Delhi Neighborhoods

Once the capital of Islamic India, this congested and chaotic part of the city is the site of the Red Fort, a fortress palace, and Jama Masjid, the city’s oldest mosque. Both were built by Mughal king Shah Jahan in the 17th century. This area also encompasses famous street-stall-lined market Chandni Chowk.

Catch a glimpse of Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President’s office and residence; the India Gate, a memorial arch; and 16th-century Humayun’s Tomb in this conspicuously clean government-centric section.

Three large outer and inner traffic circles (with eight streets shooting off the outer circle) mark this commercial epicenter. Despite traffic jams, locals head here to shop, dine, and generally saunter.

Though technically a suburb, this southern “village” is teeming with fashionable shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The country’s prestigious National Institute of Fashion Technology is also located here.

In the southern part of the city, these two neighboring residential and commercial sections boast some of the city’s largest markets, where you can buy anything from housewares to shawls and jewelry. A smattering of hip cafes, restaurants, and bars draw plenty of college kids and young professionals.

This southwest district is the site of the Qutb Minar, an ornately carved brick minaret (the tallest in the world) that was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.