In the heart of India’s vast Northern Plains lies Delhi, a city that weaves a tapestry rich with history culture and modern vibrancy as the nation’s capital.
Delhi’s Heritage spans over a millennium with remnants of ancient civilisations seamlessly blending into the urban sprawl.
Each corner of the city tells a story, a tale of empires, battles, triumphs and the indomitable spirit of its people.
Delhi is an incredible city with many things to do and places to visit but the city is a massive beast and not the easiest city to navigate.
You must dance around the crowds, pierce the traffic and sometimes battle the incredibly hot weather. Therefore it is advised to spread the places to visit in Delhi over multiple days.
this way you won’t have to rush which is the number one thing that might get you in trouble and ruin your experience.
The Red Fort an iconic symbol of India’s Rich Heritage stands majestically in the heart of Old Delhi commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its Grand architecture that combines Persian and Indian styles of architecture.
The colossal red sandstone walls that give the fort its name include a complex of exquisite palaces, gardens, and halls.
The Red Fort from the outside seems massive but you only truly get a glimpse of the true immensity of the structure by going inside.
There are gorgeous gardens and you can easily get lost here because there’s so much to see after entering.
Make sure the Red Fort is on your list of places to visit in Delhi due to its historical significance and breathtaking architecture.
Timings – 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM, Except on Mondays
Time Required – 2-3 hours
Entry Fee – Indian Citizens, citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC nations – INR 10, Other foreigners – INR 250, No fees for children below the age of 15.
The Nearest Metro Station – Lal Quila on the Violet Line
Soaring into the sky at an impressive 240 feet Qutub Minar is the crowning glory of an era gone by.
This towering minaret built in the 12th century is adorned with intricate carvings and verses from the Quran, serving as a great example of the artistic mastery of the olden era.
The complex is also home to several other historical structures such as the Quwwatul-Islam Mosque and the Iron Pillar which has baffled scientists with its resistance to rust over centuries.
One of the most historic and recognisable monuments in Delhi, Qutub Minar is a must-visit place that has to make it to your list of things to do in Delhi.
Timings – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Qutub Minar remains open for tourists all days except Sunday
Time Required – 2 to 3 hours
Entry Fee – Indians, SAARC and BIMSTEC: INR 40, Foreign tourists – INR 600
The Nearest Metro Station – Qutub Minar on the Yellow Line
One of the most important structures in the city, India Gate is a war memorial that honours 82,000 Indian and British soldiers who gave their lives during the First World War and the Third Anglo-Afghan War.
It is also the scenery for the Republic Day and Independence Day parades. India Gate is not to be confused with Gateway of India located in Mumbai.
India Gate is a lot more impressive in real life than it might come off in pictures especially if you go for a sunrise you will get a much more peaceful and incredible view of the monument you just have to see for yourself.
Owing to its rich historical background and astonishing architecture, India Gate has become one of the most popular tourist spots in the city.
Timings – Always open for visitors
Time Required – 1-2 hours
Entry Fee – No entry fee
The Nearest Metro Station – Central Secretariat Metro Station on the Yellow Line
Humayun’s Tomb is often considered the precursor to the Taj Mahal built in the 16th century for the Mughal Emperor Humayun.
The tomb is a Marvel of Mughal architecture with its symmetrical structure, intricate Persian designs and Lush Gardens.
The red sandstone and white marble edifice is an imposing sight with high arches and a majestic double dome. The complex also houses several other tombs including that of the emperor’s wife.
Timings – 10:00 AM – 06:00 PM
Time Required – 2 – 3 hours
Entry Fee – Indians – INR 10, Foreigners – INR 250.
Nearest Metro Station – Jawaharlal Nehru Metro Station on the Violet Line
Constructed in the 17th century by the then-Mughal ruler of India, Shah Jahan, Chandni Chowk is a labyrinth of narrow lanes and timeless stores in the soulful heartbeat of India’s capital.
Bustling with life the area is a sensory overload, the aroma of street food waves through the air as vibrant fabrics and trinkets from shop windows demand your attention.
Here history isn’t just something you see but something you live as the sights, sounds and tastes envelop you in a bygone world.
Chandni Chowk is an intoxicating chaotic blend of tradition and culture that leaves an indelible mark on every Traveler.
Timings – 9:30 AM – 08:00 PM, except Sunday.
Time Required – 3 – 4 hours
Entry Fee – Not Applicable
Nearest Metro Station – Chandni Chowk Metro Station on the Yellow Line
Khan Market, a bustling Enclave in central Delhi is a shopper’s paradise and foodie Haven rolled into one with its array of boutique stores, bookshops, cafes and restaurants. It’s a melting pot of experiences.
The market was named in honour of freedom fighter Khan Abdul Jabbar Khan. It has evolved into one of Delhi’s most upscale shopping destinations.
Timings – Open every day from 10:00 AM to 12:00 midnight, except on Sundays.
Time Required – 2-4 hours
Nearest Metro Station – Khan Market station on the Violet line
It is an eminent Sikh house of worship in Delhi with its golden dome and soaring flagpole it is a spiritual sanctuary in the middle of the city’s hustle.
Originally a bungalow belonging to Raja Jai Singh, a Rajput ruler in the seventeenth century, and was known as Jaisinghpura Palace.
It was converted into a Gurudwara in the 17th century to commemorate the visit of Guru Har Krishan, the eighth Sikh Guru in 1664.
Visitors are struck by the sheer magnificence of the marble edifice and the serene pool within the complex. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is a unique temple, the likes of which you’ve never seen before.
On top of that, the kitchen of Gurudwara is an incredible place, each day they serve thousands of free meals and the meals are all cooked by volunteers.
Make sure to take a look in the kitchen maybe even help out if you want to and definitely have a yummy Lunger
Timings – Open 24 hours
Time Required – 1-2 hrs
Entry Fee – Free
Nearest Metro Station – Ravij Chowk Metro station on the yellow line
The political and cultural heart of India, the city of Delhi offers a diverse palette that reflects its rich heritage street food stalls serve delectable kebabs and paranthas enticing locals and tourists with intoxicating aromas.
You absolutely can’t miss out on the famous street foods in Old Delhi. The Street food stalls in the area have been around for decades and people sometimes cross the city just so they can feast on these street foods.
The ones that you must have are the dahi Bhalla at Natraj Jalebi and the parathas at the Paranthe Wali Gali. A plate of spicy and tangy golgapples is also an essential street food in Delhi
Delhi is an intricate mix of history, culture and most importantly the people who live there. This delicious combination of factors presents arguably the best street food scene in India and exploration of various cuisines in Delhi should be one the top things to do in Delhi.
Jama Masjid is one of India’s largest mosques constructed under Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century.
The mosque is an architectural marvel with its towering minarets, expansive courtyard, majestic staircases leading up to the main compound and intricate carvings.
The mosque can accommodate over 25,000 worshipers and is a significant spiritual centre for Delhi’s Muslim Community.
Jama Masjid is situated in the older part of Delhi, now called Chandni Chowk and surrounded by beautiful Mughal structures.
The construction of the mosque took five thousand workers a total time of six years to complete this magnificent artwork.
The mosque was the last of Shah Jahan’s impressive collection of architectural undertakings, after the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort.
Timings – Open to visitors every day from 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:30 PM – 6:30 PM.
Time Required – 2 – 3 hours
Entry Fee – Photography INR 200, Tower INR 100.
Nearest Metro Station – Jama Masjid metro station on the Vilote Line
Akshardham temple is a recently constructed Hindu temple that was completed in 2005. It is an architectural masterpiece and a spiritual-cultural centre in Delhi.
The monument built without steel showcases intricate carvings and statues dedicated to Indian culture. It is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan.
Akshardham has made its way to the Guinness Book of World Records as the World’s Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple.
It’s truly an impressive huge structure with incredible details. You are not allowed to film or shoot pictures inside but there’s a good system for storing your stuff safely.
Make sure to stay for the incredible 3D projection show in Hindi. The projections are amazing and the water show is also engaging to see, especially for children.
Timings – All days of the week except Monday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM,
Time Required – 3 to 4 hours
Entry Fee – Adults INR 220, Senior Citizens – INR 170, Children – INR 120 for children, Children below 4 Years – Free
Nearest Metro Station – Akshardham Station on the Blue Line
Another beautiful temple in Delhi is the lotus temple the structure is gorgeous from the outside and very simple and modest from the inside mainly focused on a meditative atmosphere.
Lotus temple offers a tranquil escape from the city’s frenzy. The temple’s captivating flower-like design symbolises unity and inclusivity in Delhi, comprising 27 marble-clad petals arranged in clusters to appear like a giant lotus.
Visitors from all walks of life meditate in the serene atmosphere inside the main hall which is complemented by the lush gardens and pools surrounding the temple reflecting the petals in an ethereal dance of architecture and nature.
Timings – All days of the week except Monday 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Time Required – 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee – Free
Nearest Metro Station – Kalkaji Metro Station
Lodhi Gardens in the heart of Delhi is a serene retreat that effortlessly marries historical significance with natural beauty.
Spread over 90 acres, the gardens are home to ancient tombs and structures from the Lodhi dynasties of the 15th and 16th centuries.
The Lush Greenery is dotted with well-preserved monuments like Shisha Gumbad and Bara Gumbad within its perimeter.
Lodhi Garden was once known as ‘Lady Willingdon Park’, but was renamed after India gained independence from the British. It has gained popularity becoming one of the most visited tourist destinations in Delhi.
Timings – 6:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Time Required – 1-2 hrs
Entry Fee – Free
Nearest Metro Station – JLN Metro Station on Violet Line
Rajpath meaning Kingsway is a Grand Boulevard in Delhi flanked by lush green lawns and canals that lead to the magnificent Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the president of India.
The magnificent monument designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens is an architectural marvel combining Mughal and British elements with its 340 rooms spread over 320 acres. Rashtrapati Bhavan is a symbol of democratic India’s power and dignity.
Timings – 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Time Required – 3 hours
Entry Fee – INR 50
Nearest Metro Station – Udyog Bhawan metro station is on the Yellow Line.
Hauz Khas Village is a colorful culturally rich neighborhood situated in the Southern part of Delhi. Constructed in the 14th century by Ala-ud-Din Khilji, this area got its name from a huge water reservoir – Hauz, which was used to supply water to the city of Siri.
Over centuries, it evolved into a lively hub of art, fashion and food while still retaining its historical charm. The old mosque, tombs, and the remains of a medieval water tank coexist with trendy cafes, boutique shops and galleries making it one of the most popular sites in the city.
Walking through the narrow lanes of Hauz Khas Village, you can marvel at the seamless fusion of the old and new. The area is perfect for a relaxed stroll with a rich cultural experience.
Don’t forget to visit the Hauz Khas Complex for a glimpse of Delhi’s medieval history and enjoy the picturesque view of the lake, especially at sunset.
Timings (Operational Hours):
Time Required – 2-3 hours for a casual visit.
Entry Fee – Free to visit; charges for specific attractions or cafes.
The Nearest Metro Station – Hauz Khas on the Yellow Line
This rather unknown masterpiece of architecture sunk in the middle of CP is called “Agarsen ki Baoli”. This stepwell was constructed in the 14th century by Agar Sain, a well-known king of the region.
This stepwell is an iconic example of medieval Indian architecture containing beautiful rows of steps which lead down to the well which was once used to store water during the hot summer months.
Currently, Agarsen ki Baoli has become a centre of attraction for history buffs, photographers and tourists looking for solace in this abandoned structure away from the noisy city.
The high walls of the stepwell have always been adorned with carvings and arches and the place does carry an air of mystery which will be loved by anyone keen to explore the interiors of Delhi
Timings – 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Open all days)
Time Required – 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Entry Fee – Free.
The Nearest Metro Station – Rajiv Chowk on the Yellow Line and Blue Line
These are some of the top places to visit in Delhi, but it is not limited to only these places and activities. Delhi is a mixture of different people, cultures and traditions so you can always find an experience that will completely knock you off your feet. There is only one rule to exploring Delhi and that is to keep an open mind and a lot of free time.
With their friendly smiles and kindness, the people of Delhi are an essential part of the experience. People in Delhi are as different and colourful as the city itself, whether it’s a street vendor excitedly telling you about his goods or a local telling you about the city’s long history. The amalgamation of different cultures shows not only in the delicious food but also in the culture you experience in the city.