Delhi, officially the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi, is a sprawling metropolis that is both a union territory and a massive city. To manage this complex region of over 20 million people, it is divided into 11 administrative districts.
Each district has its own unique character, history, and purpose. This guide will take you through all 11 districts of Delhi, helping you understand what makes each one special, from the ancient lanes of North Delhi to the modern hubs of South West Delhi.
Understanding Delhi’s District System
Unlike states, Delhi is a Union Territory with a unique administrative status. Each district is headed by a Deputy Commissioner and functions as an administrative unit for governance, law and order, and revenue collection. For visitors and residents, knowing the districts helps in understanding the incredible diversity of the city.
The 11 Districts of Delhi at a Glance
Here is the official list of the 11 districts in the NCT of Delhi:
- Central Delhi
- East Delhi
- New Delhi
- North Delhi
- North East Delhi
- North West Delhi
- South Delhi
- South East Delhi
- South West Delhi
- West Delhi
- Shahdara
A Guide to Each District’s Character & Key Areas
1. Central Delhi
- The Historic & Administrative Core
- What it’s known for: The heart of Lutyens’ Delhi, government power centers, and historic Mughal-era sites.
- Key Areas: Old Delhi (Chandni Chowk, Red Fort, Jama Masjid), Civil Lines, Karol Bagh, and the central part of Lutyens’ Bungalow Zone.
- Landmarks: Rashtrapati Bhavan, Parliament House, India Gate, Connaught Place, Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib.
2. New Delhi
- The Capital District
- What it’s known for: Being the capital of India, housing national institutions, and having wide, tree-lined avenues.
- Key Areas: The official Lutyens’ Delhi area, Chanakyapuri (Diplomatic Enclave).
- Landmarks: Parliament Street, major Central Government ministries, all foreign embassies in Chanakyapuri.
3. North Delhi
- The University & Old-School Hub
- What it’s known for: Prestigious educational institutions, historic forts, and bustling old neighborhoods.
- Key Areas: Delhi University North Campus, St. Stephen’s College, Hindu College, Pitampura, Model Town.
- Landmarks: St. Stephen’s College, Hindu College, University of Delhi, Ashok Vihar.
4. North East Delhi
- A Densely Populated Residential Area
- What it’s known for: A vibrant, largely residential district with a strong small-scale industrial base.
- Key Areas: Seelampur, Shahdara (note: now a separate district), Yamuna Vihar.
- Landmarks: The Shahdara area (historically significant).
5. North West Delhi
- The Outsized & Diverse District
- What it’s known for: Encompassing everything from crowded neighborhoods to modern sub-cities and rural villages.
- Key Areas: Rohini, Pitampura, Kanjhawala, Narela.
- Landmarks: The sprawling Rohini sub-city, Asia’s largest wholesale market for fruits and vegetables at Azadpur.
6. West Delhi
- The Middle-Class Heartland
- What it’s known for: Vibrant commercial centers, iconic markets, and densely populated residential colonies.
- Key Areas: Rajouri Garden, Patel Nagar, Punjabi Bagh, Janakpuri, Tilak Nagar.
- Landmarks: The bustling markets of Rajouri Garden, the metropolitan culture of Punjabi Bagh.
7. South Delhi
- The Affluent & Green Belt
- What it’s known for: Upscale neighborhoods, historical monuments, shopping malls, and diplomatic areas.
- Key Areas: Hauz Khas, Saket, Greater Kailash, Defence Colony, Mehrauli, Vasant Kunj.
- Landmarks: Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, Hauz Khas Fort, Deer Park, Select Citywalk Mall, DLF Promenade.
8. South East Delhi
- The Modern & Urban Hub
- What it’s known for: Modern planned developments, corporate offices, and a mix of residential and commercial zones.
- Key Areas: Kalkaji, Sarita Vihar, Govindpuri, Faridabad border areas.
- Landmarks: Okhla Industrial Area, ISKCON Temple, Kalindi Kunj.
9. South West Delhi
- The Sub-City & Airport District
- What it’s known for: Housing one of Asia’s largest residential sub-cities and the international airport.
- Key Areas: Dwarka, Palam, Kapashera, Najafgarh.
- Landmarks: Indira Gandhi International Airport (Terminal 3 & 1), the planned sub-city of Dwarka, Najafgarh Jheel (lake).
10. East Delhi
- The Vibrant Residential Hub
- What it’s known for: A massive, densely populated residential area across the Yamuna, known for its markets and festivals.
- Key Areas: Preet Vihar, Vivek Vihar, Mayur Vihar, Pandav Nagar.
- Landmarks: Akshardham Temple, Lalita Park, numerous vibrant street markets.
11. Shahdara
- The Newest & Historic District
- What it’s known for: Previously a part of North East Delhi, it was carved out as the 11th district. It’s a key trans-Yamuna area with historical significance.
- Key Areas: The core Shahdara town, Dilshad Garden, Seemapuri.
- Landmarks: The historic tomb of Abdul Rahim Khan-i-Khana, a Mughal-era poet.
Which District Should You Explore?
- For History & Culture: Central Delhi (Old Delhi) and South Delhi (Mehrauli, Hauz Khas).
- For Government & Architecture: New Delhi and Central Delhi.
- For Upscale Dining & Shopping: South Delhi and New Delhi.
- For University Life & Youth Culture: North Delhi (North Campus).
- For a Local, Vibrant Experience: West Delhi and East Delhi.
- For Modern Planned Living: South West Delhi (Dwarka) and South East Delhi.
Conclusion
The 11 districts of Delhi are like pieces of a complex, beautiful puzzle. Together, they form one of the world’s most fascinating and dynamic capitals. From the ancient walls of Old Delhi in the Central district to the modern skylines of South West Delhi, each area contributes to the city’s unforgettable character.
Exploring them is the best way to truly understand the soul of Delhi.
FAQ Section
Q1: Which is the largest district in Delhi by area?
A: South West Delhi is the largest district, encompassing areas like Dwarka, Najafgarh, and the airport.
Q2: Which district is the capital of India?
A: The New Delhi district is the official capital of India, housing the Parliament and all major central government buildings.
Q3: Which district is best for tourists to stay in?
A: For first-time tourists, Central Delhi (near Connaught Place) or South Delhi (Hauz Khas, Saket) are ideal due to their central location, good connectivity, and proximity to major sights, hotels, and restaurants.
