Delhi, also known as “dilwalon ki sahar,” has always been a city that caters to people of all ages and interests. From historical wonders to cultural centers, amusement parks to street food, Delhi offers a diverse range of experiences that will never disappoint. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through 24 of the best things to do in Delhi, ensuring you have a memorable trip to the capital city in Delhi.
Best Places to Visit in Delhi
Discover the best places to visit in Delhi, the capital of India and a city of contrasts. From ancient monuments to modern malls, from street food to fine dining, from bustling markets to serene parks, Delhi has something for everyone. History buff, a culture lover, a foodie, or a shopper, you will find plenty of things to see and do in Delhi. Top attractions and activities that you should not miss in Delhi.
Red Fort – Marvel at the Epitome of Mughal Era
Red Fort, also known as Lal Quila, is a must-visit attraction in Old Delhi. Built in 1648 by Emperor Shah Jahan, this grand fort is made of red sandstone, giving it its iconic name.
Red Fort showcases the breathtaking Persian and Mughal architecture and is a true reflection of the Mughal reign. As you explore the fort, you’ll come across various attractions such as Chhatar Chowk, Meena Bazaar, Lahore Gate, Naubat Khana, War Memorial Museum, Diwan I-Aam, and Diwan I Khas. The intricate detailing and historical significance of the Red Fort will leave you awe-inspired.
Location: Netaji Subhash Marg, Lal Qila, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi
Opening hours: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm (closed on Mondays)
Tickets: INR 35/person
Pro Tip: To avoid the crowds, visit the Red Fort early in the morning. The fort is particularly stunning during the annual Independence Day celebrations when it is illuminated with colorful lights and hosts a grand flag-hoisting ceremony.
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Chandni Chowk – Taste Delightful Street Food
Delhi is a food lover’s paradise, and there’s no better place to indulge in mouth-watering street food than Chandni Chowk. This bustling market in Old Delhi is famous for its wide variety of delectable street delicacies. From the iconic papri chaat and chole bhature to golgappe (pani puri), dahi bhalla, kachori, rolls, laddoo, jalebi, samosa, rabri faluda, and kebabs, the options are endless. Exploring the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk and relishing the delicious street food is a culinary adventure you shouldn’t miss.
Insider Tip: For the ultimate Chandni Chowk food experience, take a guided food tour where you can taste the best dishes and learn about the history and culture of the area from a local expert.
Dilli Haat – Shop and Eat
Dilli Haat is a vibrant craft bazaar and food plaza run by Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC). This open-air market is a haven for shopaholics and food enthusiasts alike.
Find a wide range of handicrafts, clothing, accessories, and home decor items from different states of India. Bargaining is a common practice here, so make sure to brush up on your negotiation skills. After shopping, head to the food stalls to savor authentic and mouth-watering delicacies from various regions of the country.
Location: INA, Kidwai Nagar West, Kidwai Nagar, New Delhi
Opening hours: 11 am to 9 pm
Tickets: INR 20/person
Pro Tip: Visit Dilli Haat during one of the many cultural festivals and events that take place here. You’ll get a chance to witness traditional music and dance performances, art exhibitions, and much more.
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HO HO Bus Tour – Do Dilli Darshan
If you’re new to Delhi or want to explore the city’s major landmarks without the hassle of navigating public transportation, the HO HO (Hop On Hop Off) Bus Tour is the perfect option. This guided tour takes you to all the important attractions of the city, allowing you to get off at any stop, explore the area, and then hop back on the next bus. It’s a convenient and hassle-free way to see the sights and learn about the history and culture of Delhi.
Location: HO HO Bus Information Centre: Baba Kharak Singh Rd, Next to Hanuman Temple, Raja Bazar Road Area, Connaught Place, New Delhi
Opening hours: 7:15 am to 7 pm
Tickets: INR 499/person/day
Insider Tip: Choose the open-air top deck of the bus for the best views of the city’s landmarks. Don’t forget to carry sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Humayun’s Tomb – See this World Heritage Site
Humayun’s Tomb, commissioned by Haji Begum, the first wife of Emperor Humayun, is a magnificent mausoleum located in Nizamuddin East. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. The tomb is a fine example of Mughal architecture and served as a inspiration for the construction of the Taj Mahal. As you explore the complex, you’ll also come across the tombs of other notable figures such as Khan Niyazi, Alamgir, and Dara Shikhoh. A visit to Humayun’s Tomb is a journey back in time and a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Location: Mathura Road Opposite, Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah, Nizamuddin, New Delhi
Opening hours: 8 am to 6 pm
Tickets: INR 30/person
Pro Tip: Visit Humayun’s Tomb during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the serene ambiance of the gardens.
Nehru Planetarium – Learn about Planets, Stars, and the Moon
Nehru Planetarium, located in Teen Murti Bhavan, is a fascinating place to learn about astronomy and space. The planetarium conducts shows on various topics such as the solar system, galaxies, and the activities of different planets and celestial bodies. These shows are highly informative and engaging, particularly for kids and young adults. The Nehru Planetarium offers a unique opportunity to explore the mysteries of the universe and gain a deeper understanding of our place in it.
Location: Teen Murti House, Teen Murti Marg, New Delhi
Opening hours: 9 am to 5:30 pm (closed on Mondays)
Tickets: INR 50/person
Insider Tip: Check the schedule in advance to catch a show that aligns with your interests. The planetarium also offers special programs during astronomical events like eclipses and meteor showers.
Lodhi Garden – Enjoy a Day Picnic
Lodhi Garden is a beautiful park in the heart of Delhi, known for its lush greenery and historical significance. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful day picnic amidst nature. The garden is dotted with tombs, architectural marvels, and well-maintained lawns. Spend your day here relaxing, playing outdoor games, reading a book, or simply enjoying the serene surroundings. The tranquility of Lodhi Garden offers a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Location: Lodhi Road, Lodhi Gardens, Lodhi Estate, New Delhi
Opening hours: 6 am to 7:30 pm
Tickets: Entry is free
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to carry a mat or a blanket to sit on, as well as some snacks and drinks to enjoy during your picnic.
Lotus Temple – Seek Inner Peace
Lotus Temple is a stunning Baháʼí House of Worship that is shaped like a lotus flower. The Lotus Temple is open to people of all faiths and welcomes visitors to meditate, pray, or simply admire the beauty of the structure. The Lotus Temple is surrounded by nine pools of water and 26 acres of landscaped gardens.
Location: Lotus Temple Road, Shambhu Dayal Bagh, Bahapur, Kalkaji, New Delhi
Opening hours: 9 am to 5:30 pm (closed on Mondays)
Tickets: Entry is free
Pro Tip: Dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the temple. Also, maintain silence inside the temple hall.
National Rail Museum – Enjoy a Toy Train Ride
National Rail Museum is a must-visit for train enthusiasts and history lovers. The museum showcases the evolution of Indian railways through exhibits, models, and displays. Enjoy a toy train ride around the museum premises and see some of the oldest and rarest locomotives and coaches.
Location: Chanakyapuri, New Delhi
Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm (closed on Mondays)
Tickets: Rs. 50 for adults, Rs. 10 for children, Rs. 100 for toy train ride
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the 1:8 scale model of the Bullet Train, the Fairy Queen (the oldest working steam locomotive in the world), and the Saloon of the Prince of Wales.
India Gate – Take a Stroll
India Gate is a 42-meter-high arch that was built in the 1920s as a memorial to the Indian soldiers who died in World War I and the Afghan Wars. The India Gate is also a popular spot for picnics, boating, and enjoying the views of the Rajpath and the Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Location: Rajpath Marg, India Gate, New Delhi
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
Tickets: Entry is free
Pro Tip: Visit the India Gate in the evening to see it illuminated and to enjoy the street food and ice cream vendors nearby.
Nizamuddin Dargah – Hear Soul-Stirring Qawwalis
Nizamuddin Dargah is the mausoleum of the famous Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya. The dargah is a place of pilgrimage and devotion for many Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Visit the dargah to pay your respects, witness the rituals, and listen to the soul-stirring qawwalis (devotional music) performed by the singers every evening.
Location: Boali Gate Rd, Nizamuddin, Nizammudin West Slum, Nizamuddin West, New Delhi
Opening hours: 5 am to 10 pm
Tickets: Entry is free
Pro Tip: Dress modestly and cover your head with a scarf or a cap. Also, avoid visiting the dargah on Thursdays and Fridays, as it gets very crowded.
Madame Tussauds – Be Delighted by Wax Statues
Madame Tussauds is a world-famous wax museum that features lifelike statues of celebrities, politicians, sports stars, and historical figures. You can pose with your favorite icons, take selfies, and have fun at the interactive zones. Madame Tussauds is a great place to visit with your family and friends, as you can enjoy the glamour and glitz of the celebrity world.
Location: 44, Regal Building, Connaught Place, New Delhi
Opening hours: 10 am to 6 pm
Tickets: Rs. 960 for adults, Rs. 760 for children
Pro Tip: Book your tickets online in advance to get discounts and avoid long queues. Also, check out the special events and offers that the museum hosts from time to time.
Pandara Road – Try Finger-Licking Food
Pandara Road is a food lover’s paradise, where you can find a variety of cuisines, such as North Indian, South Indian, Chinese, and Continental. The most famous attraction of Pandara Road is the butter chicken, which is a rich and creamy dish of chicken cooked in a tomato-based gravy. You can also try other delicacies, such as dal makhani, paneer tikka, naan, kulfi, and halwa.
Location: Pandara Road, India Gate, New Delhi
Opening hours: 11 am to 11 pm
Tickets: Prices vary depending on the restaurant
Pro Tip: Visit Pandara Road at night to enjoy the ambience and the lighting. Also, be prepared to wait for a table, as the place is usually crowded.
Majnu Ka Tila – Savor True Tibetan Vibes
Majnu Ka Tila is a Tibetan colony that offers a glimpse of the culture and lifestyle of the Tibetan people. You can visit the Majnu Ka Tila Gurdwara, which is a Sikh shrine that has a historical significance. Explore the narrow lanes and alleys, where you can find shops selling Tibetan handicrafts, clothes, books, and souvenirs. The best part of Majnu Ka Tila is the food, which is authentic and delicious. You can try the momos, thukpa, shabalay, laphing, and butter tea.
Location: New Aruna Nagar, Majnu Ka Tila, New Delhi
Opening hours: 8 am to 10 pm
Tickets: Entry is free
Pro Tip: Respect the local customs and traditions, and avoid taking pictures of the monks and the temples without permission. Also, bargain well before buying anything from the shops.
Hauz Khas Village – Check Out Fancy Cafes
Hauz Khas Village is a trendy and hip neighborhood that is known for its cafes, bars, restaurants, and art galleries. Visit the Hauz Khas Lake, which is a scenic and serene spot for boating and birdwatching. Explore the Hauz Khas Fort, which is a 13th-century monument that offers a panoramic view of the lake and the village. Hauz Khas Village is a great place to hang out with your friends, enjoy live music, and savor the nightlife.
Location: Hauz Khas, New Delhi
Opening hours: 10 am to 11 pm
Tickets: Entry is free
Pro Tip: Be careful of the traffic and parking issues, as the village is often crowded and congested. Also, check out the graffiti and street art that adorn the walls of the village.
Red Fort – Watch the Light and Sound Show
Red Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of India’s independence. The Red Fort was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century and served as the residence of the Mughal rulers until 1857. Admire the stunning architecture, explore the museums and gardens, and watch the sound and light show in the evening. The show narrates the history and glory of the Red Fort and the Mughal era in an impressive and captivating way.
Location: Netaji Subhash Marg, Lal Qila, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi
Opening hours: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm (closed on Mondays)
Tickets: Rs. 35 for Indians, Rs. 500 for foreigners, Rs. 80 for sound and light show
Pro Tip: Book your tickets for the sound and light show online in advance to avoid long queues. Also, carry a jacket or a shawl, as it gets chilly in the evening.
Cha Bar – Read and Eat
Cha Bar is a cozy and charming cafe that is attached to the Oxford Bookstore. Cha Bar is a paradise for book lovers and tea lovers, as you can browse through the books, sip on a variety of teas, and munch on some snacks. Cha Bar is a perfect place to relax, read, and enjoy the company of your friends.
Location: N-81, Oxford Bookstore, Connaught Place, New Delhi
Opening hours: 9:30 am to 9:30 pm
Tickets: Prices vary depending on the menu
Pro Tip: Try the masala chai, the kulhad chai, and the pakoras. Also, check out the events and workshops that the cafe hosts from time to time.
India Habitat Centre – Attend an Art Exhibit
India Habitat Centre is a cultural and social hub that showcases the best of art, literature, music, and theatre. The India Habitat Centre has several auditoriums, galleries, libraries, and restaurants, where you can attend various events, exhibitions, and performances. The India Habitat Centre is a great place to learn, appreciate, and enjoy the arts and culture of India and the world.
Location: Lodhi Road, Near Airforce Bal Bharati School, New Delhi
Opening hours: 10 am to 10 pm
Tickets: Prices vary depending on the event
Pro Tip: Visit the website of the India Habitat Centre to check the schedule and book your tickets for the events. Also, don’t miss the open-air amphitheatre and the water fountain.
Akshardham – See Delhi’s Most Beautiful Temple
Akshardham is a magnificent temple complex that is dedicated to Swaminarayan, a Hindu spiritual leader. Akshardham is a marvel of architecture, art, and spirituality, that showcases the rich and diverse heritage of India. Visit the main temple, which has intricate carvings, statues, and domes. Enjoy the exhibitions, the musical fountain, the boat ride, and the gardens.
Location: Noida Mor, Pandav Nagar, New Delhi
Opening hours: 10 am to 8 pm (closed on Mondays)
Tickets: Entry is free, but charges apply for the exhibitions and the attractions
Pro Tip: Dress modestly and leave your electronic devices and bags at the cloakroom. Also, watch the light and sound show in the evening, which is spectacular.
Connaught Place – Shop Till You Drop
Connaught Place is one of the most popular and lively shopping destinations in Delhi. Connaught Place has a circular layout, with several blocks and streets that are filled with shops, cafes, restaurants, and cinemas. Find everything from branded clothes and accessories to handicrafts and books at Connaught Place. Connaught Place is also a hub for nightlife, as you can enjoy the pubs, clubs, and bars that are open till late.
Location: Connaught Place, New Delhi
Opening hours: 10 am to 10 pm
Tickets: Prices vary depending on the shop
Pro Tip: Visit the Palika Bazaar, an underground market that sells cheap and trendy items. Also, check out the Janpath Market, a flea market that sells ethnic and bohemian stuff.
Garden of Five Senses – Take a Refreshing Walk
Garden of Five Senses is a beautiful park that is designed to stimulate your senses of sight, smell, touch, sound, and taste. The Garden of Five Senses has various sections, such as the Khas Bagh, the Neel Bagh, the Bamboo Court, the Solar Energy Park, and the Food Court. Enjoy the colorful flowers, the fragrant herbs, the soothing fountains, the artistic sculptures, and the delicious cuisines at the Garden of Five Senses.
Location: Westend Marg, Saidulajab, Saiyad ul Ajaib, Saket, New Delhi
Opening hours: 9 am to 7 pm
Tickets: Rs. 35 for adults, Rs. 15 for children
Pro Tip: Visit the Garden of Five Senses in the morning or evening, when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are less. Also, don’t miss the amphitheatre, where you can watch cultural performances and events.
Jama Masjid – Engulf in Old Delhi’s Charm
Jama Masjid is one of the largest and oldest mosques in India, built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. The Jama Masjid is an architectural masterpiece, with three domes, four minarets, and a spacious courtyard. Visit the Jama Masjid to admire the beauty and grandeur of the mosque, as well as to experience the religious and cultural atmosphere of Old Delhi.
Location: Meena Bazaar, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi
Opening hours: 7 am to 12 pm, 1:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Tickets: Entry is free, but Rs. 300 for camera
Pro Tip: Dress modestly and cover your head with a scarf or a cap. Also, remove your shoes and socks before entering the mosque. Climb up the southern minaret for a panoramic view of the city, but only if you are a man.
F9-Go-Karting – Race Your Pals
F9-Go-Karting is a fun and thrilling activity that lets you experience the thrill of racing on a track. F9-Go-Karting has various types of karts, such as single-seater, double-seater, and kids’ karts, that you can choose from. Enjoy other facilities, such as a cafeteria, a lounge, and a gaming zone. F9-Go-Karting is a great place to visit with your friends, family, or colleagues, as you can compete and have fun together.
Location: Sector 17-18 Link Road, Near Green Park, Gurugram, Haryana
Opening hours: 1 pm to 10 pm
Tickets: Rs. 250 to Rs. 500 per person, depending on the kart and the duration
Snow Mastiii, Noida – Experience Snow-Filled Adventure
Snow Mastiii is an indoor snow park that offers a variety of snow activities and attractions. Enjoy the snow slides, the snow play area, the snow castle, the snow dance, and the snow cafe. Try the ice skating, the snow tubing, the snow zorbing, and the snow bumper cars. Snow Mastiii is a perfect place to visit with your kids, as you can have a fun and memorable time in the snow.
Location: 4th Floor, Logix City Centre Mall, Sector 32, Noida, Uttar Pradesh
Opening hours: 11 am to 9 pm
Tickets: Rs. 599 for adults, Rs. 499 for children
Pro Tip: Carry warm clothes, gloves, and socks, as the temperature inside the park is below zero degrees. Also, book your tickets online in advance to get discounts and avoid long queues.
Agrasen Ki Baoli – Witness a Haunted Stepwell
Agrasen Ki Baoli is a historical stepwell that dates back to the 14th century. Agrasen Ki Baoli is a unique and mysterious structure, with 103 steps and three levels that lead to a water reservoir. Agrasen Ki Baoli is also believed to be haunted by the spirits of the people who drowned in the well. Visit Agrasen Ki Baoli to explore the architecture, the history, and the legends of the place.
Location: Hailey Road, Near Diwanchand Imaging Centre, K G Marg, New Delhi
Opening hours: 9 am to 5 pm
Tickets: Entry is free
Pro Tip: Be careful of the bats and pigeons that inhabit the well. Also, avoid visiting the place alone or at night, as it can be spooky and unsafe.
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Our ultimate guide features 24 fun things to do in the capital city, ranging from historical landmarks and architectural marvels to culinary delights and cultural experiences. Don’t miss out on the chance to discover the best of Delhi! Start planning your trip and book your activities now.
