Delhi, India

Photo: Courtyard of Jama Masjid

A young man dashes barefoot across the courtyard of Delhi’s Jama Masjid (Friday Mosque) in Shahjahanabad, or Old Delhi.

Photograph by Mark Henley/Panos

With one foot deeply grounded in time-revered traditions and the other dipping more than just a few toes in the dotcom domain, Delhi embraces diversity with verve and gritty gumption. Modern Delhi has only been India’s capital since 1931, but thanks to its location—a strategic gateway city—it has long played a critical role in shaping the subcontinent’s history. Today, Delhi is one of India’s most multifaceted cities, with the downtown swish restaurants and chichi boutiques serving as a stark contrast to the old city’s medieval-flavored bazaars and historic masterpieces like the Red Fort and Jama Masjid.

Delhi Photos and Quiz

Related Features

  • Photo: Bastar folk dance troupe

    Delhi Must-Dos

    Our experts recommend the top attractions in and around Delhi—with advice on how to get the most out of your visit.

  • Photo: Portrait of a girl, Rajasthan

    India's Lost Nomads

    India’s 80 million wanderers are torn—clinging to centuries-old traditions while the modern world strips their identities away.

  • Photo: Participants at an Indian wedding

    Photo Gallery: Indian Wedding

    Henna, horses, and brilliantly colored brides—see photos from the Travler magazine feature "My Big Fat Indian Wedding."

  • Photo: Ancient relief carving

    India’s Ancient Art

    In 1,500-year-old temples, Indian artists portrayed their gods as visions of perfection.

Adobe Flash Player This requires the latest version of Flash Player. Click here to download.

Travel With Us

All Upcoming Trips »

Travel Top 10

Travel Blog

More From Travel & Cultures