India is often called the “Land of Diversity” with its rich vibrant cultural heritage, its variety of languages and dialects, traditions, cuisines, arts and crafts, music, dance and theatre.

Welcome to the kaleidoscope of India's cultural heritage, where diversity dances in harmony and unity binds the nation from east to west. India's vast expanse is a canvas painted with myriad colors, each representing a unique tradition, language, and belief system. Yet, amidst this glorious tapestry of differences, there exists a profound unity that transcends geographical boundaries and unites us all as one.

India ratified the World Heritage Convention (1972) in November 1977. With its rich history and heritage, India has been an active signatory contributor to the Convention, ensuring the identification, protection, conservation and preservation of all its World Heritage Properties, securing their effective transmission to future generations and the upholding of the statutes of the World Heritage Convention. As on date, India has 42 World Heritage properties and 57 properties on the Tentative List.

Indian Culinary Experience

The Indian culinary repertoire reflects the cultural diversity of the country. The term “Indian food” denotes a mélange of flavours from different parts of the country and showcases centuries of cultural exchange with the far corners of the world. The Indian cuisine offers a rich diverse palette, with much regional variation.

At New Delhi, the capital of India, every street corner and market beckon with the promise of culinary delight. As a melting pot of cultures, Delhi's food scene is a vibrant mosaic, reflecting the rich tapestry of its history, traditions, and diverse communities. There are restaurants dedicated to regional specialties of India such as crisp dosas, vadas and steaming idlis at South Indian Restaurants, to kebabs, curries, biryanis and naan served in eateries in old Delhi offering Mughlai cuisine. Delhi's streets are adorned with stalls offering a variety of refreshing beverages. In addition to branded carbonated drinks, authentic Delhi-style beverages abound. Top picks include flavored lassi, lemon soda (banta), jaljeera, wood apple sherbet (bel ka sharbat), and flavored buttermilk.

Connaught place, one of the most famous and historically significant markets of New Delhi, located near Bharat Mandapam, offers an array of restaurants and markets that serve Indian specialties as well as international cuisines such as Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, Mediterranean, Mexican, Italian, and Lebanese. There’s something for everyone in Delhi and almost all diets may be satiated, be it vegan, vegetarian or any other.

Enchanting Delhi

Delhi, the capital city of India, is a place where ancient history and modern life blend seamlessly. It's known for its rich heritage, vibrant culture, and a plethora of tourist attractions that cater to all interests.

The history of the city goes back many centuries with Delhi long being associated as the place of the capital city of the Pandavas- Indraprastha. During the medieval period Delhi saw the rise of many fortified settlements, the remains of which can still be identified even today such as Qila Rai Pithora, Purana Qila, Siri, Tuglaqabad, Jahanpanah, Firozabad and Shahjahanbad.

Delhi today is a city of international standing and significance, holding a beautiful balance between preserving the old and the sacred while creating new infrastructure meeting global standards.

There are 3 World Heritage Sites in Delhi

• Qutb Minar: Rising to a height of 72.5, the Qutb Minar has a diameter of 14.32 m at the base and about 2.75 m on the top. The foundation of the Qutb Minar was laid by Qutbuddin Aibak, the first Sultan of Delhi, in 1199 CE. More storeys were added by his successor, Shamsuddin Iltutmish. Around the year 1368 CE, during the rule of Feroz Shah Tuglaq, the uppermost storey which was damaged, was later replaced by two more storeys. This iconic landmark boasts intricate carvings and inscriptions, offering a glimpse into Delhi's medieval past. The site was inscribed on the world Heritage List in 1993.

• Humayun's Tomb: The Tomb is considered as the first distinct specimen of the Mughal funerary architecture, greatly inspired by the Persian style and a forerunner of the more famous Taj Mahal of Agra. It was built on the banks of river Yamuna by the widow of Humayun, Hamida Banu Begam in 1569 CE. The Tomb was inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1993.

• Red Fort: The Mughal emperor Shah Jahan transferred his capital from Agra to Delhi and laid the foundation of the Red fort in 1639. The magnificent fort showcases stunning Mughal architecture and houses several museums, including the renowned Indian War Memorial Museum. The Red fort was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2007.

Delhi is also one of the most famous tourist destinations of India. Apart from being a part of the "Golden Triangle" (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur), there are numerous spots within the city that attract thousands of tourists. At a stone's throw distance from the Red Fort is located Old Delhi - the medieval city of the Mughals which offers a one-of-its-kind experience to anyone visiting India for the first time. Here you can savour specialties such as "paratha" at Parathe wali Gali or visit Dariba Kalan for buying silver jewelry. If you are looking for shopping and food under one roof, a visit to Dilli Haat is a must. An endeavor to support the traditional craftsmen of India, Dilli Haat showcases crafts, textiles, fashion and food from all states of the country. It is particularly famous among tourists for souvenir shopping.

Delhi stands as a testament to its rich and varied history, having been a pivotal centre of power for centuries under various empires. Its cultural allure has only grown with time, showcasing a unique blend of ancient charm and modern dynamism. Old Delhi preserves its historical essence with ancient architectural marvels, labyrinthine lanes, bustling markets, and traditional communities, steadfastly holding onto its time-honored values. In contrast, New Delhi gleams with the shine of modernization, embracing progress and innovation.