5 New Reasons to Visit Delhi Now

Swank malls, world-class hotels and a thriving restaurant and bar scene make Delhi a fantastic travel destination. Here’s why you should visit now.

Applying for a visa is a cinch

The Government of India has recently launched e-Tourist Visa, an online permit that allows foreign nationals, including Australians, to visit India for up to 30 days without having to queue up at an Indian consulate or high commission. Simply visit indianvisaonline.gov.in, and apply and pay online. They say it takes up to 72 hours to process the application, but we road-tested the service and had our e-visa approved and sent to our email in less than 10 hours!

The food scene is incredible

Delhi’s dining scene is seriously taking off, with Indian Accent leading the charge. Ranked number nine on San Pellegrino’s Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2016 list, the restaurant features dishes such as tamarind fish and dry lamb shank masala on its menu. Also visit Dramz whisky bar and lounge with a great rooftop area.

The party scene is even better

If you’re after a night out, you can’t go past the Hauz Khas Village in South Delhi – home to about 20 bars and watering holes with a great vibe. Head to Social for industrial décor and inventive cocktails, Out of the Box for a moody, chandelier-lit vibe, and Moonshine for local DJs and hip, young crowd.

There are excellent hotels

Delhi is home to a number of luxury hotels – from The Imperial in Connaught Place to the recently opened Leela Palace in Chanakyapuri – but our favourite address is where Barack Obama checks in when he’s in town: The ITC Maurya Located in the city’s Diplomatic Enclave with beautiful tree-lined avenues and lush parks, the hotel features 438 rooms, the famous Bukhara restaurant (Brett Lee’s favourite Indian eatery in India), sprawling poolside area and world-class wellness centre.

Shopping malls

Delhi has some of the best malls in India – the perfect way to beat the heat in swank, air-conditioned confines and stock up on local and international designer labels and high-street fashion. DLF Emporio, DLF Promenade and Ambience Mall are a trio of one-stop-shopping destinations in South Delhi’s Vasant Kung neighbourhood.