Delhi city - personal review. See what "Delhi" is in other dictionaries Fun n Food Village

is one of the most interesting cities in the world. Glitter and poverty, civilization and the Middle Ages coexist side by side in it. If from a European comfortable city (and somewhere even boring) you immediately descend into the Indian capital, then there is a risk of drowning in its color and exoticism.

is one of the largest and busiest metropolitan areas in the world and home to over 20 million people. Its streets are swarming not only with residents, but also with an incredible number of cars and rickshaws. All this mixes in a noisy stream and raises clouds of dust.

Not even in the most central area, the city deafens with different sounds, hits the eyes with the acid colors of clothes, goods and fruits, and knocks you off your feet with a mixture of smells of spices and rubbish lying everywhere. turns his head very quickly, and also quickly takes him into his arms.

With all this, it is the most developed city in India. The concentration of educated people here is higher than anywhere else in the country. There are very good roads, wide streets, lots of greenery and neat European-style neighborhoods. Therefore, it is not surprising that the capital is the ultimate dream for provincials who come here by the thousands in search of a better life.

And yet, despite the fact that - the most progressive Indian city, most of its population lives in squalid shacks and huts. Of course, there are plenty of rich people, but you won't meet them on the streets. They live behind massive gates in their luxurious palaces and communicate only with their “peers”.

As befits all cities in the world, it is divided into the Old City (Old) and the New City (New). By the way, it is the New area that is the official capital of India, where the government of the state and the government of the city are located.

Yes, it is a very hectic city, but when you come to it, in no case should you chase after all its sights at once. It is necessary to dive slowly into the main city of India, and only then it will truly open up to you from all sides.

How to get from the airport to the city?

The main airport of the capital of India. Indira Gandhi is located 16 kilometers southwest of New. Landing at this airport, you can easily get to the city in several ways.

Underground

The Ysky subway is the fastest way to get to the center of the capital. A bullet train connects Terminal 3 (the main terminal) with downtown New York. The first train leaves at 4.45, and the last one at 23.15, the interval between departures is 20 minutes.

Bus

Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) also provides shuttle buses that run every 30 minutes between the airport and the city center: Kashmiri Gate bus station and Connaught Place. All buses depart from Terminal 3 from the platform in front of the Centaur Hotel. It should be warned that this option will not suit lovers of comfort, as buses are usually packed with passengers “to capacity”.

Taxi

You can take a taxi at the airport equipped with a meter, but it is better to use a pre-paid car. The airport cooperates with three carriers: Meru Cabs, Mega Cabs and Easy Cabs. In the arrivals hall there are special counters of these operators, where you can get acquainted with the price list of trips to various points of arrival and immediately pay. On the receipt will be written the number of the car, the parking lots of which are located near the exit. At the end of the trip, you give the ticket to the driver, but tipping taxi drivers in India is not customary.

If you flew to the “home” Terminal 1, then you can also get to Terminal 3 by a free shuttle departing every 20 minutes.

Intracity transport

Being the capital of the state, it is a huge city with a developed transport infrastructure, which includes several types of vehicles.

Public transport

The subway system consists of six lines that circle the city and serve the most important tourist areas. In the metro, you can use one-time tokens replenished with transport cards (smart cards), and it also makes sense to purchase a one-day or three-day tourist card that entitles you to an unlimited number of trips. The metro operates from 6.00 to 22.00.

In addition to the "subway" is filled with a huge number of public and private buses. However, finding the necessary route is often a very difficult task, however, as well as getting into the transport itself, because most of them stop right in the middle of a busy road, or even rush by at all.

In addition to the subway and buses, it has another exotic vehicle - the rickshaw. There are auto and cycle rickshaws. When choosing the first option, agree on a price in advance, even if meters are installed: drivers rarely use them. And keep in mind that 25% is added to the cost of the trip after 23.00 and before 5.00. The second option (pedicab) is perfect for exploring the Old One, only here it is worth noting that bicycle taxi drivers often value their work more than motorized rickshaw drivers.

Taxi

You can ask to order a car at the hotel reception or find one of the many public taxi ranks. These include yellow-black and yellow-green Ambassador cars and white Tata cars with a blue stripe. Such a taxi is equipped with meters, the main thing is to make sure that the driver turns on and resets the equipment. Of course, there are private traders, but it’s up to everyone whether to trust their services or not.

Self driving

There are always those who wish to travel around the city in a personal car. However, I want to warn you that driving is not for the faint of heart. Traffic rules are usually ignored, and in the Old, vehicles fight for space with cart-drawn oxen, roaming cows, goats, and dogs. At night, driving alone is completely dangerous. Alternatively, you can always rent a car with a driver.

While in, you will now and then stumble upon one or another curious temple or other structure. Of course, all the sights of the city are important to visit: the famous Red Fort, the world's highest brick minaret Qutb Minar, and India's largest mosque Jami Masjid. Nevertheless, I would like to recommend trying other remarkable, and some still not too well-known objects of the Indian capital.

Lotus Temple

This grandiose temple building, made in the shape of a lotus - the sacred flower of many Eastern religions - is one of the most spectacular sights of the Indian capital. While the whole city is full of noise, gamut and fuss, amazing calmness and detachment from the outside world reign here.

Akshardham temple complex

Akshardham is one of the largest and most beautiful Hindu temples in the world, which, through its architecture, exhibitions, gardens and even a musical fountain, tells about the culture of India and its history.

Humayun's Tomb

If, being in, you didn’t manage to escape from the city and look at the famous Taj Mahal in Agra, then Humayun’s tomb, located in the eastern part of the capital, can be a great alternative. True, it was erected almost 80 years earlier, while becoming not a replica, but a prototype of the legendary mausoleum of India.

Garden of the Five Senses

Spread over almost 8 hectares, the Garden of Five Senses in New was opened in February 2003 as a recreational space where you can relax and gain strength. The goal of the creators of the park is to awaken all the senses of visitors to this unique corner of the Indian capital.

Fort Tughlaqabad

Many people know about such a Delhi fortress as Lal Qila (Red Fort), but few have heard of an older and more mystical structure like Tughlaqabad Fort, which is also located in the capital of India. Standing next to the ruined walls of this once grandiose structure, it is as if you are transported back into the depths of centuries and involuntarily ask yourself the question: “Why did the owners leave the fortress only six years after the start of its construction?”

Museums and galleries

Museums and galleries may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of India, but it has an amazing collection of such institutions, no worse than any European capital.

National Museum

It will take a huge amount of time to capture at least the "crown" of Indian culture in the Delhi National Museum. Its main attractions are archaeological finds from the sites of the Harappan civilization, carved columns and statues of various Indian empires, antiquities from Central Asia and Tibetan manuscripts. And yet that's not all: one of the galleries houses more than 300 musical instruments, while another showcases Mughal clothing, tapestries, jewelry and weapons.

National Gallery of Modern Art

Housed in the former palace of the Maharajas of Jaipur, this National Gallery houses an extensive collection of contemporary Indian art, including the work of one of India's most famous artists, Maqbool Fida Husain. There are also paintings by painters of the Bengal Renaissance and paintings by British artists Thomas Daniel and his nephew William of the 19th - early 20th centuries. In addition, there is a reference library on the territory of the gallery.

Craft Museum

Built like a village, this charming museum strives to preserve traditional Indian crafts from hand weaving to Mithila wall paintings. Highlights include a huge carved rathu (chariot-shaped) temple, a mock-up of a traditional Indian haveli mansion, and a place of worship made from giant terracotta figures. In the back courtyard of the museum complex, you can buy products directly from the hands of the masters.

Gandhi Smriti

This living memorial is the home where, on January 30, 1948, after a campaign against communal violence, Mahatma Gandhi was shot dead by a Hindu fanatic. Concrete steps lead to the place where the politician was killed, today it is marked by a small pavilion. In the adjacent building, the Mahatma spent his last 144 days, and the rooms are preserved in the form in which Gandhi left them. Here you can even explore a detailed account of the last 24 hours of the independence fighter and vivid scenes from his life with the help of specially installed boxes in the shape of 1950s TVs. In the room where Gandhi himself lived, you will see his meager possessions - a cane, glasses, a spinning wheel and a pair of sandals.

Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum

The residence of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi is now a museum that tells the story of her life. The personal belongings of the political woman are displayed here, including the blood-stained sari in which she was assassinated in 1984. Many rooms have been preserved in their original state, thus opening a window into the life of India's political elite. And here is an exposition dedicated to the son of Indira Rajiv, who also tragically died 7 years after the death of his mother. In the garden, a closed path marks Gandhi's last steps, and the place with bloody footprints is covered with a glass slab.

Sulabh International Toilet Museum

More recently, the capital of India was buried in feces. People were dying by the hundreds from infections, so one day the authorities decided to clean up the city. Street toilets were installed on every corner and began to explain to residents that it was unhygienic to relieve themselves anywhere. To educate the people, they even opened the Sulabh toilet museum (in Hindi it means “With relief!”). Now this museum is one of the main attractions of the city.

Exhibits from different countries and eras form a large "closet" collection, which includes all sorts of strange and funny toilet accessories, toilet bowls, chamber pots and much more. The exposition also contains various innovative mechanisms designed for modern latrines.

By the way, the museum not only educates, but also brings practical benefits. There is a free toilet and a human waste processing plant. A special plant converts human waste products into natural gas. In addition, all secretions are purified to the state of ... drinking water! It is then immediately sold.

Railway Museum

This one of the most visited and interesting museums is dedicated to the fascinating history of the world's largest railway system, which connected India into a single country. Visitors of all ages will be delighted with the locomotives and rolling stock located in the open air. On the territory of 4.5 hectares, 30 trains with old cars are presented, among which you can see luxurious cars that belonged to the British and Indian nobility. Also on display is an 1855 steam engine. The indoor gallery shows model trains, antique clocks, railway furniture and historical photographs.

Shankar International Puppet Museum

From decrepit figurines of Spanish bullfighters to delicate Japanese geisha dolls, this artsy but catchy museum owns 6,500 dolls from 85 countries from Brazil to Japan. This exhibition is sure to please both adults and children.

Shopping tour

Shopping in is a truly fun pastime. Get ready to bargain everywhere, except for state-owned stores.

One of the most elite shopping areas is Khan Market. Here you can find boutiques of world famous brands, as well as charming ethnic shops. Among the best are the Amrapali jewelry trading house and the Anokhi store specializing in handmade fabrics and modern national clothes. Located in the south, the architectural historical complex House Khaz has luxurious boutiques, first-class furniture stores, antique shops and art galleries. And the state-owned Central Cottage Industries Emporium on Janpath Street is famous for its wide range of handicrafts, textiles and jewelry. Baba Kharak Singh Marg Street is also full of shops with locally produced goods brought from all regions of India. In addition, you will be able to make good purchases, as well as a delicious bite to eat in Connaught Place, a district that is a two-story building located in a circle with shops and restaurants.

Markets

The bazaars surrounding Chandni-Chowk Street in the Old offer to fully immerse yourself in the flavor of Indian life. This famous shopping plaza is a labyrinth of stalls selling everything from fish and poultry to used home goods, gems, turbans, fabrics and even auto parts. Another very authentic place is the Main Bazaar shopping street in the Paharginj district, where they sell good cheap T-shirts and much more. The covered Gadodial market is a large wholesale spice market, characterized by a riot of colors and smells, and the old Charai Bazaar is lined with tents with paper products, as well as copper and brass figurines.

Shopping centers

The Select Citywalk shopping complex in Saket is basically like any other good mall in Europe. It is wonderful to look here if you suddenly get tired of the Delhi noise, dust and heat. The landscaped area in front of the shopping center, cinema, restaurants, bars and cafes provide additional attraction. In addition, there are shopping centers such as Ansal Plaza next to the South Extension and Metro Walk, adjacent to the amusement park.

Souvenirs

While the neighboring towns are famous for their crafts (marble inlay, Jaipur for jewelry), it is less focused on handicrafts, but still has something to offer. Here you will find handicrafts from all parts of India - saris, jewellery, homespun cotton khadi and home furnishings sold in many markets and shops. Also at your disposal are precious stones, carpets, antique furniture, handicrafts, fabrics and spices.

What and where to eat in ?

There is no such thing as Delhi cuisine, because there is no single face of the city. For a long time, people from different regions of the country came and settled in the capital, making it "various". Slowly and gradually absorbed aspects of identity from all its inhabitants and turned into a city with many faces. As a result, even local food has no individual character. It includes South Indian and North Indian cooking, Punjabi cooking, Gujarati cooking, Rajasthan cooking and so on.

One note: 80% of Indians are vegetarians. And it's not even about religion or a great love for animals. It's just that the population of the country is so poor that they cannot afford such a luxury as meat. If there are meat dishes in the local cuisine, then this is a legacy of the Islamic past of the country. It was the Muslims who introduced the Indians to chicken and, of course, lamb.

The most common Indian food is rice and several plates with different spices. Thus, from simple rice, many dishes of different tastes are obtained.

Also, have you ever heard of Indian wine? After all, it really exists, despite the fact that it remains a drink for everyone. But Indian beer is really excellent, but be sure to ask to serve it chilled.

Famous for its street stalls offering amazing local cuisine. However, you should make sure that the "institution" is clean and tidy. Also, the city is filled with wonderful restaurants for every taste and budget.

Bukhara- a widely advertised restaurant, and accordingly, not the cheapest. Particularly good here are dishes from the tandoor (pronounced "tandur" in India), a traditional cream soup dhal and kebabs. If you come with a large group, a giant cake will be baked for you. naan. The atmosphere of the institution is quite simple, which cannot be said about its visitors. Another elite restaurant of national cuisine is Veda. They serve delicious food and have an extensive wine list.

Iconic Delhi restaurant Quality has been thriving for over 60 years with its always delicious North Indian cuisine. This place attracts the middle class of the country, and the menu includes a variety of dishes - from hearty meat curries to gourmet cheese appetizers. paneer. However, the undisputed leader of the table here is airy, deep-fried yogurt bread - chana bhatura. Dishes of South Indian cuisine can be enjoyed in the institution Spice Water Trail. Amazing seafood dishes are prepared here. And when you get tired of local cooking, go to one of the branches of the chain The Big Chill Cafe which offers delicious Italian cuisine.

You can get a weighty portion of meat for little money in a restaurant that has become almost legendary Karim's. In 1913, it was opened by the son of a chef who served at the royal court of the Mughal Empire. This very simple place near the Jama Masjid in the Old offers delicious tandoor chicken and lamb, as well as juicy kebabs served with rice and different types of Indian bread - very thin pita bread roti or stuffed with various fillings cakes paratha And naan. Keep in mind that in the month of Ramadan Karim's opens only after sunset.

For a bite of traditional Indian street food, check out Nizam's Kathi Kabab, and vegetarians will definitely appreciate the "non-animal" dishes of South India in the restaurant Saravana Bhavan, including lentil pancakes idli, rice cakes uttapami, crispy pancakes dosa and dessert balls gulabjamun.

In addition, so-called espresso bars are becoming more and more popular. The two most worthwhile networks of such establishments are Barista And Cafe Coffee Day.

Night life

The Delhi nightlife scene has grown significantly in recent years. Now, except in 5-star hotels, after-sunset fun can be enjoyed in the vicinity of Connaught Place or in the thriving southern suburbs. Many bars can simultaneously serve as restaurants and nightclubs, while more advanced establishments offer both local and foreign alcohol.

One of the chicest bars in the city is 1911 located in the Imperial Hotel. Named after the year it was declared the capital of British India, this bar has a chic neo-colonial style and serves a great selection of drinks. The photographs on the walls can be studied endlessly, and one even shows a collection of awards from the British Empire.

A pub Pebble Street- a more modest but cozy option for an evening pastime with a sports TV program, upbeat music, a hearty snack menu and friendly bartenders. Another recommended place is Raasta, a self-proclaimed reggae bar. Only here you are unlikely to hear reggae rhythms here, but you can enjoy the hits of the 1940s, a relaxed atmosphere and take part in karaoke evenings.

If, nevertheless, you prefer nightclubs to bars, then you can have a great time, especially with a large group of friends, in the town Shroom. This is a new generation nightclub with state-of-the-art lighting equipment and a high-quality audio system. Another dance establishment is Urban Pind, although it is more of a restaurant, but with a good bar and dance floor, where talented DJs perform.

It also offers a rich mix of music, dance and theater shows.

You can visit live music performances - from rock to reggae and soul - in the bar blue frog, bar TLR and cafe Morrison. You can listen to the performances of the same symphony orchestra in the concert hall Kamani Auditorium. It sounds not only traditional Indian motifs, but also international music. And those who are interested in choreographic art may be interested in performances of folk and tribal dances, as well as ballet, at venues such as India International Center and theater Triveni.

Festivals and holidays

Arian Zwegers

When traveling around another state, it is always a pleasure to catch some local national holiday, because such events help to penetrate the country more deeply and feel the spirit of the people. In India, there are so many original and exotic holidays throughout the year that immersion in a bright cultural and religious flavor will be very intense.

mango festival

It is one of the world's largest producers of mangoes, and during the summer the country hosts a two-day festival honoring the national fruit. During this event, the Dilli Haat indoor cultural and fair complex, which usually sells works of art, handicrafts and exclusive goods, turns into a real mango market. The holiday includes various quizzes, competitions, a demonstration of more than 400 types of mangoes and, of course, a tasting of the fruit "hero" of the country.

Independence Day

This national holiday commemorates India's independence from the British protectorate on August 15, 1947. In the capital, celebrations center around the spectacular Red Fort, where ceremonial speeches are made, and the Indian Prime Minister raises the national flag, after which the main festive procession starts from the fort. Numerous cultural and social events also take place throughout the city.

Rakshabandhan

Rakshabandhan is a festival dedicated to brothers and sisters and is celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Shravan (July-August). On this holiday, the sisters tie sacred bracelets known as “rakhi” (“sacred threads”) around the wrists of their brothers, and the brothers, in turn, present sweets or other gifts to the sisters and undertake to protect them for the rest of their lives. The event mainly relates to North India and covers the entire capital. The traffic in Rakshabandhan in the city is such that they even allow additional transport.

Janmashtami

In late August - early September, another important Hindu festival takes place in India - Krishna Janmashtami, which marks the appearance of the god Krishna. At dawn, the Delians perform a ritual bath, and then rush to the brightly decorated temples with which the entire city is dotted. Yet the stunning temples of ISKCON and Lakshmi Narayan become the focus of the festival.

Navratri

This ten-day and nine-night (Navratri translates as "nine nights") Hindu celebration twice a year in spring and autumn honors the goddess Durga with dances, songs and worship. Navratri is one of the most sacred Hindu holidays, during which the above-named goddess cleanses the minds of her followers, driving away evil thoughts and bestowing true knowledge. At the end of the festival, special reverence is given to young girls who are believed to be the personification of Durga. The festivities culminate in the Dandiya dance fiesta.

Diwali

The Diwali festival of lights is considered the most important Indian and Hindu festival, lasting five days in autumn. The celebration consists of presenting gifts, launching fireworks and lighting many oil lamps in honor of the return of the god Rama after a 14-year exile. This is an exciting and colorful time in the Delhi calendar, when the whole city is dressed in a special festive "outfit".

Holi

Perhaps Holi is the most famous Indian festival due to its colorfulness. It takes place at the very beginning of spring as a sign of attracting happiness, abundance and a rich harvest in the coming year. On the main day of the holiday, the streets are filled with people who pour water on each other and shower each other with bright colored powder. On the eve, bonfires are lit throughout the city, symbolizing the victory of good over evil, and effigies of the demon Holiki are burned. Of course, the celebration is not complete without a common feast.

Also highlights of the spring are the Ramnavami festival, which marks the day of the appearance of Rama, and Vesak, the Birthday of the Buddha, which is very revered in the Buddhist communities of India. In addition, since 2011, in the town of Greater Noida, which is 40 kilometers away, a world-class event, the Formula 1 Grand Prix, has been held at the newly built Buddha International Circuit.

Where to go near?

Coming to another country, travelers always strive to capture as many places and cities as possible. So, being in the Indian capital, tourists involuntarily ask themselves the question: “Where to go near?” Most often, the answer to this question is the city with its Red Fort and the epic Taj Mahal. Of course, both sites are grandiose sights, but within a day's reach there are other beautiful places that will remain in memory for a long time and which are not very well traveled by tourists.

Keoladeo National Park

Formerly known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Keoladeo National Park is located in the state of Rajasthan in the Bharatpur district. Keoladeo has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich wildlife in general and avifauna in particular. Watching birds here is really interesting not only for ornithologists.

Nimrana Fort

Nimrana Fort is one of the most beautiful and little-known sights of India, located in the town of the same name in the state of Rajasthan. This is a great place for lovers of history and ancient architecture. Today, the fort is a "historical heritage" hotel.

Where to go with children?

At first glance, chaotic and noisy may not seem like the most suitable place for families with children, but with a little planning, the hectic capital of India can easily be turned in a family-friendly direction.

Deer Park

This spacious park with rose gardens and ancient monuments can make not only a child want to take off and run. And despite the name, there is no animal discrimination, and therefore, in addition to deer, you can see peacocks, rabbits, ducks, swans and guinea pigs in the park. There is also a wonderful lake here.

national zoo

Of course, the Delhi Zoo is not the best in the world, but it will definitely please the children. On the vast territory of the park, they will get acquainted with many interesting animals: elephants, leopards, tigers, hippos, rhinos, giraffes, all kinds of artiodactyls, birds and other fauna. By the way, if the child gets tired of walking, you can get into special open minibuses plying around the zoo.

Nehru Planetarium

Stars are also always win-win entertainment for children. The first prime minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, was a proponent of developing strong minds for the future. Now the former home of the politician has been transformed into a center dedicated to space, where various exhibitions related to the universe are held. This is a haven for astronomy lovers, providing interesting and educational information about the solar system, space heritage, the famous comet Hale and much more.

Kingdom of Dreams

In this theater and entertainment complex, which is a palace from an Arabian fairy tale, it is difficult to feel anything less than delight, especially when passing by decorated elephants and men on stilts. Here you can get into impromptu dance performances or buy a ticket (which is better to do in advance) to a Bollywood-style theatrical and musical show with real Indian movie stars. And in the local food stalls, a real banquet of traditional treats awaits you.

Stellar Children's Museum

This is the first museum of its kind in India, based on some of the best children's museums in the world. The interactive and play-based exhibits provide a fun and safe playground where kids can explore and explore the world around them in some pretty fun ways.

Adventure Island

Adventure Island is a huge amusement park designed for an unforgettable vacation. Located next to the Metro Walk shopping center, the complex consists of 26 attractions, a wonderful water park and several themed areas.

In addition, in the evening, children will enjoy a walk in the vicinity of the Gateway of India, which sellers of delicious ice cream have long become a part of, or you can just sit in a comfortable, air-conditioned metro and ride around the city - the metro is mostly ground.

What must be done in

• Get lost in the streets of the Old.
• Buy something original at the colorful Chandni-Chowk market.
• Try as many types of curry as you can.
• Take your time wandering through the Lodi Gardens.
• Climb to the very top of the minaret of the Jama Masjid mosque and enjoy the views of the city.
• Ride a rickshaw.

What should not be done in?

• Drink tap water, even filtered and boiled - only bottled.
• Trying to enter the temple, where access to foreigners and non-Christians is prohibited. This is usually indicated by signs like "Only for Hindu".
• Photographing in temples or the facade of a temple with open doors, unless specifically allowed.
• Entering the temple without taking off your shoes and carrying leather products with you is considered a desecration of the shrine.
• Pointing your feet in the direction of someone is an insult.
• Touching children and stroking their heads is considered as inducing damage.
• Taking pictures of people without asking their permission.
• Do not show proper respect for the Indians, their culture, religion, traditions, customs, sacred places.
• Stay alone in unfamiliar and suspicious places, especially when you have money and equipment with you.

Useful contacts

Here you will find the most important emergency numbers for emergencies and other useful numbers.

• Police - 100
• Fire Department - 101
• Ambulance - 102
• New Tourist Information (Tourist Office): +91-11-332-00-05

Different people from traveling to can have completely opposite impressions. Someone will see a progressive metropolis in the capital of India, where there is a place for luxury and wealth, and life is vibrant, like in Indian films. For others, it will seem like a bustling and dirty city in Asia. However, whatever one may say, it is worth recognizing that the heart of India is one of the brightest corners of Hindustan, which attracts a large number of tourists from all parts of the globe. Be sure that after leaving the city, negative impressions will disappear, and memories of color and exoticism will remain for a long time and will again call you to this amazing Indian city.

Delhi is a colorful and impressive metropolis, where many travelers dream of visiting. Founded as early as 5000 years ago, this settlement quickly became a center of trade and began to develop rapidly, passing from one ruler to another and getting an amazing layering of cultures and traditions. Those who are interested in ancient architectural monuments come here, there are more than 60 thousand of them in the city, and those who prefer colonial buildings, in this respect the capital part of New Delhi is considered unsurpassed. In addition, modern Delhi is the scientific and cultural center of the country.

New Delhi is a multinational city, like many capitals. The local population professes all religions known to the world, so the mosques here easily coexist with Hindu temples, and the domes of Christian cathedrals look rather bizarre against the backdrop of a Buddhist wall. Fashionable modern New Delhi with its shopping centers, luxurious mansions, expensive cars and restaurants of author's cuisine is appropriately contrasted with the ancient monuments of the Old City.

How to get to Delhi

Due to its convenient location in the center of the country, Delhi confidently holds the status of India's main transport hub. There are several 6-hour flights from Moscow here every day. It is also always possible to fly with transfers - sometimes it will be cheaper, although the travel time grows to 10 hours.

Read more about how to get to Delhi in this article.

• How to get from Delhi airport to the main railway station

Find flights to Delhi

Transport

Metro is one of the most convenient, fastest and cheapest ways to travel around Delhi, 6 branches have already been built in the city, you can get almost anywhere. When buying a ticket, you need to keep in mind that it is valid only for the station where you land - if you buy two at once, you will not be able to return for the second one.

You can buy a tourist card that allows you to ride the subway as much as you like.

You can also get to any part of the city by bus. Tickets for them are cheaper than for the metro, however, there is less comfort - at peak hours there are terrible traffic jams throughout the city, crowds of people are packed into every bus.

There are two types of buses in Delhi - private and public. The latter are red and green. In summer, the difference between them is simply huge, since the red ones are air-conditioned.

There are no timetables at stops, not even signs with the numbers of buses arriving there, so any information can be obtained only by asking people. However, it is rare when you have to wait longer than 15-20 minutes for the right bus.

Despite traffic jams, it is most convenient to move around the city by taxi. The trip costs 300 INR, tipping the driver is not accepted. The local alternative is an auto rickshaw, a little slower, but with a breeze. In addition, two-wheeled transport is very popular in Delhi: bicycles and motorbikes. For cyclists, the conditions are very extreme - there are paths only in the old part of the city, and cars often drive along them. But if you wish, you can ride, there are enough rental stations, often they are at hotels. Prices on the page are for March 2019.

Motorbikes are constantly scurrying around the city, so the temptation to rent such vehicles is very high. For those who drive confidently, the bike will be an excellent, comfortable and maneuverable means of transportation. But it is important to consider that the traffic in the city is intense and chaotic.

To drive a moped, you need a category A license, although many travelers neglect this rule. You should not break the law, because in the event of a document check or an accident, the consequences can be serious.

Maps of Delhi

Delhi Hotels

Delhi is a large city with several thousand hotels, guest houses and apartments. Travelers tend to stay in the center, closer to the sights. Although in almost every area you can find good options.

A place in a hostel costs 500 INR, a cozy authentic double room in a guest house is rented for 1000 INR, and an excellent room in a 3 * hotel costs 2500 INR. If you want luxury and royal service, you can stay in five-star chain or local hotels for 6000 INR per day. Services usually correspond to the selected category, but many, even the simplest hotels, offer free airport transfers, this can be clarified when booking.

What to bring

In any of the many markets in Delhi, you can buy anything you want. But most often, tourists choose clothes: bright saris, light bloomers, thin shirts, cashmere pashmina shawls, silk dresses and cut silk. Highly valued Rajasthani cotton, juicy in color, with a spectacular pattern, and a mixture of silk and cotton - "khimra". Handmade carpets embroidered with gold and semi-precious stones look luxurious. Needlewomen will appreciate embroidery kits: threads, stones, beads, sequins, lace.

In Delhi, it is impossible to pass by Ayurvedic preparations and oils, cosmetics and henna, spices and the so-called "masals" (mixtures that enhance the taste of dishes), Indian sweets, tea and coffee.

Interior decoration will be wooden or stone figurines of Indian gods, elephants, etc.

An excellent gift for loved ones is jewelry made of high-quality silver or local bright yellow gold, which, alas, often contains impurities. Bidri-style products are very beautiful, as they call the pattern of silver wire on dark metal. This technique is used to make bracelets, earrings, pendants, as well as decorative dishes and figurines.

The old city is famous for its bazaars, the most popular is the Chandi Chowk market. It became another innovation of Shah Jahan, whose daughter loved to shop here. Perhaps, the true Indian exoticism can be felt here: the crush and noise are intertwined with the aromas of Indian cuisine, the brilliance of silver and gold. The market used to be divided by canals, now it's a labyrinth of narrow streets where anything is sold. There is also the Kinati bazaar, where they sell gold and silver products, wooden souvenirs. The Naya Bazaar is a paradise for spice lovers, where you can buy fruits and sweets at wholesale prices.

One day in Delhi

Cuisine and restaurants in Delhi

The capital has always been not only a center of attraction for residents of other regions of the country, but also a crossroads for trade routes, so its cuisine was influenced by the culture of different peoples of India and foreign habits.

You can eat everywhere in Delhi: at every step there are carts with street food, home cafes and expensive restaurants. The range of prices is also incredible: from a few rupees in a diner to a couple of thousand in a fashionable place. Dinner in a restaurant per person will cost 500 INR.

The basis of local cuisine is rice, vegetables, legumes, fruits and milk. And, of course, spices. Many Hindus are vegetarians, but that doesn't mean Delhi doesn't eat meat. Lamb, poultry and goat meat are often found here. Pork is served very rarely, and beef is not cooked at all, since the cow is a sacred animal of Hindus, and Muslims do not eat pork.

Biryani plov is worth a try, not too spicy, cooked in ghee. This dish is prepared with poultry and served with "raitu" - finely chopped vegetables. Unleavened paneer cheese is added to almost every dish, it is a kind of meat substitute. Often on the menu there is a thick soup "tukpa", a Nepalese dish that has firmly established itself in Delhi's cafes.

Inexpensive and very popular snack - white cakes "nan", they are cooked in a special oven, and then filled with various fillings. A more dietary version of "chapati" is made from wholemeal flour.

Entertainment and attractions

When you get to the Old City or the well-maintained and very beautiful area of ​​New Delhi, created in 1920, it seems that you see around only

The Indian capital is one of the most ancient cities in the world. According to a popular theory developed by Indian scholars, the history of Delhi includes the history of about 8 different cities that existed here at different times.

The oldest references to Delhi refer to the legendary events described in the famous epic Mahabharata. It was here, on the banks of the Yamuna River, that Indraprastha- the fortress of five brothers from the royal family of the Pandavas.

The first historical mention of Delhi dates back to the 1st-2nd centuries. AD, when the Rajput prince Dehlu (from the anglicized version of whose name the modern name Delhi comes from) founded a settlement here, on the territory of which the Lalkot Fort was later built to protect against Muslim raids. Under the legendary prince Prithviraja (Rai Pithor) the fort Lalcot grew to the size of a full-fledged city.

Delhi Sultanate

At the end of the twelfth century, the territory of North India was invaded by Muslim conquerors from the territory of modern Afghanistan. In 1192, Sultan Mohamed Gori defeated the troops of the last Hindu ruler of Lalkot and captured the city. His successor Qutb al-Din Aibak founded the Delhi Sultanate in 1206, which became the major power in the North Indian Plain for the next three centuries of Indian history. The city became the capital of the Delhi Sultanate Mehrauli, which was located in the southwestern part of modern Delhi.

The power of the Delhi sultans gradually declined by the end of the 14th century. First, a vast region in the Western Deccan broke away from the Delhi Sultanate, whose rulers formed a new Bahmanid Sultanate. Then the great Mongol conqueror Tamerlane completely ravaged Delhi during the campaign of 1398-99.

Delhi - the capital of the Mughals

The Delhi Sultanate finally fell under the blows of a new wave of Muslim conquerors from the northwest, armed with new tactics and actively using firearms in battle. In 1526, one of the descendants of Tamerlane, Khan Babur, completely defeated the troops of Sultan Ibrahim Lodi and took Delhi.

Babur made the captured city one of the main centers of the state he created - the Mughal Empire. From here he continued his conquests, expanding his new empire from Western Afghanistan to the banks of the Ganges towards the end of his reign.

Babur's son Hamayun moved the Mughal capital from Agra to Delhi. However, the emperor failed to keep the new royal residence, and in 1536 the rebellious Afghan ruler of Bihar, Shershah, captured Delhi and a significant part of the lands belonging to the Mughals. The new ruler ordered to destroy the buildings of his predecessor and start the history of Delhi from a new leaf, laying the city in their place. Shergarh(the remains of this city are known today as the Old Fort - Purana Qila).

Hamayun still managed to regain Delhi after 25 years of foreign rule. Today, the capital of India is decorated with his majestic tomb, which is considered one of the main attractions of Delhi. But his son Akbar, under whom the Mughal empire reached the zenith of its power, moved the capital to the new city of Fatehpur Sikri, the ruins of which still adorn the surroundings of Agra.

Delhi was able to get the capital status again under the great builder of the Taj Mahal, Shah Jahan. The Great Mogul founded his new residence in the vicinity of Delhi - the city Shahjahanabad which was built 10 years later. Shahjahanabad (now called Old Delhi) included Delhi's world-famous landmarks such as the Red Fort and the Jama Masjid.

Delhi under British rule

The second half of the 18th century was a tragic era in the history of Delhi and the entire Mughal Empire. In 1739, Delhi was devastated by the troops of the Persian ruler Nadir Shah.

At this time, the rulers of the growing Maratha Confederation joined the struggle for possession of the main city of India. During a series of battles, Delhi changed hands several times, until in 1771 the Marathas managed to finally liberate Delhi and put Emperor Shah Alam II under their control on the throne.

However, in 1803, during the 2nd Anglo-Maratha War, the British East India Company defeated the Maratha Confederation and took control of the ruling Delhi Mughals. After the suppression of the sepoy uprising (1857-1859), having finally established their power in India, the British briefly moved the capital to Calcutta. In 1911, King George V returned the title of capital of British India to Delhi.

The new masters of Delhi decided to modernize the capital of their main colony according to the British model. To this end, a new part was added to the Old Delhi, called New Delhi without any unnecessary fuss. It housed the main government and administrative buildings of the colonial administration. The main designer of New Delhi was the British architect Edwin Lutyens, after whom the whole district of the new capital of British India was named.

Modern history of Delhi

After the independence of India in 1949, Delhi was officially proclaimed the capital and seat of the government of the country.

Today, Delhi is a modern metropolis with a population of more than 14 million people, which is recognized as one of the most dynamically developing capitals in the world.

Delhi is the capital of India, the most mysterious country of the East. The city is located on the banks of the Jumna River, a tributary of the Ganges, in the northern part of India. This is its second largest metropolis, divided administratively in 1947 into Old and New.

Delhi is a cosmopolitan city where different cultures intertwine, shaping its structure in various ways. Hindi is spoken in Delhi, but English and Portuguese are also common. There is a wonderful infrastructure and transport links, information technologies, light, food, ceramics and chemical-pharmaceutical industries are actively developing, and handicrafts are not forgotten.

This city is rich in its history and architecture, it is called the "capital of seven empires". There are 60,000 monuments in Delhi that are of world significance and were built several millennia ago. The history of the city is full of mysteries. Until now, among scientists there is no definite opinion about how many settlements there were in Delhi. It is believed that there were three main centers of settlement, and around at different times - up to 16 settlements and fortifications. Delhi is a real oriental fairy tale waiting for its connoisseurs. You can relax here with a noisy youth company and arriving with your soulmate.

Region	National Capital Region
Population	21.5 million people
	3000 BC
Population density	10 340 people/km2
	Indian rupee, US dollar
Timezone
Postal code
International dialing code
Official site

Climate and weather

The climate of Delhi is tropical monsoonal. Precipitation is uneven, with most falling between June and August. The monsoon season is from June to the end of September. Summer in the city is long and hot. June and May are the hottest months, when the atmosphere is dominated by air masses brought from deserts (average temperature +33.4°C). Due to the proximity of the Himalayas in winter, the city is very foggy, dry and cool weather prevails (the average January temperature is - +14.2 °С). Sometimes there are frosts. The best time to visit is from March to May.

Nature

The city is divided into two parts by a river Jumna. River in the east hindon(a tributary of the Jumna) separates Delhi from the neighboring city Ghaziabad. The city itself is located within Indo-Gandhian Plain which has a very varied landscape. There are fertile flat areas that are used for agriculture, and southern arid hills. From the south to the northwest, Delhi is surrounded by a ridge arc Aravalli. The most prominent in the chain is Delhi Range, whose height is 318 m. All this makes the nature of the city interesting and diverse.

Delhi is a city of gardens and parks, beautiful greenery and exotic birds. Mughal gardens flaunt in the Presidential Palace, jainati buddha park And Nehru park delight the eyes with their beauty throughout the year. And in the summer, the air of Delhi is filled with the wonderful aroma of fragipani flowers.

Attractions

You will find many attractions here: monuments, ruins of Hindu and Muslim temples, mausoleums. Among them stand out in a special way: the Red Fort with a large palace complex left over from the Mughal era, and "Multicolored Palace" rang mahal, bhairon temple, "Old Fortress" Purana Qila, complex Jahaz Mahal, a wonder of the world - a stainless steel column three centuries old, Memorial Jawaharlar Nehru Museum, delhi zoo, memorial Indira Gandhi with "crystal river", the largest open-air theater in India for eight thousand spectators. You can list the sights of Delhi endlessly, but no words can compare with their live view.

Nutrition

Residents of Delhi are very fond of eating away from home. Here you will find restaurants and cafes for every taste even in the most secluded corners of the city. Inexpensive Indian snacks are sold at roadside stalls in the Palika bazaar area, Paharganj and on Janpath Street. You can taste traditional North Indian cuisine in restaurants Geoffries, The Buck Stops Here located in the mall Ansal Plaza, Dhaba, Nirula's(focused on tourists), The Rampur Kitchen. There are also fast food restaurants familiar to Europeans: McDonalds, Pizza Hut, Pizza Express. top of the village- the best of the six restaurants included in the Village Bistro.

In the back streets of Old Delhi you will find Karim, he is known for excellent kebabs. And if you want to dine on the roof, you should visit Parikrama. Good hotels have buffets, coffee houses, restaurants, bakeries, which are open not only for guests. Basically, food establishments are open until eleven, and bars - until midnight.

Accommodation

The number of hotels in the city is not inferior to the number of bars and cafes. Comfortable and comfortable, for every income and taste, they are always happy to meet guests. Among the best hotels - Aman New Delhi, Taj Palace Hotel, The Imperial and The Oberoi New Delhi. It is noteworthy that hotels in Delhi are built no higher than palm trees (up to 9 meters high).

Entertainment and recreation

Delhi has not only sea beaches, for example, by the lake Bhalswa.

Interesting sports clubs in Delhi. Best Western Resort and Country Club in the vicinity of Delhi, in a corner of the Aravali range, is known for the presence of sports facilities and playgrounds for children. Sports clubs Delhi Golf Club, Delhi Polo Club, The Meadows Golf and Country Club are country clubs in cozy places. There are several major stadiums in Delhi where international competitions are held. Attractions interesting to visit Bal Bhavan And State Children's Museum and Aquarium (National Children's Museum and Aquarium), which are open from Tuesday to Saturday from 09:00 to 17:00 with an hour break for lunch. As well as Shankar International Puppet Museum (Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg), Zoological garden and fairground Appu Ghar square.

Every Saturday and Thursday, the Annabelles disco will open its doors for you. Popular nightclubs Royale Mirage, Dublin, Capitol, SSteel, Elevate, Djinns, DV8, Ghungroo, My Kind of Place— in each of them a vibrant nightlife is in full swing.

Purchases

In addition to countless sights, Delhi offers excellent shopping opportunities. You can buy cheap items made of silver, gold, precious stones, as well as carpets, clothes, silk, leather, antiques. Of the shops first worth a visit Yashwant Place- the largest center of trade. Here you will find inexpensive jewelry and fur coats (a mink coat can cost from $300, and other furs are even cheaper). Everything here is really real and inexpensive, but you can also bargain for a big discount. IN Dilli Khat you will find branded silk products and much more. Women will be interested in visiting Santushti, which sells a lot of women's goods. A huge area surrounded by a shopping center is South Extension 1 & 2. There is absolutely everything here: from music discs to gold jewelry. If you want to buy something ethnic, visit Central Cottage Emporium. IN The Village you will find many souvenirs.

But it is even more interesting to go to the folk craft market Dilli Hat. Main Bazaar is the main bazaar in the city. IN Chandni Chowk a large selection of clothes, fabrics, silver. On the Kinari Bazaar you can buy wedding red saris, and see the whole range of Indian spices at Khari Baoli. Payment here is preferred in cash.

Prices are indicated in Indian rupees, but there are also price tags with a dollar equivalent. 1 $ = 51 rupees. Shops open from 10:00 to 17:00 - 19:00, and markets from 10:00 to 17:00. Most markets are closed on Monday.

Transport

Delhi has a well-developed transport network. There are three intercity bus stations, two airports, three railway stations. Urban transport includes the metro network, buses and local trains.

The best transport to get around Delhi is the metro. It works from 6 to 11 pm, with intervals from 3 to 12 minutes. Payment depends on the length of the trip. The minimum is $0.16, the maximum is $0.59. Passage on tokens or travel cards. It is important that the token is needed not only to enter the subway, but also to exit. For the loss of a token, the fine is $3.9.

For tourists there is Tourist Card(tourist pass). In addition, there are special carriages for women in the subway, where men cannot enter. It is better not to rent a car, because the roads in Delhi are very narrow, and there may be no markings on the roads, besides, rush hour there is almost around the clock. Not only cars, motorcycles and buses drive along the roads, but also carts pulled by oxen. Driving in India is on the left side. Like everywhere else, there are taxis in Delhi.

Connection

You can access the Internet in any Internet cafe or directly from the hotel room, if such a service is provided. The mobile phone will work with international roaming. In some mountainous areas there is no mobile connection.

Security

Religiosity is very developed in India, so you need to be careful not to offend the religious feelings of the Hindus. Be especially careful when dealing with sadhus. You can not wear too open clothes, communicate very restrained and politely, regardless of the status of the interlocutor. Take off your shoes when visiting temples. All religious buildings must be bypassed only in a clockwise direction. Remember that not all temples are open to tourists.

Although the city has a low crime rate, safety is always worth remembering.

If you are going to the country for a long time, you should consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and typhoid. It should be remembered that there is no veterinary control of dairy and meat products in India. Don't drink tap water or pet stray animals. Eat only freshly prepared food.

Business climate

The business climate in the city is good. Delhi is an emerging city that is continuously attracting investors. Numerous international exhibitions, sales, conferences, shows are held there.

Real estate

In Delhi you will find accommodation for every taste. The price of real estate here depends on its location - the area and proximity to the center. Also, the cost determines the total area of ​​​​the premises, the number of bedrooms, the presence of a bathroom. If you want to buy a property in Delhi, you will have to pay, in addition to the indicated price, another 3.5% land tax, 2% to the notary for legal registration and 3% to the brokerage firm.

The cost of an average apartment in New Delhi is about 2-3 million rupees (50-75 thousand dollars), and in the suburbs it is 10-15 thousand dollars cheaper. You can buy, rent an apartment or a house located closer to the city center. At the same time, the rental rate is approximately the same - 350-400 rupees / sq. m. m (10-11.5 $./sq. m). It happens that you have to pay extra for the class of housing: convenient layout, high-quality repairs, and so on.

Always keep a close eye on your belongings. Take care of your passport and money. We advise you to make copies of the first page of the passport, the page with the visa and a copy of the ticket in advance. It is worth exchanging currency only in banks, having with you a declaration on the import of currency, which allows you to reverse the exchange when you leave the country.

New Delhi is the capital of mysterious India, is both a city and a district of the city of Delhi. This city is constantly making noise, growing and developing. Delhi from 300 BC e. many times it was destroyed, but rose from the ashes again. World empires have flourished and collapsed here. This city is the 8th in a row built on this site. It was formed as a result of the merger of seven cities. And today, numerous historical and architectural monuments that have survived to this day testify to the rich past of these places.

New Delhi is a well-maintained area where the nightlife is in full swing. All festivities take place in 5-star hotels, where excellent service is provided. There are so many hotels that everyone can find affordable accommodation. There are many restaurants in the city center where you can have a delicious and inexpensive lunch. The new city has many chic mansions, the streets are wide, the bright green lawns fascinate the eye. The city consists of 2 parts: Old Delhi and New Delhi.

Delhi

The population of Delhi is 16 million people and is considered the 3rd largest in the world. It is built on the right bank of the Jamna River. The climate here is tropical monsoon. The highest temperatures are in March - June. The temperature rises to 42 C.

Delhi is multinational, like many modern capitals. The inhabitants of the city profess all religions known to the world, so mosques here often coexist with Hindu temples, and the domes of Christian churches look rather exotic against the backdrop of a Buddhist wall. Modern Delhi is a city of contrasts, where the ancient monuments of the Old City coexist with fashionable shopping centers, luxurious mansions and restaurants of author's cuisine.

Delhi is a real paradise for tourists. You can offer a great abundance of interesting tourist routes. You can visit sights or walk along little-known streets. The city is so large that all travel should be done by transport.

Transport

On the roads you can find both exclusive cars and carts pulled by oxen. Separately, I want to talk about rickshaws. If in other Asian countries they are used as transport for tourists, then in India they can be seen everywhere. A rickshaw is a cart with people harnessed to it. The streets in Delhi are narrow, winding and confusing, modern cars cannot pass through them, but rickshaws are the ideal transport for them. People enjoy using them.

Attractions

Delhi has many attractions. Jamma Masjid Mosque the largest mosque in all of India. Striking with its beauty. It impresses with its size. Entrance to the mosque will cost about 150 rupees. When entering a mosque, you are required to take off your shoes. Those who wish can take photos of the mosque from the inside. It is quiet here in the early morning, but as soon as the city wakes up and the mosque is filled with believers and tourists.

The next attraction is the Lotus Temple - a giant architectural structure in the form of a lotus flower. The temple was built on the donations of one person. The main thing in the architecture of the temple is its rounded shape. There are no right angles and lines in the design, this is a kind of symbol of the wheel of life. The temple has 9 doors, they are a symbol of 9 religions of the world. Outside, the temple is striking in its splendor, but inside everything is rather ascetic. There are no sculptures or altars. Along the edges are simple benches for visitors. Behind the temple is a wonderful garden. It surrounds the building around the perimeter. And 9 pools, around the lotus, create the illusion of the appearance of a flower from the water.

One of the most interesting attractions is Red Fort It is a huge fortress made of red stone. It was built exactly in 9 years. Interestingly, the beginning and end of construction was carried out on the 1st day of April 16th. The fortress was built at the height of the dynasty's glory. The Red Fort was built for the emperor. Inside were palaces, pools, pavilions, gardens. The fortress could accommodate more than 3,000 people. Now the fortress is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Lodi Gardens is a city park where Indians especially keep clean. The park consists of flower beds and alleys, paths and flower beds. The park has a large collection of rare birds and plants. In the park there is a butterfly reserve, a park of dwarf plants. The creation of the Lodi Gardens began at the beginning of the last century on the site of a slum. The initiator of the creation of the park was the wife of the king of India. With her help, the park has gained splendor. In the center of the park are the tombs of Lodi and Said. The park is open to visitors. Free admission. Such a beautiful place is never empty. Indians here are very fond of relaxing, walking, playing sports. Locals recommend visiting the park in the evening and watching the sunset.

Humayun's Tomb- a marble mausoleum striking in its splendor. In India, this is the first mausoleum surrounded by a garden. It was built of red bricks, and the finishing feature is a magnificent mosaic of white and black marble. The tomb seems to be floating in the air, such an impression is created because it stands on a small pedestal. The tomb has more than 100 graves - all these are descendants of the Mughals and the nobility. The burial chambers are located on the lower floor. Two large canals run through the center of the garden. They divide the garden into 4 smaller gardens that are perfectly square. The mausoleum is open to visitors daily.

And of course, how to visit Delhi and not visit Akshardham Temple! This is the largest Hindu temple in the whole world! The temple surprises with its size and architecture. The unique construction of the temple has no steel elements. The temple is spread over 12 hectares of land. It is finished with pink marble on the outside and white on the inside, which symbolizes absolute purity. The temple is surrounded by sculptures of elephants and deities. All finishing was done by hand. On its territory there is a lake. Tradition says that water was brought into it from reservoirs from all over India. The complex consists of parks, a fountain with light music, a cinema, souvenir shops and a canal. Boats ride along the covered canal. The temple is included in the Guinness Book of Records for its grandeur. It should be noted that Akshardham Temple is a modern building. Construction was completed in 2005 and immediately made a splash all over the world!