Briefcase guide to New Delhi

From the airport: Taxis cost about £4.20 from Indira Gandhi International to the city centre, a 30-minute ride.

Stay in style under £100: The Imperial, a favourite of former Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, was recently modernised and is close to Connaught Place, Delhi’s main business district. Rooms cost from just under £100. (0091-11 334 1234, www.theimperialindia.com).

. . . or splash out: The Grand Hyatt, close to the airport, is the newest five-star hotel. Splash out on a spa treatment or try an invigorating Japanese shower. (677 1234, www.hyatt.com)

Cutting-edge eating: La Rochelle, at the Oberoi, is a popular French restaurant, with meals from about £40. But a bottle of Burgundy costs up to £70. (436 3030).

. . . and a local classic: Moet’s is the choice of young, hip professionals. It is set in the Defence Colony Market, South Delhi, and serves Indian and Chinese, with vegetarian options. Average price for a meal is £6. (462 6814).

Don’t miss: The three-wheeler auto-rickshaws: noisy and stinking of diesel but great fun. Also visit the Bahai Temple, an inter-faith nine-sided monument in South Delhi, set in serene surroundings.

Insider tips: Agree cab and rickshaw fares in advance, or ask a concierge to help. Be wary of hotels that charge foreigners higher prices.

Contacts: British High Commission (687 2161).

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