Delhi Tourism & Travel Guide

Top Tourist Attractions in Delhi

Heritage & Historical Attractions in Delhi

• Red Fort – Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this magnificent Mughal fortress ranks among the top tourist attractions in Delhi. The remarkable red sandstone walls and beautiful palaces establish it as a heritage tourism site in Delhi.
• Qutub Minar – As the tallest brick minaret globally, Qutub Minar is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the top attractions in Delhi, showcasing exceptional Indo-Islamic architecture.
• Humayun’s Tomb – A cultural landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this beautiful tomb from the Mughal period influenced the architecture of Taj Mahal and is a must-visit in any sightseeing tour in Delhi.
• India Gate – A war memorial that pays tribute to Indian soldiers, India Gate ranks as top visiting places in Delhi. It is charmingly illuminated at night and acts as a popular picnic place in Delhi.
• Jama Masjid- The biggest mosque in India, Jama Masjid is constructed by Shah Jahan and serves as a heritage tourist attraction with its grand domes and soaring minarets, contributing greatly to heritage tourism in Delhi.
• Lotus Temple – An architectural wonder, the Lotus Temple ranks among the best tourist places in Delhi. The Bahai Temple is celebrated for its distinctive lotus-shaped design and tranquil atmosphere.
• Rashtrapati Bhavan – The official home of the President of India, this magnificent colonial-era structure ranks among the top tourist attractions in Delhi, featuring guided tours of its gardens (in spring season) and majestic halls.
• Raj Ghat – A tranquil monument honoring Mahatma Gandhi, Raj Ghat is a vital destination for visitors to Delhi, providing a calm escape from the city's bustle.
• Purana Qila (Old Fort) – An impressive Mughal fort, Purana Qila stands out as the best places to see in Delhi, showcasing stunning entrances, a lake, and an evening sound and light performance.
• Agrasen ki Baoli – This historic stepwell, shrouded in mystery, is among the top destinations in Delhi for history enthusiasts and photographers alike. The stepwell is 60-meter long and 15-meter wide and is believed to be constructed by members of the Aggarwal community in the name of their ancestor Agrasen.

Popular Museums & Cultural Attractions in Delhi

• National Museum – A repository of India’s history, this museum contains artifacts from the Indus Valley Civilization, Mughal period, and more, establishing it as a must-visit heritage destination.
• National Rail Museum – One of the best tourist places for families in Delhi, this museum exhibits India's railway history with classic trains, featuring a toy train that can be ridden.
• Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum – Honorary tribute to India's first woman Prime Minister, this museum showcases her personal artifacts, making it an essential destination for sightseeing in Delhi.
• Nehru Planetarium – Perfect for space lovers, this planetarium provides captivating astronomy presentations and is an enjoyable part of any Delhi sightseeing tour.
• Gandhi Smriti – The previous home of Mahatma Gandhi, which is now a museum, provides an understanding of his life and serves as an important heritage tourism location in Delhi.
• Sulabh International Museum of Toilets – An extraordinary and eccentric museum that highlights the development of sanitation, establishing it as one of the most distinctive yet popular tourist destinations in Delhi.

Popular Temples & Religious Attractions in Delhi

• Akshardham Temple – A magnificent Hindu temple and cultural hub, Akshardham ranks among the top attractions in Delhi, showcasing exquisite carvings, boat rides, and a captivating evening light show.
• ISKCON Temple – A spiritual center for Lord Krishna followers, the ISKCON Temple is one of the best Hindu religious sites in Delhi, celebrated for its tranquil ambiance and multimedia displays.
• Laxminarayan Temple (Birla Mandir) – An exquisitely constructed temple devoted to Goddess Laxmi and Lord Vishnu, making it a top Hindu temple in Delhi for those seeking spiritual enlightenment.
• Gurudwara Bangla Sahib – A highly esteemed Sikh pilgrimage location, this gurudwara is renowned for its sacred water Sarovar and communal kitchen, making it a must-visit religious site in Delhi.

Popular Parks & Gardens in Delhi

• Lodhi Garden – A wonderful combination of history and nature, Lodhi Garden ranks as one of the best places to see in Delhi, showcasing tombs, vibrant greenery, and picturesque walking paths.
• Garden of Five Senses – This beautifully designed garden features sculptures, waterfalls, and floral arrangements, making it one of the best places to visit in Delhi for nature enthusiasts.
• Mughal Gardens – Available to the public in spring, the Mughal Gardens/Amrit Udyan within Rashtrapati Bhavan are a stunning sight, showcasing fountains, floral displays, and landscaping influenced by Mughal design.

Popular Markets & Shopping Streets in Delhi

• Chandni Chowk – As one of Delhi's oldest and most vibrant markets, Chandni Chowk is a haven for those who enjoy street food and shoppers seeking traditional Indian textiles and jewelry.
• Connaught Place – A center of eateries, pubs, and stores, Connaught Place is a favored location for shopping and nightlife, serving as an essential destination for visitors to Delhi.
• Dilli Haat – A vibrant cultural market featuring handicrafts from all over India, Dilli Haat ranks among the top tourist attractions in Delhi for distinctive souvenirs and authentic cuisine.
• Sarojini Nagar Market – Renowned for affordable shopping, Sarojini Nagar is the ideal destination for trendy apparel and accessories at low prices.

Best Time to Visit Delhi

The ideal time to explore Delhi is usually in the cooler months from November to March when sightseeing is at its most pleasant. Here’s a breakdown by season:

• Summer (March – June) - The summer in Delhi can be severe, with temperatures rising over 45°C. Exploring outdoor sights in Delhi can be tough, yet the best times to visit popular attractions like India Gate and Lodhi Garden are early mornings and evenings. It's an excellent time for nighttime markets and indoor venues such as museums and shopping centers.
• Monsoon (July – September)- Monsoons provide reprieve from the summer warmth, making the city green and lively. Although intense rainfall may interfere with plans, this is an excellent opportunity to explore heritage sites such as Qutub Minar and Humayun’s Tomb, since there are fewer visitors. The cloudy skies provide excellent opportunities for breathtaking photography of the Taj Mahal in Delhi.
• Winter (October – February) - Winter is the best time to visit Delhi, featuring temperatures between 5°C and 20°C. The enjoyable weather is perfect for Delhi sightseeing tours, visiting heritage sites, and savoring the street food. Events such as Diwali, Christmas, and Republic Day add to the city's allure.

Top Things to Do in Delhi

• Relish a rickshaw journey in Chandni Chowk.
• Savor street food of Delhi.
• Ride a toy train at the Rail Museum.
• Watch a 3D space show at Nehru Planetarium.
• Enjoy boating and light & sound shows in Old Fort (Purana Qila).
• Witness the light and sound show at Red fort.
• Attend a performance at the National School of Drama and India Habitat Center.
• Enjoy a soulful Thursday evening at Nizamuddin Dargah featuring live Qawwali.
• Embark on a cycling tour of Old Delhi at dawn.
• Explore the Sulabh International Museum of Toilets.
• Savor rooftop meals while overlooking the Jama Masjid.
• Stroll through the Haunted Bhuli Bhatiyari Ka Mahal.
• Discover the Street Art in Lodhi Colony.
• Join a photography excursion at Safdarjung’s Tomb.
• Take a journey on the Delhi Metro for a comprehensive city experience.
• Explore the Delhi War Cemetery.
• Enjoy a hot air balloon experience above the outskirts of Delhi.
• Explore Majnu Ka Tila for Tibetan cuisine and shopping.

Accommodation Options in Delhi: Where to Stay

For a comfortable and memorable Delhi tourism experience, selecting the right accommodation is crucial. Delhi provides a range of staying options, from upscale hotels with high-end features to affordable alternatives for every type of traveler. Regardless of whether you are a history lover visiting top tourist attractions in Delhi, a business traveler, or a backpacker, Delhi offers the ideal accommodation options.

Luxury Hotels & Resorts

For a luxurious and cozy experience, Delhi provides upscale hotels and resorts featuring top-notch amenities including large rooms, spa treatments, gourmet dining, and concierge services.

Mid-Range Hotels

Mid-range hotels in Delhi offer contemporary amenities such as Wi-Fi, on-site dining, and convenient proximity to popular attractions in the city. These hotels are ideal for families and solo travelers seeking a mix of affordability and comfort as they explore the city's heritage tourist attractions.

Budget Hotels & Lodges

Budget travelers in Delhi can choose economical hotels that provide clean rooms with essential amenities. These accommodations are ideal for backpackers, students, and transit travelers seeking an affordable yet cozy place to stay near popular tourist attractions in Delhi.

Guesthouses & Homestays

For individuals seeking a more genuine and cozy atmosphere, guesthouses and homestays in Delhi offer a chance to connect with local families, savor home-cooked meals, and experience friendly hospitality. These are superb choices for cultural tourists eager to engage with Delhi’s heritage tourism.

Dharamshalas & Pilgrim Accommodations

Delhi hosts numerous religious landmarks such as Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Akshardham Temple, and Jama Masjid, with various dharamshalas and ashrams offering affordable lodging for devotees. These locations provide basic yet tidy accommodations, frequently serving vegetarian dishes, which makes them perfect for spiritual wanderers.

Top Interesting Facts About Delhi

• City of Cities – Delhi is among the oldest cities globally, having faced destruction and been reconstructed multiple times. It has acted as the capital for several dynasties, including the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire.
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Delhi boasts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Humayun’s Tomb, positioning it as a significant heritage tourism destination in India.
• Asia's Biggest Spice Market – The Khari Baoli Market in Old Delhi, functioning since the 17th century, is Asia's biggest spice market, providing a vibrant taste of Delhi's flavors and commercial heritage.
• India’s Largest Mosque – Jama Masjid, constructed by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1656, is the largest mosque in India, with a capacity to hold more than 25,000 worshippers simultaneously.
• India’s Political Hub – Serving as the capital of India, Delhi is home to the Rashtrapati Bhavan, Parliament House, and Supreme Court, positioning it as the focal point of political authority in the nation.
• India’s Initial Modern Metro Train – The Delhi Metro ranks among the largest and most sophisticated metro networks globally, recognized for its effectiveness, cleanliness, and wide-reaching connectivity throughout the city.
• The Secret Tunnel of Chandni Chowk – The Red Fort features an underground passage linked to Chandni Chowk, allegedly utilized for moving treasure and prisoners during the Mughal era.
• One of World’s Largest Free Kitchen – Gurudwara Bangla Sahib offers langar (community meal) to more than 35,000 individuals each day, supplying complimentary food to every guest, irrespective of their background.
• Delhi is a haven for food enthusiasts visiting – Ranging from street cuisine in Chandni Chowk to upscale dining in Connaught Place, Delhi presents a blend of traditional culinary experiences and contemporary cafes.
• Delhi Offers One of India’s Finest Hop-On Hop-Off Buses – The HOHO (Hop-On Hop-Off) bus service enables travelers to discover key sights in Delhi, pausing at prominent landmarks with unlimited rides throughout the day.
• A City Boasting Over 100,000 Auto Rickshaws – In Delhi, auto-rickshaws are among the most favored transportation options for short trips, and you can easily book them through apps such as Uber and Ola for extra ease.
• Delhi Metro Features Special Coaches for Women – Each Delhi Metro train includes a specific coach exclusively for women, providing a safe and comfortable journey for female passengers.

Best Travel Tips for Delhi Sightseeing

• Schedule Your Trip Based on the Season – The ideal period to visit Delhi is between October and March, when the climate is enjoyable for discovering the main tourist sites in Delhi. Steer clear of the summer season because of intense heat.
• Begin Early to Dodge Crowds – Delhi’s historical tourist sites such as Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Lotus Temple become busy by noon. Getting there early allows you to discover calmly and capture superior photos.
• Opt for the Delhi Metro for Effortless Commuting – The Delhi Metro offers the quickest and most efficient means to explore the top attractions in Delhi without getting stuck in traffic. Acquire a Delhi Metro Tourist Card for endless journeys.
• Purchase Tickets Online for Famous Attractions – Certain UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Qutub Minar and Humayun’s Tomb offer online ticket reservations, helping you avoid lengthy lines.
• Dress in a Comfortable and Modest Way – Although Delhi is contemporary, it's advisable to wear modest attire, particularly when exploring religious places such as Akshardham Temple, Jama Masjid, and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib.
• Be Cautious of Scams and Touts – Near famous locations such as India Gate and Connaught Place, watch out for phony guides, costly souvenirs, and deceptive auto drivers. Use licensed guides and agree on costs.
• Discover Delhi's Markets for Genuine Souvenirs – For a distinctive shopping adventure, go to Chandni Chowk for handicrafts, Janpath for affordable fashion, and Dilli Haat for traditional arts. Negotiate wisely!
• Taste Delhi's Street Food, But Exercise Caution – While Delhi is renowned for its street food, choose clean and well-known stalls to prevent food-related problems. Taste Chole Bhature, Parathas, and Golgappas from well-known vendors.
• Expect Traffic and Plan Accordingly – Delhi’s streets can be crowded, particularly during rush hours. Utilize Google Maps to assess traffic situations and devise different routes.
• Respect Local Traditions and Regulations – While at heritage sites, refrain from touching statues, leaving trash, or being noisy. Adhere to photography rules at locations such as Akshardham Temple and the Air Force Museum.
• Discover Delhi After Dark – Attractions such as India Gate and Connaught Place shine beautifully after sunset. A night tour in Delhi is an excellent way to experience the city's allure.
• Organize One-Day Excursions to Close Locations – If you have additional time, plan a day excursion to Agra for Taj Mahal visits, Jaipur for cultural adventures, or Mathura-Vrindavan for spiritual explorations.