It is advisable not to pack too many things, as it is impossible not to buy things in India. In fact the most reluctant and miserly shoppers succumb within the first few days unless they are held back. Just carry things that can be used up and thrown out at the end (creams, shampoos etc.) Though a lot of variety is available in the big cities.

Sightseeing Packing - For daily travelling, must consist of a hand towel, a small bar of soap, a toilet roll, face tissue or handkerchiefs and a bottle for water. A camera, with ample roll of films (good quality films are available in the big cities), a pair of binoculars, which can help with looking closer at birds, wildlife and detailed carving on buildings. Electrical gadgets work on “220 V”. Sealed Mineral Water is available freely.
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Not very far from defence colony (to its south west) is Hauz Khas, whenever I go to Delhi..I go spend some time in the Hauz Khas ruins. The Purana Quila ruins are to te north east, neat pragati maidan. Near defence colony is an area called Lodhi Colony. I don’t remember the exact name, but in that area there is this huge cultural centre (international centre for something, don’t remember the exact name) you often have concerts and plays and such over there. South West of defence Cololy, On the outer ring road is the chinese restaurant Golden Dragon.. (aah the memories..I have had some good times in Delhi despite the heat and dust and pollution..) and the restaurant is pretty good.

And if you ever DO go to Hauz Khas.. very close to it is the JNU Campus, inside which parts of delhis old acacia bush/forests are still suriviving (the only stretches of the old bush/forest except for the southern ridge is this stretch and its continuation behind vasant vihar). The walk inside these forests all the way upto Qutab Minar, in Mehrauli is very interesting. Also not very far from Defence Colony, is Safdarjung..where you have the Delhi Hat. This is ..well.. made for a tourist.. but its interesting neverthless. You get food from all over India there, maybe not as good as the real thing..but pretty good neverthless. having said all that..I still feel Old Delhi is more interesting..despite it having slipped into poverty and filth to some extent..

Visiting Qutab Minar will throw up a decent surprice. It has been cleaned. The one favorite small tomb right hand behind the main mosque had been cleaned up totally; NO SMELL anylonger!
The whole complex is in good conditions now and I think 250 Rs. are o.k. as one can really enjoy the place again.