Delhi, the vibrant capital of India, is a fascinating blend of the ancient and the modern. With its rich history, diverse culture, and impressive architecture, Delhi offers a myriad of attractions that cater to every kind of traveler. Here’s a guide to the top 16 tourist places you must visit in Delhi:
1. Red Fort (Lal Qila)
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this iconic fort was the main residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. It showcases stunning Mughal architecture and hosts the annual Independence Day celebrations.
Location: Netaji Subhash Marg, Lal Qila, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi
Timings: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm daily, Mondays closed
Cost per Person: ₹35 per person for Indians, ₹500 per person for Foreign Tourists
How to Reach Red Fort, Delhi
To reach the Red Fort in Delhi, take the Delhi Metro’s Violet Line and get off at the “Lal Quila” station. From there, it’s a short walk to the fort’s main entrance. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and cycle rickshaws are also available throughout Delhi and can drop you off directly at the fort. For a more leisurely approach, enjoy a stroll through the bustling streets of Old Delhi, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere and historical charm on your way to this UNESCO World Heritage site.
2. Qutub Minar
The tallest brick minaret in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Qutub Minar is surrounded by historic ruins and lush gardens, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts.
Location: Mehrauli, New Delhi
Timings: 7:00 am to 5:00 pm – Open All Days
Cost per Person: (Indian) ₹ 35 (Foreigner) ₹ 550
How to Reach Qutub Minar
To reach Qutub Minar in Delhi, take the Yellow Line of the Delhi Metro and disembark at Qutub Minar Metro Station. It’s a short walk from the station to this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site.
3. India Gate
This war memorial honors the soldiers who died in World War I. Located in the heart of Delhi, it’s a popular spot for evening strolls and picnics.
Location: Rajpath Marg, New Delhi
Timings: Open 24*7
Cost per Person: Free
How to Reach India Gate
To reach India Gate in Delhi, take the Delhi Metro and disembark at the Central Secretariat Metro Station on the Yellow or Violet Line. From there, it’s a short walk or rickshaw ride to the monument. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also readily available throughout the city.
4. Humayun’s Tomb
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this garden-tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun is an architectural marvel and a precursor to the Taj Mahal.
Location: Mathura Road, Nizamuddin East
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm; every day
Entry Fee: ₹ 30 for Indians; ₹ 500 for foreigners
How to Reach Humayun’s Tomb
To reach Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi, take the Delhi Metro and get off at the JLN Stadium Metro Station on the Violet Line. From there, it’s a short auto-rickshaw or taxi ride to the tomb. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available throughout the city.
5. Lotus Temple
Known for its flower-like shape, this Bahá’à House of Worship is open to people of all faiths and is famous for its serene ambiance and striking architecture.
Location: Lotus Temple Rd, Bahapur, Shambhu Dayal Bagh, Kalkaji, New Delhi
Timings: Remains open on all days except Monday. Timings in summers is 9:00 am to 7:00 pm and in winters, 9:00 am to 5:30
Cost per Person: Free
How to Reach Lotus Temple
To reach the Lotus Temple in Delhi, take the Delhi Metro and disembark at the Kalkaji Mandir Metro Station on the Violet Line. From there, it’s a short walk to the temple. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also available for a convenient and quick journey to this architectural marvel.
6. Jama Masjid
One of the largest mosques in India, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It offers stunning views of Old Delhi and is a significant center for Islamic worship.
Location: Meena Bazaar, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi
Timings: 7:00 am to 12:00 pm & 1:30 to 6:30 pm
Cost per Person: Free except for videography which is chargeable at approx. Rs. 200- 400
How to Reach Jama Masjid
To reach Jama Masjid in Delhi, take the Delhi Metro and get off at the Chawri Bazar Metro Station on the Yellow Line. From there, it’s a short walk or rickshaw ride to the mosque. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also readily available for direct access.
7. Akshardham Temple
This modern Hindu temple complex is renowned for its stunning architecture, cultural exhibitions, and spectacular musical fountain shows.
Location: NH 24, Akshardham Setu, New Delhi
Timings: 9:30 am to 6:30 pm, Mondays closed
Cost per Person: Free, with a separate fee for viewing exhibitions.
How to Reach Akshardham Temple
To reach Akshardham Temple in Delhi, take the Delhi Metro and disembark at the Akshardham Metro Station on the Blue Line. From there, it’s a short walk to the temple. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also available, providing easy access to this stunning spiritual complex.
8. Rashtrapati Bhavan
The official residence of the President of India, this vast complex includes the beautiful Mughal Gardens, which are open to the public during certain seasons.
- Please note that prior online booking is compulsory to visit Rashtrapati Bhavan.
- Carry a valid ID proof with you.
- Circuit 1 is open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
- Circuit 2 is open on all days except Monday.
- Circuit 3 is open from August to March on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
- Timings are from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
How to Reach Rashtrapati Bhavan
To reach Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi, take the Delhi Metro and disembark at the Central Secretariat Metro Station on the Yellow or Violet Line. From there, it’s a short walk or a quick ride by taxi or auto-rickshaw to this grand presidential residence and its beautiful Mughal Gardens.
9. Raj Ghat
A solemn memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, set in a tranquil garden. It’s a place of contemplation and remembrance.
Location: Gandhi Smriti, Raj Ghat, New Delhi
Timings: 6:30 am – 6:00 pm every day
Cost per Person: No entry fee
How to Reach Raj Ghat
To reach Raj Ghat in Delhi, take the Delhi Metro and disembark at the Delhi Gate Metro Station on the Violet Line. From there, it’s a short rickshaw or taxi ride to this serene memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available for direct access.
10. Chandni Chowk
One of the oldest and busiest markets in Old Delhi, known for its narrow lanes, bustling bazaars, street food, and historical landmarks like the Fatehpuri Mosque and Paranthe Wali Gali.
Location: Kaccha Bagh Area, Old Delhi, New Delhi
Timings: Shops usually stay open from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm daily. Mondays closed
Cost per Person: Free
How to Reach Chandni Chowk
To reach Chandni Chowk in Delhi, take the Delhi Metro and disembark at the Chandni Chowk Metro Station on the Yellow Line. From there, it’s a short walk to this bustling market. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also available, offering easy access to this vibrant shopping and street food hub.
11. National Museum
One of India’s largest museums, housing a vast collection of artifacts from the prehistoric era to modern works of art, including the Harappan Civilization, Mughal art, and Central Asian antiquities.
Location: Rajpath Area, Central Secretariat, New Delhi
Timings: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, Mondays closed
Cost per Person: ₹20 per person for Adults, ₹650 per person for Foreign Tourists
How to Reach National Museum
To reach the National Museum in Delhi, take the Delhi Metro and disembark at the Udyog Bhawan Metro Station on the Yellow Line. From there, it’s a short walk to the museum. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also readily available, providing convenient access to this treasure trove of historical artifacts.
12. Lodi Gardens
A serene city park featuring the tombs of 15th and 16th-century rulers, picturesque landscapes, and lush greenery, making it a favorite spot for morning walks and picnics.
Location: Lodhi Rd, Lodhi Gardens, Lodhi Estate, New Delhi
Timings: 6:00 am – 7:00 pm every day
Cost per Person: Free
How to Reach Lodi Gardens
To reach Lodi Gardens in Delhi, take the Delhi Metro and disembark at the Jor Bagh Metro Station on the Yellow Line. From there, it’s a short walk to the gardens. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also available, offering easy access to this serene and historic park.
13. Hauz Khas Village
A trendy neighborhood that blends the historic Hauz Khas Complex with contemporary art galleries, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, offering a unique cultural experience.
Location: Hauz Khas, South Delhi, New Delhi
Timings: Hauz Khas Village complex remains open from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm Mon to Sat, but the timings of different restaurants etc. vary
Cost per Person: Free
How to Reach Hauz Khas Village
To reach Hauz Khas Village in New Delhi, India, take the metro to Hauz Khas Metro Station (Yellow Line). From there, it’s a short auto-rickshaw or taxi ride to the village. Alternatively, you can walk from the station, following signs towards the Deer Park entrance for a scenic route.
14. Jantar Mantar
An 18th-century astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh II, featuring a collection of architectural astronomical instruments.
Location: Sansad Marg, CP, New Delhi
Timings: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
Cost per Person: Approx. Rs. 5 for Indian citizens and Rs. 100 for foreigners
How to Reach Jantar Mantar
To reach Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, India, take the metro to Patel Chowk Metro Station (Yellow Line). From there, it’s a brief walk to the observatory, located near Parliament Street. Follow signs towards Sansad Marg for direct access to this historic astronomical site.
15. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
A prominent Sikh gurdwara known for its beautiful golden dome, large pond (Sarovar), and the community kitchen (Langar) that serves free meals to visitors.
Location: Bangla Sahib Rd, Near GPO, Hanuman Road Area, CP, New Delhi
Timings: Open 24*7
Cost per Person: Free
How to Reach Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
To reach Gurudwara Bangla Sahib in New Delhi, India, take the metro to Patel Chowk Metro Station (Yellow Line) or Rajiv Chowk Metro Station (Blue Line). From there, it’s a short taxi or auto-rickshaw ride to the Gurudwara located on Ashoka Road.
16. Dilli Haat
An open-air market that showcases Indian handicrafts, handlooms, and cuisine from different states, offering a vibrant cultural experience.
Location: Sri Aurobindo Marg, Laxmi Bai Nagar, New Delhi
Timings: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm daily
Cost per Person: Approx. Rs. 10-20 for Children, Rs. 30-40 for Indians & Rs. 100-200 for foreigners
How to Reach Dilli Haat
To reach Dilli Haat in New Delhi, India, take the metro to INA Metro Station (Yellow Line). From there, it’s a quick walk to the market showcasing diverse regional crafts and cuisines. Located near AIIMS, it offers a vibrant cultural experience in a relaxed outdoor setting.
Each of these attractions offers a unique glimpse into Delhi’s rich heritage, making the city a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.
