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These places to visit in Old Delhi is the historic centre, located at the centre of India’s capital. The area was founded in the 17th century by Shah Jahan. The Tamurid-Gurkhani period is narrated through its narrow streets, busy markets, and architecture that chronicle the painstaking effort put into making old Delhi. If you are fascinated with history, love food or are an adventurous spirit, Old Delhi will always be waiting for you to see its ageless beauty which has attracted millions of people over the years.
10 Places To Visit In Old Delhi
Here is a top-picked list of the most popular places in Old Delhi to make your trip memorable.
1. Red Fort
Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons
The Red Fort is a UNESCO world heritage site, symbolizing the rich heritage and glory of India. Emperor Shah Jahan built it in 1638 using red sandstone. The Fort served as the main residence of Mughal emperors. The fort contains beautiful pavilions, a museum with Mughal artefacts, and also Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas which were places where emperors held court. The fort has a vast historical and architectural area enveloped by towering walls that measure 2 kilometres around the perimeter.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Entry Fees: ₹50 for Indian nationals / ₹600 foreign nationals
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Station: Chandni Chowk (Yellow Line Metro)
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Chandni Chowk For A Quintessential Delhi Experience
2. Chandni Chowk
Photo: Slyronit / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Chandni Chowk, known to be among the oldest as well as busiest places in Delhi, is referred to as the trade and culture’s bustling centre. The market was founded back in the 17th century during Shah Jahan’s reign; it is renowned for its streets where you can find everything from textiles, and jewellery to electronics, and spices. This place also serves as a paradise for food lovers.
Major Attractions: Paranthe Wali Gali, Khari Baoli, Sis Ganj Gurudwara
Best Time To Visit: Weekdays
Entry Fees: Free
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Station: Chandni Chowk (Yellow Line Metro)
3. Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib
Photo: Satpal Dandiwal/ Wikimedia Commons
Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib is of utmost significance for Sikhs because it is where Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru was martyred in 1675. This Gurudwara is situated in Chandni Chowk, which is a busy area of life and provides a sanctuary for prayers. In addition, a tree below which he was beheaded has been saved as a memorial. The structure embodies both antiquity and reverence, making it an attraction.
Major Attractions: Memorial Tree, Langar Hall, Sacred Tank
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or evening
Entry Fees: Free
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Station: Chandni Chowk (Yellow Line Metro)
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Delhi For Every Type Of Traveller
4. Raj Ghat
Photo: Deeptiman Mallick / Wikimedia Commons
The Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial, Raj Ghat, is situated on the banks of the river Yamuna. A black marble platform was erected to mark the spot where he was cremated on the thirty-first day of January in the year 1948. This memorial’s simplicity is a reflection of Gandhi’s life and thinking. It has green gardens all around making it an oasis away from city noise, so people can reflect and pay respects. People visit it every day to participate in prayer sessions at this place.
Major Attractions: Eternal Flame, Gandhi Museum, Adjacent Memorials
Best Time To Visit: Morning or evening
Entry Fees: Free
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Station: Delhi Gate (Violet Line Metro)
5. Jama Masjid
Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
The Jama Masjid of Delhi was contructed by Shah Jahan in 1650. It is the largest mosque in India, with a capacity to hold 25,000 worshippers. The mosque has three magnificent gateways, four towers and two 40-metre-high minarets built from red sandstone and white marble. One can climb the southern minaret to witness the breathtaking view of Old Delhi from there. It is a tranquil place situated among the hustle-bustle of the city where you can get an insight into its spiritual essence.
Major Attractions: Southern Minaret View, Courtyard, Central Tank
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
Entry Fees: Free (₹300 for photography, ₹100 for climbing the minaret)
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Station: Chawri Bazaar (Yellow Line Metro)
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Delhi For Fun To Enjoy A Thrilling Time
6. Fatehpuri Masjid
Photo: Indrajit Das / Wikimedia Commons
Fatehpuri Masjid is located at the western end of Chandni Chowk and was built by Fatehpuri Begum, one of Shah Jahan’s wives, in 1650. The mosque represents an example of Mughal architecture, including a big prayer hall, a dome, and minarets. Being located within its precincts makes it accessible for those who want to explore other places in Chandni Chowk.
Major Attractions: Main Prayer Hall, Courtyard, Nearby Markets
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or evening
Entry Fees: Free
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour
Nearest Station: Chandni Chowk (Yellow Line Metro)
7. Khari Baoli
Photo: Indrajit Das / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The largest spice market in Asia, Khari Baoli, can be found close to Fatehpuri Masjid in Old Delhi. This lively marketplace was first opened in the 17th century is now an overwhelming sensation with its bright colors, strong smells and traders’ chorus of bargaining noises. Spices are only a small section among many others like herbs, nuts and dried fruits that are sold here.
Major Attractions: Spice Shops, Dry Fruits, Traditional Herbs
Best Time To Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds
Entry Fees: Free.
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Station: Chandni Chowk (Yellow Line Metro)
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Delhi With Friends For Fun And Entertainment
8. The Haveli Of Mirza Ghalib
Photo: Indrajit Das / Wikimedia Commons
The Haveli of Mirza Ghalib located in Gali Qasim Jan, Ballimaran is Mirza Ghalib’s former residence, the eminent Urdu poet. Now transformed into a museum, it displays Ghalib’s life and works with his personal possessions, letters and manuscripts. The restored haveli represents Mughal architectural style with its arched doors and fine carvings of wood. It is a literary pilgrimage where lovers of literature can come to experience Ghalib’s everlasting legacy.
Major Attractions: Ghalib’s Personal Artifacts, Poetry Readings, Architectural Details
Best Time To Visit: Morning or late afternoon
Entry Fees: Free
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour
Nearest Station: Chawri Bazaar (Yellow Line Metro)
9. Chunnamal Haveli
Photo: Digrajsingh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Chunnamal Haveli is situated in Chandni Chowk and stands among few remaining havelis (traditional mansions) in Old Delhi. It was built during the year of 1848 by Lala Chunnamal, a rich trader cosmopolitan. Constructed in the Mughal-style architecture, it has three floors that represent one of the greatest opulence periods within Indian art history. Although visiting it publicly is limited, certain areas are available with prior consent from its representatives.
Major Attractions: Courtyard, Antique Furnishings, Historical Architecture
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour
Nearest Station: Chandni Chowk (Yellow Line Metro)
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Delhi At Night To Experience Its Vibrant Dimensions
10. Sri Digambar Jain Naya Mandir
Photo: Art Poskanzer / Wikimedia Commons
The Sri Digambar Jain Naya Mandir, found in Dharampura, is one more important Jain place of worship in Old Delhi that dates from the late 19th century. This site is famous for its fine marble work finished with intricate carvings that illustrate teachings of Jainism. Its serene environment and spirit-filled atmosphere make it suitable for measures of meditation as well as deep thinking.
Major Attractions: Marble Idol of Lord Mahavira, Intricate Carvings, Prayer Hall
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening
Entry Fees: Free (donations accepted)
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour
Nearest Station: Chawri Bazaar (Yellow Line Metro)
Plan your visit to Delhi today and learn about the rich history and beautiful architecture. If you are a history aficionado, nature enthusiast or just looking for a calm holiday then places in Old Delhi have something for everyone. Plan your trip with TripXL for a memorable experience and an idyllic tour of these places to visit in Old Delhi town.
Cover Photo: Anish Sethi / Wikimedia Commons
