Delhi is a mix of old-world charm and modern flair—who doesn’t know? This is what makes it one of the most fascinating cities to visit. Whenever we talk about Delhi, we think of monuments. Many powerful emperors came and ruled over this city, leaving behind remarkable historical and political records. Besides monuments, what does it have?
There are many places to visit in Delhi! The Red Fort, India Gate, Worlds of Wonder, Hauz Khas, Akshardham Temple, and many more exist. Besides these famous places, there is a long list of other hidden places people often miss visiting. For instance, Majnu ka Tila, Tulip Garden, Doll Museum, Shahpur Jat, Lajpat Nagar, Mehrauli Archaeological Park, and whatnot!
Delhi is also known for its revered temples, tasty eateries, bustling shopping malls, colorful bazaars, lively nightclubs, and other attractions that draw tourists worldwide. If you’re planning a trip to Delhi, this list of top places to visit in Delhi will help you plan your itinerary.
Shall we start?
Delhi – A Worth Visiting Place in India
Delhi is the capital of India, and it lives up to its name with its unique attractions. Whether you’re exploring the historic Red Fort or the lively Dilli Haat, there’s always something exciting to see. It has romantic places like the Garden of Five Senses and family-friendly spots like the Nehru Planetarium.
Besides, there are plenty of comfortable hotels that can make your stay in Delhi memorable! You can visit Delhi between October and March when the weather is not too hot or cold.
Let’s get into the details of famous places to visit in Delhi!
Temples & Monuments
Delhi is all about monuments and old temples; new visitors always want to visit these old places. So, let’s check what type of historical places Delhi has.
1. Akshardham Temple
Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple is the largest Hindu temple in Delhi, but it’s older than other temples. If you want to bring your family with you, this spot is the best option! Moreover, its beautiful building is made from pink stone and marble.
The night view of Akshardham Temple is worth watching. You can see an amazing night show to relax your soul. Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam opened this pious temple in 2005. You must visit it whenever you plan to visit East Delhi because it is a spiritual and cultural place where you can learn the importance of traditional Hindu and Indian Culture.
It is located on the banks of the Yamuna River and follows Vastu Shastra and Pancharatra Shastra principles. Key attractions of this temple include the following:
- Central Akshardham Mandir
- The Abhishek Mandap
- The Sahaj Anand Water Show
- A themed garden
This pious temple also features three exhibitions: Sahajanand Darshan, Neelkanth Darshan, and Sanskruthi Darshan, which includes a cultural boat ride. The Akshardham Mandir itself is particularly stunning. It’s a vast building with 141 feet in height and 316 feet in width.
Another reason to visit the mandir is its interior, where its walls are intricately crafted with images of fauna, flora, musicians, and deities. The architecture used to build this building is Maharishi Vastu. Rajasthani sandstone and Carrara’s marble from Italy make it more beautiful.
The building holds nine domes, 234 ornate pillars, and 20,000 statues of devotees, Acharyas, and Sadhus. Hence, it’s one of the places that non-Hindus also want to see. Moreover, it is closed on Monday, so you can decide to mark it on your checklist any other day!
2. India Gate
Do you even need an intro for this famous spot? It’s a symbol of India, standing tall since 1931. The India Gate in Delhi gives tribute to soldiers—around 13,300 service members, including soldiers and officers from the United Kingdom—who died in World War I and the Afghanistan War.
Whatever place you come to, it’s a place that you would love to visit. The night is the best time to see this beautiful place. In addition, India Gate lies on the eastern edge of Delhi’s ceremonial axis, once known as Kingsway. Interestingly, Sir Edwin Lutyens designed its architecture to resemble the famous triumphal arches like:
- The Arch of Constantine
- The Arc de Triomphe
- The Gateway of India in Mumbai
Its construction was completed between 1921 and 1931. Its height is 42 meters, and its width is 9.1 meters. The building is made from yellow and red sandstone and a mixture of Granite. Underneath the archway lies the Amar Jawan Jyoti, or Flame of the Immortal Soldier, erected after the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971.
In addition, every year, on January 26th, India Gate hosts the Republic Day Parade, commemorating the day India became a republic. It’s a grand event, and many national and international dignitaries attend it to celebrate India’s heritage and achievements.
Additionally, a plan is to construct a Museum and a National War Memorial near India Gate. This will enhance the historical significance of India Gate.
3. Red Fort
The Red Fort is another architectural and historical place in Delhi. It has been a residential place for over 200 years for many Mughal emperors until 1857. Here, you can visit many museums that show how much history Delhi is enriched with. Mughal Emperors had witnessed many political and cultural events here.
Moreover, whenever we talk about Red Fort, Jawaharlal Nehru’s midnight speech comes to mind, as he delivered it here. Since then, this place has been used to celebrate Independence Day every year.
The construction of this building started in 1639 and was completed in 1648. It lies along the Yamuna River and surrounds Shah Jahn’s palace and Salimgarh Fort—the oldest places in India. The Red Fort is a must-visit in Old Delhi, symbolizing India’s rich history and struggle for freedom. Indian citizens pay 10 RS to enter the fort, while foreigners pay 150 RS.
4. Qutub Minar
Qutub Minar is also a historical place in Delhi. It is part of the Qutub Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Mehrauli area of Delhi. You can easily access Qutub Minar as Qutub Minar Metro Station is just 3 km away.
This gorgeous building is 73 meters high, with a base diameter of 14.3 meters that narrows to 2.7 meters at the top. It is made of red sandstone and marble and has five stories. The tower has a spiral staircase of 379 steps. The building is a true inspiration of the Minaret of Jam in Afghanistan.
Taking its construction into discussion, Qutub al-din Aibak – founder of the Delhi Sultanate, initiated it in 1192. His successor – Iltumish, completed it in 1220. Hence, it took a long duration to complete the whole building. But with time, lightning damaged the top of the building. Firoz Shah Tughlaq renovated it and added another story.
Historical sites like the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the Iron Pillar of Delhi surround the tower. The architectural style of Qutub Minar is inspired by Iranian influencers and local artistic features such as garlands, lotuses, and carved looped bells. You can also check the inscriptions in Parso-Arabic and Nagari on different parts of the tower.
Indian citizens pay RS.30 to enter the Minar, and foreigners pay RS.500. Consider booking a tour package to fully experience Delhi’s rich history. Qutub Minar is a highlight you won’t want to miss!
5. Humayun’s Tomb
Humayun’s Tomb was built in 1570 on the order of Humayun’s wife – Hamida Banu Begum. Its architectural style is a mixture of Persian and Central Asian art styles. Moreover, you can see a lot of similarities between the Tomb of this building and the Taj Mahal’s design. It makes it one of the must-visit tourist spots of Delhi.
It is located on Mathura Road, Across from Dargah Nizamuddin. Its opening hours are 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, and the ticket price is about Rs. 30 for Indians and Rs. 500 for Foreigners.
6. Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid is India’s biggest mosque and an architectural wonder. Shah Jahan built this vast building that can accommodate about 25,000 people at once. The Masjid has four towers, and the southern one offers breathtaking views of the city. You have to dress up appropriately so as not to humiliate the piousness of the Masjid.
It lies in Meena Bazar, Chandni Chowk. It is open from 7:00 am to 12:00 pm, 1:30 pm to 6:30 pm to 12:00 pm, and 1:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Moreover, it’s free to visit, but taking videos will cost around Rs. 200-400. Hence, take advantage of this stunning creation when exploring Delhi!
7. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
This famous religious spot attracts not only Sikhs but also many others seeking peace and spirituality. It’s not just a holy place; it’s also a top destination for tourists in Delhi. Sikh general Baghel Singh constructed it in 1783. Moreover, the gurdwara boasts a serene pond, a hospital, a school, a museum, and a library.
It is located on Bangla Sahib Rd, Near GPO, Hanuman Road Area, CP, New Delhi. The Gurudwara is open all day and has free entry. If you want to experience the culture and tranquillity of Delhi, you must visit this place.
Parks & Museums
All the parks and museums are Delhi’s most exciting tourist spots for nonstop fun! The best places to visit in Delhi.
8. Garden of Five Senses
Garden of Five Senses is a theme park with many impressive attractions. Here, you can see many lovely places like:
- Ponds with water lilies
- Solar energy areas
- The Khas Bagh garden
- Herb gardens
It’s perfect for a day out with friends and family. It’s also an excellent spot for couples looking for a romantic getaway in Delhi. Also, it is located in Western Marg, close to Saket Metro Station, Said-Ul-Ajaib Village, New Delhi.
It is open from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm in summer and from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm in the winter. Moreover, the cost per person is – Kids up to 12 years old and seniors pay around Rs. 10-20, while others pay Rs. 30-40.
9. The National Rail Museum
The National Rail Museum delivers the railway history of India. It was opened on February 1st, 1977, and is located on Market Rd, Block F, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, Delhi 110021. You can avail of both – indoor and outdoor exhibits as it’s a vast area covering 10 acres. You will probably find this place to be one of the top attractions in North Delhi.
The rail enthusiast Michael Graham Satow made the reality of this dream—a transport museum—in 1970. In 1971, President V. V. Giri laid the foundation. Railway minister Kamalapati Tripathi inaugurated the Rail Transport Museum.
In 1995, it became the National Rail Museum. Its treasures include:
- The Patiala State monorail trainways
- The historic Fairy Queen steam locomotive
- The Fire Engine
- Royal saloons
You can enjoy a toy train for a ride along with many other items like:
- The 1:8 scale train
- Diesel and Steam simulators
- Coach Simulator
It is located near Dhaula Kuan Metro Station. Moreover, you can easily access the museum which is 2 km away from the station, by auto rickshaw. The opening hours are 09:30 am to 05:30 pm, closed on Mondays and National Holidays. The Entry Fee is Rs. 20 per person, with an additional Rs. 20 for the toy train ride.
10. Crafts Museum
When you enter the Crafts Museum, you feel like you are entering the village. You have traveled back in time while exploring the whole village life here. There’s so much to do, like:
- Checking out the intricate temple chariot and charming Gujarati Haveli
- Grabbing breakfast at Café Lota
- Shopping for handmade crafts from local artisan
It is located in Pragati Maidan Bhairon Marg, New Delhi. It is open from 10 am to 5 pm. Indian citizens have to purchase a ticket of RS 10-15. On the other hand, foreigners have to pay 150-200 RS. It’s a unique experience you won’t want to miss!
11. Lodhi Garden
Lodhi Garden is a beautiful spot to visit in Delhi! It is a garden that holds ancient tombs from the 15th century, many other mini gardens, and outstanding places to get a photo. If you want to go out for a picnic, turn your car towards Lodhi Garden.
Going here for an outing is like ticking a fun thing to do in Delhi off your bucket list. For easy access, its address is Lodhi Road, Lodhi Gardens, Lodhi Estate, New Delhi. The garden is open from 6 am to 7 pm and costs nothing to enter.
Markets, Food, and Entertainment Areas
Discover the best places to visit in Delhi to indulge, eat, hang out & have fun:
12. Delhi Haat
Delhi or Delhi Haat is a place you should take advantage of. It is like an outdoor market where you can do shopping and other things with your family and friends. Several handmade items are available, along with yummy foods to treat your taste buds. Delhi Hatt also hosts many cultural events. Hence, isn’t it among the best things to check out in Delhi?
13. Hauz Khas
Hauz Khas is quite big and has many parts that you should explore. Its E block is quite lively, with a bustling market and many restaurants where you can spend some time eating food or having gup shup with your pals or family.
What makes it famous? It’s popular because of many other places like:
- The Hauz Khas Fort
- Mayfair Garden
- Hauz Khas Social
Whenever you go to Hauz Khas, remember to visit these places. Are you an extrovert who loves to meet new people? Kunzum Travel Cafe is for you! Moreover, birds and nature lovers also have something suspicious here in Hauz Khas.
14. Chandni Chowk
When exploring incredible places to visit in Delhi, Chandni Chowk is an unavoidable place to visit. The aesthetic, narrow, and bustling streets are bursting with life! Here, you can purchase affordable clothes, jewelry, and unique handicrafts.
And don’t forget about the food – it’s legendary! Treat your taste buds to some of the best street food in India, like the famous Paranthewali Gali. Trust us, Chandani Chowk is an adventure you shouldn’t miss!
15. Connaught Place
Do you love shopping? Of course, who doesn’t? Connaught Place can be your paradise. It has boutique shops, restaurants, and rushed markets like Janpath and Palika Bazaar. Moreover, it is famous for its unique circular design.
Connaught Place offers so much variety. Plus, it’s where you’ll find the lively Delhi nightlife, with hotspots like Kitty Su. With many other great attractions nearby, Connaught Place is at the heart of Delhi tourism. It’s a spot you can’t miss!
In addition to the many unique places to visit in Delhi, there are plenty of exciting spots near the city. Destinations like Agra, Jim Corbett National Park, Dehradun, Mussoorie, and Lansdowne are perfect for weekend getaways. Agra and Jaipur offer historical charm and romantic vibes, while family-friendly places like Nainital, Shimla, Jodhpur, and Dehradun are also great options.
If you’re looking for spiritual experiences, places like Haridwar, Rishikesh, Mathura, and Vrindavan are nearby. There are plenty of options in and around Delhi for solo or group adventures, like Rishikesh, Manesar, Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala, where you can enjoy thrilling activities and blast with your friends!
Some Hidden Spots or places to visit in Delhi
We’ve all found ourselves Googling places to visit in the capital, only to see the same old monuments pop up. So, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of must-visit spots, from shopping and parks to entertainment hubs. Here are some exciting places you need to check out. Let’s dive in!
16. Majnu ka Tila
Majnu Ka Tila is known for its vibrant Tibetan market, filled with tasty treats from Tibetan, Nepalese, and Korean cuisines. It’s not just about the food, though – it’s also an excellent spot for finding fabulous clothes.
And guess what? It’s easy on the wallet, too! If you’re exploring Delhi for the first time, put MKT on your list of places to visit. The Opening Hours are 11:00 am—7:30 pm. Oh, and don’t forget to try their Laughing!
17. Tulip Garden
Looking for a stunning flower display? Head to Tulip Garden this February in Delhi! This seasonal flower show runs from February to March, showcasing over a hundred thousand tulip bulbs planted yearly. Plus, the government hosts fun photography contests, too! Trust us: stepping into Tulip Garden will make you feel like you’ve been transported to the Netherlands!
18. Shahpur Jat
Shahpur Jat is the place to be for stunning Indian wedding outfits! It’s packed with top-notch designer brands offering everything from beautifully embroidered dresses to lavish ensembles. The narrow streets are filled with these designer labels, making it a hotspot for one-of-a-kind wedding attire. Now you know where to find your perfect wedding outfit!
19. Lajpat Nagar
Lajpat Nagar is a lively spot in Delhi, famous for its bustling wedding shops and cozy eateries. When it’s wedding season, Dilliwalas flock here for lehengas, suits, and sherwanis. But wait, there’s more! Lajpat Nagar is also a cultural hotspot, hosting places like the Korean Culture Centre. Whether you’re shopping or dining, Lajpat Nagar has it all. Come, explore, and indulge in the unique charm of Lajpat Nagar!
20. Champa Gali
Champa Gali is the perfect spot for anyone who enjoys charming surroundings, beautiful artwork, and tasty treats. You can enjoy delicious coffee and cheesy pizzas at cozy cafes like Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, Jugmug Thela, and Social Street Cafe. And make sure to snap a pic in front of the stunning graffiti wall for your Insta feed!
Conclusion
Delhi is a fantastic place to visit, with many incredible things to see and places to visit in Delhi! Delhi has it all, whether you’re into romance, family fun, shopping, or hanging out with friends. Plus, many great places to stay make your trip even better!