Delhi doesn’t slowly reveal itself; it pulls you in from the very first moment. Ancient Mughal monuments rise beside modern streets, spice scented bazaars buzz near peaceful temples, and every neighbourhood tells a story shaped by over 3,000 years of history. India’s capital is not just a city, it is a living blend of culture, heritage, and everyday life.

At Crystal India Holidays, we’ve spent years guiding travellers through Delhi’s famous landmarks and lesser known treasures. From first time visitors to seasoned explorers, we understand what makes a Delhi trip truly memorable, smooth travel, meaningful experiences, and honest local insight.

This guide covers the 25 best places to visit in Delhi, carefully organised into historical attractions, spiritual sites, vibrant markets, modern highlights, and hidden gems. You’ll also find Metro access details, best visiting times, crowd insights, and practical tips to help you plan confidently and experience the real Delhi beyond the tourist trail.

Curated by Crystal India Holidays, trusted experts in Delhi sightseeing and Golden Triangle tours, this guide is built for travellers who want to experience the real Delhi, not just see it.

Quick Summary: Top Places to Visit in Delhi for Families, Couples & Friends

Red Fort
Qutub Minar
Humayun’s Tomb
India Gate
Purana Qila (Old Fort)
Lodhi Garden
Mehrauli Archaeological Park
Jama Masjid
Lotus Temple
Akshardham Temple
ISKCON Temple
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
Birla Mandir (Laxminarayan Temple)
Chandni Chowk
Dilli Haat
Sarojini Nagar Market
Khan Market
Lajpat Nagar Central Market
National Museum
National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA)
Nehru Planetarium
Garden of Five Senses
Agrasen ki Baoli
Sanjay Van
Majnu ka Tila (Little Tibet)

👉 Taj Mahal Tour from Delhi by Car

Historical Landmarks

1. Red Fort (Lal Qila)

Delhi historical skyline with Red Fort and Mughal architecture

Overview: Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1638, the Red Fort is Delhi’s most iconic monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its massive red sandstone walls once enclosed an entire imperial city.

What to See: The Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), Rang Mahal, and the Sound & Light Show in the evening.

Historical Importance: India’s Prime Minister addresses the nation from here every Independence Day (August 15).

Best Time to Visit: October to March; avoid midday heat
Entry Fee: ₹35 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners); extra for museum entry
Time Required: 2–3 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 5 km
Nearest Metro: Lal Quila Station, Violet Line
Travel Tips: Arrive early to beat crowds. The Sound & Light Show runs at night and is worth staying for.

Traveller Insight: Weekday mornings between 8–10 AM are noticeably quieter than weekends. If you visit on a Sunday, expect significant crowds by 11 AM. The museum inside (Mumtaz Mahal) is often skipped by visitors but is genuinely worth the extra entry fee — the Mughal-era artefacts inside are exceptional.

2. Qutub Minar

Qutub Minar tower rising against a clear blue sky

Overview: Standing at 73 metres, the Qutub Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction began in 1193 by Qutb ud-Din Aibak.

What to See: The minaret itself, the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the Iron Pillar (over 1,600 years old and rust-free), and the intricate carvings throughout the complex.

Historical Importance: It marks the beginning of Muslim rule in India and is an architectural masterpiece of the Delhi Sultanate.

Best Time to Visit: November to February
Entry Fee: ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)
Time Required: 1.5–2 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 15 km
Nearest Metro: Qutab Minar Station, Yellow Line
Travel Tips: Comfortable shoes are essential. The site is large and mostly open ground.

Traveller Insight: The complex is exposed to full sun — there’s very little shade. Visiting in winter (December–January) around midday is actually pleasant. In summer, anything after 10 AM becomes uncomfortable. The Iron Pillar is easy to miss if you’re fixated on the minaret — make a point of finding it. It’s one of ancient India’s greatest metallurgical mysteries.

3. Humayun’s Tomb

Overview: Built in 1570, this stunning Mughal garden tomb is considered the inspiration for the Taj Mahal. It houses the remains of Emperor Humayun and several other Mughal royals.

What to See: The central tomb, the char bagh (four-quadrant Persian garden), and nearby smaller tombs including Isa Khan’s Tomb.

Historical Importance: The first garden-tomb in the Indian subcontinent, it established the template for Mughal funerary architecture.

Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: ₹35 (Indians), ₹550 (foreigners)
Time Required: 1.5–2.5 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 8 km
Nearest Metro: JLN Stadium Station, Violet Line (10-minute walk)
Travel Tips: The gardens are perfect for photography. Visit at sunrise for golden light and minimal crowds.

Traveller Insight: Most visitors walk straight to the central tomb and leave — that’s a mistake. Isa Khan’s Tomb, just inside the main entrance, is a smaller but exquisitely preserved octagonal structure from an earlier era, and it’s almost always quiet. If you’re visiting Delhi for a romantic trip, this garden at dusk is as close to the Taj Mahal experience as Delhi gets. For more romantic experiences in and around the city, the guide to best places to visit in Delhi for couples is a useful starting point.

4. India Gate

Overview: A war memorial built in 1931 to honour over 70,000 Indian soldiers who died in World War I. It stands 42 metres tall on Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath).

What to See: The eternal flame (Amar Jawan Jyoti), the surrounding lawns popular with families and picnickers, and the nearby Canopy (the original site of King George V’s statue).

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or after sunset; evenings are vibrant and well-lit
Entry Fee: Free
Time Required: 45–60 minutes
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 3 km
Nearest Metro: Central Secretariat Station, Yellow & Violet Lines (15-minute walk)
Travel Tips: The surrounding lawns are great for a relaxed walk. Street food stalls are nearby.

Traveller Insight: India Gate is one of those rare monuments that looks just as good at night as it does in daylight — the floodlighting is well done. Evenings on weekends draw large local crowds, which gives the area a festive, relaxed energy. If you prefer a quieter visit, weekday early mornings are almost meditative.

5. Purana Qila (Old Fort)

Overview: One of Delhi’s oldest forts, Purana Qila was built in the 16th century — partly by Humayun and completed by Sher Shah Suri. It is believed to stand on the site of ancient Indraprastha from the Mahabharata.

What to See: The Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque, the Sher Mandal (octagonal tower), and the lake outside where boating is available.

Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: ₹25 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners)
Time Required: 1.5–2 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 6 km
Nearest Metro: Pragati Maidan Station, Blue Line
Travel Tips: The boating lake adjacent to the fort is a pleasant add-on, especially for families.

6. Lodhi Garden

Overview: A 90-acre urban park in the heart of South Delhi dotted with 15th-century tombs, including those of Sayyid and Lodi dynasty rulers.

What to See: Bara Gumbad, Sheesh Gumbad, Mohammed Shah’s Tomb, and beautifully maintained walking paths.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning year-round; magical in winter months
Entry Fee: Free
Time Required: 1–2 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 6 km
Nearest Metro: Jor Bagh Station, Yellow Line
Travel Tips: Popular with morning joggers and yoga practitioners. A peaceful escape from city chaos.

Traveller Insight: This is genuinely one of the most pleasant spots in Delhi at 7 AM on a winter morning — misty, green, and nearly empty. By 9–10 AM it fills up with walkers and school groups. The tombs scattered through the garden are unlocked and explorable, which makes this feel more like archaeological discovery than a manicured tourist site.

7. Mehrauli Archaeological Park

Overview: A lesser-visited but historically dense area with over 100 monuments from the Delhi Sultanate era, all packed into a single sprawling park near Qutub Minar.

What to See: Balban’s Tomb, Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb, and Metcalfe’s Folly among others.

Best Time to Visit: November to February
Entry Fee: Free
Time Required: 2–3 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 16 km
Nearest Metro: Qutab Minar Station, Yellow Line
Travel Tips: Hire a local guide for context — most monuments here are unmarked and the stories are fascinating.

Traveller Insight: This is the kind of place that separates curious travellers from checklist tourists. Most visitors go straight to Qutub Minar next door and miss an entire walled garden of centuries-old ruins. It’s usually quiet enough that you can explore in near-solitude, which is rare in Delhi.

Spiritual Sites

👉 Golden Triangle Tours from Delhi

8. Jama Masjid

Overview: India’s largest mosque, built by Shah Jahan between 1644 and 1656. It can accommodate over 25,000 worshippers at a time.

What to See: The three imposing domes, two minarets (climbable for panoramic views), and the courtyard which offers stunning architectural perspectives.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or after 2 PM (avoid Friday prayer hours for non-Muslim visitors)
Entry Fee: Free (camera fee applies)
Time Required: 45–90 minutes
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 5 km
Nearest Metro: Chawri Bazaar Station, Yellow Line or Jama Masjid Station, Violet Line
Travel Tips: Dress modestly — shoulders and knees must be covered. Robes are available at the entrance.

Traveller Insight: Climbing the southern minaret gives you one of the best views over Old Delhi — the rooftop cityscape from up there is genuinely stunning and rarely crowded. Friday afternoons are not suitable for non-Muslim visitors; come on any other morning for a calm and contemplative experience.

9. Lotus Temple

Overview: Completed in 1986 and shaped like a blooming lotus flower, this Bahá’í House of Worship is one of the most visited buildings in the world. It is open to people of all faiths.

What to See: The striking white marble architecture, the tranquil interior hall, and the surrounding ponds and gardens.

Best Time to Visit: October to March; visit at golden hour for stunning photography
Entry Fee: Free
Time Required: 1–1.5 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 10 km
Nearest Metro: Kalkaji Mandir Station, Violet & Pink Lines
Travel Tips: Silence is observed inside. Photography inside the prayer hall is not permitted.

Traveller Insight: The crowds here can be significant on weekends and public holidays — queues to enter the prayer hall can stretch 30–45 minutes. Visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday morning and you may walk straight in. The building is most photogenic from the western approach in late afternoon light.

10. Akshardham Temple

Overview: Inaugurated in 2005, this sprawling Hindu temple complex dedicated to Swaminarayan is one of the largest in the world and a feat of traditional craftsmanship.

What to See: The main monument with intricate stone carvings, the boat ride through 10,000 years of Indian history, the IMAX film, and the musical fountain show at night.

Best Time to Visit: October to March; evenings for the fountain show
Entry Fee: Temple entry free; paid tickets for exhibitions
Time Required: 3–4 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 13 km
Nearest Metro: Akshardham Station, Blue Line
Travel Tips: No cameras, phones, or electronic devices allowed inside. Lockers are provided at the entrance.

Traveller Insight: The no-electronics policy surprises many visitors — plan for it. The boat ride is the highlight for most people and worth the ticket. The evening fountain show (Sahaj Anand Water Show) is spectacular and bookable on-site. Arrive by 5 PM to secure seats.

11. ISKCON Temple (Sri Sri Radha Parthasarathi Mandir)

Overview: One of the most prominent ISKCON temples globally, located in East of Kailash. It is an active place of worship and a cultural hub.

What to See: The elaborately decorated shrines, devotional dance performances, and the Vedic cultural centre.

Best Time to Visit: Morning aarti (6 AM) or evening aarti (7 PM) are highlights
Entry Fee: Free
Time Required: 1–2 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 12 km
Nearest Metro: Nehru Place Station, Violet Line
Travel Tips: The prasadam (blessed food) served here is delicious. Check the temple calendar for special festival events.

12. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

Overview: One of Delhi’s most prominent Sikh shrines, this 17th-century gurudwara is associated with the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Har Krishan. The sarovar (sacred pool) is central to the complex.

What to See: The golden dome, the sacred pool, and the langar (community kitchen) serving free meals to hundreds daily.

Best Time to Visit: Any time; it operates 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Time Required: 1 hour
Distance from Connaught Place: Less than 1 km
Nearest Metro: Shivaji Stadium Station, Blue Line
Travel Tips: Cover your head before entering. The langar is open to all — a humbling and heartwarming experience.

Traveller Insight: The langar here feeds thousands of people every day without distinction of religion or background. Sitting in the langar hall and sharing a simple meal is one of the most genuinely moving experiences Delhi offers — and it costs nothing. This is a working place of worship, not a tourist attraction, so approach it with that respect.

13. Birla Mandir (Laxminarayan Temple)

Overview: Built by the industrialist B.D. Birla and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1939, this temple is dedicated to Lord Laxminarayan. It was among the first temples to welcome all castes.

What to See: The ornate temple spires, shrines to various Hindu deities, and well-maintained gardens.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning; also magical during festivals like Diwali and Janmashtami
Entry Fee: Free
Time Required: 45–60 minutes
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 2 km
Nearest Metro: RK Ashram Marg Station, Blue Line
Travel Tips: No photography inside the main sanctum. Nearby Connaught Place makes this easy to combine with city sightseeing.

Markets

14. Chandni Chowk

Overview: One of Asia’s oldest and busiest markets, Chandni Chowk dates to the 17th century Mughal era. It is a sensory overload — in the best way.

What to See: Kinari Bazaar (ribbons and trimmings), Dariba Kalan (jewellery), spice market at Khari Baoli, and legendary street food like jalebi, paratha, and chaat.

Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings; avoid Mondays (many shops closed)
Entry Fee: Free
Time Required: 2–4 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 5 km
Nearest Metro: Chandni Chowk Station, Yellow Line
Travel Tips: Take a rickshaw through the narrow lanes for the authentic experience. Watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas.

Traveller Insight: The lanes off the main street are where the real Chandni Chowk lives — Paranthe Wali Gali for stuffed flatbreads, Gali Guliyan for sweets, and the spice market at Khari Baoli which is one of Asia’s largest. Go on an empty stomach. The street food here is not just cheap — some of these stalls have been operating for over a century.

📸 Image Suggestion: Chandni Chowk busy street market with rickshaws and shops Alt text: “Chandni Chowk Delhi Old Delhi market street food rickshaw”

15. Dilli Haat

Overview: A permanent open-air craft bazaar operated by the Delhi government, bringing artisans and their handicrafts from every Indian state under one roof.

What to See: Regional handicrafts, handlooms, jewellery, pottery, and a rotating food court offering cuisine from across India.

Best Time to Visit: October to February; also vibrant during regional craft fairs
Entry Fee: ₹30 (adults)
Time Required: 2–3 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 8 km
Nearest Metro: INA Station, Yellow & Pink Lines
Travel Tips: Bargaining is expected. There are two locations — INA and Pitampura; the INA one is more popular.

Traveller Insight: The food stalls at Dilli Haat are an underrated way to try regional Indian cuisine — dishes from Nagaland, Rajasthan, Kerala, and Bengal are available in the same square. The craft stalls are best for handloom textiles, wooden toys, and block-printed fabrics. Prices start high but come down significantly with polite negotiation.

16. Sarojini Nagar Market

Overview: Delhi’s most famous budget fashion market, beloved by students and export-surplus shoppers for affordable Western wear, ethnic clothes, and accessories.

Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings to avoid weekend rush
Entry Fee: Free
Time Required: 1.5–2.5 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 7 km
Nearest Metro: INA Station, Yellow & Pink Lines (10-minute walk)
Travel Tips: Bargain hard. Arrive early for the best stock. Bring cash — many vendors don’t accept cards.

17. Khan Market

Overview: Delhi’s most upscale neighbourhood market, known for premium bookshops, cafes, international food options, and boutique stores.

Best Time to Visit: Late morning to afternoon
Entry Fee: Free
Time Required: 1.5–2 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 5 km
Nearest Metro: Khan Market Station, Violet Line
Travel Tips: Great for a relaxed day — grab a coffee at one of the many cafes and browse Full Circle Bookstore, one of Delhi’s finest.

18. Lajpat Nagar Central Market

Overview: A large South Delhi market popular for ethnic wear, sarees, home décor, and street food. It serves both locals and tourists looking for affordable ethnic wear.

Best Time to Visit: Weekday afternoons
Entry Fee: Free
Time Required: 1.5–2 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 8 km
Nearest Metro: Lajpat Nagar Station, Pink Line
Travel Tips: Excellent for buying Indian wedding wear at reasonable prices. Combine with nearby South Delhi sightseeing.

📸 Image Suggestion: Colourful textiles and ethnic wear displayed in a South Delhi market Alt text: “Delhi market ethnic wear textiles Lajpat Nagar shopping”

Modern Attractions

19. National Museum

Overview: India’s largest museum, established in 1949 and located on Janpath. It houses over 200,000 artefacts spanning 5,000 years of Indian history, art, and culture.

What to See: The Indus Valley Civilisation gallery, Mughal-era paintings, ancient jewellery, Buddhist art, and decorative arts collections.

Best Time to Visit: Tuesday to Sunday, morning hours
Entry Fee: ₹20 (Indians), ₹650 (foreigners)
Time Required: 2–4 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 3 km
Nearest Metro: Central Secretariat Station, Yellow & Violet Lines
Travel Tips: Audio guides are available. Plan for at least half a day if you want to explore thoroughly.

Traveller Insight: The museum is large enough that many visitors leave feeling they only scratched the surface. If time is limited, prioritise the Indus Valley gallery (ground floor) and the miniature painting collection. The audio guide is genuinely good and adds meaningful context. Weekday mornings are quiet — the afternoon sees more school groups.

20. National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA)

Overview: Housed in the former Jaipur House near India Gate, NGMA showcases over 14,000 works by Indian and international artists from the mid-19th century to the present day.

What to See: Works by Amrita Sher-Gil, Raja Ravi Varma, and rotating contemporary exhibitions.

Best Time to Visit: Tuesday to Sunday
Entry Fee: ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)
Time Required: 1.5–2.5 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 4 km
Nearest Metro: Central Secretariat Station, Yellow & Violet Lines
Travel Tips: Check for temporary exhibitions which are often world-class. The building itself is architecturally impressive.

21. Nehru Planetarium

Overview: Located within the Teen Murti Estate, this planetarium offers sky shows and exhibitions on space science and astronomy — ideal for families and curious minds.

What to See: Sky shows in Hindi and English, the solar system model, and the Teen Murti Bhavan (former residence of PM Jawaharlal Nehru).

Best Time to Visit: Any time; shows run at specific hours
Entry Fee: ₹70–₹80 per show
Time Required: 1.5–2 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 4 km
Nearest Metro: Race Course Station, Yellow Line (Udyog Bhawan)
Travel Tips: Check show timings in advance online. Combine with a visit to Teen Murti Bhavan for a historical experience.

Hidden Gems

Delhi’s lesser-known side is where the city stops performing for tourists and simply exists. These places reward patience and curiosity.

22. Garden of Five Senses

Overview: An urban park in Saidul Ajaib village in South Delhi, designed to stimulate all five senses through art installations, water features, fragrant gardens, and textured walkways.

What to See: Seasonal flower displays, sculpture installations, bamboo courts, and the herb garden.

Best Time to Visit: February to March (flower season); also good in October
Entry Fee: ₹35 (adults)
Time Required: 1.5–2 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 18 km
Nearest Metro: Saket Station, Yellow Line (10-minute walk)
Travel Tips: A wonderful photography spot. Hosts cultural festivals and food fairs throughout the year.

Traveller Insight: The garden is at its absolute best in February during the flower festival — the fragrant herb section alone is worth the trip. Unlike most Delhi parks, this one has a design philosophy behind it, and you feel it as you move through the different zones.

23. Agrasen ki Baoli

Overview: A 14th-century step-well in the middle of modern Connaught Place, largely unknown to mainstream tourists. The 103-step descent is surreal and atmospheric.

What to See: The dramatic stepped architecture, the dark lower chambers, and the unusual contrast of this ancient structure surrounded by modern office buildings.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning for solitude and good light
Entry Fee: Free
Time Required: 30–45 minutes
Distance from Connaught Place: Less than 1 km (a 5-minute walk)
Nearest Metro: Barakhamba Road Station, Blue Line
Travel Tips: Popular with photographers and urban explorers. The baoli (step-well) is said to have paranormal associations — which only adds to the intrigue.

Traveller Insight: This is arguably Delhi’s best-kept secret given its proximity to Connaught Place — most people walk straight past the entrance without realising it exists. At 8 AM, you can descend all 103 steps in near-total silence. By noon, school groups and photographers arrive. The architectural drama of this place is hard to overstate — it genuinely doesn’t feel like it belongs in the middle of a modern city.

📸 Image Suggestion: Agrasen ki Baoli step-well descending levels with symmetrical arched niches Alt text: “Agrasen ki Baoli Delhi ancient step-well symmetrical arches historic”

24. Sanjay Van

Overview: A 780-acre urban forest in South Delhi, Sanjay Van is an urban wilderness with ancient ruins, birdlife, and walking trails — just minutes from residential colonies.

What to See: Medieval tombs and ruins hidden within the forest, birdwatching spots, and peaceful nature trails.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning from October to March for birdwatching
Entry Fee: Free
Time Required: 1–2 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 13 km
Nearest Metro: Vasant Vihar Station, Yellow Line (15-minute walk)
Travel Tips: Go with a group, especially in early morning. Wear sturdy shoes and carry water.

Traveller Insight: Birdwatchers consistently rate Sanjay Van among Delhi’s top urban birding spots — over 100 species have been recorded here including raptors, owls, and warblers. The medieval tombs scattered through the forest are almost entirely unmarked, which makes wandering through feel like genuine exploration. Best experienced on a winter morning with a flask of chai.

25. Majnu ka Tila (Little Tibet)

Overview: A Tibetan refugee colony on the banks of the Yamuna in North Delhi, Majnu ka Tila is a cultural enclave offering Tibetan food, Buddhist monasteries, and a strong community identity.

What to See: Buddhist temples, thangka painting shops, Tibetan street food including momos and thukpa, and colourful prayer flags.

Best Time to Visit: Morning to afternoon; Losar (Tibetan New Year) festival is spectacular
Entry Fee: Free
Time Required: 1.5–2 hours
Distance from Connaught Place: Approximately 10 km
Nearest Metro: Vidhan Sabha Station, Yellow Line
Travel Tips: Try the butter tea and Tibetan bread. The colony is small and walkable — speak to locals for authentic insights.

Traveller Insight: Majnu ka Tila is one of the very few places in Delhi where you can step almost completely out of the city’s dominant culture into something entirely different. The food is the draw for most visitors — the momos here are consistently ranked among Delhi’s best — but the monastery and the general atmosphere of a tight-knit community make this a genuinely meaningful stop.

📸 Image Suggestion: Prayer flags and Tibetan monastery entrance in Majnu ka Tila, Delhi Alt text: “Majnu ka Tila Delhi Little Tibet Tibetan colony prayer flags monastery”

Delhi After Dark: Where to Go in the Evening

Many of Delhi’s best experiences happen after sunset. India Gate illuminated at night, the Sound & Light Show at Red Fort, Akshardham’s fountain display, and the rooftop restaurants of Hauz Khas Village all offer a side of the city that daylight visitors miss entirely. For a detailed breakdown, see our guide to places to visit in Delhi at night, including which monuments are open for evening visits and where to find the city’s best late-night street food.

Day Trips: Going Beyond the City

Delhi is an excellent base for exploring some of North India’s finest destinations. Agra (Taj Mahal), Jaipur, Rishikesh, Mathura, and Vrindavan are all within a half-day to full-day drive. If you have 5 or more days in Delhi, combining the city with at least one day trip significantly enriches the overall experience. For a curated list, see our guide to places to visit near Delhi within 300 km.

Travel Tips for Visitors

Getting Around: Delhi has an excellent Metro network covering most major attractions. Autos and cabs via apps like Ola and Uber are reliable and affordable. The Metro is the fastest option during peak hours (8–10 AM and 5–8 PM) when road traffic is severe.

Safety: Delhi is generally safe for tourists. Keep your belongings secure in crowded markets. Use prepaid taxis from the airport.

Dress Code: Modest clothing is required at religious sites — cover shoulders and knees. Carrying a light scarf or stole is practical for temples and mosques where it can double as a head covering.

Money: Most major sites accept UPI/card payments, but carrying cash is advisable for smaller markets and street food. ATMs are widely available near Metro stations.

Language: Hindi is widely spoken; English is understood in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.

Food: Try the street food — it is safe at popular, busy stalls with high turnover. North Indian staples like butter chicken, dal makhani, and chole bhature are must-tries. For vegetarians, Delhi is one of India’s most accommodating cities.

Accommodation: South Delhi (Hauz Khas, Saket) and Central Delhi (Connaught Place) offer the best range of hotels from budget to luxury, with easy Metro access to most attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the best time to visit Delhi?

A: October to March is the best time. The weather is pleasant, most festivals fall in this period, and all major tourist sites are fully accessible.

Q: How many days are enough to explore Delhi?

A: 3 to 5 days is sufficient to cover the major highlights. For a more thorough experience including hidden gems, plan for 7 days.

Q: Is Delhi safe for solo travellers and tourists?

A: Yes, Delhi is largely safe for tourists. Use official transport, stay in well-reviewed accommodations, and exercise standard urban safety precautions – especially in crowded markets.

Q: What are the must-see places in Delhi for first-time visitors?

A: Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, India Gate, Lotus Temple, Jama Masjid, and Chandni Chowk are essential stops for any first-time visitor.

Q: Is Delhi Metro the best way to get around?

A: Yes. The Delhi Metro is fast, affordable, air-conditioned, and connects nearly all major tourist attractions. Combined with app-based cabs, it makes navigating the city straightforward.

Q: Which area is best for shopping in Delhi?

A: Chandni Chowk for traditional crafts and spices, Sarojini Nagar for budget fashion, Dilli Haat for handicrafts from across India, and Khan Market for premium retail and books.

Q: Are there free attractions in Delhi?

A: Many. India Gate, Lodhi Garden, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Agrasen ki Baoli, Sanjay Van, Majnu ka Tila, and Birla Mandir are all free to enter.

Q: What is Delhi famous for?

A: Delhi is famous for its Mughal architecture, including the Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb, its diverse street food scene, centuries-old bazaars like Chandni Chowk, and its role as India’s political and cultural capital.

Q: What are the best places in Delhi for couples?

A: Humayun’s Tomb at sunset, Lodhi Garden in the morning, Garden of Five Senses, Agrasen ki Baoli, and a late evening at India Gate are all excellent choices for couples. For more ideas, the guide to best places to visit in Delhi for couples covers dining, nightlife, and scenic spots.

Q: Are there good day trips from Delhi?

A: Yes. Agra (Taj Mahal) is about 3–4 hours by road or 2 hours by train. Jaipur is roughly 5 hours. Rishikesh, Mathura, and Vrindavan are also popular day-trip or overnight destinations.

Q: Which Delhi monuments are worth visiting at night?

A: India Gate is beautifully lit and open 24 hours. The Red Fort Sound & Light Show runs in the evening. Akshardham’s fountain show is a highlight after dark. Jama Masjid is also photogenic when lit at night.

Conclusion

Delhi is a city that rewards the curious. Every lane has a story, every monument carries centuries of meaning, and every meal is a revelation. Whether you spend your days exploring Mughal ruins, negotiating in ancient markets, meditating in a lotus-shaped temple, or tasting your way through Chandni Chowk – Delhi will challenge your expectations and exceed them.

Start with the classics. Then go deeper. The Delhi that most visitors never see – the hidden baolis, the forest ruins, the Tibetan colonies – is where the city truly comes alive. And if this guide has done its job, you’ll leave with a list of places to return to, not just places you’ve crossed off.

Plan your trip thoughtfully, travel at your own pace, and let Delhi unfold on its own extraordinary terms.

Last updated: February 2026. Entry fees and timings may vary — verify directly with sites before visiting.

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