Things are changing rapidly in Delhi – this modern metropolis is now the capital of the world’s most populous country, has a modern metro system and an increasingly cosmopolitan feel – but Delhi has always cherished its glorious past.
You don’t have to travel far to discover the fascinating history of Delhi, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, but there’s plenty more hidden away to experience in this diverse and fascinating city.
Start exploring Delhi with this list.
Impressive sandstone arches at Delhi’s impressive Red Fort © Mukul Banerjee Photography / Getty Images
1. Explore the Red Fort
One of India’s most famous leaders, Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, moved the capital from Agra to Delhi in 1648, the same year he completed construction of his wife’s mausoleum, the Taj Mahal. He named the city Shahjahanabad and built the magnificent Red Fort and nearby Jama Masjid. The Red Fort was a key battlefield against the British in the First War of Independence in 1857 (it still bears bullet holes). After the war, the British destroyed two-thirds of the Red Fort’s buildings and built Victorian barracks on the site, which have now been repurposed as a modern museum.
Side Trip: Just outside the Red Fort is Chandni Chowk, a prime hunting ground for Delhi’s street food, also known as dili ka chaat. Try Delhi specialities like dahi bhalla (deep-fried lentil balls served with yogurt and chutney) and chole bhatur (a spicy chickpea breakfast favorite served with fluffy fried bread with light paneer). Don’t miss the photogenic Spice Market nearby.
2. Take a Street Art Tour at Lodhi Colony
Lodhi Colony was once a drab suburb of blocky British-era housing estates, but today its high walls are bursting with colour. Murals by over 50 Indian and international artists from Mexico, France, Canada and Singapore adorn the buildings with stunning artworks. A project of the St+art India Foundation, many of the pieces are inspired by Indian culture and traditions.
Planning tip: Refuel at the excellent Carnatic Café, which specialises in Karnataka cuisine.
See the 112-foot tall Hanuman statue in Delhi’s Karol Bagh area © SMIT SANDHIR / Getty Images
3. Slip into the devil’s mouth at Jhandewalan Hanuman Temple
Not far from the backpacker hub of Paharganj, Jhandewalan Hanuman Temple, with its 112-foot-tall statue of Hanuman, towers over the Karol Bagh landscape. Enter the temple through the demon’s mouth and you’ll find a man-made cave filled with life-sized sculptures of deities, including one of a deity spurting the blood of a decapitated Kali.
Get lost in Delhi’s colourful shopping © Finn stock / Shutterstock
4. Shop the best of India, all on one street
Being a capital city has its perks: Delhi brings together the best of India, from food to culture to arts and crafts. Along Baba Karak Singh Marg, which stretches from the heart of Connaught Place, you can shop for souvenirs from all over India in one place.
Here, you’ll find a half-kilometre-long row of treasure-filled state emporiums displaying the work of artisans from every state in India.A few blocks east, the government-run Central Cottage Industries Emporium is a multi-storey treasure trove of handicrafts from all over India at fixed prices.
Side trip: While you’re in the area, stop by the quirky pink-and-white Jantar Mantar, built by Maharaja Jai Singh II in 1725. It has a giant sundial that resembles a stairway to heaven and a world clock in the shape of an upside-down heart.
5. Consult an astrologer
Indian Vedic astrology, also known as Jyotish, has been practiced in India for about 3000 years. Though there are many skeptics, astrologers are deeply rooted in Indian culture. South Delhi is the best place to consult an astrologer.
The best way to choose an astrologer is to check their online reviews and training. Generally, the better the reputation, the more you will pay. Rates start at ₹1000, but ₹3000-6000 for an hour with an English-speaking astrologer is typical.
Spot the similarities between Humayun’s Tomb and the later Taj Mahal © Ultimate Travel Photos / Shutterstock
6. Explore Humayun’s Tomb
A UNESCO World Heritage Site of epic proportions, Emperor Humayun’s Tomb was built in 1570 by blending traditional Mughal architecture with the architectural traditions of Humayun’s Persian-born wife, a combination that was so successful it was used as the model for the Taj Mahal.
Side trip: Within walking distance of Humayun’s Tomb are two of Delhi’s standout attractions. Hazrat Nizamuddin’s Tomb offers one of Delhi’s most mystical experiences, with hundreds of devotees coming daily to pay homage to the Sufi saint. Nearby is Sunder Nursery, a beautiful, lovingly restored historic park where you can see even more historic buildings.
7. Visit the OTT Temple at Akshardham
A visit to this modern temple on the east side of the river is like a theme park. Built in 2005, its “exhibitions” include a boat tour through 10,000 years of Indian history, a walk-through animatronic experience and a sound-and-light show. But the real marvel is the temple itself, with its intricate reliefs traditionally carved into pale red sandstone and featuring 20,000 figures of gods, saints and mythical creatures.
Pick out gifts at the artsy shops of Hauz Khas village © Almazoff / Shutterstock
8. Explore Delhi’s bohemian village, HKV
Indie India comes together at South Delhi’s Haus Khas Village, an artsy little enclave of cool cafes, live music venues, tattoo parlours and quirky fashion, located just steps from the ruins of Haus Khas. Browse for records, listen to live music or play your own at Gypsy Café, a shoes-off, cushion-on-the-floor spot where musicians congregate and jam.
9. Visit Qutub Minar, India’s first mosque
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Qutub Minar was first built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak when he entered the city and defeated the Tomar Rajputs in 1193. Built with stones from the older fort and temple, the minaret clearly signaled the arrival of a new regime in the city. From this time until the arrival of the British, Muslims ruled Delhi. The complex also contains India’s first mosque, the Quwat-ul-Islam Masjid.
Side trip: Visit the nearby Mehrauli Archaeological Park, where 440 monuments dating back to the 10th century are scattered amongst lush forest.
Following the path to the Baha’i House of Worship, New Delhi © saiko3p / Shutterstock
10. Lotus flowers bring tranquility
An architectural marvel, the Baha’i House of Worship is shaped like a lotus flower with 27 delicate white marble petals. The temple was built to bring together different faiths. Visitors can pray or meditate quietly according to their faith, and there is an almost palpable sense of serenity in the space.
This article was first published on August 11, 2019 and updated on July 23, 2024.
