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0Delhi is not a city. It is an emotion. It is a place where Mughal domes cast long afternoon shadows over glass-and-steel towers, and where the scent of street-side chai mingles freely with the fragrance of jasmine garlands sold outside revered temples. To visit Delhi is to stand at the intersection of every century all at once.
Whether your idea of experiencing this urban palimpsest lies in the refined comfort of 5-star hotels in New Delhi or in the vibrant bustle of its bazaars, every corner has a story whispered in stone. Here is your curated guide to the top 10 things to do in Delhi.
Begin at Humayun's Tomb, the Mughal prototype that quietly inspired the Taj Mahal and remains one of the most popular places to visit in Delhi. Its symmetrical Persian gardens and red sandstone facade are best appreciated in the golden hour.
The Qutub Minar merits a visit: a soaring minaret rising nearly 73 metres into the sky, surrounded by some of the earliest surviving examples of Indo-Islamic architecture in the subcontinent. Standing at its base for over 1,600 years is the Iron Pillar which, having corroded very little, is a testament to ancient metallurgical expertise.
No historical itinerary is complete without the Red Fort, the jewel of Shahjahanabad and the seat of Mughal imperial power for nearly two centuries. Located on the eastern edge of Lutyens' Delhi, the Purana Qila (Old Fort) stands on a site long believed to be the legendary city of Indraprastha, evoking the earliest chapters of the city's layered past.
The Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques, rises gloriously over Old Delhi. Across the city, the Akshardham Temple in East Delhi presents a masterwork of pink sandstone and Italian marble, while the resplendent Lotus Temple welcomes visitors of all faiths, offering silence and reflection within its striking white-marble-clad form.
For something more intimate, a visit to the Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah is an experience that lingers long after you leave. Held on Thursday evenings, the live qawwali performances create a deeply mystical atmosphere that transports visitors away from the chaos of the city beyond its gates.
Chandni Chowk remains one of Asia's most legendary markets, with lanes dedicated to silver, spices and bridal fabrics. For a more artisanal experience, head to Dilli Haat, which showcases ethnic handicrafts and products from across India, while the Lajpat Nagar Market is known for its contemporary street-shopping scene.
The National Museum houses one of South Asia's most comprehensive collections, from Harappan artefacts to Mughal manuscripts. The National Gallery of Modern Art chronicles the evolution of modern Indian art, while the Crafts Museum surprises visitors with its open-air village complex where artisans demonstrate traditional crafts in real time.
Rashtrapati Bhavan and Kartavya Path stand as symbols of India’s imperial past and democratic present. Take in the magnificent architecture and stroll along the ceremonial boulevard. If you are lucky and are visiting at the right time, you could explore the beautiful Amrit Udyan, formerly known as Mughal Gardens, at the Rashtrapati Bhavan during their seasonal public opening.
Delhi's food scene is as diverse and storied as the city itself. In Old Delhi, Karim's near Jama Masjid has been serving Mughlai cuisine since 1913, while Paranthe Wali Gali offers stuffed paranthas in an astonishing variety of flavours. Beyond its iconic eateries, visitors can try out regional cuisines through the various state bhavans, many of which serve authentic dishes representative of their home state. Those seeking an international culinary experience can head to the upscale enclaves of Chanakyapuri, Defence Colony or Lodhi Colony, where chic restaurants reinterpret European and Asian flavours with flair and finesse
In addition to its monuments and markets, Delhi impresses visitors with its abundance of green spaces. Wander through the landscaped gardens of Lodhi Garden, dotted with medieval tombs, spot migratory birds at the Okhla Bird Sanctuary; or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll beneath the dense forest canopy of Sanjay Van. These tranquil retreats offer a refreshing contrast to the city's frenetic energy.
A well-seasoned traveller knows that a destination is only as good as the base from which it is explored. Located in Dwarka, the thriving western subcity that exemplifies Delhi's planned urban growth, Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka stands as a particularly refined proposition. Among the finest 5-star hotels in New Delhi, Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka blends sophisticated interiors and world-class amenities with warm Indian hospitality, even as it offers convenient access to both the city's historic landmarks and modern commercial districts.
A city where centuries of history coexist with a vibrant culture, exquisite cuisine and modern sophistication, Delhi was and will remain special. Book your stay at Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka and let the capital unfold before you.
