10 Fun facts about New Delhi you've never heard before!

Delhi, the capital city of India or as the locals call it, “Dilwalon ki Dilli,” is more than just a bustling metropolis. Covering a whopping 1,483 sq km, this city is packed with mind-blowing secrets and wild stories that go way beyond its well-trodden tourist spots.

With more than 100 historical monuments and among the 3 UNESCO heritage sites in India, Delhi is one of the popular choices for history buffs, travel lovers, architecture students and anyone who can appreciate the beauty. Dive into some fun facts about New Delhi that’ll totally blow your mind and make you see this city in a whole new light. Ready for the inside scoop? Keep reading!

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Here are 10 fun facts about New Delhi you might not know:

1. Red or White?

We are not talking about your preference in wine but a shocking revelation about the famous Lal Qilla. When it comes to interesting facts about Red Fort Delhi, here’s one that might surprise you: According to the Archaeological Survey of India, Red Fort as we know it today was originally built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the year 1648 with lime stones. Does it mean it was white in colour? Absolutely! However with time it began chipping off and in order to stop it the British then got it painted in red colour. For more interesting facts about Red Fort Delhi, it’s worth noting that today, it is one of the UNESCO Heritage Sites in India and an absolute beauty from an architectural point of view. Do not miss out on this gem if you are in Delhi.

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2. Spice it up!

Imagine having your meal without a sprinkle of salt and spices. Sara mood kharab ho gaya, nahi? Let us make it up to you with one of the interesting and fun facts about New Delhi that all foodies will love. Interestingly, Khari Baoli (translated as salty step well) is Asia’s biggest spice market and it is located in Delhi. Right from local to exotic, almost all kinds of spices are found at this particular market. Furthermore, this market was founded way back in the 17th century. You should definitely shop these top-quality spices from Delhi.

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3. Shitty Museum?

No, the toilet museum in Delhi is not ‘shitty’ but it does cover the evolution of toilets and sanitation systems across the world. Wondering what kind of museum is that, right? Well, Sulabh International Museum of Toilets is one of a kind. No doubt about that! Find the rare collection of pictures, facts and objects especially about the historic evolution of toilets dated as back as 2500 BC to the present. After all, we often take this basic bodily need lightly, but isn’t this something that keeps us healthy and functioning? Definitely check out this amusing toilet museum in Delhi for a flush of fun and a laugh that’ll keep you in stitches!

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4. Guardian gates of Purani Dilli

What is interesting about walls and gates? Don’t we all have those at our homes generally? Well, we are talking about the Purani Dilli which is a part of the city surrounded by walls. They were made originally of mud and then later replaced by red stones. Earlier, it had a total of 14 gates facing different directions and cities. Particularly only 5 of the original 14 gates are still standing strong. They are Ajmeri Gate (facing Ajmer in Rajasthan), Kashmiri Gate (facing Kashmir), Lahori Gate (facing Lahore in present-day Pakistan), Delhi Gate, and Turkman Gate (named after Sufi saint Hazrat Shah Turkman Bayabani). Each of them has its own historical significance. You must surely explore them on your visit to Delhi.  

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5. World's tallest brick minaret

The famous Qutub Minar (one of the UNESCO Heritage Sites in India) is the tallest brick minaret in the world with a height of 73 m. Interestingly, it was built in 1193 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak. Qutub Minar is five storeys tall and each of them has a balcony. Moreover, it tapers from a 15 m diameter at the base to just 2.5 m at the top. Though the first three storeys are made of red sandstone, the fourth and fifth storeys are of marble and sandstone. Visit this magnificent monument and be charmed by the structures in its surrounding.

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6. Delhi's secret underground tunnels

Beneath Delhi's bustling streets lie hidden tunnels that are rumoured to have been used by ancient kings and later by the British for secret movements. These mysterious passages are thought to have linked important buildings or served as secret routes around the city. One popular legend says there's a tunnel connecting the Red Fort to Safdarjung Airport—about 10 kms apart! While we don’t have solid proof of these tunnels, they add a cool, enigmatic layer to Delhi's already fascinating history.

Underground secret tunnels in Delhi

7. Chor Minar— The tower of thieves

Located in the Hauz Khas area, the Chor Minar in Delhi, or "Tower of Thieves," dates back to the 13th century and was built by Alauddin Khilji. This mediaeval tower stands out with its 225 small holes along the walls. Legend has it that the tower was used to display the severed heads of thieves as a grim warning to others. It was meant to scare people away from stealing and committing crimes. Nowadays, the Chor Minar in Delhi is a protected site under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and is a fascinating spot for those interested in architecture and the city’s rich, complex history.

The infamous Chor Minar in New Delhi

8. Parliament House's circular charm

The Indian Parliament House, officially called Sansad Bhavan, is one of the most iconic buildings in India. Its unique circular design is said to be inspired by the Ashoka Chakra, the national emblem of India, symbolises the eternal wheel of law and dharma. It also reflects the concept of 'unity in diversity' and the continuous nature of democratic dialogue. Plus, the shape makes it super easy for politicians to move around and communicate, kind of like the smooth flow of the Chakra itself! This blend of practical design and deep symbolism truly makes Sansad Bhavan a marvel of architecture and democracy.

Marvelous construction of the Sansad Bhavan in New Delhi

9. Home to Asia’s only Bha’i temple

Situated in the Bahapur area of Delhi, the Lotus temple, also known as the Bahá'í House of Worship, is an iconic and unique structure. This temple is renowned for its distinctive lotus flower-shaped design, which consists of 27 marble-clad petals arranged in 3 clusters to form the shape of a lotus. The Lotus temple has won numerous awards for its architectural excellence. As the Bahá'í faith's only temple in Asia, it represents the unity of all religions and is open to people of all beliefs.

An aerial view of the majestic Lotus temple in Delhi

10. Most expensive office spaces in India

Connaught Place (CP), located in the heart of New Delhi, is one of India’s most iconic and prestigious commercial districts. This bustling hub is known for its distinctive Georgian-style architecture and strategic location. Well-connected by Delhi Metro, numerous bus routes and arterial roads contribute to its high real estate values in the country. Office spaces here often rent for INR 300 to INR 400 per square foot per month, and purchasing space can cost upwards of INR 30,000 per square foot. Whether for corporate offices, retail outlets, or dining establishments, CP remains a vibrant and dynamic commercial hub.

A view of the iconic Connaught Place in the heart of New Delhi

Conclusion

So, how many of these fun facts about New Delhi did you already know? With its vibrant history and cool, quirky spots, Delhi is way more than just its tasty food and bustling markets. Next time you’re in the capital city, dive into all these unique places. And hey, if you're on the hunt for budget-friendly accommodation options in Delhi or Agra, our hostels right in the city are the perfect spot. Check them out and make your adventure even more unforgettable!