Location: Delhi city lies on the banks of the river Yamuna, in the Gangetic plains, circumscribed by the Aravalis to the south. The Aravalis give way to the Ridge that encircles Delhi on the west, north-east and the north-west.
Climate: New Delhi has an extreme climate, with very hot summers (maximum temperature touches 47 degrees Celsius) and very cold winters (minimum temperatures dip to 2-3 degrees Celsius). Add to that a wet monsoon stretching from end of June till September. The climactic variations make Delhi weather disagreeable and the city almost inhospitable from April until September, forget travelling.
Altitude: 239 metres above sea level
Local languages: Hindi, Punjabi, English
Phone Code: 011
Local Transport
The metropolitan city that it is, New Delhi offers a plethora of transport options, ranging in terms of expense as well as comfort. The metropolitan city that it is, New Delhi offers a plethora of transport options, ranging in terms of expense as well as comfort.
Metro
The first section of the Delhi metro is up and running, offering air conditioned comfortable travel at a nominal rate.
Auto Rickshaws
Until the Metro is fully functional, auto rickshaws remain the most convenient means of travelling in New Delhi, but the drivers will usually refuse to use the meter. Haggle ferociously otherwise you can be literally taken for a ride with the high fares.
Cycle Rickshaws
Cycle rickshaws are readily available and common for traveling short distances as well as through crowded market areas.
Bus
Get on a bus only if you are prepared to get stamped on, jostled, and in case of women, groped. However, the bus network is pretty good and connects all parts of Delhi, from the most posh to downright slums.
Taxis / Car Hire
Delhi's taxis cost fifty percent more than autos but are convenient and comfortable. You can hire one from the numerous taxi stands or hail one down the road, but as in the case of auto rickshaws, be prepared to haggle. You can also call for a cab (dial 1920) - they offer fixed prices and air conditioned cars.
The Government of India Tourist office provides chauffeur driven cars on rent.
Tourist Office
Besides the Delhi map and Delhi tourism and accommodation listings, here's where you can find all the information regarding Delhi city and Delhi sightseeing tour packages:
Government of India (GOI) tourist office
88 Janpath, Connaught Place
Tel: 011-2332 0005 / 0008
DTTDC (Delhi Tourism and Transport Development Corporation) office
Bombay Life Building,
Middle Circle, Connaught Place
Tel: 011-2331 4229
