Discovering Delhi: A Tour of the Top 20 Must-See Places in the City

Delhi, the capital city of India, is a melting pot of cultures, religions, and traditions. The city is home to some of the most historical and religious sites in the country, as well as modern-day attractions and landmarks. Whether you're a history buff, a food lover, or just looking for a fun day out, there's something for everyone in Delhi. Here are the top 20 places to visit in the city:

1.The Red Fort

The Red Fort, also known as the "Lal Qila" in Hindi, is a historic fort located in Delhi, India. It was built during the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, who also constructed the famous Taj Mahal in Agra. The Red Fort is made of red sandstone and is considered to be one of the most important examples of Mughal architecture in India.

The fort's walls stretch for over 2 kilometers and are surrounded by a moat. The main entrance to the fort is the Lahori Gate, which is also known as the "Alamgiri Gate." Inside the fort, there are several important buildings, including the Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audiences), the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audiences), the Rang Mahal (Palace of Colors), and the Mumtaz Mahal.

The Red Fort has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a popular tourist attraction in Delhi. It also holds a great significance for India as on the Independence Day of India (August 15) the Prime Minister of India hoists the Indian flag at the main gate of the fort and gives a speech.

It is considered as an architectural wonder and a symbol of India's rich history and culture.

2.The Qutub Minar

The Qutub Minar is a historic tower located in the Mehrauli area of Delhi, India. It is considered to be one of the most iconic monuments in India and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Qutub Minar was built in the 12th century by Qutub-ud-din Aibak, the first Muslim ruler of Delhi. It is made of red sandstone and marble and stands at a height of 72.5 meters (238 feet). The tower is decorated with intricate carvings and calligraphy, and it is topped by a magnificent "chhatri" (umbrella-shaped dome).

The tower's base has five stories, with a spiral staircase leading to the top. The first three stories are made of red sandstone, while the fourth and fifth stories are made of marble and sandstone. It is one of the tallest towers in the world made of bricks.

Around the Qutub Minar, there are several other monuments of historical importance, including the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, which is the first mosque to be built in India, the Iron Pillar, and the Alai Darwaza.

It's a significant monument for the Muslim architecture and history of India. And a popular tourist spot in Delhi, Millions of Tourist visits here every year.

3.The Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple, also known as the Bahai House of Worship, is a stunning architectural wonder located in Delhi, India. It is shaped like a giant lotus flower and is made of white marble and concrete. The temple was completed in 1986 and is considered to be one of the most visited buildings in the world.

The temple's design was inspired by the lotus flower, which is a symbol of purity and enlightenment in many Eastern religions. The temple has 27 petals arranged in three rows, each row consisting of nine petals. It sits on a large pond, adding to its serene and peaceful atmosphere.

The Lotus Temple is open to people of all religions and is a popular place for meditation and prayer. The inside of the temple is left unfinished, with no statues, altar or iconography, it's design is based on the idea that religion should be personal and individual.

It is one of the most visited architectural marvels in the world, receiving more visitors than the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Eiffel Tower combined. It's also been featured in several films and architectural magazines. The temple is considered to be a masterpiece of modern architecture and is a must-see for any traveler visiting Delhi.

4.The India Gate

The India Gate is a war memorial located in New Delhi, India. It is a 42-meter-high (138 feet) stone archway that stands at the center of Rajpath, which is the ceremonial boulevard that runs from the Presidential Palace to the Durbar Hall.

The India Gate was designed by the British architect Edwin Lutyens and was built in the early 1920s to commemorate the Indian soldiers who fought and died in World War I. It bears the names of over 13,516 British and Indian soldiers who died in the Northwestern Frontier in the Afghan War of 1919, and the 1919 Anglo-Afghan War.

The India Gate is often compared to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and serves as a symbol of the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers in the service of the British Indian Army. It's a popular spot to visit and people gathers in large number over here during the evening, making it one of the busiest places in Delhi.

An eternal flame, the "Amar Jawan Jyoti" was added to India Gate in 1971 to honor the Indian soldiers who died in the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971. The India Gate, surrounded by lush green lawns, makes for a picturesque spot and a perfect place to take a stroll. It is also a popular spot for picnics, and people often come here to relax and enjoy the beautiful ambiance.

5.The Jama Masjid

The Jama Masjid is a historic mosque located in Old Delhi, India. It is one of the largest and best-known mosques in India, and it is a major tourist attraction in Delhi. The mosque was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century and is made of red sandstone and white marble.

The mosque is notable for its large courtyard, which can hold up to 25,000 worshippers at one time, and its three gates, which are adorned with intricate carvings and calligraphy. The main prayer hall of the mosque is covered with black and white marble and has three domes, each with a different design.

One of the most striking features of the mosque is its tall minaret. The minaret is 40 meters (131 feet) tall and can be climbed by visitors for a panoramic view of Old Delhi. It is one of the most important mosque of India and is also a very popular tourist attraction.

The Jama Masjid is considered to be an architectural masterpiece and is an important example of Mughal architecture in India. It is an active mosque and still used by Muslims for daily prayers. Non-Muslims are also allowed to visit the mosque, but they are expected to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the prayer hall.

6.The Raj Ghat

Raj Ghat is a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, located on the banks of the Yamuna river in Delhi, India. It is a simple and elegant black marble platform that marks the spot where Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation, was cremated on January 31, 1948, after he was assassinated.

Raj Ghat is considered to be one of the most sacred places in India and is a pilgrimage site for many people. The memorial is surrounded by lush green gardens, providing a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors to the Raj Ghat often leave floral tributes, wreaths and candles, as a mark of respect to Mahatma Gandhi.

The Raj Ghat Memorial, along with other memorials of Mahatma Gandhi such as the Gandhi Smriti and the Gandhi Samadhi at Rameshwaram, the Gandhi Memorial Museum at Madurai are considered as the National Monument of India and are maintained by the Raj Ghat Memorial Committee.

The Raj Ghat is open to visitors throughout the year and is a popular spot for meditation and contemplation. Visitors can also see the eternal flame, the "Agni Deep" which burns 24x7 at the memorial. Every year on October 2nd, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, is celebrated as the International Day of Non-Violence, a large number of people visit the Raj Ghat to pay their respects.

7.The Parliament House

The Parliament House in New Delhi is the home of the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States) of the Indian Parliament. It is a circular building designed by the British architect Edwin Lutyens, who was one of the chief architects of New Delhi, the capital city of India. The construction of the building began in 1921 and was completed in 1927. The Parliament House is located in the Sansad Marg area of New Delhi, near the India Gate and the Rashtrapati Bhavan (the President's official residence).

The Parliament House is built in the architectural style of the British Raj, with a mix of Greek, Roman, and Indian motifs. The circular shape of the building is symbolic of the continuity of the Indian nation, and the open Central Hall, with its high dome and intricate carvings, is meant to represent the democratic traditions of the country. The building is surrounded by gardens and lawns, and the wide open spaces around it are used for large public gatherings and rallies.

The Parliament House also houses offices of the members of parliament, as well as various committee rooms and libraries. The Parliament House is open to visitors during certain hours on most days, except when the parliament is in session. Visitors can take guided tours of the building, and learn more about the Indian parliamentary system and the history of the Indian independence movement.

8.The National Museum

The National Museum in New Delhi is one of the largest museums in India and one of the most important cultural institutions in the country. It was established in 1949, and is housed in a majestic building located at the corner of Janpath and Maulana Azad Road in the heart of the capital city. The museum has a vast collection of over 200,000 artifacts that span over 5,000 years of Indian history and culture, from the Indus Valley Civilization to modern times.

The National Museum has galleries dedicated to various themes such as prehistoric art, ancient Indian civilization, manuscripts, textiles, and decorative arts. Some of the most important exhibits in the museum include the Harappan Civilization gallery, which displays artifacts from the Indus Valley Civilization, one of the oldest urban civilizations in the world; the miniature paintings gallery, which houses a collection of Indian miniature paintings dating back to the 16th century; and the Indian sculptures gallery, which showcases some of the finest examples of Indian sculpture from ancient and medieval times.

The National Museum also has a rich collection of Indian art, including works by some of the country's most famous artists. The museum also has several galleries dedicated to contemporary art, which showcase the works of young and upcoming Indian artists.

The National Museum is open to visitors six days a week (closed on Monday) and has an admission fee for adults. Guided tours are available in English and Hindi and audio guides in multiple languages also available for rent. It's a great place to learn about the rich history and cultural heritage of India and it's definitely worth a visit for anyone interested in Indian art and culture.

9.The National Gallery of Modern Art

The National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) in Delhi is a premier art museum in India, housing a wide range of works by some of the country's most renowned artists. The gallery features a vast collection of Indian and international art, including paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, and photographs.

The collection at the NGMA spans a wide range of periods and styles, from the early 19th century to the present day. There are works by many of India's most renowned artists, such as Raja Ravi Varma, Rabindranath Tagore, Amrita Sher-Gil, and F.N. Souza. The gallery also has a significant collection of international art, including works by prominent European and American artists.

In addition to its permanent collection, the NGMA also regularly hosts temporary exhibitions and special events. The gallery also has an active educational program, offering tours, lectures, and workshops for visitors of all ages.

The NGMA was established in 1954, and it is one of the largest art museums in India. It is located in the India Gate complex in central Delhi, and it is open to the public seven days a week.

It's a great place to experience the variety of Indian art and culture, and is a must-visit destination for art lovers visiting India.

10.The National Science Center

The National Science Center (NSC) is a science museum located in Delhi, India. The museum aims to promote a greater understanding and appreciation of science and technology among the general public.

The NSC has a wide range of exhibits and interactive displays that cover various branches of science, such as physics, chemistry, biology, and astronomy. These exhibits use models, demonstrations, and hands-on activities to explain complex scientific concepts in a clear and engaging way.

The NSC also has a planetarium, where visitors can learn about the stars and planets in our solar system, as well as a science park, where visitors can explore the principles of physics and mechanics through a variety of interactive exhibits.

In addition to its exhibits, the NSC also has an active educational program that includes lectures, workshops, and field trips. These programs are designed to inspire an interest in science among young people and to foster a deeper understanding of science among the general public.

The NSC is open to the public seven days a week, and it is a great place to visit for anyone interested in learning more about science and technology. The NSC is a great way to spark young minds interest in science and to understand how the world around us works.

11.The Gandhi Smriti

Gandhi Smriti (formerly known as Birla House or Birla Bhavan) is a museum in New Delhi, India, dedicated to the memory and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of the Indian independence movement. The museum is located on Tees January Marg, New Delhi, the location of the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi on January 30, 1948.

The museum has a collection of photographs, documents, and personal possessions of Mahatma Gandhi, including his spectacles, sandals, and the blood-stained dhoti he was wearing at the time of his assassination. It also has a library with a collection of books, journals, and papers on Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian independence movement.

In addition to the permanent exhibits, the museum also has a theater which shows a film on the life and times of Mahatma Gandhi, and a meditation garden where visitors can reflect on the principles of nonviolence and truth which were the cornerstones of Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy.

The Gandhi Smriti is open to the public every day and it is one of the most popular destinations for visitors to New Delhi who are interested in the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. It's a unique blend of an exhibition, with a peaceful garden, and provides a lot of insight on one of India's greatest leaders.

It is a must-visit place for anyone who is interested in Indian history, as it provides a glimpse into the life and philosophy of one of the most important figures in Indian history.

12.The Tughlaqabad Fort

The Tughlaqabad Fort is a medieval fort located in the Tughlaqabad area of South Delhi, India. It was built in the 14th century by Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq, the founder of the Tughlaq dynasty, as the third city of Delhi and served as the capital of the Tughlaq dynasty for a short period.

The fort is known for its massive walls and towers, which were built to protect the city from invaders. The walls of the fort are up to 18 meters high and are made of large stone blocks, and the fort has several gates and towers, including the main entrance, the Bara Darwaza, which is adorned with an inscription in Persian.

Inside the fort, there are several monuments and ruins, including the palace of the Tughlaq kings, the tomb of Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq, and several other buildings and structures. Visitors can also explore the many battlements and watchtowers, which offer great views of the surrounding area.

Despite its historical significance, Tughlaqabad fort is relatively unknown and less-visited among tourists and visitors, as the fort has been left in a state of ruin, but still it's open for visitors.

The fort is open to the public every day, and it's a great place to visit for anyone interested in Indian history and medieval architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour and learn about the history of the fort and the Tughlaq dynasty, which played an important role in the history of medieval India.

13.The Hauz Khas Village

Hauz Khas Village (HKV) is a neighborhood located in the South of Delhi, India. It is known for its historical monuments, such as the Hauz Khas Complex and the Hauz Khas Fort, as well as its trendy art galleries, restaurants, and boutiques.

The Hauz Khas Complex, which gives the neighborhood its name, is a collection of monuments that date back to the 14th century. The complex includes the Hauz Khas Fort, which was built by Alauddin Khalji, the second ruler of the Khalji dynasty, as well as several other structures such as tombs and madrasas (Islamic schools). The fort and the surrounding monuments are a popular tourist attraction and are considered some of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in India.

In recent years, the neighborhood has become a popular spot for Delhi's art and fashion scene, with many art galleries and boutiques opening in the area. It is also home to a number of trendy restaurants and cafes, many of which are housed in restored havelis (traditional Indian townhouses).

HKV have been popular among the young generation, travellers and foreigners. The place is well known for its nightlife and creative ambiance.

It's a place of confluence where history and contemporary life live together. A visit to Hauz Khas Village is a must for anyone interested in history, art, architecture or just looking for a unique and vibrant neighborhood to explore in Delhi.

14.The Connaught Place

Connaught Place (also known as CP) is a historic commercial and financial center located in the heart of New Delhi, India. It was designed by British architect Edwin Lutyens and named after Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught and Strathearn, a member of the British royal family.

The area is arranged in a circular pattern and is divided into two concentric circles, the inner and outer circles, with a large open park in the center. The inner circle, known as the Connaught Place Main Market, is home to a number of shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as several banks and travel agencies. The outer circle is known as the Connaught Place Inner Circle, and it is home to more shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as a number of government offices and other businesses.

The market is famous for its colonial architecture, which adds to the charm of Connaught Place. The area is a popular spot for shopping and dining, and it is also known for its nightlife, with a number of bars and clubs. It's a great spot for people-watching, with a mix of locals and tourists.

Connaught Place has been listed among the top 10 most expensive office locations in the world, and is often considered as the heart of the city. The area is well-connected by public transport and is a popular spot for tourists visiting New Delhi.

It has been a famous landmark and shopping spot for a long time and is a must-visit place for anyone who wants to experience the rich history and culture of New Delhi.

15.The Rajpath

Rajpath is a ceremonial boulevard in New Delhi, India. The avenue runs from the President's residence at Rashtrapati Bhavan, through Vijay Chowk and India Gate, and up to the National Museum. It is lined with numerous government buildings, including the Parliament of India, and is a popular spot for parades and other national events. 

The term "Rajpath" means "King's Path" in Hindi, and it is a symbolic representation of the power and sovereignty of the Government of India. The boulevard is also a popular spot for tourists visiting Delhi, as it offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and culture.

16.The Lodi Gardens

The Lodi Gardens is a 90-acre park located in New Delhi, India. The park is situated near the Lodi Road and houses several tombs and monuments of the Lodi dynasty, which ruled parts of northern India from the 15th to the 16th centuries. The monuments in the park date back to the Sayyid and Lodi periods and are a blend of Afghan and Indian architectural styles.

The most famous tomb in the park is that of Mohammed Shah, the last ruler of the Sayyid dynasty. The gardens are also popular spot for locals and tourists alike, as they offer a peaceful and serene environment in the midst of the bustling city. They are also a great place to take a stroll or have a picnic and enjoy the greenery.

The Lodi Gardens are also famous for bird-watching as well as it is home to over 150 different species of birds. It has well-maintained pathways, green lawns, and tree-lined avenues and makes a great place to relax and enjoy nature.

17.The Chandni Chowk

Chandni Chowk is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Old Delhi, India. The market is known for its narrow, winding lanes and traditional havelis (residential buildings), as well as its historical significance. The market was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, and it was designed as a grand avenue with a central canal that reflected the moonlight at night, hence the name "Chandni Chowk," which means "moonlit market."

The market is famous for its variety of goods, such as spices, jewelry, textiles, and electronic goods. It is also known for its street food, with a wide variety of chaat (snack) and local delicacies on offer. Chandni Chowk is also a great place to buy traditional Indian clothes such as Sarees and Sherwanis.

Chandni Chowk is also home to several historical monuments and places of worship, including the Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, and the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can also explore the history of the market by taking a rickshaw ride through the winding lanes, which will take you through the past, present and blend of traditional and modern elements of the market.

18.The National Gandhi Museum

The National Gandhi Museum, also known as Gandhi Memorial Museum, is a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, commonly known as Mahatma Gandhi. It is located in Raj Ghat, Delhi, India, which is the site where Gandhi was cremated after his assassination in 1948.

The museum features a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents related to Gandhi's life and the Indian freedom struggle. The museum holds some of Gandhi's personal belongings, including his spectacles, sandals, and the blood-stained cloth he was wearing when he was assassinated. The museum also has a library and research center that houses a collection of books and documents on Gandhi and his philosophy of nonviolence.

The museum also has an audio-visual room that shows films on Gandhi's life and works and an art gallery which showcases works of artist inspired by the leader. It is a popular tourist destination for people interested in Indian history and culture and for those who want to learn more about Gandhi and his contributions to India's freedom movement. It's open for visitors from Tuesday to Sunday on a fixed timings

The Museum is also a great way to learn more about Indian history, culture and the philosophy of non-violence and tolerance. This can be a great place for school field trip and research as well.

19.The Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple

The Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple is a Hindu temple located in Delhi, India. It is a large, ornately decorated temple that is dedicated to the deity Swaminarayan. The temple was built in 2005 by the BAPS (Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha) organization, and is one of the largest Hindu temples in the world.

The temple complex is made up of several different buildings and structures, including the main temple, a cultural center, and a vast garden. The main temple is made of pink sandstone and white marble, and is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. Inside the temple, there are several large statues of deities, including one of Swaminarayan himself.

The cultural center is a two-story building that features exhibits on Indian culture, history, and spiritual traditions. The garden, known as the Maharaja Agrasen ki Baoli, is a peaceful and serene space that features water fountains, statues, and other landscaping elements.

One of the most notable aspect of temple is the use of technology in the temple . They have shows featuring animatronics and other advanced technology for educating visitors about Hindu mythology and values.

Overall, the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple is a popular tourist destination in Delhi, and is considered to be one of the most beautiful and spiritually significant temples in the world.

Visiting guidelines due to COVID-19 pandemic, is mandatory to wear a mask, follow social distancing and follow the rules and guidelines issued by the temple management.

20.The Humayun's Tomb

Humayun's Tomb is a mausoleum located in Delhi, India, that was built for the Mughal Emperor Humayun. The tomb was commissioned by Humayun's widow, Queen Bega Begum, and was completed in 1572. It is considered to be the first example of Mughal architecture in India and was a major influence on the development of the Mughal style of architecture.

The tomb is built of red sandstone and white marble, and is adorned with intricate carvings and inlay work. The main tomb chamber is a large, square room that is topped by a double dome. The walls of the chamber are adorned with a series of arches, and the tomb is surrounded by a large garden.

The tomb is situated in the center of a large garden, known as the Charbagh, which is divided into four squares by water channels and walkways. The garden is divided into four squares and is lined with fruit trees and flowers, as well as small water channels, which were used to help keep the garden cool.

The complex also contains several smaller tombs, including those of Humayun's wife and other members of the royal family.

The tomb is one of the most well-preserved examples of Mughal architecture in India and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a popular tourist destination and visitors can explore the tomb, garden and several other structures inside the complex .

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