Delhi

Delhi, officially known as the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi, is the capital of India and one of the country's largest metropolitan regions. It serves as the political, administrative, cultural, and economic center of the nation, housing the Parliament, the Supreme Court, the President's residence, and numerous government institutions.

With a history spanning more than 2,000 years, Delhi is a unique blend of ancient heritage and modern development. The city is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Mughal architecture, bustling markets, museums, diverse cuisine, and vibrant cultural life.

History

1. Delhi has been the seat of several kingdoms and empires, including the Tomaras, Chauhans, Delhi Sultanate, Mughals, and later the British Empire.
2. It is believed that the ancient city of Indraprastha, mentioned in the Mahabharata, was located in present-day Delhi.
3. During the Mughal era, Shah Jahan established Shahjahanabad (Old Delhi) in the 17th century.
4. In 1911, the British announced the transfer of India's capital from Kolkata to Delhi, and New Delhi was formally inaugurated in 1931.
5. After India's independence in 1947, Delhi became the capital of the Republic of India and has since grown into a major global city.

Geography

Delhi is located in northern India along the banks of the Yamuna River.

It shares borders with:

1. Haryana
2. Uttar Pradesh

The National Capital Territory covers an area of approximately 1,484 sq km.

Major River

1. Yamuna River

Landscape

1. Alluvial plains
2. Urban forests
3. Ridge formations (part of the Aravalli Range)
4. Parks and gardens
5. Lakes and wetlands
6. Highly urbanized metropolitan areas

Delhi experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers, a monsoon season from July to September, and cool winters.

How to Reach

By Air

Delhi is served by Indira Gandhi International Airport, India's busiest international airport.

The airport offers direct domestic and international flights connecting Delhi with virtually every major city in India and destinations across Asia, Europe, North America, Australia, the Middle East, and Africa.

By Rail

Delhi is one of India's largest railway hubs.

Major railway stations include:

1. New Delhi Railway Station
2. Old Delhi Railway Station
3. Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station
4. Anand Vihar Terminal
5. Delhi Sarai Rohilla

Direct trains connect Delhi with all major cities, including Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, Chandigarh, Guwahati, Kochi, and Jammu.

By Road

Delhi is connected through an extensive network of National Highways and Expressways, including:

1. NH 44
2. NH 48
3. NH 9
4. Delhi–Mumbai Expressway
5. Delhi–Meerut Expressway
6. Eastern Peripheral Expressway
7. Western Peripheral Expressway

Regular interstate buses operate from neighboring states and major cities across North India.