Delving into the history of Delhi would give you an idea about the rich heritage of Indian culture and tradition. It would also enable you to know the about life and working style of various rulers who ruled Delhi in yester years. History books suggests that, Delhi has been built and re-built more than 5 times at diverse locations in and around Delhi but the exact reference is found in the Mahabharatha, as the city of Pandavas, also called Indraprastha, some 3000 years ago.

The history of this city has importance of its own, as every crumbling walls of the city, has a story or two to tell. Delhi has witnessed a rise and fall of major power during 12th century. Prior to the invasion of outsiders, Delhi was home to the Hindu rulers somewhere during the 12th century. Muslim rule in India was established in 12th century after Mohammed Gauri defeated Prithviraj Chauhan.

Indraprastha:

Indraprastha was formed in Delhi in 1000 B.C during Mahabharatha which is understood to have been around the annex of Purana Quila. According to Mahabharatha, Pandavas named this region as Indraprastha which was known as Khandava-Prastha.

Maurya Capital:

Our history discloses that Delhi was located on the great national highway of the Mauryas that linked their capital Patliputra (now Patna in Bihar) with Taxila (Takshashila), now in Pakistan. The route is said to have been chosen by Buddhist Monks while traveling to Taxila. This very fact illustrates the tactical as well as historical importance of Delhi.

The Chauhans took control in the 12th century and made Delhi the most significant Hindu centre in northern India. Delhi Sultanate:

Delhi was acquired by Qutab-Ud-Din Aibak in 1193. Later, they were none other than powerful Mughals who reigned Delhi from the year 1526 to 1857. Khilji followed mughals and built their new capital at Siri, the second city of Delhi.

Tughlakabad was the third city of Delhi built within the great fortress with 13 outer gates. It was built during the reign of Ghiyas-Ud-Din from 1321-25.

The fourth city of Delhi was known as Jahanpanah, which was built by Muhammed Bin Tughlak. Later on, the capital was reallocated to Daulatabad in Deccan which resulted in the thrashing of soldiers because it was a difficult march of massive 1120 kilometers. At last Tughlaq forfeited his decision and Delhi regained its status of capital.

The fifth city was named Ferozabad, some of its remnants can still be found in the city. It was built by Feroz Shah Tughlak in the year 1351 on the banks of river Yamuna. It was later destroyed by Shah Jahan to build Shahjahanabad.

The remains of the sixth city still continue to stand firm in the form of tomb and monuments within the vegetation enriched Lodi gardens. Old Delhi happens to be the sixth city.

British Rule:

In the year 1911, king Goerge visited India and it was during his term that Delhi became the new capital of India. Delhi saw some considerable developments during this period in the form of buildings, infrastructure, parliamentary buildings and public offices. The inception of British rule in India also witnessed a new city being formed in the name of New Delhi or the Lutyens’ Delhi.

It can be said that New Delhi has a royal and splendid history which is quite vibrant from the rise and fall of various rules. Perhaps it won’t be wrong to put it like this “history of India revolves around the rich history of Delhi”.

Taking a tour to Delhi's rich legacy and cultural history is not a bulky task. There exist holiday hub providers who provide complete and accurate information pertaining to the history of Delhi. These tour operators make your traveling in Delhi, a memorable experience by making every comfort and pleasure available to you, despite the fast paced lifestyle of Delhi.