Local Buzz
New Delhi’s architectural splendour, busy street bazaars, and thriving nightlife appeal to the different palates of the modern traveller. URBAN VILLAGE
1 Shahpur Jat (follow map) is built near the ruins of the Siri Fort monument, and is an emerging neighbourhood of luxury fashion and lifestyle boutiques. The artistic vibe of the place has attracted local designers, weavers, and artistans over the years to launch boutique labels. While fashion studios, such as Ogaan (ogaan.com) and Kanelle (011-41070919) appeal to modern travellers, street frescos, created by the St+art India Foundation (st-artindia. org), lend a rustic charm to the place.
TAPPING INTO THE PULSE Old Delhi, founded by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, was the capital of the Mughal empire.
In its present state, the place holds impressive architecture in the form of heritage structures such as 2 Jama Masjid; tempting street food in the narrow alleys of Chandni Chowk; and an old-world charm that transports one to pre-modern times. Take a history walk with Delhi Karavan (delhikaravan.com) to discover the stories behind monuments such as Humayun’s Tomb,
3 Qutab Minar, 4 Red Fort, Lodhi Tomb, Purana Qila, and 5 India Gate.
TIBETAN FLAIR Located in the Civil Lines neighbourhood of North Delhi, 6 Majnu ka Tila is a quaint neighbourhood housing Tibetan refugees. Referred to as Little Tibet, the place is a vibrant destination to shop jewellery crafted with semi-precious stones, silver, and other metals. As dusk falls, locals gather around the monastery to host talks, and sing folk songs. While you’re here, do not forget to munch on thenthukhere and momos at Dolma House (+91 9873275902) or Tee Dee (011-23939414).
ART TRAIL
The art scene in Delhi has grown drastically in the past decade. Delhi Magic (delhimagic.com) offers art trails through the various museums and galleries in the city, such as 7 National Gallery of Modern Art, Kiran Nadar Museum of Art, Dhoomimal Gallery, Delhi Art Gallery, and Exhibit 320.