15 Best Things to See in (New) Delhi (India)

Delhi, India’s capital city, will never stop surprising you. It is home to not one, but three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it the only city in the world with this particular distinction. If you have the will and energy to explore Delhi, there is no dearth of interesting things to do here. The city is full of bars, cafes, bazaars, and other fun places, which can make this cultural capital give some better-known cities in the world a run for their money. Let’s investigate the top activities in Delhi:

Gawking at the Qutab Minar

One of Delhi’s major attractions and a well-known UNESCO world heritage site is Qutab Minar. This tower, which is 240 feet tall, was built in 1192 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the city’s first ruler. This minaret bears the name of its builder. The spiral staircase in this five-story tower, which is entirely made of red sandstone and marble, has 379 steps to the summit. But since 1974, this has been off-limits to the general public.

Go boating at the Old Fort

The Delhi Zoo forms a barrier between the Old Fort’s ruins and its charming boating area, known locally as Purana Qila. Every day but Monday is the ideal day to relax in the historical setting of the fort. Sher Shah Suri began building this impressive palace, and Humayun finished it.

Savour the food at Paranthe Wali Gali

Some of the most mouthwatering paranthas, or fried bread, can be found on the famed and congested Chandni Chowk street. Some of the vendors’ offerings are reported to be based on generations-old recipes. Most of the day, the lanes are crowded with shoppers, and the air is filled with the aroma of cooking oil and food. With the main meal, various pastes and chutneys are served. As people compete with one another to refill their plates with more and more of the delectable dishes, the air is filled with the cacophony of shopkeepers’ calls for consumers. Even if you decide against eating the greasy, loaded Indian flatbreads, this might still be quite a spectacle.

Take a photo tour of Humayun’s Tomb

This monument was originally built as a tomb for the Mughal emperor Humayun in the sixteenth century. Today, the expansive area is home to the marble graves of numerous other Mughal emperors, each one depicting a complex Persian pattern. A small museum with exhibits on the history of the tomb and other pertinent information sits next to the entrance. The entrance fee to this monument is slightly higher than other monuments because it is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Experience a different culture at Jama Masjid

The Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in the city, was built in the seventeenth century. The massive structure is a well-known landmark in Old Delhi and a significant site of devotion. The mosque can accommodate up to 25,000 people, and seeing so many people, especially during Friday prayers, is impressive. There are several entrances into the main building, all of which eventually lead to the main deck. Except for the requirement that you cover yourself completely, entry is free and available to people of all nations. If one wants to take photos, there is a bit of a cost.

Pay obeisance at the Akshardham temple

The Akshardham temple in East Delhi is unlike any other place of devotion in India or the entire world. It features displays, boat rides, water shows, and gorgeous gardens. The architectural splendour and décor of the area, which is thought to contain some of the greatest Hindu temples in the world, will surely take your breath away. Sadly, taking photos inside this shrine is strictly forbidden.

Watch the fair at Pragati Maidan

In New Delhi, the Pragati Maidan is situated across from the Purana Qila, or Old Fort ramparts. National and international exhibitions are held on the premises. Under one roof, a visitor can visit stalls ranging from textiles, food, beverages, automobiles, electronics, furniture and much more. The goods are genuine and originate from exhibitors in India as well as many other nations. There are countless stores offering an amazing variety of goods that draw clients from far and wide.

Take a rickshaw tour of Chandni Chowk

The commercial hub of Old Delhi is Chandni Chowk, also known as Moonlight Street. One of India’s oldest markets, its tiny, winding lanes are bustling with activity from dawn till dusk, selling every good under the sun. The easiest way to avoid getting lost in the sheer volume of people that congregate here is to take a leisurely tour by bike rickshaw. The rickshaw driver also serves as a local guide and is happy to share advice on where to dine, shop, and go on excursions. Every tourist’s itinerary should include a trip to Chandni Chowk to see how the real Delhi functions.

Enjoy a meal at India Habitat Centre

Conferences, art galleries, an auditorium, and hospitality spaces are held in this magnificent 9-acre complex, which is adjacent to the Lodhi Gardens. The abundance of eateries selling delectable cuisine from all over the world is this area’s main draw. The fact that this architectural wonder is situated amidst a breathtaking landscape filled with gardens and fountains only enhances its atmosphere.

Find Inner Peace at Lotus Temple

A beautiful architectural creation is the Lotus Temple. The entire edifice is constructed entirely of marble. The lotus blossom, a global representation of peace, provides the temple with both its name and shape. In the inner sanctuary, photography is prohibited, and a rigid silent policy must be followed at all times. The temple is a great spot for everyone who wants to pray and meditate because it is open to all castes and creeds. The temple is sometimes referred to as the Baha’i faith’s centre.

Visit the Rashtrapati Bhavan

Rashtrapati Bhavan, the president of India’s ceremonial residence, is a magnificent royal structure with more than 400 rooms. It also houses the President’s bodyguards, stables, and other support workers. Its magnitude is only surpassed by that of the Turkish president’s home. On the weekends, a registration process that may be done online lets visitors into the castle. The magnificent Mughal Gardens, which draw lots of local and international visitors, are the glory of this presidential location.

Pay homage to Raj Ghat

The Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, is honoured at Raj Ghat. The memorial is situated within lovely planted gardens along the Yamuna River. At one end, a constant flame burns in honour of the heroic man who gave his life to ensure India’s freedom. Surrounding this sacred space are memorials to other well-known figures. Every Friday there is a prayer service, and every day but Monday, from 1000 to 1700 hours, the teachings of Gandhi are narrated through sound, light, and sculpture.

Marvel at the beauty of the Chhatarpur temple

The Chhatarpur temple complex, which is in South Delhi, is India’s second-largest collection of its kind. The temple is made of marble and honours the goddess Katyayani (Durga). The venerated Goddess’ shrine is located in a nearby shrine, and it is only ever on show during the Navratri celebration in the fall.

Take a walk to India Gate

A visit to this 42-meter high famous and historic monument in Delhi, which is dedicated to the memory of the troops who lost their lives in the Afghan war, is not only an educational experience but also a photographer’s paradise. Each of the 13,500 people who lost their lives fighting on the Northwest Frontier is commemorated with a name on the walls. The best time to visit India Gate is in the evening when it is magnificently lit and the lovely fountains surrounding it give the area a very enchanting appearance.

Party away at Connaught Place

Connaught Place, Delhi’s commercial and entertainment district, offers a considerable number of bars, clubs, and music venues despite the city’s lack of a particularly dynamic nightlife. Places like Excuse Me Boss, Lord of the Drinks, and Junkyard Cafe are popular with a sizable and vivacious clientele. Connaught Place, which was modelled after Bath’s Royal Crescent in England, is without a doubt Delhi’s most popular nightlife area.