What is the Capital of India? New Delhi
New Delhi, the capital city of India, is one of the most important and historically significant cities in the country. Known for its unique blend of old-world charm and modern development, New Delhi is the center of political, cultural, and historical activity in India. It serves as the seat of the Indian government, housing key government buildings, including the Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s residence), Parliament House, and the Supreme Court of India. The city is located in the northern part of the country, within the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi. See Ehealthfacts for other major cities in India.
New Delhi was officially inaugurated as the capital of India in 1931, during British colonial rule, and has since evolved into a major metropolis. It is known for its wide roads, majestic government buildings, and vibrant cultural scene. The city stands as a testament to the blend of historical heritage and contemporary growth. Historically, the region where New Delhi now stands has been the seat of numerous civilizations, including the Mughal Empire and the Delhi Sultanate.
The city is also known for its vibrant arts, diverse cuisines, shopping areas, and thriving educational institutions, such as Jawaharlal Nehru University and Delhi University. New Delhi plays a central role in India’s politics and governance, acting as the country’s epicenter of policymaking and administration. With a population of over 21 million people in the National Capital Region (NCR), New Delhi is one of the largest cities in the world and has emerged as a bustling cosmopolitan hub.
City Facts
- Area: 42.7 km² (for New Delhi proper), part of the larger Delhi region which spans 1,484 km²
- Population: Over 21 million in the National Capital Region (NCR) (2023 estimate)
- Time Zone: Indian Standard Time (IST), UTC +5:30
- Highest Mountain: Mount Kangchenjunga, located in Sikkim (not within New Delhi but the highest peak in India, 8,586 meters)
- Longest River: The Yamuna River, which flows through New Delhi, is the longest river within the city and an important water source.
Major Landmarks in New Delhi
New Delhi is home to many iconic landmarks, ranging from historical monuments to modern government buildings, each telling the story of India’s rich past and vibrant present.
1. India Gate
The India Gate is one of the most iconic landmarks in New Delhi. Designed by the British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, this 42-meter tall war memorial was built to honor the soldiers of the British Indian Army who died during World War I and the Afghan Wars. The monument is particularly striking at night when it is illuminated. It is a central feature of Rajpath, the ceremonial boulevard, and a must-visit attraction for locals and tourists alike.
2. Qutub Minar
The Qutub Minar is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the tallest brick minarets in the world. Standing at 73 meters, it was built in the 12th century by Qutb-ud-din Aibak and later expanded by his successors. The tower is a symbol of the rise of Muslim rule in India and is adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions. It is located in the Qutub Complex, which also includes other historic structures such as the Iron Pillar of Delhi, which is over 1,600 years old and rust-resistant.
3. Rashtrapati Bhavan
The Rashtrapati Bhavan, or President’s House, is an impressive architectural masterpiece designed by Edwin Lutyens. This grand building serves as the official residence of the President of India. The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens known as the Mughal Gardens, which are open to the public in the spring. The structure is a mix of European and Indian architectural styles and is situated at the end of Rajpath, marking the center of the Indian government.
4. Red Fort (Lal Qila)
The Red Fort is a historic fortification in the city and another UNESCO World Heritage site. Built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, it is known for its stunning red sandstone walls, grand gates, and magnificent courtyards. The fort was the seat of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years, and it holds great cultural and historical significance for India.
5. Lotus Temple
The Lotus Temple is a Bahá’í House of Worship that has become one of the most recognized structures in New Delhi. Its unique lotus flower-shaped architecture symbolizes purity and unity. The temple welcomes people from all faiths to meditate, reflect, and seek peace.
Climate Overview
New Delhi has a hot semi-arid climate, characterized by extremely hot summers, a mild monsoon season, and cool winters. The city experiences significant seasonal variation in temperature. Summers (April to June) can see temperatures soar above 45°C (113°F), while winters (December to January) are relatively mild, with temperatures sometimes dropping to 5°C (41°F).
New Delhi receives the majority of its rainfall during the monsoon season (June to September), with July and August being the wettest months. The air quality in the city can often be poor due to pollution, particularly during the winter months, when smog and fog are common.
Monthly Climate Overview
| Month | Average Temperature (°C) | Precipitation (mm) | Sunny Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 7–20 | 20 | 20 |
| February | 10–22 | 15 | 22 |
| March | 15–25 | 10 | 25 |
| April | 20–35 | 15 | 27 |
| May | 25–40 | 10 | 28 |
| June | 28–42 | 50 | 25 |
| July | 27–38 | 150 | 18 |
| August | 26–37 | 180 | 18 |
| September | 24–36 | 75 | 23 |
| October | 20–33 | 25 | 26 |
| November | 12–28 | 10 | 25 |
| December | 7–22 | 15 | 22 |
Other Cities That Have Served as Capital in India’s History
Pataliputra (Patna) – Ancient Capital (6th Century BCE – 5th Century CE)
The ancient city of Pataliputra (modern-day Patna) in Bihar served as the capital of several Indian empires, including the Maurya Empire and the Gupta Empire. It was one of the largest and most prosperous cities in ancient India, known for its strategic location on the banks of the Ganges River and its status as a hub of culture, education, and administration.
Agra (16th Century – Early 17th Century)
During the reign of the Mughal Empire, the city of Agra (in present-day Uttar Pradesh) served as the capital. Under emperors like Akbar and Shah Jahan, Agra was a major political and cultural center. The city is home to the Taj Mahal, one of the world’s most famous monuments, and the Agra Fort.
Delhi (Medieval Period – 1857)
Delhi served as the capital of several empires throughout Indian history, including the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire. Its rich history, which spans over a millennium, makes it one of the most significant cities in India’s past. In the 19th century, under the British, the capital was moved to Calcutta (now Kolkata), but Delhi resumed its position as the capital following India’s independence in 1947.
Country Facts: India
General Country Information
- Population: Over 1.4 billion (2023 estimate)
- Area: 3,287,263 km²
- Largest City: Mumbai (formerly Bombay), with a population of over 20 million
- Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
- Official Languages: Hindi (national), English (associate official), and 21 other regional languages
- ISO Country Codes: IN (ISO 3166-1 alpha-2), IND (ISO 3166-1 alpha-3)
- Capital: New Delhi
- Government: Federal parliamentary democratic republic
- Prime Minister: Narendra Modi (as of 2023)
- Independence: India gained independence from British colonial rule on August 15, 1947.
India is the world’s largest democracy, known for its diversity in culture, languages, religions, and geography. It is also a major global power with a growing economy, a rich historical legacy, and a prominent place on the world stage.
