democracy. Delhi offers a rich variety of sights and sounds for any visitor. It is equally rich for the modern tourist and the tourist who comes to look for history.

For the tourist who comes to look for history, Delhi offers a multi-layered view. The city finds its first mention in the epic Mahabharata, but nothing of that era remain to delight the tourist, and give a boost to the tourism industry.

During the medieval period Delhi was captured by invading Muslim armies coming in from central Asia. The first ruler, Qutub-uddin-Aibak founded the Delhi Sultanate. Apart from other buildings, he built the Qutub Minar, one of the most remarkable buildings of that era, and a favorite tourism site now. The city he founded was located on the southern part of the current city and the remains of the forts constructed during that period can still be seen. It is a much visited area by tourists and preserved by the Govt for tourism purposes.

The second most important dynasty to rule Delhi was the Mughal dynasty. The dynasty reached the peak of its culture during the rule of Shah Jahan. He rebuilt the city as Shah Jahanabad, which is now located on the western side of the present city. This walled city, the gates of which still stand, is the site of many ancient, and medieval architecture. Of these the Red Fort, Jama Masjid and Guru Shish Ganj sahib gurudwara are the most prominent tourist attractions.

This city served as the capital of the Mughal empire in India from 1649 to 1857, though in the later part of this period it was the capital in name only. It is perhaps the most important area from the point of view of tourism.

The British who ruled much of India from during the 18 and the 19th century had their capital in Calcutta until King George decided to move it back to Delhi in 1911. An entirely new city was constructed to the south of old Delhi, with its center at the Connaught Palace, and surrounding areas. This is the second most important area from the point of view of tourism. This is also the area which houses the President's palace, India Gate, Lutyen's Delhi (almost a permanent fixture on any tourist itinerary), the Parliament house, the Supreme Court and many more. These buildings, constructed during the Raj era, now serve as administrative and political nerve center of India. This area is a major tourist attraction not only for its ancient buildings, but also for shopping opportunities on offer.

Connaught Palace itself is built in the form of concentric circles. It is now a business and market area, and has consciously molded itself as a tourism hub.

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