A Complete Guide to Visiting the Best Places in Delhi with Friends and Family

If you are in Delhi or planning to visit the National Capital, this is a complete playground for you to explore. The diversity in food, places, and people makes the place unique in the eyes of the beholders. The capital of the country is teeming with cafes, heritage sites, restaurants, and eclectic bazaars, and boasts some of the best places to visit in Delhi. Not only is the city fun and interesting, but it also offers a wealth of knowledge to be learned from. There will not be a minute of boredom when one is in the National Capital.

When you are in the National Capital, you cannot miss visiting these iconic places. You can engage in various activities, explore the area, and try different cuisines in the city. Now, let us dive into the list.

Red Fort:

The Red Fort is a remarkable example of architecture and a testament to India’s glorious history. It formed the centre of Mughal rule for over 200 years and was the royal residence until 1857. Described as the jewel of Delhi’s heritage, the fort has several museums. While from one point of view, it was handled as the home of the Mughal rulers, politics and state activities were carried out here. From another, many essential activities and ceremonies for the Mughal state occurred in these halls over centuries. Today, the Red Fort stands as an essential site for tourists visiting Old Delhi and is universally recognised as the symbolic association of the Indian struggle for independence.

After Jawaharlal Nehru’s famous midnight address delivered at the fort just before the nation attained independence from British rule, the fort even came into the limelight. Along with this historic moment, the Red Fort hosts Independence Day celebrations every year, marking the political and historical importance of the place. The Red Fort entered the annals of history in the year 1639, with Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan laying its foundation in his desire to shift his capital to a newly constructed city in Delhi. The Red Fort, with its storied past and architectural grandeur, continues to share its remarkable history with the world.

Activities at Red Fort:

Don’t miss the evening sound and light show that narrates the fort’s history. Capture stunning photographs of its iconic red sandstone walls, enjoy local street food nearby, and shop for souvenirs at the bustling Meena Bazaar. The Red Fort is perfect for history buffs and those seeking a cultural immersion into India’s heritage.

Every evening for an hour, a magnificent performance on the history of the Red Fort and the capital city of Delhi is presented at the fort. There will be a half-hour lag between the Hindi and English versions of the presentation.

At 6:00 p.m., the Light and Sound show at the fort begins. Adult admission to the Light and Sound Show costs Rs. 80, while children’s admission is Rs. 30.

Visiting Time: The Red Fort is open on all days from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM except on Mondays.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for Indian citizens is Rs. 10, while it is Rs. 150 for foreigners.
Nearest Metro Station: Chandni Chowk.

India Gate:

India Gate, formally known as the All India War Memorial, was built in memory of the 82,000 Indian Army soldiers lost during the First World War (1914-1921) and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. India Gate is on Rajpath, and the closest metro is Barakhamba Road. It is also one of the best places to go with your friends in Delhi.

Sir Edwin Lutyens designed the memorial. After the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, they made a simple and dignified addition below its arches: a black marble plinth, with a reversed rifle and war helmet, and surrounded by four eternal flames, known as Amar Jawan Jyoti, or Flame of the Immortal Soldier.

Construction of the India Gate commenced in 1921 and finished in 1931. The structure stands 42 metres high, and 9.1 metres wide and is made of yellow and red sandstone and granite. In 2014, the government revealed proposals for a National War Memorial to be built at the canopy and a National War Museum to be sited in the nearby park. Every year, the big Republic Day Parade, one of the biggest ceremonial events in India, with national leaders and famous invitees from across the globe, occurs in front of India Gate on the date of January 26, which is when India celebrates the establishment of its republic.

Activities at India Gate:

India Gate is a war memorial and an iconic symbol of Delhi. Start your visit with a leisurely walk along the Rajpath. Soak in the patriotic vibe as you read the names inscribed on the memorial. Capture pictures during the golden hour for stunning views. Indulge in a street-side picnic or grab an ice cream from nearby vendors. Visit at night to witness the illuminated arch, adding to its grandeur. India Gate is ideal for families and couples alike to experience a piece of modern India’s history.

India Gate Entry Time and Fees: Everyone is allowed to visit the India Gate, open on all days, 24 hours. There is no entry fee to see the structure.
Nearest Metro Station: Central Secretariat is the nearest metro station to India Gate.

Qutub Minar:

Situated in Delhi, Qutub Minar is one of India’s most valued and protected historical monuments. Qutub Minar is also a significant part of the Qutub Complex, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site is also one of the main tourist attractions in North Delhi. It is located in Mehrauli; the Qutub Minar is easily accessible with the Qutub Minar Metro Station situated about 3 km from the monument, allowing tourists to access the monumental Qutub Minar easily. Or you can hire a car to visit the tallest mosque tower.

The Qutub Minar is constructed from red sandstone and marble. It stands 73 meters high and is made of five separate stories resembling a tower.

At its base, it has a diameter of 14.3 m but booms at the top, tapering to 2.7 m. Within the Qutub Compound, there are several other notable historical buildings, including the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the famous Iron Pillar of Delhi. The architectural style of the Qutub Minar is based on Iranian design but incorporates a great deal of local art, featuring looped bells, garlands, and lotus carving around its borders. Visitors to the monument will also find that different sections of the Qutub Minar have writing in both Persian-Arabic and Nagari scripts.

Activities at Qutub Minar:

The towering Qutub Minar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a photographer’s delight. Walk around the sprawling complex, exploring monuments like the Iron Pillar and Alai Darwaza. Learn about the Delhi Sultanate’s history with a guided tour or an audio guide. Sit under the shaded trees for a quiet moment and admire the intricate carvings. Visiting during early mornings ensures fewer crowds, making it easier to explore. Nearby cafes offer a perfect spot to relax after your visit.

Qutub Minar Entry Timing: The timing to visit this site is from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM with no days off.
Entry Fee: For Indian citizens, the entry fee is Rs. 30, and Rs. 500 for foreign nationals. Entry is free for children up to 15 years.
Nearest Metro Station: Qutub Minar.

Akshardham Temple:

Shri Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in East Delhi is a prominent cultural and spiritual complex that provides a comprehensive overview of traditional Hindu culture, spirituality, and architecture. It opened in the year 2005, inaugurated on behalf of the creator of India’s space program, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, and is thus highly popular among tourists and families as a pilgrimage centre and place of worship. The complex is situated on the banks of the Yamuna River and was constructed based on Vastu Shastra and Pancharatra Shastra principles. The principal temple, Akshardham Mandir, is 141 feet high and 316 feet wide. Apart from its gigantic dimensions and vertical height, it is also one of the rarest temples in the world that was built without the inclusion of steel or concrete; they used only Rajasthani pink sandstone and Italian Carrara marble for construction.

Akshardham Mandir features 234 exquisitely carved columns (or pillars), nine domes, and about twenty thousand statues of saints, followers, and spiritual gurus. Its walls are adorned with carved flora, fauna, musicians, and gods, showing the Maharishi Vastu style of architecture. In addition to the temple, the complex hosts the Abhishek Mandap, Sahaj Anand Water Show, themed gardens, and other attractions, and three exhibitions: Sahajanand Darshan, Neelkanth Darshan, and Sanskruti Darshan, a cultural boat ride. The Akshardham Temple is a place of worship. Still, it is also a cultural place that is meant to leave visitors with a lasting impression of India’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.

Activities at Akshardham Temple:

Akshardham Temple combines spirituality with artistry. Take a serene boat ride showcasing Indian culture and history, followed by a walk through the breathtaking temple adorned with intricate carvings. Don’t miss the musical fountain show in the evening, a mesmerising blend of lights and water. Enjoy traditional vegetarian meals at the on-site café and browse souvenirs at the gift shop. Allocate at least half a day to experience this architectural wonder fully.

Akshardham Temple Entry and Exhibition Timings: The citizens are allowed in the temple from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM. The exhibition starts from 10:30 AM to 6:00 pm, and the tickets for the same will be available from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM. You can enjoy the musical fountain at 7:45 PM. The temple is closed on Mondays.
Entry Fees: The complex entry fee is free. The exhibition rates are Rs. 170 for adults, Rs. 125 for senior citizens, Rs. 100 for children between 4 and 11 years. The fees for the musical fountain are Rs. 80 for adults and senior citizens. 50 for children between 4 and 11 years.
Nearest Metro Station: The nearest metro station is Akshadham Temple.

Humayun’s Tomb:

Humayun’s Tomb is a famous historical monument in India and one of the best tourist destinations in North Delhi. It is the mausoleum of the Mughal emperor Humayun and was commissioned around 1569-70 by his chief consort and first wife, Empress Bega Begum. The architect of the tomb was Mirak Mirza Ghiyas, a Persian whom Begum Bega invited personally. The monument, established in Nizamuddin East, Delhi, is known for being the first garden tomb on the Indian subcontinent, and it is near the ancient citadel of Dinpanah. The site is incredibly popular in the summer months, where its beautifully walled garden is inside the enclosure.

Additionally, Humayun’s Tomb was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, which increased its global popularity and led to restoration and refurbishment work to ensure its continued use. The tomb also has some other smaller monuments around it (several of these monuments date from before the construction of the tomb).

Workers started building the tomb in 1565, about nine years after Emperor Humayun died, and finished it in 1572. Red sandstone and white marble make up most of the structure. It reaches a height of 47 meters and stretches 91 meters across. The design mixes Persian styles with Indian craftsmanship, marking a big step in Mughal architecture. This tomb set the stage for later monuments like the Taj Mahal.

Activities at Humayun’s Tomb:

Humayun’s Tomb is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. Begin your visit by wandering through its symmetrical gardens and pathways. Admire the stunning domed structure while learning about its history as the inspiration for the Taj Mahal. Photographers will love capturing its reflection in the water channels. Relax in the peaceful environment or carry a book to enjoy the tranquil surroundings. It’s an excellent spot for those seeking a mix of history and serenity.

Humayun’s Tomb Entry Timing: The best time to visit the Tomb is between 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Entry Fees: To enter the tomb, Indian nationals and tourists from SAARC and BIMSTEC nations must pay Rs. 10; other foreigners must pay Rs 250 per person. There is no admission charge for children under the age of fifteen.
Nearest Metro Station: The nearest metro station is Jawaharlal Nehru Metro Station.

Lotus Temple:

The Lotus Temple, along with its striking architecture, is one of Delhi’s most celebrated landmarks that attracts visitors from all over the world. Its construction was completed in the year 1986, with the premise being designed after a white lotus flower with 27 petals that were marble-clad. These petals are arranged in clusters of three, creating nine sides. Welcoming everyone regardless of caste or creed, the Lotus Temple stands as a beacon of unity and equality.

The temple has nine doors that lead into the central hall, capable of seating 2,500 persons. It has garnered many awards due to the uniqueness and elegance of its architectural design. This Bahai House of Worship links closely with the Bahai Faith, which tries to bring harmony to all of humankind by providing expression of communal prayer and meditations for all of humankind. Members of any faith tradition can come to pray, meditate, or sit in silence; however, only sacred texts from the Bahai Faith and other recognised religions may be read or chanted. Non-scriptural readings or ritual ceremonies are not allowed.

Per the Baha’i beliefs, there would be no images, pictures, or statues inside the temple, and the hall would concentrate only on simplicity and spiritual contemplation. Anyone visiting the Delhi area must surely visit this jewel of a temple.

Activities at Lotus Temple:

Known for its distinctive lotus-shaped design, the Lotus Temple offers a space for meditation and tranquillity. Walk through its lush gardens before entering the prayer hall. Experience the calming atmosphere as you sit in silence, irrespective of your faith. Spend time reading about the Baháʼí Faith or admire the architectural brilliance. Visit early mornings or late afternoons to enjoy the serene ambience without the crowds. Photography enthusiasts will find excellent angles for memorable shots.

Lotus Temple Entry Timing and Fees: The summer entry timing in the temple is from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, while the winter timing is from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM on all days except Mondays. The entry to the temple is free.
Nearest Metro Station: Kalkaji is the nearest metro station to the Lotus Temple.

Jama Masjid:

The people of Delhi feel connected to Masjid-i Jahan Numa, and they affectionately call it the Jama Masjid of Delhi. This mosque is one of the largest in India and was commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1644 and completed in 1656. The mosque has three entrances and four external chambers, including two grand minarets along a vertical telescoping axis of red sandstone and white marble, rising 40 meters into the air.

The expansive courtyard was designed to accommodate over 25,000 worshipers at once. The terrace has three impressive domes, the two minarets mark the fronts both horizontally and vertically, respectively, while the area on the floor for worshipers marks 899 black bordered spaces for worshipers. The construction of the mosque involved more than 5,000 workers. The original name of the mosque, Masjid-i Jahan Numa, translates to “the mosque with a view of the world.”

Despite British attempts to demolish the mosque due to the supposed need for land for the new Delhi train terminal, there were severe protests against demolition by Delhihites that dissuaded the English from demolishing the mosque. This once again emphasizes how significant this mosque is for the people of Delhi. As the largest mosque in India, it should be a compelling site and the last prominent mosque constructed during Shah Jahan’s reign.

Activities at Jama Masjid:

Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India and a hub of cultural activity. Start with a climb up the minaret for panoramic views of Old Delhi. Explore the expansive courtyard and intricate Islamic architecture. Post your visit, dive into the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk for delicious street food like kebabs and biryani. Remember to dress modestly and remove footwear before entering. A visit to the Jama Masjid is a blend of spirituality and cultural discovery.

Jama Masjid Entry Timing: You can enter the mosque on all days from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 1:30 PM to 6:30 PM.
Entry Fee: The entry is free inside the mosque, but for photography, you will be charged Rs. 200-300, and for climbing the southern tower, you have to pay Rs. 100.
Nearest Metro Station: The nearest metro station to the Jama Masjid is the Jama Masjid Metro Station.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib:

Delhi’s important Sikh place of worship, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, is linked to the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Har Krishan. It was the first bungalow (“bangla”) for Raja Jai Singh, a Rajput king from the 17th century. Guru Har Krishan was there at the time of a terrible smallpox and cholera outbreak in 1664. Guru Har Krishan was looking after the sick and allowing sick people access to clean water. The water from this well is now considered holy. Unfortunately, Guru Har Krishan became sick and died there.

In 1783, the current Gurudwara was made a small shrine by a Sikh General, Sardar Baghel Singh. He created eight additional shrines for Sikhs in Delhi. These days, the complex is located on Baba Kharak Singh Marg. It is close to Connaught Place. The tall flagpole and the gold dome can recognize the complex. Most importantly, it is sacred because of the pond or Sarovar, which is thought to have healing properties.

The Gurudwara complex features a school, an art gallery, a hospital, a museum, and a langar (kitchen), which provides free meals to all visitors, regardless of their background. Visitors must remove their shoes and cover their heads before entering. The Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is a legacy of Delhi’s history, a fulfilment of Sikh values and service.

Activities at Gurudwara Bangla Sahib:

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is a serene spiritual retreat in Delhi. Begin your visit with a walk around the Sarovar (holy pond) and feel its peaceful aura. Participate in langar (community kitchen) for a humbling experience of sharing a meal with others. Marvel at the beautiful golden dome and white marble structure. Spend time meditating in the prayer hall and carry a small bottle of Amrit (holy water) as a token of blessings.

Gurudwara Bangla Saheb Entry Timing and Fees: The Gurudwara is open on all days and 24 hours.
Entry Fee: The entry to the Gurudwara comes with no cost, and you can spend time in tranquillity.
Nearest Metro Station: The nearest metro station is Rajiv Chowk.

The National Railway Museum:

The National Rail Museum in Delhi plays an important role in the social history of India as it seeks to conserve India’s railway heritage. Situated in Chanakyapuri, this 10-acre museum is a perfect location for indoor and outdoor exhibits of importance in North Delhi. The National Rail Museum first opened its doors on February 1, 1977.

Visitors to the National Railway Museum have the opportunity to ride the toy train, which goes around the museum grounds and is popular with children and adults alike. In addition to the toy train, the museum has some fascinating displays on offer, including a 1:8 scale train, diesel and steam simulators, a coach simulator and other interesting railway objects.

Conceptually, a transport museum was first proposed in 1962, although plans first came together in the year of 1970. It was originally called the Rail Transport Museum and inaugurated by Kamalapati Tripathi, the Railway Minister of India at the time. The museum was renamed the National Rail Museum in 1995. Today, it highlights India’s railway history by engaging visitors with an entertaining and informative experience.

Activities at The National Rail Museum:

The National Rail Museum is a delight for history and train enthusiasts. Explore a fascinating collection of vintage locomotives and carriages. Kids can enjoy the toy train rides around the museum premises. Watch the interactive exhibits and learn about India’s railway history through models and simulations. Spend time at the souvenir shop to buy railway-themed gifts. The museum is an excellent outing for families and anyone curious about the evolution of transportation in India.

Rail Museum Entry Timings: The Museum is only closed on all Mondays and National Holidays. Or else the museum is open on all days from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Railway Museum Entry Fee: The entry fee is Rs. 20 per person. And if anyone wishes for a toy train ride, the fee would be Rs. 20 per person.
Nearest Metro Station: The nearest metro station is Sir M. Vishweshwaraiah Moti Bagh.

National Museum:

Delhi’s National Museum of India is one of the richest and most rewarding experiences among all the sights of Delhi, and a rich and rewarding experience it is! Today, this Museum, located in East Delhi, is home to approximately 200,000 objects spanning about 5,000 years of history. This includes an incredible assortment of artwork, sculptures, carvings, ancient manuscripts, coins, antiquities and a range of other artifacts that are of inestimable value. Some of the most noteworthy pieces come from the period of the Harappan Civilization, as well as several other periods of Indian History, including many early periods.

The Museum’s collection not only represents Indian heritage, or heritage from the Indian subcontinent, but it also represents select objects from all over the world, making more space for global cultural appreciation than a collection of Indian heritage. It includes a full complement of galleries that are devoted to manuscripts written on stone, palm leaf, and paper, as well as a full complement of coins that trace Indian Currency back from the 6th century BCE, as well as paintings, jewellery, arms and armour, and so much more. Created in 1949, the National Museum has a great audio tour, consciously designed to enhance your visit. Yet a visit to the National Museum will take you on a fascinating journey – not just through history, or Indian history, but a journey through the richest and most diverse cultural legacy in the world, which belongs to India.

Activities at the National Museum:

The National Museum in Delhi offers a journey through India’s rich cultural heritage. Stroll through galleries showcasing ancient artifacts, manuscripts, and sculptures. Admire the collection of miniature paintings and coins from different eras. History lovers will enjoy audio-guided tours that explain the stories behind the exhibits. Spend time at the museum shop for unique items inspired by historical designs. A visit here is both educational and captivating, making it ideal for curious minds.

Museum Entry Timings and Fees: The museum is open on all days from 10 AM and is only closed on Mondays.
Entry Fee: The entry fee for Indians is Rs. 10, and for foreigners is Rs. 300. You need to take permission for photography, and videography is strictly prohibited inside the museum.
Nearest Metro Station: The nearest metro stations are Central Secretariat and Udyog Bhawan.