Things To Do In Delhi: Explore The Capital City’s Rich Heritage

Being a significant landmark in Indian history, there are a lot of things to do in Delhi.

Delhi, the capital of India, attracts tourists from borders and beyond. The city easily blends with the ancient chores and modern architecture that is appreciated by everyone. Delhi has a rich past that is still reflected through its historic landmarks standing upright in the city. There are multiple things to do in Delhi, offering diverse experiences, and catering to the needs of every individual. Each place in Delhi has a unique charm, awaiting the visitors to captivate them with its historic appeal. For all the history lovers, foodies or shopaholics, Delhi is a place of paradise, so come along to explore.

10 Amazing Things To Do In Delhi

There are an array of things to do in Delhi and its outskirts. The city promises to offer something to every individual and make them appreciate it in the best way.

1. Witness The Magnificent Red Fort

Red Fort is one of the historic landmark in Delhi that is still standing the test of time.

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This fortification is a symbol of Indian history which is still being preserved. The Red Fort is locally known as ‘Lal Qila’ and stands amongst the most famous tourist spots in Delhi. The fort bears many stories of defeat, wins and controversies. Red Fort is entirely made up of red sandstone and marble with intricate carvings all around the walls of the fort. There are multiple complexes inside the fort too which are a centre of attraction. The fort was built by Shah Jahan in 1639 and today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Location: Red Fort, Netaji Subhash Marg, Chandani Chowk, Old Delhi, Delhi 110006
Best Time To Visit: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Red Fort To Experience The Architectural Wonders

2. Spend An Evening At The India Gate

India Gate is one of the most iconic landmarks and must visit places in Delhi for tourists.

Photo: Eatcha / Wikimedia Commons

India Gate is not only one of Delhi’s iconic landmarks but is well-known all over the country. The place is typically a war memorial in the city. The gate was constructed in 1921 using sandstone. The 42-metre tall gate has many inscriptions inscribed in both Hindi and English. The gate is not only a war memorial but is a place of honour, respect and sacrifice of the soldiers in the World War. Many national events, national celebrations and state functions are organised at the India Gate. Witnessing the magic of lights in the evening at India Gate is one of the best things to do in Delhi.

Location: India Gate, Rajpath, Central Secretariat, New Delhi, Delhi 110001
Best Time To Visit: Late afternoon or night

3. Enjoy The Light Show At Purana Qila

Purana Qila, is a historically significant monument in New Delhi with a rich past.

Photo: Pawan.kamrani / Wikimedia Commons

There’s a beautiful light show organised at Purana Qila in New Delhi. The entire monument is lit with different coloured lights and sounds are played from the background with a depiction of several stories. The light show is named ‘Ishq-e-Dilli’ and is particularly held in the late evenings. Ishq-e-Dilli is considered the best light and sound show in India and visitors come to embrace it from every corner of the country. There are certain visuals which date back to the mediaeval and Mughal periods, making it one of the best things to see in Delhi.

Location: Mathura Road, Near Delhi Zoo, New Delhi, Delhi 110003
Best Time To Visit: 7 PM onwards

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit Near Qutub Minar On Your Next Trip To Delhi

4. Embrace The Glory Of Qutub Minar

Qutub Minar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering several things to do in Delhi.

Photo: Cool sneh13 / Wikimedia Commons

Qutub Minar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and among the best monuments of Delhi. It is a huge minaret made up of red sandstone and marble. It is decorated with beautiful motifs on the upper end of the minaret. There is an iron pillar on the premises which is renowned as it never rusts. The place lies in the centre of the city and is easily accessible via metro or bus. Visiting Qutub Minar requires an entry ticket of ₹30 which is payable at the entrance of the monument. Head for this monument if you want to know more about the culture of Delhi.

Location: Qutub Minar, Mehrauli, Delhi 110030
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late evening

5. Witness The Splendid Architecture Of Jantar Mantar

Jantar Mantar is an astronomical wonder with three main yantras, making it a must-visit.

Photo: John Hill / Wikimedia Commons

Jantar Mantar is the best family place to visit in India. The place is renowned for its architectural style. It is an equinoctial sundial and an observatory which has 13 astronomical apparatuses. The monument was built in 1724 and is still preserved. It was designed to view celestial objects and measure the timings when clocks didn’t exist. There are three yantras inside Jantar Mantar including Samrat Yantra, Jai Prakash Yantra and Rashi Valaya Yantra. This observatory has many large instruments made up of stone and masonry and features the world’s largest stone sundial.

Location: Jantar Mantar, Sansad Marg, Connaught Place, Delhi 110001
Best Time To Visit: 4 PM – 6 PM

Suggested Read: Best Street Food Places In Delhi To Let Your Taste Buds Savour

6. Dive Into Spirituality At Jama Masjid

ama Masjid offers several things to do in Delhi for religious people especially Muslims.

Photo: Muhammad Mahdi Karim / Wikimedia Commons

If you’re wondering what to do in Delhi, then you must visit Jama Masjid. It is an important site for Muslims in Delhi. The mosque was built under the guidance of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between the years 1650-1656 AD. The monument is built in red sandstone with marble accents. On the premises of Jama Masjid, there are huge courtyards, minarets and domes. It is one of the largest mosques in India and can accommodate up to 25000 worshippers. Jama Masjid’s proximity to nearby tourist attractions like the Red Fort, Chandani Chowk and Jama Masjid Market make it a convenient and preferred place to be explored.

Location: Jama Masjid, Chandani Chowk, Old Delhi, Delhi 110006
Best Time To Visit: Early Morning Or Late Afternoon

7. Try Local Cuisine At Chandani Chowk

Chandani Chowk offers exciting things to do in Delhi like shopping and trying street food.

Photo: Bahnfrend / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Chandani Chowk is renowned for the yummiest dishes ranging from sweets to snacks and main courses. It is one of the oldest markets in Delhi with narrow lanes. The area also sells many spices, clothes, jewellery and footwear. Chandani Chowk’s proximity to nearby tourist spots including the Red Fort and Jama Masjid make it a preferred option for visitors and locals to explore. The street food at Chandani Chowk includes the very famous Butter Chicken, Chole Bhature, Momo, Chaat, Aloo Tikki and Jalebis.

Location: Chandani Chowk, Old Delhi, Delhi 110006
Best Time To Visit: Late afternoon

Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Delhi With Family For A Memorable Trip

8. Learn About The History Of National Rail Museum

National Rail Museum is one of the best places to visit in Delhi for every tourist.

Photo: Slyronit / Wikimedia Commons

Anyone interested in knowing about the history of Indian Railways and its evolution should visit this place in New Delhi. This museum is very different from other museums in Delhi. The National Rail Museum features ancient signalling systems and well-preserved coaches. The engines of the trains date back to the 19th and 20th century. The museum also features toy train rides. There is a 3D Virtual Coach on the premises which is appreciated by all visitors for its uniqueness. Steam locomotives, royal trains, restored carriages and train rides are also showcased.

Location: National Rail Museum, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, Delhi 110021
Best Time To Visit: 10 AM onwards

9. Enjoy Shopping At Sarojini Nagar Market

Sarojini Nagar Market offers one of the best things to do in Delhi that’s shopping.

Photo: Celestinesucess / Wikimedia Commons

Shopping at Sarojini Market is one of the fun things to do in Delhi. The place is prominently known for its wide range of clothing, accessories and other items available at the cheapest rates. There is a variety of clothes which can be obtained at very low prices with bargaining. Everyone must try the variety of street food available at the market. The street food dishes include Chole Bhature, Momo, Chaat, Aloo Tikki and Bhel. Sarojini Nagar is one of Delhi’s most bustling and important shopping destinations.

Location: Sarojini Nagar Market, Sarojini Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 110023
Best Time To Visit: Late afternoon or evening

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Delhi With Friends To Experience The Best Of The Capital City

10. Seek Blessings At The Akshardham Temple

Akshardham Temple is one of the religious and spiritual sites in Delhi that’s a must visit.

Photo: Balurbala / Wikimedia Commons

Akshardham Temple is an important place to witness in Delhi. It is visited by both locals and tourists who want to seek solace and peace. The place is away from the city’s hustle and bustle and offers a peaceful environment. The temple is built with pink sandstone and white marble. The main deity worshipped at this place is Bhagwan Swaminarayan. The temple is surrounded by gardens and has a stepwell called Yagnapurush Kund which is the largest stepwell in the world.

Location: Akshardham Temple, Nh 24, Akshardham Setu, Pandav Nagar, New Delhi
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late afternoon

Delhi promises a collection of experiences that visitors take ahead with them. The city also offers many engaging activities and historic landmarks which still hold a rich past. From exploring the modern architectural landmarks to trying mouth-watering cuisine, there are multiple things to do in Delhi which leave a lasting impression on every individual. Book your trip to Delhi with TripXL for a journey filled with excitement and fun.

Cover Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Two-day trip to Delhi is ideal for exploring very famous corners. Visitors shall visit Old Delhi on one day and New Delhi on another. The bustling markets and street food add to your experience.
For a journey to Delhi and nearby famous tourist spots, the budget may start from ₹15000 is considered ideal. It includes sightseeing, meals and hotel fares too.
Delhi is very famous as it holds both a strong historical and political presence. It is an important commercial and transport hub of the country. Numerous landmarks in the city have cultural importance too.
The bustling streets of Delhi serve some mouthwatering dishes like Momo, Chole Bhature, Butter Chicken, Kebabs, Chaat and Jalebis.
Red Fort is the most visited place in Delhi. It has both a political and historical influence. The fort showcases the richness that Mughal Emperors have left in the city of Delhi.

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