Steeped in rich history yet packed with contemporary life, Delhi—the capital of India—is one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the country. From historical monuments to modern marvels and contemporary lifestyle, the city presents the perfect agglomeration of ancient and modern charms. Are you a history buff? A foodie? A shopaholic? Or, a cultural enthusiast? The city will never disappoint you. It has something to meet the expectations of every tourist. Exploring different places, monuments, and lively bazaars will provide you with an extraordinary experience of a lifetime. This comprehensive Delhi travel guide will let you know the key information about top attractions, important places of tourist interest, popular shopping places, and practical travel tips for exploring the city in the most enjoyable way. Let’s dive into the Delhi destination guide now.
Top Heritage Sites and Top Attractions to See in Delhi
Your Delhi sightseeing tour is incomplete without exploring historical and heritage attractions. If you are a history buff and cultural enthusiast, exploring historical monuments, architectural marvels, and heritage sites in Delhi, you have many options. Let’s have a look at the top attractions in Delhi that proudly showcase the heritage and rich history of the city and the country as well.
Red Fort (Lal Qila)
Red Fort, also called Lal Qila, is a historic fort in Delhi. Constructed in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan who also built the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, the fort is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Coming to its history, the fort served as the primary residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years.
The construction of the fort was commissioned in 1639 and it took eighty years to be completed. The iconic fort is called Red Fort or Lal Qila because of its construction in red sandstone. The architecture is impressive and combines Persianate palace architecture with Indian traditions. The credit for this stunning architecture goes to the then-architect Ustad Ahmed Lahori.
The Red Fort complex is a must-visit attraction in the city because of its architectural brilliance and historical significance. The major attractions that you can see in the fort complex are Lahori Gate.
Because of its architectural brilliance and historical significance, the Red Fort has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The main attractions you can explore in the complex are Diwan-I-Aam, Diwan-I-Khas, Moti Masjid, Hira Mahal, Baoli, Hammam, Khas Mahal, Rang Mahal, and Naubut Khana.
Today, the Red Fort is one of India’s most preserved heritage sites. Also, it is a place from where the Prime Minister of India hoists Indian tri-color flags every year on 15th August—the Independence Day of India.
Qutub Minar
Standing tall at 72.5 meters (238 feet), the Qutub Minar is not just the tallest brick minaret in the world. It is a testament to the rich Indian heritage. Built between 1199 and 1220 by Qutb ud-Din Aibak and his son-in-law Iltutmish, it’s a masterpiece of Indo-Islamic architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site declared in 1993. The structure of this world-famous minaret comprises five storeys. Storeys are revetted with semicircular pilasters. You can also notice Islamic calligraphy on the lowest storey (basement storey).
Not only the Qutub Minar, but the other attractions in the Qutub Complex are also popular among tourists. Other attractions to see here include the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque known for its intricate stone carvings, the Iron Pillar which is one of the world's foremost metallurgical curiosities, the Tomb of Shams al-Din Iltutmish, the Tomb of Imam Zamin (a 16th-century tomb), Ala-ud-din Khilji's Tomb and Madrasa, and Alai Minar. If you want to experience the ancient charm of the Sultanate of Delhi, you must not forgo visiting the Qutub Minar and its surrounding areas.
The charm of the Qutub Minar Complex has also lured film industries. Several movie scenes or songs are shot here.
Humayun’s Tomb
The Humayun’s Tomb is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and Mughal monument in Delhi. The mausoleum monument was built by Humayun’s first wife and chief consort Empress Bega Begum (Haji Begum) in 1565-1572, at a cost of 1.5 million rupees. She chose Mirak Mirza Ghiyas and his son, Sayyid Muhammad, Persian architects, to ensure a masterpiece of architecture to remember the emperor forever. Interestingly, the complex is also the place where the empress was also buried.
A precursor to the Taj Mahal, the tomb is placed in the center of Charbagh, a Persian-style garden covering an area of 30 acres (120,000 m2). It was the first garden tomb with a quadrilateral layout. Also, called the paradise garden, the layout is divided into four squares, and each square is further divided into 8 smaller gardens. You will have a wonderful view of 32 miniature gardens with the architecturally beautiful tomb in the center.
Exploring the complex will provide you with a great treat for your eyes. You will see a perfect blend of nature, tranquility, and architectural brilliance. Walking through the paved walkways, seeing the beautiful view, and breathing in the fresh air; it’s a heavenly experience.
The complex is also the site for the tombs of many other Mughals. Other attractions and tombs in the complex are Bega Begum Tomb, Bu Halima's Tomb and Garden, Barber Tomb (Nai Ka Gumbad), Chillah Nizamuddin Aulia, Nila Gumbad, and Shahzada Dara Shikoh Tomb. In a few words, the Humayun’s Tomb has much to offer history buffs, cultural enthusiasts, and architecture lovers. The tomb was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.
Jama Masjid
Situated in the Mughal capital of Shahjahanabad (today Old Delhi), Jama Masjid is also a great place to visit in Delhi. It is just situated outside the Red Fort. So, you can easily make a visit to this historical mosque. Counted among one of the largest mosques in India, the mosque complex was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1644 and 1656.
The imperial mosque is not only known for its religious and historical significance but also for its architectural brilliance. The massive domes, towering minarets, and vast courtyard are special features of the mosque complex. The architecture of the Jama Masjid in Delhi is highly influenced by the Jama Masjid in Fatehpur Sikri and the Jama Masjid in Agra. While the exterior features such as the facades and courtyard are influenced by the Jama Masjid in Fatehpur Sikri, the interior designs of the mosque closely resemble the Agra Jama Masjid.
You can climb the southern minaret for a small fee to see the panoramic views of the bustling streets of Old Delhi including the Red Fort and the very famous Chandani Chowk.
India Gate
How one can say they have visited Delhi without seeing the India Gate? Located near the Kartavya Path (formerly called Rajpath), the India Gate in Delhi is the city’s pride and a war memorial monument. The history behind this iconic structure is a mix of sorrow and pride for our brave soldiers. It is dedicated to 74,187 soldiers of the Indian Army who laid down their lives for the sake of the country during the First World War.
Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and surrounded by sprawling lawns, the India Gate has been a popular spot for locals and tourists as well. The adjacent Children's Park is another attraction where families with their kids cherish family time without worrying much about the city’s hassle.
King-Emperor George V statue, Amar Jawan Jyoti, and the recently added Subhas Chandra Bose statue and National War Memorial are the main attractions that you will see during the India Gate visit.
Hauz Khas Village
Hauz Khas is one of those places in South Delhi that’s been around forever—literally, since medieval times. The neighborhood has this cool mix of old and new, where you’ve got Islamic architecture blending with sleek, modern spots. Hauz Khas Village (or HKV, as the locals call it) is where the magic happens: it’s got an amazing nightlife scene, with tons of cafes, bars, pubs, and even art galleries and boutiques popping up everywhere.
Right in the middle of it all is the Hauz Khas Fort, which is pretty cool to check out. There's a reservoir, a well-kept park with walking paths, and a bunch of domed tombs scattered around. These are the resting places of royals from the 14th to 16th centuries, including the tomb of Feroz Shah Tughlaq, a big deal from the Tughlaq dynasty, located at the end of the road.
The vibe here is just infectious—there’s always something going on, especially on weekends. You’ll find live events at the cafes, everything from stand-up comedy to live jazz sessions. Even though the place has been updated and modernized over time, it still holds on to that old-school charm. It’s one of those spots that you don’t need to be a Delhiite to fall in love with—you’ll eventually find your way here, because it’s simply the place to be in the city.
Lodi Gardens
Lodhi Gardens in Delhi is one of those places you’d never expect to be so chill in the middle of such a busy city. It’s got these big open spaces, ponds, and some pretty old tombs from the 1400s. The tomb of Sikander Lodhi is probably the most famous one, and there are a few others scattered around. It’s a spot where locals come to jog, walk, or just hang out on the grass. You’ll see people doing yoga or just enjoying the quiet. It’s not just about the history, though—it’s a nice place to kick back, have a picnic, or escape the usual noise of Delhi for a bit.
Safdarjung's Tomb
If you want a quitter spot to check out on your Delhi tour, Safdarjung’s Tomb is definitely worth a visit. It is often called the Mini Taj Mahal, but way less crowded. Tucked in South Delhi, surrounded by embassies, and close to places like the famous Khan Market and Lodhi Gardens—the Tomb of Safdarjung in New Delhi gives a more peaceful vibe to tourists. The tomb itself is really pretty with beautiful marble work and a child garden to walk around. So, do not miss to visit this beautiful and overlooked monument when you are on a Delhi sightseeing tour.
If you're ever in Delhi and want a quieter spot to check out, Safdarjung’s Tomb is definitely worth a visit. It’s kind of like a mini Taj Mahal, but way less crowded. It’s tucked in the south of the city, surrounded by embassies, and close to places like Khan Market and Lodhi Garden. It doesn’t get as much attention as some of the more famous sites, which is actually nice—gives it a more peaceful vibe. The tomb itself is really pretty, with beautiful marble work and a chill garden to walk around. It’s a great place to spend some time if you’re looking for a break from the usual busy tourist spots.
Akshardham Temple
Akshardham Temple (also called Swaminarayan Akshardham) is an internationally famous Hindu temple and spiritual-cultural campus in Delhi. It is one of the finest examples of modern architecture and lures tourists from all around the world. The massive complex, stunning architecture, lush green gardens, and more importantly spiritual vibes make this place a not-to-miss place to visit on a Delhi tour. The temple located on the campus is itself super impressive. The detailed carvings of Hindu Gods, animals, and stories from old myths will keep you mesmerized.
But visiting Akshardham is not just about the temple. The entire complex is worth visiting. There is an amazing musical water fountain show in the evening that will introduce you to Hindu culture and spiritual stories. That’s not all. You will find some great exhibitions here that dive into the life of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. Also, this will give you a better idea of the teachings behind the place. Next, the gardens are peaceful and the whole thing just feels special. In short, Akshardham in Delhi is a must-visit attraction on the Delhi city tour.
Jantar Mantar
Built in 1724 by Maharaja Jai Singh II, it’s a fascinating piece of history with some pretty advanced astronomical instruments from the 18th century. But just to set the record straight, it’s not a UNESCO World Heritage site. That distinction is actually something the Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is going for, and it’s in better shape than the one in Delhi. Jai Singh II also built similar observatories in places like Ujjain, Varanasi, and Mathura, all highlighting India’s rich history in astronomy. However, not all of them have earned World Heritage status – yet!
Purana Qila
Your Delhi tour will not be complete without visiting Purana Qila, especially if you are a history buff. It’s a timeless monument and one of the oldest forts in the city. Built by the second Mughal Emperor Humayun and Surid Sultan Sher Shah Suri, the fortress stress shows some masterpiece elements of ancient architecture. Surrounded by beautiful lawns and flowering plantations, the fort complex encompasses several structures. Prominent ones include Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque, Sher Mandal, Humayun’s Gate, Bada Darwaza, Talaqi Darwaza, Khairul Manzil, and Hammam Khana (Bath House). Lake outside the Purana Qila is another attraction that you should not miss. It will allow you to see the historical walls of the fort complex along with some delightful birdwatching experiences. If you are an animal lover, you can also make your way to the nearby Delhi Zoo. The zoo is adjacent to the South Gate of the fort.
Lotus Temple
Not only for ancient monuments and architectural wonders, Delhi is also known for some modern architecture. Lotus Temple, the Bahai House of Worship, is one of them. Beautiful gardens with colorful flowers, long-lush-green lawns, water pools, fountains, and the blooming-lotus-shaped, Lotus Temple—the delight of visiting this modern wonder is beyond description.
The Lotus Temple is made of 27 free-standing marble-clad petals. These petals are arranged in clusters of three. Together, they form nine sides. There are nine doors that open onto a central hall. The central hall has a height of slightly over 34 meters. It can hold up to 1,300 people. Inside the hall, you will find the ultimate silence. Outside the complex, you can explore beautiful gardens and enjoy some photographs in the background of the temple and greenery.
Rajghat Ghat
Rajghat in Delhi has also been one of the most sought-after tourist attractions in Delhi. After all, it is the resting place of the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi. Situated amid the beautiful lush green garden complex, it is a memorial site where Gandhi Ji was cremated. The memorial is placed a square platform made using black marble. You will see “Hey Ram” scribed on the platform because these were the last words uttered by Gandhi Ji.
Other Attractions
The list of tourist attractions in Delhi does not end here. The list is long. Here are some other attractions that you can include on your Delhi sightseeing tour.
- Mehrauli Archaeological Park
- National Gallery of Modern Art
- Rashtrapati Bhavan
- Sansad Bhavan
- Connaught Place
Places of Worship in Delhi
- Laxminarayan Temple (Hinduism)
- ISKCON Temple (Hinduism)
- Chhatarpur Temple (Hinduism)
- Kalka Ji Mandir (Hinduism)
- Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir (Jainism)
- Shri Atma Vallabh Jain Smarak (Jainism)
- Gurdwara Bangla Sahib (Sikhism)
- Jama Masjid (Islam)
- Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah (Islam)
- Fatehpuri Masjid (Islam)
- Dargah Qutub Sahib (Islam)
- Khirki Masjid (Islam)
- Cathedral Church of Redemption (Christianity)
- St. James' Church (Christianity)
Museums in Delhi
- Ghalib Museum: Based on the life and work of Urdu poet Mirza Ghalib
- Indian War Memorial Museum: Best place to learn Indian Armed Forces History
- Pradhan Mantri Sangrahalaya: Based on the life and contribution of Indian Prime Ministers
- National Museum: Showcases Indian history & art
- National Rail Museum: Collection of vintage trains and modern locomotives
- National Museum of Natural History: Based on India's diverse flora & fauna
- National Gallery of Modern Art: Modern & contemporary Indian art
- National Gandhi Museum: Mahatma Gandhi's life & teachings
- National Handicrafts & Handlooms Museum: Collection of a wide range of Indian handicrafts and handlooms
- National Science Centre: Science & technology exhibits
- Red Fort Archaeological Museum: Collection of Mughal-era artifacts
- Shankar's International Dolls Museum: Dolls from around the world
- Sulabh International Museum of Toilets: A unique museum dedicated to the history and evolution of toilets.
Top Shopping Areas and Markets in Delhi
- Chandani Chowk
- Dilli Haat
- Sarojini Nagar Market
- Khan Market
- Connaught Place
- DLF Emporio
- Janpath Market
- Karol Bagh Market
- Dilli Haat INA
- Lajpat Nagar Market
How to Reach Delhi
Reaching Delhi—the national capital of India—is easy. It is accessible from all around the world by flights. Domestically it is well-connected with an extensive network of railways and roads. Here is a brief information on how you can reach Delhi by road, train, and air.
By Road: Delhi is well-connected by a network of highways and expressways. Thus, you can access from many parts of India. You can drive to Delhi or take a bus from nearby cities. Major roads like the Delhi-Agra Expressway and National Highway 44 connect Delhi to other key cities like Agra, Jaipur, and Chandigarh.
By Air: Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI Airport) is the main airport serving Delhi. It is one of the busiest airports in India. It offers both domestic and international flights. Many airlines operate regular flights to and from Delhi. Thus, you can easily reach from any part of the world.
By Train: Delhi is a major railway hub, with several stations like New Delhi Railway Station, Hazrat Nizamuddin, and Old Delhi Railway Station. It is well-connected by train to almost every major city in India. You can travel to Delhi by express, superfast, or even local trains, depending on your location and convenience.
