Search results
Delhi, [a] officially the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi, is a city and a union territory of India containing New Delhi, the capital of India.
- Overview
- City site
- Climate
Delhi, city and national capital, and union territory, north-central India. The city of Delhi actually consists of two components: Old Delhi, in the north, the historic city; and New Delhi, in the south, since 1947 the capital of India, built in the first part of the 20th century as the capital of British India.
One of the country’s largest urban agglomerations, Delhi sits astride (but primarily on the west bank of) the Yamuna River, a tributary of the Ganges (Ganga) River, about 100 miles (160 km) south of the Himalayas. The national capital territory embraces Old and New Delhi and the surrounding metropolitan region, as well as adjacent rural areas. To the east the territory is bounded by the state of Uttar Pradesh, and to the north, west, and south it is bounded by the state of Haryana.
Delhi has been the centre of a succession of mighty empires and powerful kingdoms. Numerous ruins scattered throughout the territory offer a constant reminder of the area’s history. Popular lore holds that the city changed its locality a total of seven times between 3000 bce and the 17th century ce, although some authorities, who take smaller towns and strongholds into account, claim it changed its site as many as 15 times. All the earlier locations of Delhi fall within a triangular area of about 70 square miles (180 square km), commonly called the Delhi Triangle. Two sides of the triangle are articulated by the rocky hills of the Aravalli Range—one to the south of the city, the other on its western edge, where it is known as the Delhi Ridge. The third side of the triangle is formed by the shifting channel of the Yamuna River. Between the river and the hills lie broad alluvial plains; the elevation of the territory ranges from about 700 to 1,000 feet (200 to 300 metres).
Britannica Quiz
Discover India
The ridges and hillsides of the national capital territory abound in thorny trees, such as acacias, as well as seasonal herbaceous species. The sissoo (shisham; Dalbergia sissoo) tree, which yields a dark brown and durable timber, is commonly found in the plains. Riverine vegetation, consisting of weeds and grass, occurs on the banks of the Yamuna. New Delhi is known for its flowering shade trees, such as the neem (Azadirachta indica; a drought-resistant tree with a pale yellow fruit), jaman (Syzygium cumini; a tree with an edible grapelike fruit), mango, pipal (Ficus religiosa; a fig tree), and sissoo. It also is known for its flowering plants, which include a large number of multicoloured seasonals: chrysanthemums, phlox, violas, and verbenas.
The animal life of the national capital territory, like its plant life, is quite diverse. Among carnivorous animals are leopards, hyenas, foxes, wolves, and jackals, which inhabit the ravine lands and hilly ridges. Wild boars are sometimes spotted along the banks of the Yamuna. Monkeys are found in the city, especially around some of the temples and historical ruins. Birdlife is profuse; year-round species include pigeons, sparrows, kites, parrots, partridges, bush quail, and, on the ridges, peafowl. The lakes around the city attract seasonal species. Fish are plentiful in the Yamuna, and an occasional crocodile also may be found there.
Are you a student? Get Britannica Premium for only 24.95 - a 67% discount!
The climate of Delhi is characterized by extreme dryness, with intensely hot summers. It is associated with a general prevalence of continental air, which moves in from the west or northwest, except during the season of the monsoon, when an easterly to southeasterly influx of oceanic air brings rain and increased humidity. The summer season lasts f...
New Delhi (/ ˈ nj uː ˈ d ɛ. l i / ⓘ, [6] Hindi: [ˈnəiː ˈdɪlːiː], ISO: Naī Dillī) is the capital of India and a part of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (NCT). New Delhi is the seat of all three branches of the Government of India, hosting the Rashtrapati Bhavan, Sansad Bhavan, and the Supreme Court.
Discover the wonders of Delhi, its heritage, culture, cuisine and more on this government-run website. Find the most popular destinations, tips and information for planning your trip to the capital city of India.
Discover Delhi's history, culture and attractions with Lonely Planet's expert tips and recommendations. Explore ancient monuments, modern life and local experiences in India's capital city.
Aug 11, 2019 · Discover Delhi's rich history, culture and cuisine with this list of 10 attractions, from the Red Fort to the OTT temple of Akshardham. Explore street art, astrology, shopping, and more in India's vibrant capital.
Mar 14, 2020 · Discover the rich history and culture of Delhi, the capital of India, with this guide to its iconic monuments, mosques, gardens, and markets. Learn about the best time to visit, entry fees, opening hours, and tips for exploring Old and New Delhi.
sg-en.flightnetwork.com has been visited by 100K+ users in the past month
Fly to Delhi. View deals and book now on Flightnetwork. Trusted by 30M passengers a year. Over 20 years of experience. Member of IATA.
Make the Most of Your Trip & Book Today. See Reviews for Over 300,000 Things to Do. Use Reserve Now & Pay Later to Secure the Activities You Don't Want to Miss. Book Now!
Flights To New Delhi? Last Minute Price Drops on Intl. & Domestic Airfare. Compare Today! Worried About Cancellation? Refundable Tickets Are Available. 2-Minute Booking. Book Now.
Book Your Hotel in New Delhi. Browse Reviews & Photos. Check Out Our Price Guarantee. Great Deals to Send Your Loved Ones Somewhere Nice and Close or Far. Your Choice.
