Delhi Tourism, Tourism in Delhi, Tourist Places to visit in Delhi

Delhi, the capital of India has a rich past. Tourism in Delhi is a perfect in its orderly chaos. It is a city where you will find the streets humming with vendors selling fruits and vegetables to clothes and shoes, bells ringing in temples to cars from Marutis to BMWs zipping by in perfect sync with morning prayers in a mosque or office goers haggling with autos and laughter sessions in a colony park.

Every nook and corner of Delhi has a story to narrate of its own. Dotted with forts, monuments, museums, gardens, parks, temples and mosques, it’s a traveler’s delight!

Tourism in Delhi encompasses not only places of historical importance but also shopping on the streets of Janpath and Sarojini and trying to get the best bargain, eating the sumptuous chats and parathas from Old Delhi and travelling in the Delhi Metro!

Delhi is a perfect combination of old world charm and modern technology. The city is well planned and tourist friendly. When one plans an Indian holiday, Delhi must be an important destination or else the vacation is incomplete.

Here is the list of famous tourist places to visit in Delhi

Red Fort

Red Fort is a 17th century fort built by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan. It derives its name from the red sandstone used extensively in its construction. Being one of the celebrated tourist destinations in India.

Red Fort is one of the spectacular masterpieces of Mughal architecture. Diwan-i-Aam, Nahr-i-Behisht, Zenana, Moti Masjid, and an exhilarating garden named Hayat Bakhsh Bagh are some of the prime attractions of Red Fort.

The other attractions enclosed within this monument are the Rang mahal and the Mumtaz mahal. Hammams or the Royal Baths, the Shahi Burj which used to be Shahjahan's private working area, and the Mumtaz Mahal have now been transformed into a museum.

Declared as a World Heritage site by the UNESCO, Red Fort remains an impressive testimony to India's grandeur and power. Every year on India's Independence Day (15 August), the prime minister hoists the Indian tricolor flag at the fort's main gate and addresses the nation.

Metro station - Lal Qila station on the Violet Line of Delhi Metro system. You can also reach via Chandni Chowk metro station on Yellow Line.
Closed on - Monday
Entry Fees - Rs.35 for Indians and Rs.500 Foreign nationals
Photography- Free but Rs.80 for video filming
Light & Sound Show- 7.30 PM to 8.30 PM

Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid is one of the most important mosques of Delhi built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It took the efforts of 6,000 works over a period of 6 years to complete the cosntruction.

Designed by the Ustad Khalil, the architectural brilliance of the mosque is the outstanding symbol of India. This priceless historic architecture said to be worth a million rupees during the period of Shah Jahan.

One of Delhi's most iconic sites, it is surrounded by various commercial centres, such as Meena Bazaar and the historic Chandni Chowk. The tomb of Abul Kalam Azad, Indian independence activist, is located adjacent to the mosque. Jama Masjid is something you can not miss during your visit to New Delhi

Metro Station - Jama Masjid is nearest station on the Delhi Metro system
Open to all except during prayer hours
Entry Fee –50
Photography- Rs.300

Rashtrapati Bhavan

The Rashtrapati Bhavan or the the President's House is an architectural marvel. It was earlier the residence of the British Viceroy. The chief architect of Rashtrapati Bhavan was Edwin Landseer Lutyens.

The structure was built with great artistry keeping in mind all the needs and comforts of a King. The construction of Rashtrapati Bhavan reflects a pure blend of Mughal and classical European architecture.

Durbar Hall, Ashoka Hall are among the prime attraction of this building.

Metro Station - Central Secretariat station is the nearest one to Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi.
Distance from the metro station - 7 to 10 minutes walk

It is prohibited to enter the premises without permission but the garden is open to the public for four months a year where one can see the most exotic and rare species of plants and herbs. China orange happens to be the favorite.

The entry is Rs.50 each and photography is strictly prohibited.

Qutub Minar

The tallest Minar in Delhi is the Qutub Minar. It is one of the best examples of architecture during the Sutanate era. Qutub Minar is a must-visit structure for every visitor to Delhi. Built by Qutub-ud-din Aibak in 1193, it is a fine example of the Indo-Arab architecture during that period.

The tower is a part of Qutub Minar complex, which also hosts other architectural marvels such as iron pillar, the Alai Darwaza, and Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque. There are also tombs of important personalities belonging to Sultanate Period.

Qutub-Minar is made of red and buff sandstone and has a diameter of 14.32m at the base and about 2.75m on the top with a height of 72.5m. There are 379 steps in the minaret. It was declared a UNESCO world heritage site.
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Metro Station - The Qutub Minar Metro Station is an Elevated station located on yellow line of the Delhi Metro.
Distance from the Metro Station - 2 Min. walk
Closed on Sundays
Timings - 7am–5pm
Entry fee - Rs.35 (Indians) Rs. 550 (foreigners)

India Gate

Designed by Edward Lutyens, India Gate lies at the heart of Delhi. After India's independence, India Gate became the site of Indian Army's Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Previously known as All India War Memorial, India Gate is now a major tourist spot in the capital and a common picnic site for residents and tourists.

An additional memorial, Amar Jawan Jyoti was introduced in 1971 after the Indo-Pak war in the remembrance of several deceased Indian soldiers.

Evey year the Prime Minister visits the gate to pay their tributes to the Amar Jawan Jyoti, following which the Republic Day parade starts. This gate is counted amongst the largest war memorials in not only India but also in the world.

Metro Station - The nearest metro station to India Gate is Central Secretariat on the Yellow Line
Distance from the metro station - 10 minutes’ walk
Open on all days
Photography is free

National Museum

Established in 1949, the National Museum showcases various articles from pre-historic to modern times. It is one of the largest museums in India.

The museum displays objects from the early daves of civilizations. Here you can find miniature clay sculptures of bull, ant eater, pig and monkey of the Harappan civilization. Bronze, Silver objects of the Indus Valley Civilization/Chalcolithic period.

The figures of Lord Buddha in black-grey display the unique Gandharan Style. A lot of sculptures and decorative Budhhist figures belonging to Gupta period (3rd to 6th century). Most of the Hindu & Buddhist sculptures are made by use of a "cire perdue/ lost wax process".

Metro Station - The Central Secretariat station is the nearest one to National Museum in Delhi
Distance from the metro station - 5 minutes’ walk
Timings - 10 AM to 6PM
Closed Monday and National Holidays
Entry Fee- Adults: Rupee Icon 20
Foreign Nationals: Rupee Icon 350
Students up to class 12th: Free entry (with I-cards).

Akshardham Temple

Akshardham Temple in Delhi is also known as the Delhi Akshardham or Swaminarayan Akshardham. It reflects traditional Hindu culture and ethos. Its architecture is also noteworthy.

Located on the outskirts of Delhi, Akshardham temple complex has been built on the banks of Yamuna river. It is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan.

Rajasthani pink sandstone has been used to build the structures of Swaminarayan Aksharadham Temple. Considered the largest Hindu temple in world, Akshardham temple is spread over an area of approximately 8,021.4 sq m. Hall of Values, Yagnapurush Kund, Giant Screen Film, Garden of India are some of the attractions of Akshardham temple complex. This temple depicts the cultural beauty at its best.

Metro station - The nearest metro station is the Akshardham Mandir metro station itself tht run along the Blue Line
Closed on - Monday
Distance from the metro station - 5 minutes’ walk
Timings - 9.30 AM to 6.30 PMs
Entry fee- ₹220 for adults (12 years and above); ₹170 for senior citizens (60 years and above); ₹120 for children (4 to 11 years); free for children below 4 years
Musical fountain - Starts at 6.30 PM
Fee- Rs.30
Photography - Prohibited

Lotus Temple

While in New Delhi, make sure to visit the Lotus temple which is a peerless amalgam of ethnic traditions of the past and the innovative architecture of the present.

Bahai Temple commonly referred to as ‘Lotus Temple’ designed by architect Furiburz Sabha is one of the most important tourist attractions in Delhi.

Lotus Temple resembles a partially open lotus flower surrounded by its leaves and appears as though floating on water. The Bahai House of worship, popularly known as the Lotus Temple draws visitors from all faiths and country.

Metro Station -The nearest metro station is Kalkaji Metro Station
Distance from the Metro Station - 1Km, rickshaw charge - Rs. 25
Closed on - Monday
Entry fee- Free for all
Photography - Prohibited

Rajghat

Rajghat is one of the most popular memorials, of the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi. It is situated close to Old Delhi on the banks off Yamuna River.

The memorial has the words ‘Hey Ram’ which translates to “Oh God” inscribed the marble surface. It is believed that these were Gandhi ji’s last words.

There are two museums dedicated to Gandhi ji that are also located near Rajgaht. Mahatma Gandhi Samadhi is one such place in Delhi that attracts foreign and international tourists alike. An immortal flame burns eternally at one end of the structure.

Location - The nearest metro stations to Raj Ghat are Indraprastha on Blue Line and Chandni Chowk on Yellow Line
How to Reach - Auto rickshaw can be hired from Pragati Maidan Metro station (Blue Line).
Open - All days
Timings - 6.00 am to 6.00 pm
Entry Fee - None
Photography Charges - Nil
Important Information - Before entering the premises all visitors must remove their shoes.

Humayun's Tomb

The Humayun’s Tomb is the tomb of the great Mughal Emperor Humayun. Humayun's Tomb stands as a majestic memorial of the Moghul Emperor Humayun.

It displays the architectural magnificence of the Mughal dynasties.Commissioned by Humayun's widow, Hamida Banu Begum, it was built unde the suervision of Persian architect named Mirak Mirza Ghiyath.

After his untimely demise the responsibility was taken up by his son, Sayyed Muhammad Ibn Mirak Ghiyathuddin who finally finished off the construction in 1571. The building's architectural form is distinctively Persian.

The tomb is constructed principally of red sandstone with black and white marble elements. Located very close to the Purana Qila, it was was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.

The tomb is one of the finest tombs to be available in India and qualifies among the best places to visit in Delhi. The tomb is situated at Lodi Road, opposite Dargah Nizamuddin, New Delhi.

Open - All days
Timings - From Sunrise to sunset
How to Reach -The closest metro station is the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium from where one can hire an auto rickshaw. One can also board a local bus towards Nizamuddin Railway Station. The distance is around 2 kms.
Entry Fee - Rs. 35 per person (for citizens of India and members of SAARC and BIMESTIC Countries like Bhutan, Nepal, Thailand, Mauritius, etc.)
Rs. 550 (per persons for foreigners)

Jantar Mantar

Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur, built the Jantar Mantar in Delhi. It includes thirteen architectural astronomy instruments.

Jantar Mantar comprises of 13 architectural astronomy instruments that were built by the Maharaja of Jaipur, Jai Singh II.

History reports and evaluations suggest that the Jantar Mantar got constructed way back in 1724 and has been there at its position standing tall throughout these centuries.

It is simply outstanding in craftsmanship and grandeur. In 2010, the Jantar Mantar was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Jantar Mantar.

Location - Parliament Street, Connaught Place
Closest Metro Station - Janpath Metro Station
Open - All days
Timings - 6am–6pm
Entry Fee - 50 (Indians), 200 (foreigners)
Photography Charges - Nil

We have suggested a few itineraries, for you to see the best in the city!

Monuments in Delhi

Delhi was the seat of various rulers and dynasties and each of them have left an indelible mark in this city. Each of the monuments of Delhi narrate a separate story. There are various tourist places to visit in Delhi including monuments which are not just old buildings - they include baolis, forts, gardens and even memorials. (Click on the map to check the Delhi Tourist places - Source: Delhi Tourism)

Rajghat

Rashtrapati Bhavan

Humayun's Tomb

Tughlaqabad Fort

Shanti Van

Safdarjung Tomb

Red Fort

Qutub Minar

Siri Fort

Jantar Mantar

Purana Qila

Khan-i-Khanan Tomb

Lodi Tomb

Agrasen ki Baoli

Museums in Delhi

Delhi is one of the few cities in India which has a large number of museums and galleries. The collections in the museum varies from clothes to swords to shoes and costumes. From the rail museum to the air-force museum, the list is endless and do not forget the Sulabh Museum of Toilets!

Parks and Gardens in Delhi

Delhi is home to a number of gardens and parks, some of which have been there since ancient times. The important parks and gardens in Delhi includes the Mughal Gardens, the Lodhi Gardens and the Nehru Park attracting tourists and nature lovers from all around the globe.

Religious Places in Delhi

Delhi is a city of all religions. People of all faiths and religions live here in peace and harmony. All the religious places reflect cultural diversity and religious unity can be seen at every place of religious importance in the city.

The ISCKON temple located in South Delhi attracts followers from every corner of the Earth specially during the festival of Janmashtmi.

The Lotus Temple is not only an important religious attraction but also an architectural marvel. The Kalkaji temple too becomes a major attraction during the Navratri days. With huge Sikh population, Delhi is home to some magnificent Gurdwaras like Gurudwara Sisganj and Gurdwara Bangla Saheb, which are major pilgrimage for Sikh community and also to devotees from other religion.

Things to Do in Delhi

Delhi which is rich with several historic landmarks, cultures and traditions welcomes number of tourists every year. Delhi holds special significance among the travel lovers not only because it is the capital of such a lovely country, but because of its rich past and cosmopolitan culture.

If you are wondering what are the things that you can do in Delhi and what activities to indulge in then your thoughts should end here! The list of things to do in Delhi is a never ending one!

You cannot complete your journey to Delhi without visiting Delhi 6 i.e. Old Delhi.

Jama Masjid, one of the oldest mosques in India is located in Old Delhi. The visit can be peppered with a ride in the old style rickshaws to help you reach your destination.
Spend some quite time in Humayun's Tomb, Rajghat, Safdarjung Tomb and Shanti Van which will transport you to some of the golden years in India’s history.
Who said Delhi sleeps at night! Not so, if you visit India Gate at night, which is one of Delhi,’s famous landmarks that has witnessed history of Delhi through time immemorial. Or if you are looking for music and food, then there are clubs and pubs to entertain you as well!
Marvel at the beautiful architecture of Lotus Temple and Akshardham Temple
Shopping at Khan Market, big bargain deals at Lajpat, Saroniji and Janpath
Gorge on Gol gappas, Bhalla Papri, tikkas, kebabs and a host of street food in Delhi
Catch a play at Kamani or NSD. Check our daily events update, here
Visit Dilli Haat for some handicraft shopping

Nightlife in Delhi

Well Delhi might not have an invigorating nightlife as Mumbai or even Bengaluru, but it us fast catching up!

The number of lounges, bars and discotheques are increasing every day in Delhi and the young and energetic throng the clubs and discotheques to get a good break from the mundane life! So just let your hair down and swing with the music! Read More

Where to Eat in Delhi

As we all know, Delhi is famous for its mouth watering delicacies. The city delights food lovers with the best of food - from roadside stalls to multi cuisine restaurants.

The coffee shops have also become the prime highlights with the likes of Cafe Coffee Day, Barista, Costa Coffee and Coffee Day Express spread through out the capital.

All the malls in Delhi too have their own food courts which provide variety of food and drinks at a single place. Some of the famous eating zones in Delhi are Khan market, Majnu ka Tilla, and Parathey wali gali in Old Delhi.

Delhi's food is a blend of regional as well as international cuisine from North Indian to South Indian, Chinese to Continental and American lifestyle to fast food - Delhi serves you with the best.

Where to Shop in Delhi

Delhi is famous for shopping. From Saroniji to Connaught Place, from the handicrafts of Dilli Haat, to the Kolhapuris of Lajpat, from the the jalebis and paan of Chandni Chowk to the super short skirts of Khan market, from the Bhelpuri of Kamla Nagar, to the chic sun shades of South Ex, from the jute bags of Janpath to the CDs of Palika bazaar - Delhi market gives you the best.

Where to Stay in Delhi

As thousands of tourist throng the capital every year, there are numerous hotels in Delhi to cater the needs of all kinds tourist. Delhi has cheap as well as five star hotels.

Some of the places where one can stay in Delhi depending upon his or her budget are:

Taj Mahal Hotel

Address: Number One, Man Singh Rd, Man Singh Road Area, New Delhi, Delhi 110011

Phone: 011 6656 6162

Rates: Rs 13,737 - Rs 26,106

Oberoi Hotel
7, Sham Nath Marg, Delhi-110 054, India
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: +91-11-2389 0606
Rates: Rs 13,369 - Rs 20,574

Master Guest House
Address: R-500, New Rajinder Nagar
New Delhi - 110 060
Contact detail: Tel:+(91)-(11) - 28741089, 28741914
Rs 4,170 - Rs 4,351

Landmark Inn
10184, Near Bikaner Wala, Main Arya Samaj Road, Karol Bagh,
Delhi - 110005
Call: (011) 41450450
Rates: Rs 1,343 - Rs 1,367

Hotel Guru Vas Inn
1049, Near New Delhi Railway Station Gate No 1,
Main Bazar, Paharganj,
Delhi - 110055
Call: (011) 66745268
Rates: Rs 1,405 - Rs 1,803

Tips for tourists in Delhi

Keep the Delhi Road Map handy with you! Download here, if you don't have one.
Avoid carrying too much cash with you.
You should always approach the May I help you couters in railway stations and airports instead of approaching any stranger.
Avoid travelling alone especially at night and isolated places.
Check the credentials of the cab driver when you hire one.
Keep the Delhi emergency numbers with you.

Contact Details of Delhi Government Tourism

Delhi Tourism And Transport Development Corporation

Address: 18-A, D.D.A.SCO Complex, Defence Colony, New Delhi - 24,
Ph: 91-11-24647005, 24698431, 24618026
Fax : 91-11-24697352, 24610500
E-mail: [email protected]

Tourist Central Reservation Office
Ph: 91-11-23365358, 23363607

Tourist City Information Service
Ph: 91-11-1280

How to Travel in Delhi

The mode of transportation within Delhi itself is very easy since the introduction of Metro Rail which is economical as well as time saving. The Delhi metro is serving Delhi, Gurgaon, Faridabad, Noida, and Ghaziabad in the National Capital Region of India. In terms of length, Delhi metro is the world's 13th largest metro system.

The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses and autos are the convenient mode of transport within the city itself.

Buses in Delhi

Tourists who are willing to explore Delhi with a more flexible schedule the Hop On / Hop off (HOHO) buses are the best option. Thus we can say that Delhi is meeting the requirements of time and moving with the same pace as the time itself.

Contact Details of Delhi Tourism Office

18-A, D.D.A.SCO Complex,
Defence Colony,
New Delhi - 24,
Ph: 91-11-24647005, 24698431, 24618026
Fax : 91-11-24697352, 24610500
E-mail: [email protected]

Tourist Central Reservation Office
Ph: 91-11-23365358, 23363607

Tourist City Information Service
Ph: 91-11-1280

Tourist Information cum Booking office in Delhi :
New Delhi Railway Station (Paharganj side, Near Exit Gate no. 1)
PH: 011-23741871
Dilli Haat - INA
PH: 011-65390009
Domestic Airport- T-1 (Arrival)
Phone: 011-25675609

Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) operates Delhi Darshan buses for sightseeing daily in Delhi.
Type of Bus: AC

Fares: Rs 200 for adult and Rs 100 for children (5-12 years)
Starting Points: Scindia House, ITDC Office Janpath

Time: 9.15 am to 5.45pm

Places Covered: Red Fort, Raj Ghat, Birla Mandir, Qutab Minar, Lotus Temple, Humayun'sTomb, Akshardham Temple

Phone Numbers: 23752772 Extn. 244, Delhi Darshan Counter, Scindia House, Connaught Place

Tourist Information cum Booking office outside Delhi:

Kolkata
Ballygunge, new AC market, 46/31/1, Gariahat Road
Kolkatta-700029
Mobile: 08334973844, 09804417782

Chennai
Mr. Radhakrishnan
C/O Delhi Tourism
Tamilnadu tourism Complex,
Wallajan Road,
Chennai-600002
Mobile: 09283497985

Hyderabad
Ms. Yalla Srilatha
Delhi Tourism
Balayogi Tourism Plaza, 6-3-870,
Greenlands Begumpet,
Hyderabad-500016
Mobile: 09959245293

Ahmedabad
Ms. Azra Shaikh
Air India Building,
1st Floor, Nr. Roopali Cinema,
Lal Darwaza,
Ahmedabad – 380001

Mobile: 09825186147

Best Time to Visit Delhi

The climate of Delhi varies between the summers and winters. Summer in Delhi starts from April and stays till July. The temperature in rises to 47°C and normally the tourists avoid visiting Delhi during these months.

On the other hand the winters in Delhi are very cold and starts from December and continues till February with the temperature dropping down to 3°C. January is foggy with heavy fog disrupting traffic. However, winters is a good time to eat and shop in Delhi if you can brave the winter chills.

Clothes to Wear in Delhi

So, if you are travelling to Delhi in summers, simple, cotton clothes are advisable along with sunscreen lotion and umbrella to protect from the heat. In winters, you need to have pull-overs, jackets, sweaters, shawls and woollen socks. Caps and mufflers for young and old is advisable.

For foreigners, remember to carry your vaild id proof, and passport. Always have your hotel number and embassy number handy with you. Do not make friends with strangers!

Weekend Getaways from Delhi

Because of its central location and easy accessibility to other places, one can easily club the visit to Delhi with some of the nearby places like hill stations of Shimla and Kasauli, wildlife sanctuaries like Ranthambore and Jim Corbett or historic cities like Jaipur and Agra.