Whether you are looking for history, culture, gastronomy, retail, or spiritual serenity, Delhi has it all. The old part of Delhi brims with forts, mosques, garden-tombs, ancient markets, monuments, and Minarets.
New Delhi is a manifestation of the contemporary prestige of India. It is home to iconic public buildings and landmarks, temples, upscale markets, and business districts.
Here’s a list of the top things to do in Delhi.
Standing at over 72 meters (238 feet), the Qutub Minar “Victory Tower” dates back to the 12th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was modeled after the Minaret of Jam in Afghanistan which was also built around the same time.For centuries this historicalbrick tower has served as a significant symbol of the city visible from afar. A visit here is a must!
Old Delhi has all the vibes of the great Mughal Empire, with grand monuments and a maze of crisscrossing narrow alleys and charming little bazaars lined with shops, artisan workshops, traditional eateries, and crafts outlets. These lanes are a labyrinth of history, secret, and mystery. Pay attendance at the grand Jama Masjid, venture out into the maze of Chandni Chowk, hop onto a tricycle rickshaw and ride through Khari Baoli (India’s largest wholesale spice market).
The first of many Garden Mughal Tombs, the Humayun’s Tomb was built in the 1550s AD, and it became a blueprint for many of the great Mughal landmarks that were built later. A fine example of Saracenic architecture, nestled in over 50 hectares of geometrically carved Mughal gardens. A stroll here is a joy. Highly recommended! Right opposite it to the Tomb complex is the Sundar Nursery, a great stopover for lovers of Flora.
The Mughals had a way of luring one into their world of architecture, poetry, fine arts and their incredible lifestyle. A good place to start tracing Mughal history is the Fort-Residence of the Mughal Emperor the Red Fort of Delhi. Built by Emperor Shahjahan (the same emperor also built the Taj Mahal), Red Fort signified the move to shift capital from Agra to up north in what is now Delhi. This red-stone citadel remained the center of power for the next two centuries.
Rajpath (Kartavya Path) was previously known as Kingsway under the British Empire. The apt change in nomenclature symbolizes the much-needed end of the empire and the emergence of an independent Indian nation and republic. The ceremonial boulevard houses many important landmarks and symbols of the state like the India Gate and, the National War Memorial. and is the venue for the Republic Day Parade (every 26th January) We recommend a drive in the Janpath past the Parliament and President’s House.
In a bustling, noisy, and busy Delhi, the Lodhi Gardens offer over 90 acres of green bliss. The name comes from the Lodhi Dynasty of India, which the Mughals replaced. Like the Mughals, the Lodhi loved building geometrically shaped manicured gardens that were a treat to be around in. If you love your evening walks and love a serene sunset, then heading out to the the 15th century Lodhi Gardens and grabbing a relaxing sundowner is a great idea to escape the buzz of the city and unwind.
A Temple of the Sikh faith, the Gurudwara Bangla sahib was built in the 18th century. This white-marbled-and-golden-dome house of worship draws in millions of visitors and devotees every year. In line with the Sikh ethos of hospitality, every visitor, regardless of their faith, creed, or color is offered free food called “Langar.” You can volunteer to prepare meals for visitors at the Gurudwara Kitchen. The operation is nothing short of amazing. It is an unreal experience taking part in the process, and then watching thousands being fed.
Nestled in the shadow of the Jama Masjid in Old Delhi, Karim’s has been around for over 110 years. It has been anointed as “the most famous culinary destination” of Delhi. There is no better place in all of North India to try the Mughlai cuisine. Biryani, Kebab, Mutton Korma, Chicken Mughlai, Chicken Jahangiri—the list of dishes on offer at Karim’s is legendary.
The Akshardham Temple Complex was built in the mid-2000s AD.Depicting 5,000 years of Hindu history, culture, and spirituality, the complex was conceptualized as a spiritual-cum-cultural campus. This visually stunning project is a modern ode to Hinduism. The complex has temples, musical fountains, galleries, and halls showcasing Hindu mythologies, and several geometric gardens. You’ll come across many ancient temples all over India, but there’s nothing quite like Akshardham. It is a visual run-down of the evolution of the Hindu faith.
India has always welcomed people from all faiths and offered refuge to many faiths, one such faith is the Baha’i faith which originated in Iran. The Lotus Temple gets its name from the white marble petals-like structures it is built in, the beautiful building is in the shape of a lotus flower. The stands out feature of the Baha’i faith is its universalism. Its places of worship are always open to people of all beliefs. Stop over at the Lotus Temple to learn more about this amazing faith.
There’s a reason why it’s called the National Museum. This establishment which was established in the late 1940s proudly hosts over 2 lac pieces of artistic, cultural, and historical significance that encompass some 5,000 years of the history of the Indian subcontinent. This mega collection is further broken down into categories like Pre-History, Archeology, Paintings, Manuscripts, Arm & Armour, and Jewelry. For lovers of history, arts, and archeology, the National Museum in New Delhi is the place to be.
Visiting Delhi, a land of ancient bazaars and not taking time for a quick shopping expedition would be a mistake. Places we recommend are Janpath Market (for street shopping), and the Dilli Haat to buy handicrafts and ethnic art pieces. If you want a more contemporary “branded stuff” shopping experience, consider Connaught Place.
Mahatma Gandhi was shot to death on an ill-fated afternoon in 1948. The place where he was cremated on the banks of the Yamuna River is now a memorial complex known as Raj Ghat. There is a black platform that marks the point of his cremation. Inside an eternal flame burns to honor Mahatma’s legacy. If you’ve been moved by Mahatma’s story and struggle, we recommend that you pay your respects to the Great Soul at Raj Ghat.
Khan Market was built after the independence of India to provide opportunities to those who fled to India after partition from the then North-West Frontier Province. Now a high-end commercial street, Khan Market is known for its boutique shops, upscale shopping, and stylish eateries. It is located near India Gate in New Delhi and is well worth a visit for those interested in a high-end shopping experience and also has some hip cafes & eating joints.
The Hauz Khas Village in South Delhi dates back to the Delhi Sultanate era (14th century). Hauz Khas house a water reservoir with a mosque and tomb built around it. The words “Hauz Khas” in Persian means “a royal water tank.” Today the neighbourhood is studded with chic cafes & trendy boutique shopss. Take a stroll in this hipster part of the capital, and enjoy a hot beverage in one of its cool cafes. Kunzum Travel Café, Social, Elma’s Bakery and Mia Bella are our top picks.
