New Delhi is a vibrant mosaic of old and new: historic Mughal mausoleums set against sleek contemporary cafés, boisterous bazaars masking secrets of the colonial past, and quiet courtyards. There’s a compelling tension here, between the sensory overload of chaotic chowks (open markets) and the mindful serenity of tucked-away havens. Whether you’re chasing turmeric-laced lattes, vintage rugs, or a moment of stillness in a garden temple, the capital city meets you where you are.
Schön! alive points you to places that feel alive, rooted, and quietly unforgettable.
What To Do
New Delhi is a city where history and modernity unfold side by side, offering visitors an endless array of things to see and experience. Begin with a walk through Old Delhi, where the labyrinthine lanes of Chandni Chowk buzz with spice markets, street food vendors, and centuries-old havelis. A rickshaw ride here is a must to soak in the chaos and colour. Just nearby stands the majestic Red Fort and the soaring Jama Masjid, both reminders of Mughal grandeur.
For a more serene escape, visit Humayun’s Tomb and Lodhi Gardens, where Indo-Islamic architecture and lush greenery offer a tranquil retreat. India Gate, with its manicured lawns, is perfect for an evening stroll, while Rajpath provides a glimpse into the city’s colonial heritage.
Culture seekers should spend time at the National Museum or Kiran Nadar Museum of Art, while modern explorers will enjoy Delhi’s thriving café culture, art galleries, and designer boutiques in Hauz Khas Village and Mehrauli.
As evening falls, the city comes alive with rooftop bars, live music venues, and cultural performances. From street bazaars to grand monuments, Delhi promises an itinerary rich with discovery, blending the old and the new at every turn.
Where to Stay
Steeped in history yet firmly rooted in contemporary luxury, The Imperial is one of New Delhi’s most iconic stays. Opened in 1936, the Grand Dame evokes the opulence of a 19th-century Indian palace, with soaring palms lining the driveway, art deco flourishes, and a museum-worthy collection of Indo-European art. It has long been a gathering place for statesmen and artists, and today, it offers travellers a seamless blend of heritage and indulgence.
Beyond its legendary architecture and service, The Imperial is also home to one of the capital’s most impressive wellness sanctuaries. The 44,000-sq-ft Sanctuary of Well-Being encompasses The Imperial Spa, the Yoga Sanctum, Imperial Salons, and a state-of-the-art Technogym. Guests can choose from bespoke Ayurvedic therapies, hydrotherapy rituals, or signature massages enhanced with Forest Essentials’ aromatic oils.
Couples can retreat to the Moghul Suite, complete with a private steam room, sauna, and jacuzzi, while those seeking traditional healing can book into the Kerala Suite for authentic Shirodhara treatments. For a more active reset, personalised yoga classes in the custom-designed Sanctum harmonise body and mind, while the gym, equipped with Olympic-grade Technogym technology, caters to fitness enthusiasts. The outdoor pool, framed by elegant gardens, invites languid afternoons with curated poolside baskets and refreshing drinks.
Whether you’re here for its storied past, impeccable service, or the promise of complete renewal, The Imperial delivers an experience that is as restorative as it is regal.
A landmark of understated luxury, the Taj Palace has been synonymous with New Delhi’s cosmopolitan spirit for over four decades. Nestled within six acres of landscaped gardens in the diplomatic enclave of Chanakyapuri, this hotel combines modern elegance with the legendary warmth of Taj hospitality. Its design reflects a harmonious blend of Indian opulence and international sophistication, making it a favourite with dignitaries, business leaders, and discerning travellers alike.
Wellness is at the core of the Taj Palace experience. The Jiva Spa offers a holistic menu inspired by India’s ancient healing traditions, blending age-old therapies with modern techniques. Guests can indulge in signature Ayurvedic rituals, deep tissue massages, or aromatherapy treatments crafted with natural, locally sourced ingredients. The spa’s serene setting, complete with calming interiors and expert therapists, provides the perfect escape from Delhi’s bustling energy.
Complementing the spa, the outdoor pool offers a tranquil oasis, while the fitness centre is equipped with state-of-the-art training equipment for a more invigorating reset. Together, these spaces embody the hotel’s philosophy of balance, where rejuvenation and indulgence are in perfect harmony.
A true urban sanctuary, the Taj Palace continues to uphold its legacy as one of the capital’s most refined addresses, seamlessly blending Indian heritage with contemporary luxury.
Where to Eat
HONK at Pullman New Delhi Aerocity
Nestled within Pullman New Delhi Aerocity hotel, HONK offers a vibrant pan-Asian dining experience that blends the energy of bustling street markets with a refined, contemporary edge. Drawing inspiration from across Asia—Thailand, Japan, China, and Vietnam—the menu celebrates bold flavours and time-honoured cooking traditions while presenting them with a modern twist. Expect delicately crafted sushi, fragrant curries, dim sum, and wok-tossed noodles, all made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
The restaurant’s dynamic open kitchen concept brings the artistry of the chefs to the forefront, allowing guests to watch their dishes come to life. Its stylish interiors, warm lighting, and eclectic décor create an atmosphere that’s both lively and inviting, while the outdoor seating area offers a relaxed escape, perfect for evenings in Delhi’s cooler months.
HONK is also renowned for its inventive cocktails and carefully curated wine list, designed to complement the spice and umami of its plates. A favourite among both international travellers and Delhiites, the restaurant is equally suited for business lunches, romantic dinners, or group celebrations. For those craving a cosmopolitan dining experience infused with authentic Asian flair, HONK remains one of the city’s most compelling culinary destinations.
Widely considered one of India’s most beautiful restaurants, The Spice Route is a sensory journey through the diverse cuisines of Southeast Asia. Its menu travels along the historic spice trail, weaving together dishes from India, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka with meticulous attention to authenticity and flavour. Each course tells a story of cultural exchange, from aromatic curries infused with coconut and lemongrass to delicately spiced stir-fries and freshly prepared seafood.
The interiors are as captivating as the food itself. Hand-painted murals, intricate carvings, and antique pillars sourced from across Asia create an atmosphere that feels both intimate and transportive. Every corner reflects the craftsmanship of artisans who spent years bringing the space to life, ensuring the setting mirrors the depth of the cuisine.
Highlights include signature Thai mango salad, spiced Kerala scallops, and duck handbag delicacies, all designed to balance spice, texture, and freshness. An extensive wine list and curated pairings enhance the dining experience, offering both global classics and regional gems.
Whether for a special occasion or a leisurely evening meal, The Spice Route provides more than dinner; it offers an immersive exploration of Asia’s culinary and cultural legacy, served with elegance in the heart of New Delhi.
Few dining experiences in Delhi are as evocative as the legendary Orient Express, a restaurant that recreates the romance and elegance of the iconic train journey that once traversed Europe. Step inside and you are transported into a world of vintage glamour: mahogany panelling, plush upholstery, and soft lighting set the stage for a truly indulgent evening.
The menu mirrors the train’s original route, curating a selection of refined European classics with contemporary flair. French, Italian, and Mediterranean influences are celebrated through dishes such as slow-braised lamb, delicate foie gras, and perfectly executed risottos. The attention to detail extends to presentation and service, with each course designed to evoke a sense of timeless sophistication.
An impressive wine cellar complements the menu, featuring Old World vintages and New World selections alike. Paired with attentive service and an intimate atmosphere, the result is an experience that feels as though you’ve stepped into another era. Orient Express is more than just fine dining; it’s a culinary journey that captures the romance of travel and the artistry of European cuisine.
words. Meehika Barua
