The capital city of India, Delhi is a central cosmopolitan city. Like a coin Delhi too has two faces, the Old Delhi and the New Delhi, the former reflecting upon the resilient and the beautiful past of Delhi while the latter is a testimony to the invariably ascending growth and development of this modern city.
Delhi is the heart of this nation controlling the flow of all the major changes, development, decisions, etc. But this is not where the city’s significance draws a line, there is a lot more to it than meets the eyes. Delhi is among the most famous tourist places all across India and attracts a horde of globetrotters every year.
The profound history of this place had is still thriving. Modernisation in Delhi has taken its origins by fortifying and flourishing its past rather than building over it. This confluence of past and present is what makes this place a noteworthy tourist place.
Here is a list of top 25 things to do and tourist places to visit in and around Delhi.
1) TAJ MAHAL
A place that has been called a teardrop on the cheek of eternity, a place that is a true testimony to the immortality of love, a place that whose breath-taking beauty hasn’t been lost to the sands of time, a true wonder of the world, Taj Mahal. If you are a resident of this planet you should once witness the overwhelming sublimity of this piece of marvel. It sits at the pinnacle of architectural achievement among all of the Indo-Islamic architecture. Its innate beauty is still unrivalled. This is not just one of the most famous places near Delhi, but in the entire World.
Private Sunrise Taj Mahal Tour from Delhi offers the opportunity to be awe-struck by the sight of this grand marvel.
2) CHANDNI CHOWK
The booming ancient market which happens to among the busiest market all over India, Chandni Chowk (Moonlight Square). The christening of this place was because it once was divided by canals to reflect the moonlight. Chandni Chowk has been entitled to be India’s largest wholesale market. Once you reach this place, you’ll witness the drove of street vendors, peddlers, street food and bazaaria. The diverseness and the authenticity of this place make is one of the most famous places in Delhi.
You can join the old Delhi belly tour to shop throughs loads of things at their cheapest price.
3) AGRA FORT
Agra Fort is the embodiment of strength, vigour and invincibility of the Mughal Sultanate. This grand edifice has stood the test of time. The daunting prowess of this fort is reflected in how to this day it still stands to its full glory. Carved out of red sandstones and embellished with pristine white marble, Agra Fort has remained among the best places to visit in Delhi.
This fort can be visited during the Private Sunrise Taj Mahal Tour from Delhi.
4) MEHTAB BAGH
Mehtab Bagh, a char bagh (four gardens or square garden) complex in Agra well-renowned for its perfect viewpoint of the pristine white opulent monument, Taj Mahal. It is wedged between the Agra Fort on the opposite side of Yamuna and Taj Mahal complex to the south. This beautiful garden having a lunar curve, comprise of quaint ornate step fountains, stagnant but unsullied ponds, sandstone domes and many other aesthetic structures. It’s the ultimate spot for a picnic as you can enjoy the awe-inspiring view of Taj Mahal while relishing your company.
This is a part of the Private Sunrise Taj Mahal Tour from Delhi. This tour leaves no stones unturned.
5) SLUMS OF DELHI
Have a tour of the inner slums of Delhi, a place where smiles blossoms from the most diminutive happenings. A journey brimming with enlightening, compassion, commiseration and self-contemplation. Walk around and have some quality interaction with the dwellers to know about their lives and how are they content despite having nothing. At the end of this tour, you are sure to discover a new respect for life and stop taking things for granted. This is surely one of the best things to do in Delhi.
Take a completely safe and secure tour with the Slum Walking Tour in Delhi.
6) KHARI BAOLI
From ancient times India is known for its diverse range of spices well known all across the globe. Khari Baoli is a place that is responsible for maintaining the title of India being the land of spices. This place is Asia’s largest wholesale spice market selling all kinds of spices, nuts, dry fruits, herbs and food products like rice and tea. This place has maintained its influx of tourist over the year and still among the most famous places in Delhi.
The Food Heritage and Cultural Tour offers a visit to this land of spice.
7) OLD DELHI FOOD WITH HAVELI’S TOUR
Walking through Old Delhi will give you the nostalgia of the Ancient Mughal times. Its the place where the essence of medieval times still lingers. Food is God here, so get ready to taste heaven. The nectarous aroma would take you through the narrow gullies of Old Delhi. If you are on a diet, then don’t make the mistake of entering this place. You can relish the delectable cuisines including meat, hot Paranthas, Chats, sweets and many more. Know about the vast Indian culture, explore the rich heritage and marvel.
Delhi has countless famous forts, monuments, mausoleums, etc., but one of the things that go overlooked is its beautiful and massive Haveli’s. Taking a tour of this place is like having a mini-tour of Old Delhi.
8) HUMAYUN’S TOMB
Doesn’t matter if you are history buff or not but the world admires the monumental contribution of Mughals and this fact deserves acknowledgement. And if you are not convinced yet then Humayun’s Tomb is a perfect place to begin this journey of acknowledgement. It is a magnificent garden tomb enclosed by walls which were constructed according to the Mughal architectural forms. The walled enclosure contains garden squares (Charbagh) with pathways of water channels, centrally located well proportional mausoleum topped by a double dome.
Several graves of Mughal rulers reside inside the tomb.
9) HAUZ KHAS VILLAGE
Hauz Khas is a huge influence on the so-called ‘south Delhi’ culture. This place is a magical blend of western culture and the historical aspects of the city. The village underwent a major modernization phase when many top fashion designers of the world started moving in. The late 1990s witnessed the growth of restaurants, bars, cafes and pubs. The historic habitation surrounds the Hauz Khas complex. Thus, a proper coalition of rural and modern life can be witnessed.
There are many other places of interest which surround Hauz Khas including Green Park, SDA (Sri Aurobindo Marg), Gulmohar Park, Siri Fort, etc.
10) INDIA GATE
Humans are considered to be mortal creatures. We are born, we age and then we die. That’s the cycle of life. But people who die whilst protecting the honour of the country defy this cycle. After sacrificing themselves to preserve the freedom their countrymen they leave their physical forms and attain immortality. They are non-other than our soldiers.
India Gate is a war memorial constructed to honour the 70,000 soldiers of the British Indian Army who died in the First World War. Situated across the Rajpath, on the eastern edge of the ceremonial axis of New Delhi, it’s a masterpiece of Sir Edwin Lutyens who evoked the architectural style of the triumphal arch. It also houses the Amar Jyoti Jawan beneath the archway which was built following the Bangladesh Liberation war in 1972.
11) QUTUB MINAR
Qutub Minar has secured a name among the well-renowned minarets across the world and one of the most famous monuments in India. This tall structure’s construction was sanctioned by the very first ruler of Delhi, Qutb-ud-din Aibak, in the year 1192. Though many later monarchs have also contributed their resources to bring this piece of architecture to its full glory as it stands today.
Decorated with fine inscriptions and protruding balconies with ornate designs, this a sight to behold. Before 1974, people were also allowed to enter the minaret and have a spectacular view from the top but it got shut. Still it remains one of the most famous places of Delhi.
12) LOTUS TEMPLE
Another marvelous piece of architecture also fabricated through pristine white marbles imported from Greece is the resplended Lotus temple. Designed to resemble a lotus (a flower which itself has a sublime nature), a commendable job of construction for they were able to pull it off with perfection. The perfect symmetry just adds to the beauty of this masterpiece. The philosophies and belief are synchronized to the splendor of its exterior, both are simply beautiful.
There was a time when it grabbed the title of the most visited religious place in the world even surpassing the Taj Mahal. This excellent structure remains among the top attractions of Delhi.
13) AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE
Be captivated by the divine grace on the holy ground of Akshardham Temple, situated in East Delhi. The piousness of prayers reverberates throughout the temple where you are taken in perfect ecstasy. Pay your patronage at the Hindu house of worship, and be inclined towards being enamoured by the spirituality of this place.
The harmony of divinity and the ethereal beauty of this complex is something to be witnessed and felt. Embellished with scenic lush open gardens, decorated step-well styled courtyard, and many exhibitions, Akshardham has drawn a lot of attraction and is among the top tourist places in Delhi.
14) PRAGATI MAIDAN EXHIBITIONS
Pragati Maidan is one of the largest exhibitions and convention centre all over India. It brings the entire world into one place. It houses the most diverse and authentic range of product from national and international grounds. From book fairs to car expos to the Hall of Fame and many more. Some of the permanent exhibitions of this complex include Nehru Pavilion, Atomic Energy and Defense Pavilion. These events attract hordes tourist from all across the globe, especially the India International Trade Fair, World Book Fair and the Auto Expo.
Special accommodations are provided for the comfort of visitors and there’s a constant rise in the number of people attending these events which by default pushes this place to the list of top tourist places in Delhi.
15) JANTAR MANTAR
Do the celestial creations of this universe fascinate you? Are you curious to know about the heavenly bodies and changing orientation in the continuum of space-time? Before a man can look into the future he must know about his past. Jantar Mantar offers a glimpse into how the medieval scholars kept track of the celestial bodies such as the Sun, Moon and other planets despite the obvious lack of any high-grade telescopes of satellites. Gather knowledge about the various instruments that helped them to decode the mystery of space.
Exploring this place should be on your itinerary for this place is among the best sites to visit in Delhi.
16) FEROZ SHAH KOTLA
Does the buzz of the haunted intrigues you? Do you have a curiosity to explore the supernatural? Then the stories that this place has to tell will certainly catch your attention. The Feroz Shah Kotla was a fortress built by Sultan Feroz Shah. At its highest glory, it housed several Madrasas, beautiful palaces, verdant gardens and interior mosques. But all that remains are its ruins and its folklore. It’s rumored that this place is an abode of djinns and many other occult phenomena. Whether you let these rumors influence your curiosity or treat them as pure myths is totally up to you, but whatever the case may be this place deserves a visit. Feroz Shah Kotla is on many Delhi sight-seeing tours.
17) THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR KRISHNA CONSCIOUSNESS (ISKCON)
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) is the house of worship of Lord Krishna (a deity worshipped across the Hindu Religion). An elegant structure with ornamentation that interlaces intricate carvings and designs all over the shrine. Idols decorated with auspicious worked garments equipped with silver or golden cravings on borders the temple is also primal for teaching Vedic Sciences. The followers of this religion are not only relevant to India but the world. The central beliefs of this community are based on the Hindu Scriptures.
Due to its massive number of followers all across the globe, it has secured a place in the top tourist places in Delhi.
18) RASHTRAPATI BHAVAN
The Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of the largest democracy, a colossal mansion having more than 400 rooms, located at the Western end of Rajpath in New Delhi. This magnificent piece of architecture is the pride of our nation is its significance transcends the boundaries of being just the abode of the head of the country.
This building also has a long past attached to it which better to be witnessed than reading. Designed in such a way to resonate the notion of power and imperial authority. One of the several elements that attract many tourists is the stunning Mughal Gardens.
19) JAMA MASJID
One more act of Shah Jahan’s benevolence towards the architectural world was the construction of Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques of India.
The structure is composed of red sandstones and chiselled white marbles. The mixture of marble and limestones used in its constructions is said to have been the reason for producing such a beautiful piece of architecture. Crowned with a large dome at the centre and two smaller domes on the side surrounded two minarets in a perfectly symmetrical manner.
Its architectural beauty attracts a lot of tourists making it a must place to visit in Delhi.
20) SAROJINI NAGAR MARKET
Make room for a new set of wardrobes because once you enter this place it’s nearly impossible to leave empty-handed. Sarojini Nagar gives you the most trendy and fashionable clothes and wearables at prices that would blow your mind. The best brands at the most affordable prices. It’s like a never-ending sale which is practically a loot.
Sarojini is not just a place where your shopaholic part finds contentment but here you can also pamper your taste-bud with the most lip-smacking street foods. Don’t make the mistake of missing the opportunity to explore this market for it’s among the best attractions of Delhi.
21) RAJ GHAT
Raj Ghat, a memorial devoted to the Father of our Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. Raj averts to “king” lying beside the Ghat or band of Yamuna river. This was the spot where his body was cremated after his assassination, which is reflected through the black colored marble used to construct this. The duty of designing the memorial was given to Vanu G. Bhuta, who beautifully in integrated the essence of Mahatma Gandhi’s minimalistic life into the design. The eternal flame that burns at the end to pay homage to the people whose names are engraved on the memorial.
This place emits a feeling of calmness and serenity.
22) RED FORT
Red Fort, the largest monument all across Delhi, was the main residential abode of the Mughal Emperors. The hands that designed the eternally beautiful Taj Mahal also contributed in building this massive fort. The worth of this architectural beauty is not restricted to its size only as it holds a very significant position in terms of National Pride. India’s national flag was hoisted by the First Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, on 15th of August in the year of independence.
Composed of red sandstone and white marble, the entire fort is embellished by chiselled marble designs, floral ornamentation and several extensive water features. Red fort is among Delhi’s best tourist places and one should witness its glory with his own eyes.
23) AGRASEN KI BAOLI
Lost amidst the high rising towers of Connaught place in central Delhi, there is a peculiar and very few of its kind historical step-well called Baoli. It was designated a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958.
This 108 steps structure has a very quaint and serene vibe to it. It’s a great place for those who want to take a moment of rest from the commotion of the high-rising city. And an added benefit is that Baoli has some of the most picturesque locations, making it a haven for all the shutterbugs out there.
This place is worth checking out while you explore Delhi.
24) CONNAUGHT PLACE MARKET
If you shop through the equation of high price is equal to high quality and buying the branded products is your thing, then Connaught place market just the place for you. This is India’s largest shopping centre and comes under the top 10 for the most expensive market places in the world. All shopping buffs who have got some money to spare find solace in this place only. This place houses all the biggest brands from all across the globe.
The market is a part of one of the largest financial, commercial and business centres in New Delhi. This place is among the top heritage structure of Delhi. One of the most immaculate places famous for its Georgian architecture.
It also has restaurants that serve delectable intercontinental food. One thing you must not leave without trying is the Fire Pan of Odean.
25) GURUDWARA BANGLA SAHIB
One of the most eminent Sikh House of worship in Delhi, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. Renowned for its “Sarovar”, a divine river flowing through the complex.
This Holy place is endowed with many visual splendours. The bedazzling Golden dome and the tall flagpole are its recognisant facets. The Gurudwara (Sikh House of worship) comprises of a massive kitchen, a beautiful immaculate pond, a school and an art gallery. Visitors from unknown origins irrespective of religions, races, and nationalities are served food in the Gurdwara kitchen (langar hall).
If what you desire is a peaceful day under the presence of holy prayers and with beautiful sights and the welcoming hospitality of very kind and generous people, then paying a visit to this place is a must. It has some of Delhi’s best sightseeing venues.
India is the second populous country in the world. But here is several unexplored places and tourist attractions. If you want to have a memorable experience. At every nook and corner of India, you will find a tourist Place, with each one being unique in its own way.