'Rising from the ashes and soaring to the height of unimaginable proportions is a tact Delhi has supremely adopted. No city, in my opinion, has been able to ward off the demons of the past as emphatically “ and as often “ as Delhi has been doing for thousands of years.,
Edward Said, one of the most influential and prominent thinkers of the 20th century, was a huge fan of Delhi, and visited it many times in his long life. The charisma of history and the ability to rise from the ashes of destruction and into the prosperity of growth have been attracting scholars, visitors and quite obviously, rulers and invaders from neighbouring countries to Delhi for many, many years now.
The recorded history of Delhi stretches back to no more than 5,000 years “ placing it among the handful of cities in the world that can boast to have this distinction. Throughout these five millennia, Delhi has sustained various rules and rulers, cultures, customs, conflicts, wars and historic events. Known as Hastinapur in the scriptures of Mahabharata, Delhi was the central pivot around which the politics of India moved in a remarkably swift motion. Then came various invasions from the west and north-west, most notably those from the Mughals “ descendants of Afghan rulers. Mughals, as many argue, made Delhi what it is today. Almost every historic building in Delhi that is a popular tourist spot was built by Mughals in order to maintain their stronghold on the function and culture of this jewel of India.
The British rule that came into effect in the late 18th century saw the center of attention of national politics move to Calcutta. But eventually, Delhi won it back, as the coronation of King Edwards marked the paradigm shift in the history of British Empire.
From Red Fort to India Gate, monuments of multiple meanings adorn Delhi's premises like relics of a golden past.
If you want to explore the incredible beauty of India, there is no better place to start it up than Delhi.
Budget Hotels in Delhi
Being a city that houses more than 20 million people, it is quite predictable that Delhi has all the varieties of all the business to address the needs of all the classes of residents. That's exactly why, it wouldn't come as a surprise to know that over 1,000 budget hotels in Delhi are all at work “ round the clock “ to ensure that tourists with limited means are received and hosted in a style that befits the capital of India.
It would be quite difficult to handpick one from hundreds of cheap hotels that are in operation here. But if it comes to that, Hotel Le Grand would be the first that many tourists would nod yes for. Located in the busy area of Kalkaji, it offers a lively stay close from various tourist attractions of the city.
Another good pick would Ramada Budget Hotel in Karol Bag. Being situated in the neighborhood of intense activity, some wouldn't like the stay at this hotel “ but for those who love the charm of hustle in India, it is a perfect lodging option.
Luxury Hotels and Resorts in Delhi
Moving on from cheap hotels, the focus of attention can be moved up to various Delhi hotels of immense opulence and luxury.
Pretty much all big brands of global hospitality have properties in operation in Delhi. But the most prominent of them all is Hotel Leela Palace. It is one of the grandest properties in the area, a true palatial abode for those who can afford to cough up money to the tune of $700 per night's stay.
Hyatt Regency Delhi is also notable for its sky high prices and a brand of truly regal luxury. From rooftop bars to special butler for every room, facilities and pleasures of unparalleled kind are regularly showered upon guests here.
At the Janpath “ political center of the country “ one can find a true solace in the form of 'the Continental', an InterContinental property. It's hugely imposing building and decor that can put stately homes to shame is all worth the big wads of cash one would be required to pay for staying here!
Hotels Near Delhi Airport
Delhi Airport (Indira Gandhi Int. Airport) is the busiest airport in India, handling over 10 million passengers every year. If you plan to enter the capital of India through this airport, you can find good choices for lodging in the vicinity.
This neighbourhood is a specially developed area named as 'Aerocity'. It features budget as well as luxury lodging establishments in good measure. Hotel Ibis Delhi Airport is a semi-luxury hotel intendent to facilitate the stay of passengers, while a budget hotel that goes by the name of Hotel Airport Residency gets the same job done “ albeit at much lower prices.
Staying near the airport to catch your flight does make sense, because the heart of Delhi is about 10-12 km away from the airport. Heavy traffic in Delhi means that this short journey often takes 2 hours or upwards, prompting tourists to shun Delhi hotels and choose one near the airport, instead.
Do's and Dont's of Sightseeing in Delhi
- Do make sure that you are protected against intense heat in Delhi, if you are travelling in summer (May/June).
- Do be careful about your valuables.
- Don't indulge into street food that looks obviously unhygienic or cold.
- Don't overlook the traffic in Delhi while making plans or appointments.
- Don't carry too much of cash currency on you.
Weather in Delhi: A Case of Two Extremes
Weather in Delhi is extreme, to say the least. In summer, temperatures can soar past 45 degree Celsius quite regularly, while in winter, mercury flirts dangerously with the zero mark, thanks to cold winds descending upon the city from the Himalayas.
Hotels in Delhi manoeuvre their tariff plans according to weather conditions of the city. So, booking well in advance can help you land a great deal, regardless of the season of your travel.
FAQs about hotels in Delhi