28 Must Visit Tourist Places and Activities to Do in Delhi

May 15, 2021 Mustafa Natalwala 6319 Views

Delhi or Dehli or Dilli is the national capital city of India. It is a city of legendary status for Indians. Though if you are even a little bit familiar with Indian pop culture and internet culture, you would something or the other about Delhi already. All the best places to visit in Delhi have been seen in films, TV series, documentaries, internet shows, music videos, and more. There are songs, metaphors, idioms, and poems about Delhi. In this introduction, we will try to break apart various aspects which make Delhi a city with almost mythical proportions.

Delhi has a very mythological origin as well. It is said to be the capital city of the Pandavas of the Kuru clan. Under their reign, it was known as Indraprastha. There is an entire segment of the Mahabharata epic which shows Pandavas establishing this city from a wilderness bristling with demons and snakes. You will find many interesting things to see in Delhi concerning the origin of the city and the various iterations and names that it has held over the ages.

Delhi is among the oldest cities in the world with a history which has been traced back to the 6th century BCE. It has been the country’s capital under various historical empires. Among the best things to do in Delhi is explore the ancient history of how these empires took over the city and transformed its infrastructure, architecture, and culture. It is also very interesting to see how they adapted from one another to create a hybrid of sorts which is what the city is today. Among Delhi tourist attractions, you will see monuments from renowned empires such as Pandavas, Tomars Kingdom, Delhi Sultanate, and the Mughal Empire. Delhi had been the capital for each of these empires and it became the national capital city of the country post-independence again.

But, there is much more to enjoy when you visit Delhi besides the monuments. While it is synonymous with history, culture, news media, and politics. Delhi is also synonymous with legendary food, shopping, happening nightlife, entertainment, and fun people. There is a saying among Indians, “Dil Waalo ki Dilli” which means Dilli belongs to people with big hearts. If you don’t explore much during Delhi sightseeing, you should at least go shopping & the city’s street food. More often than not, these two go hand in hand. Head towards any of the streets or bazaars listed in the section below under the shopping header and loose yourself there. There is one bazaar that we have included in the Delhi itinerary as well in the section below. These traditional markets have an incredible variety of items ranging from fashion to spices. At the same time, you get to explore an equally incredible variety of street food. Additionally, there are a few restaurants and dishes that are as significant as Delhi tourist places. It is arguably the city with the best food in India so you must explore. Check them out in the Food section towards the end of this article, although in the case of Delhi it should have been at the very top.

While you explore this fantastic city, you should immerse yourself in the experience that is Delhi. You enjoy the food, you participate in cultural experiences, you mingle with locals, you shop your wallet away, and more. If you don’t do that your Delhi travel would be incomplete.

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Table of Contents

Explore The Best Tourist Places in Delhi in 5 Days

Being a large city, it might be difficult to enjoy all the best things to do in Delhi in a limited time. This section covers some of the most well-known tourist attractions in 5 days, even though it is a daunting task.

Day 1

1. Chhatarpur Temple

This is considered to be the second largest Hindu temple complex in the country. It is one of the most impressive things to see in Delhi. The central idol alone is 30 meters tall in height. You will need about an hour to explore this temple.

2. Qutub Complex & Qutub Minar

This entire complex is a UNESCO world heritage site and is home to one of the most well-known Delhi tourist attractions: The Qutub Minar. This is the largest brick minaret in the entire world. There are lots of wonderful historical and archeological marvels to behold in this complex. You will need about 2 hours to explore it.

3. Lotus Temple

This Baha temple is considered an architectural marvel and is one of the most popular Delhi attractions to visit. You will need about an hour to explore this temple.

4. ISKON Temple

This temple is dedicated to LORD Krishna and is spread over quite a large complex which includes a museum and library as well. The temple is known, aside from religious attraction, for its decor, architecture, art, and sculptures. You will need about an hour from Delhi sightseeing to explore this temple.

5. Humayun’s Tomb

This marble and red stone monument is the final resting place of Mughal Emperor Humayun. It is one of the most renowned monuments in the city. You will need an hour or two to explore it.

Day 2

1. Swaminarayan Akshardham

This is again a large temple complex with a lot more attractions aside from the temple itself. The complex also has a multi-media and interactive museum-style tour to enjoy when you visit Delhi. You will need at least 2 hours to explore various aspects of this temple.

I suggest you should book an Evening Tour of Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple with the Musical Fountain Show.

2. Raj Ghat

This memorial monument site is dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi and is also the final resting place of the renowned freedom fighter of the country. You will need 20 to 30 minutes at this memorial.

If you want to know more about the life and history of Mahatma Gandhi, then you should book a Gandhi’s Tour in Delhi.

3. Chandni Chowk

Delhi’s itinerary is incomplete without a visit to one of the most famous neighborhoods of the city. This is one of the oldest markets in the city and is also popular for street food. If you are looking to shop for souvenirs, this is the place to look. Keep at least an hour to explore various shops in this area during Delhi travel.

Here below I am suggesting a couple of activities that you should do at Chandni Chowk:

4. Jama Masjid

This is one of the largest mosques in the country and one of the most important historical monuments among tourist places in Delhi. You will need an hour to explore it.

5. Red Fort

This iconic fort was built and used by the Mughal dynasty. It is now an important venue for national events and celebrations. This monumental building is spread over quite a large area so you will need an hour or two to explore it.

6. Spice Market

Among all Delhi’s famous places, this is the one you shouldn’t miss if you are a foodie or a chef or interested in cooking. This historic spice market has been here since the 17th century. You will need about an hour to explore this market.

I suggest you should go for a Guided Tour of Spice Market in Delhi.

Day 3

1. Purana Qila

Literally meaning the old fort, these ruins were built under the reign of Mughal Emperor Humayun in the 16th century. It is again among historically significant places to go in Delhi. You will need about an hour to explore it.

2. National Handicrafts & Handlooms Museum

This museum is one of the top places to visit in Delhi for a cultural experience. The museum exhibits several types of handicraft items originating from different cultures and communities across India. You will need at least 2 hours to explore this museum.

3. Agrasen Ki Baoli

This stairwell was built in the 14th century and is one of the oldest monuments among things to see in Delhi. You will need about an hour to explore it.

I suggest you should book a Tour of Agrasen Ki Baoli with Dhobi Ghat in Delhi.

4. Jantar Mantar

The 13 monument-like structures are astronomical observatories built in the 17th century. This is one of the most fascinating Delhi tourist attractions to visit. You will need about an hour to explore it.

5. Gurudwara Bangla Saheb

This holy Sikh temple is dedicated to Guru Har Krishan, the eighth Sikh Guru. The temple has several distinguishing architecture and decor features which make it a fascinating among Delhi attractions. The temple is also a cultural experience as you get insight into the Sikh culture and traditions. You will need about an hour or so to explore this peaceful place during Delhi travel.

6. Birla Mandir

This large religious complex has several temples dedicated to different Hindu deities. It was built by famous Indian industrialist J.K. Birla and has become popular among tourist places in Delhi. You will need about an hour or two to explore this complex entirely.

Day 4

1. Lodhi Gardens

This large park is the final resting place of many rulers of the Lodhi dynasty. There are several tombs and historical monuments which validate its inclusion among Delhi’s famous places. You will need about an hour to explore the park and historical buildings within its complex.

2. Tomb of Safdarjung

This is the final resting place of Safdarjung, one of the prime ministers of the Mughal Empire. The tomb bears a great resemblance to the famed Taj Mahal and is one of the most beautiful places to go in Delhi. You will need about an hour to explore this tomb.

3. Gandhi Smriti

This is one of the largest museums dedicated to India’s Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. This was the place where he was assassinated in 1948. You will need about an hour to explore the museum.

4. Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum

This used to be the home of renowned Indian Prime Minister: Indira Gandhi. The museum talks about her work and life. It is also the place where she was assented by her own bodyguard in 1984. You will need an hour for this memorial and museum.

5. National Rail Museum

The railway network holds great significance in the history of India and this museum explores its evolution of the same. It is one of the best places to visit in Delhi with over 100 life-size train exhibits. You will need about an hour to explore it.

Day 5

1. National Zoological Park

This zoo holds more than 1300 animals from 130 species. The zoo is so large that some people choose to get a golf cart to explore it. It is among the top things to do in Delhi with family. You would need 2 hours at least to explore it.

2. India Gate

This monument is an iteration of the Arch of Triumph and is dedicated to soldiers who have sacrificed their lives for the country. It is one of the most well known things to see in Delhi. You will need about an hour at this monument.

3. National War Memorial

Close to India Gate, this monument is also dedicated to the Indian Military and the soldiers who have fought for the nation. You will need 15 to 20 minutes at this monument.

4. National Museum

This museum is home to over 200,000 pieces of art and artifacts from different periods. It is one of the most important Delhi attractions for those who are interested in art & history. You will need at least 2 hours to explore this museum.

5. Rajpath

This famous boulevard is surrounded by several top places to visit in Delhi. It is of great cultural and political significance in the country. Just walking this road would help you cover several monuments from the Delhi itinerary. Keep an hour to walk one of the most important routes in India.

6. Rashtrapati Bhavan

This is the presidential palace of the country. It is one of the most ornate buildings you will see during Delhi sightseeing. You will need about an hour to explore this palace.

If you are planning to visit Delhi for more than 5 days or you want to add more attractions to your trip, check out the section below.

Things to do in Delhi

Monuments, Museums & Historical Places to Visit in Delhi

Red Fort
Humayun’s Tomb
India Gate
Jama Masjid
Lotus Temple
Akshardham
Rashtrapati Bhavan
Qutub Minar
Lodhi Garden
Purana Qila
Shri Laxmi Narayan Temple
Jantar Mantar
National Museum
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
Agrasen ki Baoli
Raj Ghat
Gandhi Smriti
Parliament of India
National Rail Museum
Safdarjung Tomb
Chhatarpur Temple
Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dragon
National Gallery of Modern Art
Tughlakabad Fort
Mehrauli Archeological Park
Shankar’s International Doll’s Museum
Diwan e Khas
Diwan e Aam
Shri Kalka Ji Temple
Iron Pillar
Shree Adaya Katyayani Shaktipeeth Mandir
Madame Tussauds Delhi
Moti Masjid
Jama Masjid
Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir
National Gandhi Museum & Library
National Crafts Museum & Hastkala Academy
Khas Mahal
Kashmiri Gate
National Science Center
Nehru Memorial Museum & Library
Feroz Khan Kotla
ISKON Temple Delhi
Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum
Shree Hanuman Temple
Alai Darwaza
Rang Mahal
Sacred Heart Cathedral
National War Memorial
Jamali Kamali
Sulabh International Museum of Toilets
Jahaj Mahal
Air Force Museum
Haveli Mirza Ghalib
Quwwatul Islam Masjid
Qila Rai Pithora
Teen Murti Bhawan
Hauz Has Complex
Amar Jawan Jyoti
Alai Minar
Indira Gandhi National Center for Arts
Bhuli Bhatiyari Ka Mahal
Sikandar Lodhi Tomb
Coronation Park
Shri Sheetla Mata Mandir

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Delhi

Sanjay Van
Asola Bhatti Wild Life Sanctuary
Sanjay Lake
Okhla Bird Sanctuary
Sultanpur National Park

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Delhi

National Zoological Park
The Garden of 5 senses
Nehru Planétarium
Adventure Island
Nehru Park
Arun Jaitley Stadium
Deer Park
Sunder Nursery
Waste to Wonder Theme Park
Atlantic Water World
Aravali Biodiversity Park
Kingdom of Dreams
Worlds of Wonder
Appu Ghar
Kidzania Delhi NCR
Delhi Eye
Smaaash
Mystery Rooms
Paintball Co
Codebreak 60
IMF Moti Bagh
Drizzling World
Scary House
Jurassic Park Inn
Ski India
Barney’s Den

Shopping in Delhi

Dilli Haat
Janpath Market
Sarojini Nagar Market
Khan Market
Khari Baoli Road
Chandni Chowk Market
Meena Bazaar
Monastery Market
Sunar Nagar Market
Dilli Haat Janakpuri
GK1 M-Block Market
Sardar Bazaar
Ambience Mall
Karol Bagh Market
Gaffar Market
Katran Bazaar
Palika Bazaar
DLF Promenade
Lal Quarter
Phool Mandi
Select Citywalk Mall
Banjara Market
Matka Market
Shankar Market
The Grand Venice Mall
Kamala Nagar Market
Chor Bazaar
Spice Market
Lajpat Nagar Market
Connaught Place
Monastery Market
Manju ka Tilla
Paharganj Market
Tibetan Market

Offbeat Places, Tours, & Adventure in Delhi

Hiking
Paragliding
Rock Climbing
Cycle Tour
Walking Tour

Sightseeing in Delhi

Delhi 6
Rajpath
Janpath Road
Lodhi Road
Hauz Has Village
Connaught Place
Signature Bridge
Leisure Valley Park

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Delhi

Paranthe Waali Gali
Chandni Chowk
Khan Chacha’s
Moti Mahal
Kareem’s
Gulati
Al Jawahar
Roshan di Kulfi
Wenger’s
Rajindar da Dhaba
Noora Nihari
Kake da Hotel
Kwality
QD’s
Sita Ram Diwan Chand
Roshan di Kulfi
New Arjun Bombay Pav Bhaji
Wah ji Wah
Saravana Bhawan
North Campus
Nathu’s Sweets
Billie di Hatti
Bikanerwala
Bamboo Hut
Gujarat Bhawan
Ashok Meat Dhaba
Cha Bar
Jung Bahadur Kachori Wala
Haldiram’s
Bade Miyan ki Kheer
Prabhu Chat Bhandar
Prem di Hatti
Bengali Sweet Center
Kuremal Kulfiwale
Dhaba by Claridges
Minar Restaurant
Pakode Wali Gali
Mangla Chaat Wale
Nizam’s Kathi Kabab
Ghalib Kebab Corner
The Social
Al Zaitoon
The Potbelly
Naturals Ice Cream
Chaayos
Chache di Hatti
Rigo
Dadu Cutlet Shop
Momo’s Point
Beeryani
Rajdhani Thali
Gulati
Nando’s
Tee Dee

Where to Stay in Delhi?

Here we have listed Top Rated Luxurious, Mid-Range and Budget Hotels in Delhi. You can check below listed hotels for your perfect stay in Delhi.

Luxurious Hotels

Mid-Range Hotels

Budget Hotels

Custom Tours Package in Delhi

How to Reach Delhi?

By Air

Indira Gandhi International Airport is the easiest option for Delhi travel. You can get direct flights to Delhi from several Asian, Middle Eastern, African, and European cities such as, London, Hong Kong, Manchester, Milan, Paris, Nairobi, Cairo, Luxembourg, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Warsaw, Frankfurt, Kuala Lumpur, Doha, Istanbul, Singapore and many more. Once you reach the airport, you can choose between the metro, public buses, tour buses, shuttle buses, and cabs to reach any of the places to visit in Delhi.

By Road

Buses and Trains can connect you from basically anywhere in India to Delhi, it is the capital city after all. But there are no international trains or buses to visit Delhi.

Similarly, the road routes are very well connected to Delhi. Choose wisely as India is a large country and traveling between some cities may take multiple days. Major routes connecting to Delhi are 709, 334, 343, 48, 9, and NH3. Being a large city, you will have to also consider where exactly you want to go in the city to pick the most appropriate route. Otherwise, you may end up on the other end of the Delhi tourist attractions you want to visit.

By Water

Being a landlocked city, there are no direct water routes for Delhi travel.

Image Reference

Chhatarpur Temple – Seervims / Wikimedia Commons
Qutb Complex & Qutub Minar – Suanlian Tangpua / PixaBay
Lotus Temple – shalender kumar / PixaBay
ISKCON Temple – Ken Wieland / Flickr
Humayun’s Tomb – shalender kumar / PixaBay
Swaminarayan Akshardham – Free-Photos / PixaBay
Raj Ghat – Paul Simpson / Flickr
Chandni Chowk – David Dominguez / Flickr
Jama Masjid – jürgen Scheffler / PixaBay
Red Fort – Paul Simpson / Flickr
Spice Market – TitiFaitSonTour / Flickr
Purana Qila – Erik Törner / Flickr
National Handicrafts & Handlooms Museum – Yann / Wikimedia Commons
Agrasen ki Baoli – shalender kumar / PixaBay
Jantar Mantar – Alexandre Dolique / Flickr
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib – Sakeeb Sabakka / Flickr
Birla Mandir – Justin Wheeler / PixaBay
Lodhi Gardens – Yogendra Singh / PixaBay
Tomb of Safdarjung – Stephen Downes / Flickr
Gandhi Smriti – Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum – Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
National Rail Museum – Ronit Bhattacharjee / Flickr
National Zoological Park – Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
India Gate – vikram singh / PixaBay
National War Memorial – DiplomatTesterMan / Wikimedia Commons
National Museum – Gary Todd / Flickr
Rajpath – Klaus Henkel / Flickr
Rashtrapati Bhavan – Ronakshah1990 / Wikimedia Commons