Remnants of its lost empires reach into every corner of Delhi, documenting its colorful history, arts and architecture, music and dance, religions, and culinary riches. Here is a short take on to pack in some of the best of it in 48 hours.
Day 1
In the cool of an early morning in Delhi, you have a tryst with the multi-layered past of Delhi. Discover for yourself the very essence of its histories and mysteries. Capture the heartbeat of the eternal city documented in its architectural marvels, its cultural dynamics trapped in winding lanes and tree-lined courtyards and crumbling Havelis in Mehrauli village— which opens up many chapters of past Delhis. Lal Kot of the Tomar Rajputs, Qila Rai Pithora of the Chauhans, Balban’s Tomb, the stepwells of Rajon Ki Baoli and Gandhak ki Baoli, the Qutb Minar, the photogenic rubble of Alai Mina — Yes Mehrauli has much to captivate your lens!
Post-lunch, head out for Paharganj, adjoining the heritage markets of Shahjahanabad. If stones could speak, they would talk of the heyday of the 'Flower Children' of the early 70s and how the area has transformed into New Delhi's surreal 'backpacker ghetto', where poverty and the tourists mingle with ease in this chaotic bazaar abrim with cheap hotels and eateries. Mouldering houses, darkened alleyways — spring fresh surprises of a life lived in the shadows— while its chaotic arteries are awash people, carts, rickshaws autos, vendors, beggars— Truth be told, you cannot but embrace this rich air of warm inclusivity.
Return to your hotel to relax and rewind the amazing vignettes captured in your memory bank forever.
Dinner is captured in the embrace of an informal setting where you uncover the most fascinating ways of Indian food flavors, heritage, and culture. The journey begins at the local bazaar, where you pick up fresh produce and spices to prepare your meal—a 5-course menu, including regional dishes from across India. Savor the meal and conversation with other travelers from across the globe.
Day 2
Tranquility cloaks the streets of Shahjahanabad as the Old Quarter awakens to a new day — and a traditional breakfast awaits you. Heading out from the by lanes of Asia's biggest wedding card and paper wholesale market, you will breakfast here on Bedmi poori, Nagori Halwa and Chole Kulche. The streets around Jama Masjid will introduce you to authentic Mughal breakfast dishes like Nihari and Paaya, then head for Asia's biggest wholesale Spice Market by rickshaw. The tour ends at Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, where you will learn about its amazing community kitchen.
Your wanderings now take you to the environs of the Yamuna River, which supported the earliest known vestiges of Delhi— Indraprastha. Past the formidable walls of the Red Fort, you will arrive on the quiet banks of the Yamuna at Nigambodh Ghat. This serene spot place offers a window to the ritualistic devotion of Hindus to the historic river. Despite its current struggles with pollution, the Yamuna has a deep mystical connect with her devotees.
Return to your hotel to relax over a nice lunch. Then set off to discover the city's Raj-era heritage. Memories of another day stain the elegant structures of Lutyen's Delhi with its elegant tree-lined boulevards and majestic buildings, including India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhawan and Connaught Place. Create Insta stories that will be the envy of your friends and family!
Slip into the Bohemian world of Lodhi Art District, India's first open-air art district. Marvel at this fascinating slice of contemporary Delhi life as you explore the street art culture in an immersive evening in this hip space of art and graffiti of Delhi. End the evening with an expert painter at a lake-view restaurant in Hauz Khas Village with beer and food.
Savor the astonishing richness of Delhi's magnificent heritage, culture, and historical splendor in countless ways no matter how many times you return.