New Delhi overview

New Delhi, the capital of India and it's third-largest city, consists of two parts: OLD DELHI and NEW DELHI. Steeped in history, the city is the perfect combination of the old and the new. Busy thoroughfares weave around modern buildings while the architectural marvels of yesterday, maintain their dignity and history of centuries. The capital of Muslim India between the 17th and 19th centuries, Old Delhi seems somewhat anachronistic as compared to New Delhi. It draws one through congested roads and lanes, interesting mosques, monuments and forts relating to its chequered history. New Delhi as a sharp contrast is spacious and modern. It was created by the British as their capital in India, after they shifted base from Calcutta. The 17th-century walled city of Shahjahanabad with city gates, narrow alleys, the enormous Red Fort and Jama Masjid, temples, mosques, bazaar and the famous street Chandni Chowk is known as Old Delhi today. Paharganj near the New Delhi railway station acts as a sort of 'buffer zone' between the old and new cities.