Over

Over
the years, India‘s
capital has become recognisable as a changeover point for
travellers venturing further afield – to the nation’s most famous
attractions. Instead of a destination in its own right, Delhi
became the reality check for those expecting to arrive to
colourful, bejewelled palaces and neat rows of Ambassador cars. But
times are changing. While there are no second chances for first
impressions, history proves that Delhi is no stranger when it comes
to revolution – and in recent years, it’s really come into its
own.

The city has been slowly reinventing itself as an epicentre for
commerce – now at India’s cutting edge for fashion, technology,
food and art – and offers history, culture and architecture
aplenty, while fusing old and new. Home to 19 million people in
total, Old Delhi (referred to as ‘Purani Dilli’) sits alongside New
Delhi – created as the primary base for the British Raj – meaning
visitors effectively get two cities for the price of one, both with
strong, distinctive personalities to discover. There’s no doubt
that the first impression may be one of organised chaos, but look a
little more closely and you’ll find a generous amount of
environmentally-protected greenery, and pockets of tranquillity
scattered throughout.