15 Best Things To Do In New Delhi

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

New Delhi is a beautiful and exciting city full of culture and history. The capital of India offers endless opportunities to explore its hidden gems. Whether you are looking for a day out sightseeing or an evening discovering the local cuisine, the best things to do in Delhi will not disappoint. From majestic monuments to bustling bazaars, this article will guide you through the top attractions and activities that New Delhi has to offer.

1. Qutub Minar

Qutub Minar is an impressive tower located in the capital city of India. It was built in the 12th century under the rule of Qutb-ud-din Aibak and is one of the tallest minarets in the world, standing at a height of 73 meters. The main reason for its construction was to celebrate and show gratitude for Muslim dominance over India. Its 5 stories were constructed with red sandstone and marble, featuring intricate carvings along its exterior walls.

The architecture of the Qutub Minar is a great example of Indo-Islamic fusion, incorporating both Hindu and Islamic elements into its design such as arches, perpendicular engravings and patterns made from yellow sandstone.

2. Swaminarayan Akshardham

Swaminarayan Akshardham is a sacred Hindu temple that was opened to the public in 2007 and has since become one of the most visited tourist attractions in the city of Delhi. The complex stands out for its grand architecture, ornate design, massive sculptures and intricate carvings. The main gate of the Akshardham is majestic with 34-meter tall pillars carved from pink stone. Inside the temple is are array of colorful fountains, gardens and courtyards that make up its grand beauty.

The spiritual center also offers visitors a chance to learn more about Indian culture through educational exhibitions and cultural dances which are regularly performed at the venue. Devotees enjoy performing traditional worship rituals while inside the temple or in front of its shrines dedicated to prominent Hindu deities like Shiva, Krishna and Radha.

Contact:

Address: Noida Mor, Pandav Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 110092, India

Phone: +91 11 4344 2344

3. Humayun's Tomb

Humayun’s Tomb is an impressive architectural masterpiece that stands proudly in the heart of Delhi. It was built in 1570, and is the first of its kind to be constructed with a garden layout. Within this mausoleum lies the body of Humayun, who was the second emperor of India for the Mughal Dynasty. The tomb has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a popular attraction for visitors from all over the world.

The architecture of the Humayun's tomb reflects a harmony between Persian and Indian style designs. Its red sandstone walls tower up to two stories high, while its dome creates an incredible silhouette against the sky. The interior features intricate carvings that adorn every surface, depicting religious scenes and calligraphy inspired by Islamic art.

Contact:

Address: Mathura Road Opposite, Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah, Mathura Rd, Nizamuddin, Nizamuddin East, New Delhi, Delhi 110013, India

Phone: +91 11 4344 2344

4. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is a significant landmark in central Delhi. This holy Sikh shrine was established in the 17th century and has become an important pilgrimage destination for hundreds of devotees from all over the world. The gurudwara stands tall amidst its beautifully landscaped gardens, reflecting its rich culture and history.

The main attraction inside is the Sri Harmandir Sahib, which features a holy pond known as sarovar. Devotees come here to pay their respects and take part in the daily prayer service that takes place in the mornings and evenings at this temple. Furthermore, there are numerous religious activities including Kirtan (chanting of passages from scriptures) and Langar (free communal meals).

5. India Gate

The India Gate is an awe-inspiring monument located in the heart of New Delhi that should be on your Delhi itinerary. It was built as a war memorial in 1931 to commemorate the 90,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives during World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War.

Standing at 42 meters tall, the India Gate stands proudly over its lawns surrounded by beautiful gardens. As you walk around this impressive gate, you can't help but feel a sense of patriotism and pride for those brave men and women who sacrificed so much for their country.

At night, the India Gate glows with a mesmerizing golden hue from thousands of light fixtures that illuminate its vast grounds. This magnificent sight draws people from all walks of life to experience its beauty.

Contact:

Address: Kartavya Path, India Gate, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, India

Phone: +91 11 2336 5358

6. Lodhi Garden

Lodhi Garden is one of the best places to visit in Delhi. It is a lush, sprawling park nestled in the center of the city, a popular spot for joggers and nature enthusiasts alike. Every morning, people can be seen taking a leisurely stroll around the gardens or simply enjoying its tranquility. Visitors are welcomed by an array of colorful flowers and trees providing shade from the midday sun.

The garden also houses many monuments like tombs, mosques, and bridges that were built in ancient times during Mughal ruling.

The beauty of the Lodhi Garden lies not only in its stunning scenery but also in its historical significance. Located close to India's seat of government, it has often been used to host important events like independence days celebrations or state funerals for prominent personalities throughout the nation’s history.

Contact:

Address: Lodhi Rd, Lodhi Gardens, Lodhi Estate, New Delhi, Delhi 110003, India

Phone: +91 11 2464 0079

7. Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple is a Bahá'í House of Worship, and of the top tourist attractions in Delhi. It was completed in 1986 and serves as the mother temple of the Indian subcontinent. The unique design of the temple is inspired by the lotus flower and symbolizes unity among all faiths and creeds. Its nine pools with lush green lawns reflect its beauty, while its marble domes reach out to embrace visitors from all corners of the world.

This temple in Delhi has won numerous awards for its architecture and has been featured in books, newspapers, magazines and television programs across the globe. Within its walls lies a serene atmosphere where guests can experience a profound peace within themselves amidst peaceful surroundings with beautiful gardens and trees that offer shade from Delhi's hot summers.

Contact:

Address: Lotus Temple Rd, Bahapur, Shambhu Dayal Bagh, Kalkaji, New Delhi, Delhi 110019, India

Phone: +91 11 2644 4029

8. Red Fort

The Red Fort, or Lal Qila, is a historical fort in Old Delhi that played a major role in Indian history. It was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan between 1638 and 1648 to serve as the imperial residence of the Mughal dynasty.

The fort's impressive red sandstone walls stand 75 feet tall and surround an area of over 250 acres. Inside, visitors can explore multiple palaces, including a Diwan-i-Aam public audience hall that measures 100 meters in length. The Red fort also includes two mosques, the Lahori Gate, and several gardens with fountains and pools.

The Red Fort was used as a military stronghold during much of its existence but also served as an important symbol of power throughout India’s turbulent past.

9. Chandni Chowk

One of the best things to see when you visit Delhi is the Chandni Chowk, a vibrant and bustling marketplace located in the heart of Old Delhi. The area has been an important part of Indian history for centuries, having served as the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1650-1857.

The Chandni Chowk market is filled with many shops, stalls and vendors offering their goods and services to its visitors. There is something for every traveler out here; street food that can satisfy even the most discerning palate, jewelry stores with precious gems and metals, clothing outlets with traditional Indian garments as well as modern apparel, electronic gadgets at affordable prices and much more.

10. Hauz Khas Village

Hauz Khas Village is a unique area located in south Delhi. This quaint, bustling village lies nestled between colonial-era ruins and modern offices and residences. It’s known for its trendy cafes, art galleries, and designer boutiques as well as its historic monuments.

The village dates back to the 13th century when it was a part of the Siri Fort created by Alauddin Khalji. The Hauz Khas Complex contains an expansive artificial lake with a Islamic-style pavilion in the middle of it. The complex also features the remains of several temples from different religions like Jainism and Hinduism which date back to the 14th century. Today, these ruins offer visitors a glimpse into Delhi’s rich cultural heritage.

11. Rashtrapati Bhavan

Built in the 1920s, the Rashtrapati Bhavan is an iconic building situated in New Delhi. It is the official residence of the President of India and was designed by Edwin Lutyens. The building cost RS 8 million at that time and took seventeen years to complete. Spread over an area of 300 acres, it has 340 rooms along with other facilities like a post office, bank, swimming pool and much more.

The Rashtrapati Bhavan features a blend of Mughal and European architectures which are rather distinctive. The main part of its architecture includes a four story building which stands on top of four sandstone pillars surrounded by gorgeous gardens. It also houses the famous Durbar Hall where many important guests from all around the world have been welcomed including Queen Elizabeth II in 1961.

Contact:

Address: Rashtrapati Bhawan, President's Estate, New Delhi, Delhi 110004, India

Phone: +91 11 2301 5321

12. National Gandhi Museum

The National Gandhi Museum in Delhi is an iconic landmark dedicated to one of history's most respected figures, Mahatma Gandhi. Established in 1961, the museum houses a diverse range of objects and artifacts that illustrate the life and legacy of this remarkable leader. From his writings and personal belongings, to his works on non-violence and nationalism, visitors are provided with an educational experience about the life of Gandhi.

The museum contains three floors filled with paintings, photographs and documents; each floor has its own special focus. The first floor contains displays that chronicle Gandhi’s political career from his return from South Africa until his assassination in 1948. The second floor is devoted to showcasing materials related to Gandhi’s ideals such as non-violence, civil disobedience, communal harmony and sustainable development.

Contact:

Address: J6QW+H97, Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, opp. Raj Ghat, Vikram Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 110002, India

Phone: +91 11 2331 0168

13. Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid is a historical mosque in Old Delhi. It is considered one of the largest mosques in India and is the final architectural works of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Commissioned by the Emperor in 1644, it took over six years to complete. The grand mosque stands at an impressive seventy-five meters tall and has a large courtyard that can hold up to 25,000 people for prayer and festivities.

The architecture is remarkable as it was built using white marble exclusively, with red sandstone used for its archways. It features three domes faced with marble tile on top of three massive gateways, along with four towering minarets flanking the main structure.

Contact:

Address: Jama Masjid Rd, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi 110006, India

Phone: +91 11 2336 5358

14. National Museum

The New Delhi National Museum is a cultural gem for citizens of India and tourists alike. The museum has collected artifacts ranging from pre-historic times to modern art pieces, making it one of the largest museums in India.

Guests can enjoy immersive collections including sculptures, miniature paintings, textiles, ancient coins and even musical instruments. Additionally, the National Museum hosts different exhibitions throughout the year that bring awareness to certain topics such as religious diversity or bringing life back into Indian heritage monuments.

The architecture of the building alone makes it worth a visit. Built over 250 years ago by British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens during the British Raj period in India, tourists can admire gothic revival style windows or marvel at a large park with fountains gracing its landscape.

Contact:

Address: Janpath Rd, Rajpath Area, Central Secretariat, New Delhi, Delhi 110011, India

Phone: +91 11 2301 9272

15. Laxminarayan Temple

The majestic Laxminarayan Temple, built in 1933, is a popular and well known landmark around Delhi. Constructed by the Birla family, it is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is also known as Laxminarayan. The temple has two shrines - one dedicated to Laxmi Narayana and the other to Goddess Durga. The entrance of the temple features an imposing stone gateway, topped with a red dome-like structure which creates an awe inspiring atmosphere when you enter.

The interior walls feature intricate carvings and idols of different Hindu Gods such as Vishnu, Shiva and Krishna. There are also separate areas for prayers and religious ceremonies inside the temple complex. Every evening at sunset there is a special puja that takes place inside the main hall.