Delhi, the capital of India, is a vibrant mix of history, culture, and modernity. With not just one, but three UNESCO World Heritage sites within its boundaries, you are sure to come across historical attractions in Delhi that will blow your mind with their grandeur. Apart from these, there are many street food shops and stalls in the old lanes that will pamper your taste buds with some lip-smacking dishes. From majestic monuments to bustling markets, here are the top 10 must-visit places in Delhi:
1. Red Fort
A brilliant architectural beauty is a historical fort in Delhi, Red Fort which was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty for more than 200 years. The Mughal families lived there until 1857. A golden feather in the crown of Delhi is the fort and it houses several museums in it. Though it was the house of the Mughal emperors, it was also the political and cultural center of the Mughal state and this was the place where a lot of significant events happened. It is the best place to visit in Old Delhi as it is also known to be a symbol of India's struggle for freedom.
2. Qutub Minar
Qutub Minar is a minaret or a victory tower located in the Qutub complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Delhi's Mehrauli area. With a height of 72.5 meters (238 ft), Qutub Minar is the second tallest monument in Delhi. The surrounding Qutub complex has lush green lawns which are popular picnic spots. Qutub Minar is the second tallest monument in Delhi. Its construction was started in 1192 by Qutb Ud-Din-Aibak, founder of the Delhi Sultanate after he defeated the last Hindu Ruler of Delhi.
3. India Gate
India Gate is a monument that defines Delhi, or India, for that matter. It was built in 1931 as a memorial for martyrs of World War I and the war in Afghanistan. At Rajpath, the structure looks amazing in the evening lights. The gardens that line the structure are a must-visit among the sightseeing places in Delhi. This is one of the famous tourist places to visit in Delhi at night. If you are in Delhi on Republic Day, you must visit the India Gate Parade, which is a prestigious and ceremonious event in India.
4. Humayun's Tomb
Maqbera e Humayun or the Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi is a major historical site in India and also one of the best places to visit in north Delhi. It is the tomb of the famous Mughal emperor of India Humayun. It was commissioned by the first wife of Humayun who was the chief consort as well, Empress Bega Begum in 1569-70. Located in Nizamuddin East in Delhi, the tomb is known as the first garden-tomb found on the Indian subcontinent, placed very close to the Dina-panah citadel. It is known to be one of the best places to visit in Delhi during summer as it also has a walled garden within its enclosure.
UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1993 and since then its reputation has begun to flourish. But after that, it had to undergo several restorations. Near the tomb, several smaller monuments from the main entrance to the West include one that was even built before the main tomb.
5. Akshardham Temple
An epitome of Indian culture, spirituality, and architecture, Akshardham Temple is a famous Hindu temple and a spiritual-cultural complex. Also known as Swaminarayan Akshardham, it is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan. Akshardham has made its way to the Guinness Book of World Records as the World's Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple.
The Akshardham Temple is known for its stunning architecture. It has eight ostentatiously carved mandapams while timeless Hindu teachings and flamboyant devotional traditions find their place on the temple's walls.
6. Moti Bagh
Bored with films, food, and coffee? Then head to one of the most fun places in Delhi – the Indian Mountaineering Foundation! Famous for adventurous and fun activities in Delhi, the sport climbing wall should not be missed! Among the adventure places in Delhi, It has anything and everything you would want to do on a ‘fantastic day out. It is one of the most fun places to go in Delhi if you are looking for places to visit in summer in Delhi.
7. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is one of the most important Sikh gurdwara, aka Sikh house of worship, in Delhi, India, and known for its association with the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Har Krishan, as well as the pool inside its complex, known as the 'Sarovar.' It was first built as a small temple by Sikh General Sardar Bhagel Singh in 1783, who supervised the construction of nine Sikh shrines in Delhi in the same year, during the reign of Mughal Emperor, Shah Alam II.
8. Rashtrapati Bhavan
Located on the western end of the Rajpath in New Delhi, the Rashtrapati Bhavan is the official residence of the President of India. It was originally built with the intent of serving as the Viceroy's House. With its 340 rooms in the main building covering 5 acres on an estate of 330 acres, it is one of the largest residences of any head of the state in the world. It is considered to be the best-known monument in India next to the Taj Mahal and Qutub Minar.
The premises of the Rashtrapati Bhavan have been divided into three circuits and can be accessed by an authorized visitor at specific times slots over the day. The first one is the Main Building and Central Lawn, where you can see the architecture firsthand. The second circuit is the Rashtrapati Bhawan Museum complex, which has several buildings within its perimeter. The third circuit comprises the marvellous Mughal Gardens which is a paradise of elegant gardens and lush greenery.
9. Dilli Haat
Designed to invoke the ambiance of a traditional village fair, Dilli Haat is every shopper’s paradise, a foodie’s haven, and the cultural magnet of the metro city. A flamboyant mix of vibrant colors and varied cultures, the bazaar is located in the commercial center of South Delhi, bang opposite the INA Market.
10. Chandni Chowk
The main street of Old Delhi, Chandni Chowk is the heart of Delhi. Chaotically competing for space, its narrow lanes are filled with shops to buy inexpensive stuff. Among the best tourist places in Delhi, Chandini Chowk is also great if you want to indulge in street food. This market is perfect for buying wholesale products, so get ready with your list before you visit.
