Delhi is a union territory within India and a city, offering two very different worlds: New Delhi and Old Delhi. The first, opened by the British in 1931 to serve as the imperial capital, is the nation's modern capital and seat of government, while Old Delhi is considered by many to be the symbolic heart of the greater metropolitan area.
One of the most populous regions in the world, with a population of nearly 20 million people, Delhi is an intoxicating mixture of tradition and modernity, significant as a religious center and as the busiest international gateway to India. Its history is as old as the ancient Yamuna, one of the holiest rivers in Hinduism and a natural dividing line between New Delhi in the west and Old Delhi in the east.
Things to see and do in Delhi and New Delhi are plentiful and include the diverse arts and crafts industry experience, numerous fascinating attractions, and countless performing arts venues. The region is also known for its excellent cuisine, including delicacies from all over India. Delhi is also a shopper's paradise with many markets and markets, including Chandni Chowk, the country's most popular shopping district.
Find the best places to visit in this bustling and vibrant city with our list of top tourist attractions in Delhi, India.
1. The Red Castle
The beautiful Red Fort (Lal Qala) was built by Shah Jahan in 1648 and was the seat of Mughal power until 1857. With its high walls of red sandstone, this magnificent structure covers an area of more than two square kilometres, is half-moon shaped and surrounded by a moat.
The impressive main entrance, the Lahore Gate, is so named because it faces Lahore in Pakistan, while the greater Delhi Gate was used by the emperor for ceremonial processions. Upon entering the Lahore Gate, visitors arrive at Chhatta Chowk, a 17th century covered bazaar where items such as silk, jewellery, precious stones and silverware can be purchased, along with souvenirs and food.
The Naubat Khana inside the Red Fort once housed musicians who played for the emperor, and the beautiful galleries still contain many interesting musical instruments such as timpani, gongs and cymbals. Diwan Am, the audience hall, where the emperor receives his subjects, is also worth seeing for its impressive white marble.
A great way to see the Red Fort and other popular Delhi attractions is by booking a full-day private tour of Old and New Delhi. Highlights of this nine-hour urban adventure include a professional personal guide and chauffeur who will take you to points of interest such as Humayun's Tomb and Qutb Minar, as well as the Jama Masjid, India Gate and the famous Temple. Lotus. Included in your tour is hotel reception and auto rickshaw ride.
Address: Netaji Subhash Marg, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi 11006, India
2. Qutub Minar
Completed in the 12th century, the Qutub Minar is the tallest minaret in India. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts many international visitors eager to climb to the top to enjoy its stunning ocean views.
This ornate five-story tower rises to more than 70 meters and is covered with intricate carvings illustrating the history of Qutb, along with inscriptions from the Qur'an. It is also distinguished by being built with several different types of stone (the first three floors are made of red sandstone, while the fourth and fifth floors are built with marble and sandstone).
The complex also includes the Quwat al-Islam Mosque, a mosque at the base of the tower. front door built in 1310; The tombs of Al-Tamish, Alaa Al-Din Khilji and Imam Zamin. The 2,000-year-old iron pillar, the Alai Minar, is also worth seeing.
Address: Mehruli, New Delhi, Delhi 110030, India
3. Lodi Gardens
One of New Delhi's most popular gardens with locals, the 90-acre Lodi Gardens is well worth including in your Delhi itinerary. In addition to its lush gardens, the park contains many relics from the pre-17th century Lodi period, including a variety of important tombs and monuments.
Architectural highlights include 15th-century mausoleums containing the remains of the sultans of Lodi, as well as a picturesque three-domed mosque, a glass dome, famous for its blue tiles, and the ruins of a massive dome dating from around 1490. See also outside the Uthbula Bridge, an eight-column bridge It dates back to the 16th century, with its attractive columns and arches spanning Lake Montazah.
Lodi Gardens is also famous for its flora and fauna, including more than 100 species of native trees, 50 species of butterflies, and an array of birds. It is also home to the country's Bonsai National Park.
While in the vicinity, take a five-minute walk to the famous Khan Market. In fact, this busy (and very safe) area is among the most popular in the world, with luxury brands on the shoulders of street vendors selling local delicacies.
Address: Lodi Road, New Delhi, Delhi, India
4. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
Gurdwara Bangla Sahib, the most important Sikh place of worship in Delhi, is located near Connaught Place and is well worth a visit. Its magnificent pool, Sarovar, stands out at the heart of this large complex, as well as its famous golden dome and flagpole.
Also of note is the large temple building itself, along with its art gallery and a small museum dedicated to the history of the Sikh religion. Visitors are always welcome here, excellent food is available for free in the large Gurdwara kitchen. All you are asked in return is to cover your hair and remove your shoes (head cover and shoe storage provided free of charge).
Address: Ashoka Road, Hanuman Road District, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi, India
5. Lotus Temple
The magnificent Bahá'à House of Worship, also known as the Lotus Temple because of its nine sides and impressive central dome, is an architectural masterpiece. Built of concrete and white marble, the entire structure looks as delicate as the flower it resembles. Coming out of the surrounding nine pools of water, it looked like he could blossom at any moment.
Built in 1986, the temple has since attracted more than 70 million visitors, making it one of the most visited attractions in the world. Interestingly enough, this wonderful place of worship does not contain idols, religious images or external symbols of religion.
Another modern temple worth visiting is ISKCON Temple, one of the largest Krishna temple complexes in the country.
Address: Lotus Temple Road, Shambhu Dayal Bagh, Bhapur, New Delhi, Delhi, India
6. India Gate
A bit like the famous Arc de Triomphe in Paris, the India Gate is an impressive stone arch built as a memorial to Indian soldiers killed in World War I. An eternal flame burns beneath the massive structure, its walls engraved with the names of the more than 90,000 soldiers who died in the conflict.
Standing on a red stone plinth with a shallow domed bowl on top sometimes filled with burning oil (usually only on important annual occasions), the structure dominates the surrounding park, an area always crowded with crowds of tourists and locals enjoying a picnic or just relaxing. .
For a real treat, try to see India Gate at night, which is considered one of the best free things to do in New Delhi. It is a stunning sight when it and the nearby fountains are lit up.
Address: Rajpath, India Gate, New Delhi, Delhi, India
7. Jami Mosque
Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India and was the last architectural achievement of Shah Jahan. Completed in 1658, this beautiful building features three portals, four angled towers and two 40-meter-high minarets built of red sandstone and white marble and alternating attractively in vertical lines.
Visitors can climb to the top of the southern minaret to enjoy stunning views of Old Delhi, then visit the large central pool which is used for washing before prayer. Please note: Visitors must take off their shoes and clothing appropriately before entering; Non-Muslims are not allowed during prayer.
Next, be sure to visit Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi's huge main street and market district dedicated to shopping and food. Of particular note are Naya Bazaar and Gadodial, the two famous spice markets where you will see hundreds of items on display, including anise, ginger, pomegranate, saffron, lotus seeds, pickles and sauces.
Address: Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi, India
8. Humayun's Tomb
Humayun's Tomb is located in a beautiful large square garden, a high mausoleum built of white marble and red sandstone. It was designed as a prototype for the Taj Mahal in Agra and is an excellent example of Mughal architecture.
Built in the mid-16th century by Haji Begum as a memorial to her husband by Humayun's great widow, the tomb is surrounded by lush formal gardens and other tombs, including Humayun's Barber and Tomb of Isa Khan (architect of the Taj Mahal), a fine example of Lodi and octagonal architecture.
The fun thing to do is try to catch a glimpse of this amazing structure after dark when it lights up.
Address: Mathura Road, Nizamuddin, New Delhi, Delhi, India
9. Akshardham
Although only recently completed (it opened in 2007), the gorgeous Hindu temple in Akshardham looks like it may be centuries old. This magnificent building, decorated with intricate and elaborate carvings, attracts countless visitors for its majestic beauty.
Highlights include the impressive 43-meter-high Main Monument with rich carvings of animals, plants, deities, dancers, and musicians, all made of pink sandstone and marble. Of particular note are the 234 ornate columns that support its nine domes, as well as an impressive stone homage to elephants, the centerpiece of which is a colossal 3,000-ton statue of one of these beasts.
Other interesting features include a theater showing a movie describing the construction of the building, a fun 15-minute boat ride depicting India's rich history and diverse culture, and the stunning Yagnapurush Kund, a large musical fountain that is especially fun when it lights up at night. .
Address: Noida Mor, New Delhi, Delhi, India
10. Purana Qila (Old Castle)
Although it is often overlooked as most tourists head straight to the more famous Red Fort, it is worth including Purana Qila (the ancient fort) in your Delhi itinerary. Most of the current impressive buildings are around 2,500 years old, dating back to the 16th century, although evidence of earlier structures dating back to the 3rd century has been discovered.
The current structure has played an important role in the affairs of the region for centuries and was particularly influenced by the Islamic religion, as evidenced by buildings such as the Kona Castle Mosque, a single-domed place of worship built in 1541. The site is two square kilometres, and you will enjoy exploring its thick walls and three gates Large, which is a particularly impressive sight during night illuminations.
The 200-acre Mehrauli Archaeological Park is well worth a visit and features many important structures, some of which date back over 1,000 years. Highlights include the ancient ruins of Lal Kot, along with the most recent evidence of British occupation during the reign of Queen Victoria.
Address: Mathura Road, New Delhi, Delhi, India
11. Rajpath and Rashtrapati Bhavan
Rajpath, also known as King's Road, is a traditional festive street in New Delhi. It runs from Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official presidential residence, through important city landmarks such as Vijay Chowk and the Gateway of India to the National Stadium.
Surrounded by trees, meadows, and ponds, this wide avenue comes to life every January 26th during the Republic Day Parade. This special occasion is celebrated by countless thousands of people gathered to celebrate the anniversary of the country's independence.
At the western end of Rajpath, the residence of the President, Rashtrapati Bhavan (formerly the residence of the British Viceroy), is undoubtedly one of the finest buildings in Delhi. It is an inviting place to take selfies due to its eclectic mix of Mughal and European architectural styles containing around 340 richly decorated rooms.
Of particular note is the new Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum, which offers a look inside the building, along with interesting exhibits relating to past chiefs. Tip: If visiting in February or March, visit the neighboring Mughal Gardens, a fine view of the farms surrounding the President's residence.
Address: Gates 30 and 35, President's Estates, New Delhi, Delhi, India
12. Gandhi Smriti and Mahatma Gandhi Memorial
Many references to Mahatma Gandhi can be found all over Delhi, a testament to human heritage. Among the many attractions related to the famous leader of the Indian independence movement, perhaps the best is the Gandhi Smriti (Gandhi's Souvenir), a museum located on the estate where he was assassinated in 1948.
Highlights include exhibits and memorabilia relating to his life and death, including the room he stayed in, which was left exactly as it was at the time, as well as the new Eternal Gandhi Multimedia Museum containing historical records detailing his many accomplishments.
One particular highlight is the opportunity to wander the very gardens where Gandhi spent a lot of time (the place where the shooting took place is marked with a martyr's column). Also of interest is the Raj Ghat memorial to Gandhi, just a few minutes' walk from the place where his body was cremated.
Address: 5 Tees January Marg, New Delhi, Delhi, India
13. Jantar Mantar Observatory
Located near Connaught Place, one of the largest and most popular commercial districts in New Delhi, Jantar Mantar is one of five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Jai Singh I in 1725.
This well-preserved historical site is designed to allow occupants to observe the movements of the sun, moon, and planets, and also features many other ancient instruments on display that were once used to track the course of celestial bodies and predict eclipses. Highlights of this impressive and architecturally remarkable building include a massive sundial known as Amir al-Dial.
Address: Sansad Marg, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, India
14. Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum
Another major attraction related to politicians is the Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum, which is located in the former residence of this highly esteemed woman (Indira was the daughter of India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, and although she was a friend of Mahatma Gandhi, she was relatively not ).
Highlights include photographs documenting her life and tenure as prime minister, personal belongings such as the sari she was wearing at the time of her assassination, along with news clippings and letters.
The building is surrounded by an enclosed garden with mature trees and flowering plants, the path of which is now a memorial, with the place where she was killed is clearly marked. Several rooms are dedicated to his son, Rajiv Gandhi, who was assassinated in 1991.
Indira Gandhi's father, Nehru, is the subject of the equally interesting Nehru Museum (Teen Murti Bhavan) Planetarium found in his former residence. The museum displays the leader's life and work, including interesting items related to the freedom struggle, with features including his bedroom, living room, and studio housing exhibits depicting the highlights of his career.
Address: 1 Safdarjung Road, New Delhi, Delhi 110011, India
15. New Delhi National Museum
The galleries of the New Delhi National Museum, one of the largest museums in India, follow a historical sequence, with all major periods represented. Highlights include archaeological finds, along with displays of terracotta toys, pictures and utensils, jewelry, stamps, bronze and copper instruments, carvings, musical instruments, tapestries, tribal masks, swords, and murals.
The most important gallery is the Central Asian Gallery, which includes silk banners, frescoes, sculptures, and artifacts related to life along the ancient Silk Road that stretched between Europe and China. Audio guides and guided tours are available.
Other museums worth visiting include the National Science Center, one of the largest science centers in the world, and the impressive National Museum of Natural History, which focuses on the country's rich flora and fauna.
Also of note is the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), which houses the country's most important art collections. Opened in 1954, it houses over 14,000 pieces of artwork by prominent Indian artists from the 1850s onwards.
Address: Janpath Road, Rajpath District, Central Secretary, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, India
16. Laxminarayan Temple
If you are able to squeeze just one temple into your Delhi sightseeing itinerary, make it the Laxminarayan Temple (Birla Mandir). It is also one of the newer similar sites in town.
Mahatma Gandhi opened this remarkable Hindu place of worship in 1939 in Connaught Place as a dedication to the goddess of prosperity, Laxmi (shrines dedicated to other faiths were also included on the site, a requirement Gandhi stipulated). Spread over approximately eight acres, the grounds are fun to explore and feature lush tropical gardens, fountains, and sculptures.
Address: Mandir Marg, Nearby, Gol Market, New Delhi, Delhi, India
17. National Zoo
Known as one of the best zoos in Asia, the National Zoo was established in 1959 and provides home to around 1,500 species of animals and birds. The abundant wildlife on display represents all continents, including many examples from Africa, Australia and Asia.
Of particular note are the zoo's many chimpanzees, along with hippos, spider monkeys, zebras, hyenas, deer, jaguars, and tigers. A highlight for children is the Underground Reptile Complex, which houses a variety of snakes, including the deadly king cobra.
A fun way to get around the many attractions of the zoo is by one of the small electric vehicles that carry passengers around the park.
Address: Mathura Road, New Delhi, Delhi 110 003, India
18. National Craft Museum
The Craft Museum - officially known as the National Museum of Handicrafts and Handlooms, New Delhi - displays a variety of traditional handicrafts from all over India. Among its many fascinating features are the chance to watch highly skilled craftsmen demonstrate their centuries-old skills, as well as view large collections of textiles, woodwork, and ceramics.
Also of interest are the architectural displays of various regional villages, including original mud huts and full-size wooden haveli (a form of palace house) from Gujarat decorated in traditional folk art and featuring exquisite wood carvings, paintings, papier-mâché, and embroidery.
Address: Bhairon Marg, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, India
19. National Railway Museum
Spread over 10 acres, the National Railroad Museum houses over 30 locomotives and many old railroad cars, most of which are very rare. In total, more than 140 years of Indian Railways history has been preserved at this remarkable site, including a locomotive built in 1885 and a Fairy Queen steam locomotive from 1855.
Other features include many unique items, such as a set of saloon cars belonging to the once powerful maharaja of the country, including the ivory-clad Maharaja of Mysore teak wagon; The Prince of Wales cabin in 1876; and the carriage in which Gandhi's ashes were transported after his assassination in 1948. Also shown is the skull of an elephant struck by a mail train in 1894.
For the kids, a ride in an excellent, narrow steam train is part of the fun.
Address: Shanti Path, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, Delhi 110021, India
20. Hauz Khas. Complex
Hauz Khas complex is a wonderful urban city located a little south of New Delhi. In addition to the many ancient stone ruins, the entire city is dotted with domed tombs of lesser Muslim kings, who were buried here between the 14th and 16th centuries.
Other highlights include the remains of an ancient university and the tomb of Firoz Shah, who ruled Delhi in the 14th century, as well as the Ki Mosque, a beautiful mosque built in the Lodi style.
Make sure you have extra time to explore the vicinity. This bustling area is safe and popular with locals and tourists alike for its art galleries, trendy restaurants, and boutiques.
Address: Hauz Khas, New Delhi, Delhi, India
21. International Hardwood Toilet Museum
The Sulabh International Toilet Museum provides a fascinating look at sanitation and its relationship to social reform. Exhibits show the evolution of the toilet and its various designs, with toilet-related items dating back to 2500 BC, along with exhibits showing historical trends.
Facts, photographs, and artifacts provide a chronology of developments relating to technology, social customs, bathroom etiquette, and sanitary conditions, with exhibits including latrines, urinals, bathroom furniture, latrines, and latrines from 1145 to the modern era.
Although unrelated to some, the Tibet House is another smaller museum worth visiting for its collection of ceremonial items brought back by the Dalai Lama after his flight from Tibet. Exhibits include wood carvings, paintings, carpets, and ritual objects from Tibetan monasteries and villages, along with a museum with many rare pieces of art, religious artifacts, ritual tools, war objects, and jewelry.
Address: Sulabh Bhawan, Palam Dabri Road, Mahavir Enclave I, Mahavir Enclave, New Delhi, Delhi 110046, India