Delhi will always be in news for various reasons; politics being one of the main issues which keep bringing the capital in hotspot. India's capital is not only famous for politics but various other things. Here is a list of some facts about Delhi that makes it a even more interesting place.
People know the city for its heritage sites and love to visit all the popular tourist places in Delhi. It is not only one of the best places for tourism but also a well planned city. Have a look these facts which will bring Delhi closer to your heart.
A Walled City
Delhi once was a walled city which had 14 gates. Now only 5 gates among the 14 exist in the city. Those heritage gates are Ajmeri Gate, Kashmiri Gate, Lahori Gate, Delhi Gate and Turkman Gate.
Photo Courtesy: Nvvchar
Capital Since 1931
Delhi has served as the capital for many dynasties in the past. The new capital of India 'New Delhi' was declared in 1911 by the British Emperor, George V. It is only in 1931 Delhi started completely functioning as the capital.
Photo Courtesy: Partha S. Sahana
Largest City
It is the largest city in India in terms of area; it is about 1,484 square kilometers.
Photo Courtesy: Arian Zwegers
Origin of the Name Delhi
Some legends say that it is named after a King called Dhillu who ruled the region in 50 BC. Another legend indicates to a word in the ancient Prakrit language which was used by Tomaras (ancient rulers).
Photo Courtesy: Panoramas
Mythical Connect
The region of Delhi is related to the city of Indraprastha mentioned in the epic Mahabharatha. It is said to be the capital of Pandavas.
Photo Courtesy: Russ Bowling
Eco-Friendly City
In New Delhi, the whole transport system runs on a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). Thus, decreasing the air pollution to certain extant.
Photo Courtesy: Ryan
Largest Spice Market in Asia
Khari Baoli Market in New Delhi is the largest spice market in Asia. If you want to some click some colourful images of spices then this is the ideal place for you!
Photo Courtesy: Jon Connell
Green City
India's capital is one of the top green cities in the country. It has around 20% of green cover.
Photo Courtesy: Prateek Rungta
India's Largest Mosque
Jama Masjid was built by Mughul Emperor Shah Jahan during 1644 - 1656. It is considered to be the largest mosque in India.
Photo Courtesy: Travis Wise
The Temple of Bahai
Delhi's Lotus Temple is one among the 8 Bahai Temples of worship. The Lotus Temple is the only Bahai temple in whole of Asia.
Photo Courtesy: Sourav Das
Qutub-ud-din-Aibak's Dream Minerat
The famous Qutub Minar which was built by Qutub -ud-din-Aibak is the tallest brick minaret you can find in the world. After Fateh Burj in Mohali, Qutub Minar is also the second tallest minar in the world.
Photo Courtesy: Manish Vohra
Azadpur's Market
Azadpur in Delhi has a wholesale market which is the said to be a biggest fruits and vegetables market in Asia.
Photo Courtesy: Scott Dexter
National Rail Museum
Chanakyapuri in New Delhi has the National Rail Musuem which has the exhibits of rail heritage. A toy train takes the tourists around this museum.
Photo Courtesy: Miya.m
Home to a Bizzarre Museum
You'll be surprised by the exhibits of the Sulabh International Museum of Toilets. Surely, one of its kind in the world.
Photo Courtesy: Ajay Tallam
Popular Delhi Metro
In 2014, Delhi's Metro transport was ranked as the second most famous systems in the world.
Photo Courtesy: Yusuke Kawasaki
Paradise For Bird Lovers
Delhi Ridge, a forested region is home to a number of birds. Thus, making New Delhi the second most bird-rich capital city in the world after Nairobi in Kenya.
Photo Courtesy: Ronit Bhattacharjee