Not many people know that the busy and bustling capital city of Delhi and its surroundings have a long past, going back thousands of years. Prehistoric stone tools have surfaced here and many ancient remains have been found, sometimes accidentally by farmers tilling their fields, and at other times by archaeologists carrying out systematic excavations. A mound one passes everyday or a narrow strip of stream tells a story of ancient times. Centuries of history coexist with metro stations and plush cars. The readings in this book give us glimpses of the lives of people who lived in the Delhi area over the centuries, and how these details have been pieced together by historians. It brings into focus the importance of the historian’s method and the sources of information found in ancient texts, archaeology and even legends and folklore, sometimes hanging on the thread of a slender historical fact. The editor of the volume, points to the urgency of further exploration and documentation to fill in the still all-too-meagre details of Delhi’s ancient history. However, she ends on a note of caution, bordering on alarm, when she points out that invaluable evidence of the city’s past is being extensively destroyed due to quarrying and the construction of new roads and buildings. Such activities are an integral part of the modernization of a living city but the balance between modernization and the preservation of ancient remains is indeed very fragile and needs to be maintained from an informed and realistic perspective. This collection of essays has been put together by a teacher for students of history, but will also be of enormous value to a large number of other interested readers. Upinder Singhis Professor of history at the University of Delhi.

This book explains how migration is responsible for the destruction of Delhi's environment.

DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Delhi, Agra & Jaipur is your in-depth guide to the very best of this region of India. Explore the must-see sights, from Humayun's Tomb to the world-famous Taj Mahal. Learn about the great pantheon of Hindu gods. Experience the local wildlife, temples, bazaars, museums and attractions. Whether in the bustling center of Delhi or the dusty, provincial town of Alwar, you will find something to fascinate you in this region, which encompasses both old and new. Discover DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Delhi, Agra & Jaipur: • Detailed itineraries and "don't-miss" destination highlights at a glance. • Illustrated cutaway 3-D drawings of important sights. • Floor plans and guided visitor information for major museums. • Free, color pull-out map (print edition) of Delhi marked with sights, a selected sight and street index, public transit map, practical information on getting around, and a distance chart for measuring walking distances . • Guided walking tours, local drink and dining specialties to try, things to do, and places to eat, drink, and shop by area. • Area maps marked with sights . • Insights into history and culture to help you understand the stories behind the sights. • Hotel and restaurant listings highlight DK Choice special recommendations. With hundreds of full-color photographs, hand-drawn illustrations, and custom maps that illuminate every page, DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Delhi, Agra & Jaipur truly shows you this region as no one else can.