Category: Delhi

The imposing buildings in the Qutb Minar complex (26643856; Indian/foreigner Rs 10/US$5, video Rs 25; dawn-dusk) date from the onset of Islamic rule in India and are fine examples of early Afghan architecture.

There are some terrific day trips in the Greater Delhi area. Visit the walled city of Tughlaqabad or head to Qutb Minar for an excellent example of early Afghan architecture.

Delhi – with its tenacious touts and crush of mechanical and human traffic – can be downright confronting and confounding for the first-time visitor. But don’t let petulant first impressions muddy the plus points of this truly multidimensional metropolis. Scratch beyond the gritty surface and you’ll swiftly discover that India’s capital is sprinkled with glittering gems: captivating ancient monuments, magnificent museums, a vivacious performing-arts scene and some of the subcontinent’s yummiest places to eat.