Places to Visit in Delhi – Best Tourist Guide
Delhi is the capital city of India and one of the most vibrant and diverse destinations in the world. It is a city that has witnessed the rise and fall of many empires, the birth and death of many legends, and the fusion and evolution of many cultures. Delhi is a city that offers a glimpse into the past, present, and future of India, with its magnificent monuments, bustling markets, modern infrastructure, and cosmopolitan lifestyle. Visit during One day Delhi Darshan – Best Package Delhi Full Day Sightseeing
Delhi is not only a place of history, but also a place of art, cuisine, religion, and entertainment. There are many places to visit in Delhi that showcase the various facets of this city, from its ancient heritage to its contemporary trends. Whether you are looking for spiritual enlightenment, historical insights, artistic expressions, culinary delights, or fun-filled activities, Delhi has something to offer for everyone. Top 10 Famous Religious Places in Delhi
Best trip from Delhi:
- 5D-4N Delhi-Agra-Jaipur Tour Package | Discover The Golden Triangle
- 3D-2N Delhi To Nanital Tour Package | Best Weekend Getaway
- 6D-5N Delhi-Agra-Mathura Tour Package | Explore The Rich Heritage of India
- 3D-2N Delhi To Haridwar-Rishikesh Tour Package | Discover The Spiritual Heartland
- 1 Day Delhi To Mathura-Vrindavan Tour Package | Best Spiritual Getaways
- 2D-1N Delhi To Agra Tour Package | Best Weekend Getaways
- 1 Day Delhi To Alwar Tour Package – Best Day Tour
- 7D/6N Delhi-Shimla-Manali-Chandigarh Tour Package
Best Time to Visit Delhi
Delhi
Delhi has a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The average temperature ranges from 10°C to 40°C throughout the year. The best time to visit Delhi is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The winter months also coincide with some of the major festivals celebrated in Delhi, such as Dussehra, Diwali, Christmas, New Year, Republic Day, and Holi. Top 10 Famous Historical Places in Delhi
The summer months from April to June are very hot and dry, with temperatures soaring up to 45°C. It is advisable to avoid visiting Delhi during this time, as it can be very uncomfortable and exhausting. However, if you do plan to visit Delhi in summer, make sure to carry sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and water bottles to protect yourself from the heat. Top 10 Tourist Places in Delhi
The monsoon months from July to September bring moderate to heavy rainfall in Delhi, which can cause waterlogging and traffic jams in some areas. The humidity levels also increase during this time, making it difficult to travel around. However, some people prefer visiting during the monsoon season, as it brings a refreshing change in the atmosphere and enhances the greenery of the surroundings.
Things to Do in Delhi
Delhi
Delhi offers a variety of things to do for tourists of all ages and interests. Here are some of the most popular activities that you can enjoy:
- Visit the Historical Monuments: Delhi is home to some of the most iconic and impressive historical monuments in India, such as the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, India Gate, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple, Jama Masjid, Raj Ghat, Jantar Mantar, Rashtrapati Bhavan, etc. These monuments showcase the architectural brilliance and cultural diversity of different eras and dynasties that ruled over Delhi. You can learn about the history and significance of these monuments by taking guided tours or audio guides available at the sites.
- Explore the Museums and Art Galleries: Delhi is also a hub of art and culture, with many museums and art galleries that display the rich heritage and creativity of India. You can visit some of the famous museums and art galleries in Delhi such as the National Museum, National Gallery of Modern Art, National Rail Museum, Crafts Museum, Gandhi Smriti Museum, Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum, Nehru Memorial Museum & Library, etc. These museums and art galleries showcase various aspects of Indian history, art, culture, science, technology, etc. You can also enjoy some interactive exhibits and activities at some of these museums.
- Shop at the Local Markets: Delhi is a shopper’s paradise, with many local markets that offer a wide range of products at affordable prices. You can find everything from clothes, accessories, jewellery, handicrafts, books, electronics, spices, dry fruits, sweets, etc. at these markets. Some of the famous local markets in Delhi are Chandni Chowk, Connaught Place, Sarojini Nagar, Lajpat Nagar, Dilli Haat, Janpath, Khan Market, etc. These markets are also known for their street food stalls that serve delicious snacks and dishes from different regions of India.
- Enjoy the Nightlife: Delhi is also a city that never sleeps, with many pubs, bars, clubs, lounges, cafes, restaurants, theatres, cinemas etc. that offer entertainment and fun for all kinds of tastes and preferences. You can enjoy live music, DJ nights, stand-up comedy, karaoke, open mic, dance performances, drama shows, movie screenings etc. at these places. Some of the popular nightlife spots in Delhi are Hauz Khas Village, Connaught Place, Khan Market, Greater Kailash, Saket, Nehru Place, etc. These places are also known for their cuisines and drinks that cater to different palates and budgets.
Places to Visit in Delhi
Place | Timing | Entry Fee |
---|---|---|
Red Fort | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays) | Rs. 35 for Indians, Rs. 500 for Foreigners, Free for Children below 15 years |
Qutub Minar | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Open all days) | Rs. 30 for Indians, Rs. 500 for Foreigners, Free for Children below 15 years |
Humayun’s Tomb | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Open all days) | Rs. 30 for Indians, Rs. 500 for Foreigners, Free for Children below 15 years |
India Gate | Open 24 hours (Open all days) | Free for all |
Lotus Temple | 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays) | Free for all |
Akshardham Temple | 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM (Closed on Mondays) | Free for all (Additional charges for exhibitions and shows) |
Jama Masjid | 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM – 6:30 PM (Open all days) | Free for all (Rs. 300 for camera) |
Raj Ghat | 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Open all days) | Free for all |
Jantar Mantar | 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Open all days) | Rs. 15 for Indians, Rs. 200 for Foreigners, Free for Children below 15 years |
Rashtrapati Bhavan | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Thursday to Sunday) | Rs. 50 per person (Online booking required) |
National Museum | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays and public holidays) | Rs. 20 for Indians, Rs. 650 for Foreigners, Free for Students and Children below 12 years |
National Gallery of Modern Art | 11:00 AM – 6:30 PM (Closed on Mondays and public holidays) | Rs. 20 for Indians, Rs. 500 for Foreigners, Free for Students and Children below 18 years |
National Rail Museum | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays and public holidays) | Rs.50 per person (Rs.100 on weekends and holidays), Rs.100 per person for toy train ride |
Crafts Museum | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Open all days) | Rs.20 per person, Free for Students and Children below12 years |
Gandhi Smriti Museum | 10:00 AM -5:30 PM(Closed on Mondays and public holidays) | Free for all |
Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum | 9:30 AM -5:00 PM(Closed on Mondays and public holidays) | Free for all |
Nehru Memorial Museum & Library | 9:00 AM -5:30 PM(Closed on Mondays and public holidays) | Free for all |
Must See Attractions in Delhi
Delhi has many attractions that showcase the history, culture, and nature of the region. Here are some of the must see attractions that you should not miss:
- Red Fort: This is the most iconic and impressive monument in Delhi, built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. It is a massive fort complex that consists of several palaces, halls, mosques, gardens, and museums. It is also the site of the annual Independence Day celebration, where the Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag and delivers a speech. The Red Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of India’s freedom and glory.
- Qutub Minar: This is the tallest brick minaret in the world, built by the Delhi Sultanate rulers in the 12th and 13th centuries. It is a five-storey tower that stands at a height of 73 meters and has intricate carvings and inscriptions on its surface. It is also surrounded by several other monuments such as the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the Iron Pillar, the Alai Darwaza, the Alai Minar, etc. The Qutub Minar is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Indo-Islamic architecture.
- Humayun’s Tomb: This is the first garden-tomb in India, built by the Mughal emperor Akbar for his father Humayun in the 16th century. It is a magnificent structure that has a dome-shaped mausoleum, a charbagh (four-part) garden, a mosque, a baradari (pavilion), and several other tombs and monuments. It is also the inspiration for the Taj Mahal in Agra. The Humayun’s Tomb is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fine example of Mughal architecture.
- Lotus Temple: This is a modern and unique temple that belongs to the Bahá’í Faith, a religion that believes in the unity of all religions and humanity. It is shaped like a lotus flower, with 27 petals made of white marble that surround a central hall. It is open to people of all faiths and backgrounds, who can meditate or pray in silence inside the hall. The Lotus Temple is also known for its beautiful gardens and pools that enhance its beauty and serenity.
- Akshardham Temple: This is a grand and majestic temple that belongs to the Swaminarayan sect of Hinduism, a sect that follows the teachings of Lord Swaminarayan. It is one of the largest Hindu temples in the world, with an area of 100 acres and a height of 43 meters. It has intricate carvings and sculptures on its walls, pillars, domes, and ceilings that depict various aspects of Hindu culture and spirituality. It also has several attractions such as an IMAX theatre, a musical fountain, a boat ride, an exhibition hall, etc. that showcase the history and heritage of India.
- India Gate: This is a war memorial that commemorates the 70,000 Indian soldiers who died in the First World War and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. It is a 42-meter high arch that has the names of the martyrs inscribed on its walls. It also has an eternal flame called the Amar Jawan Jyoti that burns in honour of the unknown soldiers. The India Gate is a popular tourist attraction and a picnic spot, especially at night when it is illuminated with lights.
- Jama Masjid: This is the largest and most famous mosque in India, built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. It is a splendid structure that has three domes, four minarets, and a huge courtyard that can accommodate 25,000 people. It also has a library, a museum, and a tower that offers a panoramic view of the city. The Jama Masjid is a place of worship and a cultural landmark, where you can witness the Islamic rituals and festivals.
- Raj Ghat: This is the memorial site of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation and the leader of the Indian independence movement. It is a simple black marble platform that marks the spot where Gandhi was cremated after his assassination in 1948. It also has an eternal flame and a museum that displays Gandhi’s personal belongings and photographs. The Raj Ghat is a place of homage and reverence, where you can pay your respects to Gandhi and his ideals of peace and non-violence.
- Jantar Mantar: This is an astronomical observatory that was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur in the 18th century. It consists of 13 instruments that measure time, sun, moon, planets, and stars. It is one of the five observatories built by Jai Singh II in different parts of India. The Jantar Mantar is a scientific marvel and a heritage site, where you can learn about the ancient Indian astronomy and mathematics.
- Rashtrapati Bhavan: This is the official residence of the President of India and one of the largest presidential palaces in the world. It was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker in the 20th century as the Viceroy’s House during the British rule. It is a magnificent building that has 340 rooms, 227 columns, 37 fountains, and 19 gardens. It also has a museum, a library, a banquet hall, and a Mughal garden. The Rashtrapati Bhavan is a symbol of India’s democracy and sovereignty, where you can witness the ceremonial functions and events.
FAQ’s
Here are some of the frequently asked questions:
How to reach Delhi?
Delhi is well connected by air, rail and road. The nearest airport to Delhi is Indira Gandhi International Airport, which is one of the busiest airports in India. You can take a taxi or a metro from there to reach Delhi. Delhi has several railway stations such as New Delhi Railway Station, Old Delhi Railway Station, Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station, Anand Vihar Railway Station etc., which are connected to major cities such as Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai etc… You can also take a train to nearby stations such as Gurgaon (32 km), Faridabad (25 km), or Ghaziabad (20 km) and then take a taxi or a metro to Delhi. Delhi is also accessible by road from various cities such as Jaipur (268 km), Agra (233 km), Chandigarh (260 km), Lucknow (554 km) etc… You can take your own vehicle or hire a taxi or a bus to reach Delhi.
Where to stay in Delhi?
Delhi has many options for accommodation ranging from budget hotels to luxury hotels. You can choose according to your preference and budget. Some of the popular hotels in Delhi are The Leela Palace New Delhi, The Taj Mahal Hotel, The Oberoi New Delhi, The Lalit New Delhi, Hotel City Star, Hotel Ajanta, Hotel Metro Heights etc. You can also stay at some of the guest houses or hostels in Delhi such as Zostel Delhi, Moustache Hostel, Backpacker Panda Delhi etc.
What to eat in Delhi?
Delhi is a food lover’s paradise, with many cuisines and dishes to suit your taste buds. You can find restaurants that serve Indian, Chinese, Continental, Italian, Thai, Mexican, Japanese etc. cuisines in Delhi. Some of the popular dishes that you can try in Delhi are paratha (a flatbread stuffed with various fillings), chole bhature (a spicy chickpea curry and fried bread), butter chicken (a creamy chicken curry), biryani (a rice dish with meat or vegetables), kebab (a grilled meat or vegetable skewer), chaat (a tangy snack with various ingredients), golgappa (a crispy hollow ball filled with spicy water), kulfi (a frozen milk dessert), etc. You can also enjoy some of the street food stalls that serve delicious snacks and dishes from different regions of India.
- Enjoy the Nature and Wildlife: Delhi is also a city that has many green spaces and wildlife sanctuaries that offer a respite from the urban chaos and pollution. You can visit some of the famous parks and gardens in Delhi such as the Lodhi Garden, the Garden of Five Senses, the Nehru Park, the Deer Park, the Mughal Garden, etc. These parks and gardens have beautiful landscapes, fountains, sculptures, and flowers that create a serene and relaxing environment. You can also visit some of the wildlife sanctuaries in Delhi such as the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary, the Sultanpur National Park, the Okhla Bird Sanctuary, etc. These wildlife sanctuaries have various species of birds, animals, reptiles, and plants that you can observe and admire.
Conclusion
Delhi is a city that has something for everyone. It is a city that reflects the diversity and dynamism of India. It is a city that will surprise you with its contrasts and contradictions. It is a city that will challenge you with its complexities and charm you with its simplicity. Delhi is not just a destination, but an experience that you will never forget.
If you are planning to visit Delhi, make sure to follow this guide to make the most of your trip. You will surely have a memorable and enriching experience in Delhi.
I hope you enjoyed reading this article about places to visit in Delhi. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to comment below. Thank you for your time and attention.
Gwalior – Best Travel Guide - Tour Travel and Hotels
January 11, 2024[…] Gwalior has a rich and diverse history that spans over many centuries and dynasties. The name Gwalior is derived from a local legend that says that a sage named Gwalipa cured a chieftain named Suraj Sen of leprosy by giving him water from a sacred pond. Suraj Sen then built a fort on the hill where the pond was located and named it after the sage. The fort became the center of power and glory for many rulers, such as the Tomars, the Mughals, the Marathas, the Scindias, and the British. Places to Visit in Delhi – Best Tourist Guide […]