ATTRACTIONS & PLACES TO VISIT IN DELHI

Steeped in centuries of history as the seat of powerful empires and the capital of modern India, Delhi offers a compelling narrative of the past and present. From Mughal-era landmarks to expansive museums, contemporary art galleries, shopping districts and a dazzling nightlife, the metropolis captivates at every turn.

HUMAYUN'S TOMB

Mughal architecture meets tranquil greenery in the first Persian-style garden tomb in the Indian subcontinent. Commissioned by Humayun’s wife, Hamida Banu Begum, this rare memorial - built by a woman for her husband - was later known as the ‘Dormitory of the Mughals’, housing over 100 tombs within a single complex. Wander along the pathways of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site to marvel at its sublime proportions, set amidst symmetrical gardens.

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QUTUB MINAR

Built in the 12th century as a victory tower, the 73-metre-high minaret is crafted from red sandstone and marble, featuring intricate carvings and inscriptions from the Quran. The capital’s most towering monument looms over you as you stroll through the Qutub complex, which includes the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the Tomb of Imam Zamin, Major Smith’s Cupola, Sanderson’s Sundial and the Alai Darwaza. The most interesting legend here is related to the six-tonne, seven-metre-tall Iron Pillar. While it continues to capture the imagination of scientists, owing to its mysterious resistance to rust, there’s a popular belief that good fortune awaits if you can completely wrap your hands around the pillar with your back touching it.

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LOTUS TEMPLE

A marvellous symbol of unity and peace, the Lotus Temple - the Bahá’í House of Worship - is distinguished by its exterior made of 27 free-standing marble ‘petals’, arranged in clusters of three to form nine sides, a number considered auspicious in the Bahá’í faith. Explore the lush, idyllic temple complex, which encompasses nine water pools lined along each petal and glimmering in daylight. You can also meditate inside the prayer hall.

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INDIA GATE

Located on Rajpath, this awe-inspiring war memorial - a 42-metre-high sandstone arch - rises majestically against the backdrop of Rashtrapati Bhavan. Enjoy ice cream from local vendors or pack a picnic to soak in the lively atmosphere. To experience the monument in a unique way, you can sign up for a session with the Delhi Segway tour company between 5:00 pm and 9:00 pm, with prices starting from INR 2,500.

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JAMA MASJID

A serene oasis at the heart of Old Delhi’s vibrant energy, the capital’s largest mosque is built on a 10-metre elevation and can hold a staggering 25,000 people. The marble and red sandstone structure, also known as the ‘Friday Mosque’, offers a peaceful respite by day and looks stunning by night.

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AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE

Marvel at the intricate carvings and sculptures at this impressive spiritual centre dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, while reflecting on India’s ancient culture and traditions. Explore the temple’s cultural exhibits, catch a film screening, take a serene boat ride, relax in the 6-acre garden and stay back to witness Sahaj Anand, the 24-minute evening multimedia water show held at Yagnapurush Kund, a massive replica of an ancient stepwell.

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LODHI GARDENS AND ART DISTRICT

This historic green oasis in the heart of the capital dates back to the 15th century and is named after the Lodhi dynasty that once ruled Delhi. Spread across 90 acres, it is one of the city’s most popular parks for morning walks, jogs and picnics amidst ancient trees, lush lawns, blooming flower beds and notable sculptures and artworks, including the statue of Lady Willingdon.

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CHANDNI CHOWK

Delhi’s oldest and largest market epitomises the capital’s lively, diverse culture. Designed as a half-moon-shaped square adorned with trees, canals and pools for 17th-century Mughal royal processions, it is now the epicentre of Delhi’s renowned food scene, serving iconic paranthas, bedmi puris, samosas, kebabs and jalebis, along with textiles, antiques and everything in between.

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RAJ GHAT

Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, this peaceful, well maintained park has a simple black-marble platform marking the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated following his assassination in 1948. The memorial is inscribed with his final words, “Hey Ram”. Stroll through the landscaped gardens, reflecting on the life and legacy of the Father of the Nation.

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GHALIB KI HAVELI

Browse through the handwritten poems and books of the legendary Urdu poet Mirza Ghalib at his 300-year-old home in Old Delhi’s Ballimaran, designated as a memorial museum in 2000. The premises also feature commissioned portraits and figures of Ghalib, including one commissioned by the Indian poet and lyricist Gulzar.

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DILLI HAAT

Designed to resemble a traditional village market (haat), this cultural and entertainment hub features artisan stalls on a rotating basis, offering a wide variety of handlooms, jewellery, accessories, décor, toys and small goods. Stay back after a shopping spree to enjoy cultural performances in the evening..

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KHAN MARKET

Established in 1951 to support post-Partition refugees, Khan Market is now among the most premium retail destinations in India. Walk through its lanes to discover homegrown designer labels such as AMPM, Satya Paul, JODI and Amrapali, alongside iconic bookstores like Bahrisons and Faqir Chand. From upscale restaurants and Mughlai specialities at Khan Chacha to classic and contemporary art galleries, Khan Market offers something for everyone.

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SAFDARJUNG TOMB

Considered the last monumental garden tomb of its time, this magnificent marble and sandstone structure marked the end of an era of Mughal art and architecture that began with the Taj Mahal in Agra. It was built by the son of Safdarjung, the Wazir-ul-Hindustan (Prime Minister) during the reign of Ahmad Shah Bahadur. Located in Jor Bagh, it is one of the lesser-frequented yet grand monuments in the capital. Besides exploring the mausoleum, you can stroll around the lush gardens and the perimeter wall.

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PURANA QILA

One of Delhi’s oldest and most significant historical monuments, it stands as a symbol of the capital’s multi-layered history, from its mythological association with Indraprastha, the capital of the Pandavas in the Mahabharata, to its Mughal heritage. Stretching across 300 acres, it features three prominent gateways, bastions, moats, a mosque and a library. Look out for the Sher Mandal, an octagonal red sandstone tower. It was on the steps of this very structure that Humayun is believed to have fallen to his death in 1556, marking a tragic end to a ruler whose life was filled with both triumph and turmoil.

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JANTAR MANTAR

Located near Connaught Place, this 18th-century open-air astronomical observatory was one of five such structures commissioned across India by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II - a brilliant mathematician and astronomer - to aid the study of celestial bodies, determine time, track planets and predict eclipses. Among the 13 large-scale architectural instruments are the Samrat Yantra (a giant sundial used to measure precise time), the Misra Yantra (designed to determine the longest and shortest days of the year) and the Jayaprakash Yantra (used to determine the coordinates of celestial bodies).

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BIKANER HOUSE

Spread over 8 acres at the iconic India Gate hexagon, the former palace of the Maharaja of Bikaner underwent extensive restoration to become one of the capital’s favourite cultural venues, hosting events ranging from book launches and art exhibitions to jazz performances. It is also home to award-winning restaurants, an elegant coffee shop and a concept boutique showcasing the best of Indian crafts and design.

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CONNAUGHT PLACE

The unofficial social epicentre of Delhi, affectionately called CP, this British-built commercial and retail hub is a great place to window shop, people-watch, visit art galleries and explore the expansive underground Palika Bazaar. A key financial and business centre, the area offers several delights, from heritage cinemas and toy shops to leading contemporary art galleries.

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NATIONAL MUSEUM

Located on Janpath, one of the largest museums in India was established in 1949. It showcases a wide range of artefacts spanning from the prehistoric era to modern works of art. In addition to hosting workshops, yoga and meditation sessions, and cultural performances in the evenings, it also offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe art conservators at work.

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RED FORT (LAL QILA)

Built by Shah Jahan in 1648, Delhi’s most recognised red sandstone landmark is believed to have been designed by Ustad Ahmad Lahori, the architect behind the Taj Mahal. Wander across this octagonal UNESCO World Heritage Site, exploring expansive courtyards, the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) - a marvel of Mughal geometry - the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), and the Rang Mahal (Palace of Colours), once reserved for the women of the royal household. Jai Hind, the fort’s light and sound show, vividly narrates India’s history in the baritone voice of renowned actor Amitabh Bachchan.

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