Home to 25 million people, Delhi is chaotic, to say the least. Central Delhi anchors the city and steps up as its primary administrative district. It occupies a 25-square kilometre footprint and houses the majority of the city’s gleaming high-rises and office towers. Thanks to the flocks of workers that descend on the district, Central Delhi serves up some of India’s most tantalising street food.
Beyond business, Central Delhi also encompasses Shahjahanabad. Also known as Old Delhi, the area once served as the majestic capital of the Mughal Empire. Today, its legacy lives on with magnificent monuments like the Red Fort, as well as the beautiful Jama Masjid, Delhi’s biggest mosque. For a real taste of just how hectic Delhi can be, exploring the markets of Chandni Chowk is a must have experience.
As its name suggests, Central Delhi is located in the heart of the city. For most visitors, rickshaws or air-conditioned taxis are the transport method of choice. The Yamuna River runs to the east, with local buses and trains also servicing the area.
While today Central Delhi is definitively modern, its roots date back to ancient times. The Old City was founded by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in 1639 and stood as the capital until the end of the dynasty. Today, the area is peppered with historical sights and attractions that echo its regal past.