Delhi: A Cultural and Historical Blend in India’s Capital
Delhi, the vibrant capital of India, is a captivating fusion of ancient heritage, rich culture, and modern marvels. Every corner of the city tells a story — whether it’s the majestic Red Fort, the regal Humayun’s Tomb, or the bustling bazaars of Chandni Chowk. Renowned for its deep historical significance, Delhi offers travelers a treasure trove of attractions and experiences. From exploring iconic monuments to enjoying unique cultural activities, there’s no shortage of things to do in Delhi.
Top Tourist Attractions in Delhi
1. Red Fort (Lal Qila)
A symbol of India’s royal heritage and architectural brilliance, the Red Fort was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1638. Made from red sandstone, this massive fort served as the main residence of Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. Its majestic walls, intricate carvings, and landscaped gardens reflect a blend of Persian, Timurid, and Indian architectural styles.
Location: Netaji Subhash Marg, Chandni Chowk, Delhi
Timings: 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM; Closed on Mondays
Entry Fee: ₹35 for Indian citizens; ₹500 for foreign tourists
2. Qutub Minar
Standing 73 meters tall, Qutub Minar is an impressive minaret located in the Qutub Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction began in 1192 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak and was completed by his successors. This five-storey tower is adorned with intricate carvings and Quranic inscriptions, representing the triumph of Muslim rule in India and showcasing medieval architectural craftsmanship.
Location: Mehrauli, Delhi
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Open daily
Entry Fee: ₹35 for Indian citizens; ₹550 for foreign tourists
3. Humayun‘s Tomb
Often regarded as the precursor to the Taj Mahal, Humayun’s Tomb is the mausoleum of Mughal Emperor Humayun, built in 1570 by his widow, Empress Bega Begum. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, featuring Persian-style gardens, grand arches, and a distinct double dome. It is set in a Charbagh (four-part) garden symbolizing paradise.
Location: Mathura Road, Nizamuddin East, Delhi
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset; Open daily
Entry Fee: ₹30 for Indian citizens; ₹500 for foreign tourists
4. India Gate
India Gate is one of Delhi’s most iconic landmarks, built in memory of 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. Standing 42 meters tall, it was designed by British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens and completed in 1931. Beneath the arch burns the eternal flame of Amar Jawan Jyoti, honoring unknown soldiers. Surrounded by lush green lawns along Rajpath, it is a popular spot for evening strolls and gatherings.
Location: Rajpath, Delhi
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
5. Lotus Temple
The Lotus Temple, officially known as the Bahá’í House of Worship, is famed for its stunning lotus-flower-like design. Built in 1986 from white marble, the temple has 27 petal-like structures forming nine sides. Open to people of all religions, it offers a serene space for meditation and spiritual reflection. Its peaceful ambiance and unique architecture make it a must-visit in South Delhi.
Location: Kalkaji, Delhi
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Closed on Mondays
Entry Fee: Free
6. Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1650 and 1656. Its vast courtyard can accommodate over 25,000 worshippers. The mosque features three grand gates and two towering minarets (40 meters high). Constructed from red sandstone and white marble, Jama Masjid is both a religious hub and a stunning example of Mughal architecture.
Location: Chandni Chowk, Delhi
Timings: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 6:30 PM; Open daily
Entry Fee: Free entry; ₹300 for photography
7. Akshardham Temple
Inaugurated in 2005, Akshardham Temple is a sprawling spiritual and cultural complex that showcases India’s heritage, traditions, and devotion. The grand central temple, made from pink sandstone and white marble, features intricate carvings of deities, flora, and animals. The complex also offers interactive exhibitions, a cultural boat ride, and an impressive evening musical fountain show, making it one of the most vibrant experiences in Delhi.
Location: Noida Mor, Delhi
Timings: 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM; Closed on Mondays
Entry Fee: Free (Separate charges apply for exhibitions and shows)
8. Chandni Chowk
Established in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, Chandni Chowk remains one of Delhi’s oldest and most vibrant markets. Located in the heart of Old Delhi, it is a maze of narrow lanes filled with bustling shops selling everything from spices and fabrics to jewelry and electronics. For food lovers, it’s a paradise — offering mouthwatering street food like parathas, jalebi, kebabs, and many traditional Delhi delicacies.
Location: Old Delhi
Timings: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM; Closed on Sundays
Entry Fee: Free
9. Purana Qila (Old Fort)
Purana Qila, or Old Fort, is one of Delhi’s oldest surviving structures, dating back to the 16th century. Initially constructed by Mughal Emperor Humayun and later expanded by Sher Shah Suri, the fort beautifully blends Afghan and Mughal architectural styles. The complex includes the Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque, Sher Mandal, and a serene boating area. The on-site archaeological museum offers a deeper look into Delhi’s layered past.
Location: Mathura Road, near Delhi Zoo
Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Open daily
Entry Fee: ₹20 (Indian citizens); ₹200 (foreign tourists)
10. National Museum
The National Museum in Delhi presents a fascinating journey through over 5,000 years of India’s cultural history. The museum features artifacts from the Indus Valley Civilization, exquisite Mughal miniatures, ancient sculptures, and rare relics from across the country. Special exhibitions and audio guides enhance the visitor experience, making it ideal for history and culture enthusiasts.
Location: Janpath, Delhi
Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Closed on Mondays
Entry Fee: ₹20 (Indian citizens); ₹650 (foreign tourists)
11. Lodhi Garden
Spread over 90 acres, Lodhi Garden is a peaceful green retreat in Delhi, housing the magnificent tombs and ruins from the Lodhi and Sayyid dynasties. The tombs of Sikandar Lodi and Muhammad Shah are major attractions. Ideal for morning walks, yoga, or a relaxing picnic, the garden offers a blend of natural beauty and historic charm.
Location: Lodhi Road, Delhi
Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:30 PM; Open daily
Entry Fee: Free
12. Hauz Khas Village
Hauz Khas Village is a unique blend of history and modern culture. At its center lies the Hauz Khas Complex, featuring a 14th-century Islamic seminary, mosque, the tomb of Firoz Shah Tughlaq, and a serene water reservoir. Surrounding this heritage site are trendy cafés, art galleries, boutiques, and bars, making the area especially lively in the evenings and a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
Location: Hauz Khas, South Delhi
Timings: 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM; Open daily
Entry Fee: Free
13. Jantar Mantar
Built in 1724 by Maharaja Jai Singh II, Jantar Mantar is an ancient astronomical observatory. It houses 13 large instruments designed for tracking time, observing celestial bodies, and predicting eclipses. This architectural marvel reflects India’s rich legacy in astronomy and scientific advancement.
Location: Sansad Marg, Connaught Place, Delhi
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Open daily
Entry Fee: ₹15 (Indian citizens); ₹200 (foreign tourists)
14. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
One of the most revered Sikh religious sites in Delhi, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is known for its golden dome and peaceful sarovar (holy pond). Open to people of all faiths, the Gurudwara serves free langar (community meals) daily, embodying the Sikh principles of equality and selfless service. Amid the city’s chaos, this sacred space offers visitors a calming and spiritual retreat.
Location: Ashoka Road, Connaught Place, Delhi
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
15. Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Palace)
Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India, is an architectural marvel from the British colonial era. Visitors can explore its grand halls, the beautifully maintained Mughal Gardens, and vast grounds through pre-booked guided tours. It offers a glimpse into India’s political legacy, administrative framework, and historical grandeur.
Location: Rajpath, Delhi
Timings: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on selected days (based on availability)
Entry Fee: ₹50 per person (advance online booking required)
16. National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA)
Located near India Gate, the National Gallery of Modern Art showcases an extensive collection of modern and contemporary Indian art. Visitors can admire the works of iconic artists like Raja Ravi Varma, Amrita Sher-Gil, and many others. Regular exhibitions and workshops enhance the cultural experience for art enthusiasts.
Timings: 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM; Closed on Mondays
Entry Fee: ₹20 (Indian citizens); ₹500 (foreign tourists)
17. Agrasen ki Baoli
Tucked away in the heart of Delhi, Agrasen ki Baoli is a historical stepwell believed to date back to the Mahabharata era and later rebuilt by Maharaja Agrasen. With its 108 stone steps and hauntingly beautiful architecture, it is a favorite spot for history buffs and photographers.
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM; Open daily
Entry Fee: Free
18. Sanskriti Museums (Museum of Culture and Craft)
Located in Anandgram, the Sanskriti Museums celebrate India’s cultural and artistic legacy. Exhibits include traditional crafts, textiles, terracotta works, and folk art. Regular workshops and cultural events make it a must-visit for lovers of Indian heritage and handmade crafts.
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
19. Yamuna Biodiversity Park
Situated in North Delhi, the Yamuna Biodiversity Park is a restored ecological zone along the Yamuna floodplains. It offers a refreshing green escape with opportunities for birdwatching, nature walks, and environmental education — perfect for those seeking peace away from the city’s hustle.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
20. Dilli Haat (INA Market)
Dilli Haat is an open-air craft bazaar where artisans from across India showcase and sell their handmade products, including textiles, jewelry, pottery, and decor items. Alongside, you can sample delicious dishes from different Indian states, making it a colorful fusion of crafts, cuisine, and culture.
Location: INA Market, Delhi
Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹30 (Indians); ₹100 (foreign tourists)
21. Tughlaqabad Fort
Built in the 14th century by Sultan Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq, Tughlaqabad Fort is an expansive ruined fort that once symbolized strength and ambition. Its rugged charm, historical aura, and relative seclusion make it an ideal destination for explorers and history enthusiasts seeking offbeat experiences.
Location: Tughlaqabad, Delhi
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Travel Tip: Dilli Haat hosts rotating stalls from different Indian states, so each visit can offer something new!
