Explore the Modern Marvels of Delhi with Wendy Wu Tours

Delhi, the capital of India, stands as a vibrant symbol of the country’s rapid transformation, showcasing a blend of ancient heritage and contemporary advancement. A recent exploration by travel writer Mike Yardley highlights the city’s evolution over the past fourteen years, marking significant economic growth reflected in its skyline of high-rises and modern shopping centres.

Upon arriving in New Delhi, the well-planned section of the city established by the British in 1911, Yardley was welcomed by his guide from Wendy Wu Tours, Girish. He noted, “Delhi is more than a mere city; it has morphed into the national capital region.” With a metropolitan population approaching 30 million, Delhi is on track to become the world’s most populous city in just three years.

A city of contradictions, New Delhi boasts a sprawling green canopy amid notorious air pollution. This legacy from British rule includes broad, tree-lined avenues filled with large-canopy trees such as banyans and mangoes. These green spaces provide respite from the intense heat, making Delhi’s urban landscape uniquely inviting.

The rich tapestry of Delhi is interwoven with both traditional and modern elements. Visitors can observe working elephants navigating through traffic, while luxury vehicles like red Ferraris zip past. Handwritten posters advertising confiscated goods stand in stark contrast to high-end fashion billboards from brands like Gucci and Prada.

For first-time visitors, the city offers iconic landmarks such as the majestic Qutb Minar, an 800-year-old tower built by the Turkish Slave King Qutb-ud-din Aibak. The soaring structure celebrates his victory over the Hindu Rajputs. Nearby, the Jantar Mantar, an open-air astronomical observatory constructed in 1725 by Jai Singh, and the Humayun’s Tomb, a 16th-century garden mausoleum, are also must-see sites.

Old Delhi provides a dramatic contrast to its modern counterpart. The bustling marketplace of Chandni Chowk invites visitors to embark on a sensory journey through its vibrant chaos. Redeveloped to manage congestion with pedestrian-friendly streets, the market still retains its historical charm. Here, street food vendors serve delicious treats like jalebis, made from deep-fried wheat flour batter soaked in sugar syrup.

A visit to the renowned Khari Baoli Spice Market reveals the aromatic heart of Delhi. Known as Asia’s largest wholesale spice market, it is filled with stalls offering an array of spices, nuts, and teas. Vendors, some with generations of history, engage in lively haggling, adding to the market’s bustling atmosphere. Anshu Kumar, from the family-owned Mehar Chand and Sons, shared that turmeric is their best-selling item among international visitors, reflecting the global interest in this superfood.

After exploring the city’s rich history, Yardley and his group visited the Indian Parliament and were awed by the grandeur of India Gate, a memorial dedicated to the 70,000 Indian soldiers who died in World War I. The monument, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, is beautifully illuminated at night and surrounded by lush gardens, where street food vendors gather.

One of the advantages of traveling with Wendy Wu Tours is the flexibility offered. With private drivers and guides, visitors can tailor their itineraries to suit individual preferences, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free experience.

At the end of a busy day, Yardley found solace in the luxurious Shangri-La Eros New Delhi. Located in the tree-lined boulevards of Connaught Place, this five-star hotel offers an impressive array of amenities, including a stunning pool and various dining options. The hotel’s Horizon Club provides exclusive access to a lounge with panoramic city views, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Dining options at the Shangri-La include Mister Chai for authentic Indian street food and Tamra, which serves a diverse selection of international cuisines. The hotel’s Shang Palace is particularly noteworthy, known for its exquisite Chinese dishes and innovative flavours.

As part of the hotel’s commitment to wellness, the recently unveiled Wellness Club features a state-of-the-art fitness area, advanced recovery therapies, and a serene spa environment. This tranquil space offers signature treatments designed to rejuvenate both body and mind.

Travel to Delhi from New Zealand is facilitated by Singapore Airlines, which provides well-timed connections from Auckland and Christchurch to Singapore. The airline is renowned for its exceptional service and in-flight offerings, making the journey to India seamless for travellers.

Delhi, with its layered history and modern developments, continues to captivate visitors. As Yardley’s exploration with Wendy Wu Tours illustrates, the city is a dynamic destination where the past and present coexist, offering a rich tapestry of experiences for every traveller.