22 Top Historical Places in Delhi That You Must-Visit in 2024

It is often said that historical places have a soul of their own and we couldn’t agree more! There are places that take you back in time; monuments with more stories to tell than you can ever listen to; and structures where you can hear history talking to you, through every nook and cranny. Wondering where to experience such a delightful and one-of-its kind tryst with history? Head to Delhi, my friend! Our national capital is a fascinating place that offers you a complete dose of history, heritage, culture, and tradition on any given day.

To put it bluntly, there is no dearth of historical sites in the capital city; if anything, there is only abundance, which makes your task of choosing a few sites to visit a little difficult. If you are doubtful where to begin, stay with us till the end of this post while we unravel some of the must-visit historical places in Delhi that will leave you spellbound. When history reveals itself in all its grandeur and glory, what can we, the mortals, do than watching and listening in reverence?

Historical Places in Delhi:

The historical places in Delhi offer a visual treat and soul-stirring experience to history buffs, art connoisseurs, and tourists alike. Even better, some of these places have made it to the list of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. As of 2018, there are three World Heritage Sites in the city and you shouldn’t miss out on visiting any of these. Here’s the list. 

1. Red Fort, Delhi

Red Fort | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

Also known as Lal Qila, Red Fort was brought to life by Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal emperor, in 1639. Since then, it had been the regal residence of numerous Mughal emperors who enjoyed a royal stay in this magnificent fortress-palace during their reign in Delhi. The fort derives its name from the red sandstone used in building its fortified walls. Today, Red Fort is not only a tourist site thronged by millions every year but also the chief venue of the country’s Independence Day celebrations, where the Prime Minister hoists the flag and addresses the citizens. History has it that the fort was once decked with several artworks and jewels, all of which were plundered during Nadir Sha’s invasion. Yet, this massive structure still remains as the most prized jewel in the list of India’s heritage sites.

• Location: Netaji Subhash Marg, Chandni Chowk, Delhi
• Timings: 09:30 am to 04:30 pm all days; Monday closed
• Entry fee:
  • Indian Citizens – ₹ 35 per person
  • Foreign Nationals – ₹ 500 per person
• Nearest Metro Station: Chandni Chowk

2. Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi

Humayun’s Tomb | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

If on the one hand, Delhi consists of astounding forts, on the other, it is dotted with beautiful mausoleums housing the tombs of great emperors who were instrumental in shaping Indian history. Humayun’s Tomb, also called Maqbara e Humayun is no less than an architectural splendor, although it is a monument with the tomb of the great Mughal emperor Humayun. Designed by two Persian architects in the famous charbagh layout, it is one of the first and finest garden tombs in the country, which also inspired several other monuments, including Taj Mahal.  Another interesting fact about this mausoleum is that it was commissioned and supervised by none other than Humayun’s bereaved wife, Bega Begum, in 1570.

• Location: Mathura Road, Nizamuddin East, Delhi
• Timings: 06.00 am to 06.00 pm; every day
• Entry fee:
  • Indians: ₹ 30 per person
  • Foreigners: ₹ 500 per person
  • Video Filming: ₹ 25
• Nearest Metro Station: JLN Stadium/ Jorbagh

3. Qutub Minar, Delhi

Qutub Minar | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

This surely tops the list of top 10 historical monuments in Delhi as this is a must-visit for everyone the city. The tallest brick minaret in the world, Qutub Minar is identified as a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO owing to its rich history and the creative design. Though the construction of this gigantic structure was started in 1192 by Qutb-Ud-din-Aibak, who founded the Delhi Sultanate, the minaret was completed over many years under the supervision of many kings who came after him. Not just the minaret but several other historical monuments inside the complex, such as the Alai Darwaza, Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Tomb of Iltutmish, etc., are major attractions that often leave the onlookers awestruck.

• Location: Mehrauli, Delhi
• Timings: 07:00 am to 05:00 pm, every day
• Entry fee:
  • Indians: ₹ 30 per person
  • Foreigners: ₹ 500 per person
• Nearest Metro Station: Qutub Minar

Other Historical Sites in Delhi:

From the Mauryas and Mughals to the British, Delhi has seen many reigns, each of which left its traces in the form of monuments and colossal structures. Each site in Delhi has a rich and compelling story to tell about these dynasties that reigned and flourished and declined in its soil. Here are a few historical places that will take you down the lane of history.

4. Jantar Mantar, Delhi

Jantar Mantar | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

If you are curious to know how the rulers of former times created their calendar each year, all you need to do is head straight to Jantar Mantar, an equinoctial sundial and observatory built several centuries back, in 1724, by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur.  It houses 13 astronomy instruments that were built to predict the distance and speed of heavenly bodies, their location, and the movement of the sun and other celestial bodies. Top three instruments built here include Samrat, Jayaprakash and Mishra Yantra that were often used for predicting the position of the sun and also figure out the longest and shortest days of the year.

• Location: Sansad Marg, Connaught Place, Delhi
• Timings: Sunrise to Sunset; every day
• Entry fee:
  • Indian Citizens – ₹ 5 per person
  • Foreign Nationals – ₹ 100 per person
• Nearest Metro Station: Patel Chowk

5. Purana Qila, Delhi

Purana Qila | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

This fort is famous for two things. First, it is one of the oldest forts ever built in Delhi (5000 years old) and second, it is the spot of the death of Mughal emperor Humayun who slipped from the stairs of his library and succumbed to the injuries. Purana Qila, which literally means Old Fort, is more of a boundary wall around which the city was built and has fortifications that are as tall as 20 meters with a thickness of four meters – indeed an impenetrable wall. The light and sound show conducted here walks you through the history of this lesser known fort that traces its origins to the 16^th Century. Apart from this show, one can even opt for a refreshing boat ride in the outskirts of the fortress.

• Location: Mathura Road, Delhi
• Timings: 7:00 am to 05:00 pm; every day
• Entry fee:
  • Indian Citizens – ₹ 20 per person
  • Foreign Nationals – ₹ 200 per person
• Nearest Metro Station: Pragati Maidan
• Light and Sound Show Timings:
  • Hindi – 07:30 pm to 08.30 pm; closed on Fridays
  • English – 09.00 pm to 10.00 pm; closed on Fridays
• Light and Sound Show Entry Fees:
  • Adults – ₹ 100 per person
  • Children (3 to 12 years) – ₹ 50 per person
  • Students, senior citizens, and differently-abled people – ₹ 50 per person

6. Jama Masjid, Delhi

Jama Masjid | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

This wondrous mosque made of red sandstone and marble was built by the great Shah Jahan and is considered to be one of the biggest mosques in India. It was built at a whopping cost of one million rupees between 1644 and 1656 and it was an Imam from Uzbekistan who inaugurated this beautiful place of worship. The mosque can accommodate nearly 25,000 worshippers at a time in its courtyard. The festival of Eid finds thousands of worshippers performing their morning Namaz in this monumental structure. Visit this site in the evening for a surreal experience of the brilliant sunset where the dome and minarets are drenched in the beautiful hues of crimson orange.

• Location: Off Netaji Subhash Marg, Chandni Chowk, Delhi
• Timings: 07:00 am to 12:00 pm and 01:30 pm to 06:30 pm; every day (tourists not allowed during the hours of prayer)
• Entry fee: No fee
• Nearest Metro Station: Chawri Bazaar

Also Read: Monuments in India

7. Agrasen Ki Baoli, Delhi

Agrasen Ki Baoli | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

If you have never visited a stepwell, a common sight in many Indian forts, you will surely be awestruck by Agrasen Ki Baoli, a historical step well with a length and width of 60 meters and 15 meters, respectively. Historical records regarding its origins are scanty, but it is believed that the well was built by Maharaja Agrasen and rebuilt in the 14^th century. This ancient water reservoir protected by the Archeological Survey of India has 108 steps, and as you step down deeper into the well, the dank smell of moisture and the solid structures carved out of rocks will transport you to the historic era. Do not venture too deep as you might have to fight hundreds of bats before you find your way back to the top. This one-of-its-kind historical site in Delhi has been featured in many films, including PK and Sultan.

• Location: Hailey road, Delhi
• Timings: 09:00 am to 05:30 pm; every day
• Entry fee: No fee
• Nearest Metro Station: Barakhambha

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8. Lodhi Tomb, Delhi

Lodhi Tomb | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

If you still linger on and wish to check out more tombs in the city, head next to the tomb of Sikandar Lodi to get a glimpse of the architectural marvel of the Lodi dynasty that ruled Delhi in the fifteenth century. Nestled amidst the lush Lodi gardens, this tomb entwines the rustic beauty of the surroundings with the age-old history. Built during 1517 and 1518 by Lodi’s son Ibrahim Lodi, the tomb is a fine example of the Indo-Islamic style of architecture.

• Location: Lodi gardens, Delhi
• Timings: 05:00 am to 08:00 pm; every day
• Entry fee: No fee
• Nearest Metro Station: Jor Bagh/ JLN Stadium

9. Hauz Khaz Siri, Delhi

Hauz Khaz Siri | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

If you choose to explore this fort built by Alauddin Khilji in 1303, you are sure to be intrigued by an eeriness this fort creates, and a feeling of haunted-ness creeps inside you. That’s because the heads of close to 8000 Mongols were buried here and the meandering walls of the fort were created to safeguard the once beautiful fort from Mongols. The palace and fort were destructed and stolen off their precious stones and other artifacts during the rule of Sher Shah Suri, leaving behind damaged rubble in lieu. Read also – Hauz Khaz Village

• Location: Hauz Khaz, Delhi
• Timings: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm; every day
• Entry fee: No fee
• Nearest Metro Station: Green Park

10. Feroz Shah Kotla, Delhi

Feroz Shah Kotla | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

This fort built by Sultan Firoz Shah Tughlaq in the 14^th century houses the pristine Topra Ashokan Pillar of the 3rd century, which is a remnant from the Mauryan dynasty. The fort also has Jami Masjid, a Baoli or well, and a garden complex inside it. Behind this fort lies the famous cricket stadium of the same name. This fort is believed to be haunted owing to the djinns that reside in its dark alleys and ruins. One surely experiences goosebumps when walking around in these alleys, especially after sunset.

• Location: Vikram Nagar, Delhi
• Timings: 10:00 am to 07:00 pm; every day
• Entry fee:
  Indian Citizens and SAARC Members – ₹ 5 per person
  Foreign Nationals: ₹ 100 per person
  Children (Up to 15 years) – Free
• Nearest Metro Station: Pragati Maidan

11. Safdarjung Tomb, Delhi

Safdarjung Tomb | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

This garden tomb made of marble and sandstone for the Wazir or the Prime Minister of the Mughal dynasty, Safdarjung, is touted to be the last such mausoleum, depicting the Mughal architectural style. The tomb, which was built in 1754, was also featured in the American biographical drama Jobs. The sprawling charbagh or the gardens with the water canals running adjacent to it makes the mausoleum look nothing less than an artistic wonder. 

• Location: Delhi Race Club, Delhi
• Time: 07:00 am to 05:00 pm; every day
• Entry fee:
  Indian Citizens – ₹ 15 per person
  Foreign Nationals – ₹ 200 per person
  Video Filming: ₹ 25
• Nearest Metro Station: Jor Bagh

12. India Gate, Delhi

India Gate | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

The India Gate is one of the best places to visit in Delhi with friends to not only admire the splendid architecture of the imposing structure but also to walk on the lush green pavements and enjoy ice creams on a breezy evening. It is a war memorial of the British Era built during 1921 and 1931 in the memory of the soldiers of British Indian Army who died during the First World War. Later, the Amar Jawan Jyoti was installed and surrounded by four eternal flames to commemorate the soldiers who were killed in the Bangladesh Liberation War. In the evening, this 138-feet tall tower with a triumphal arch is lit in brilliant lights, and in this light glows the names of all the soldiers that are inscribed on it.

• Location: Rajpath, Delhi
• Time: 24×7
• Entry fee: No fee

13. Rashtrapati Bhavan, Delhi

Rashtrapati Bhavan | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

Visiting the Rashtrapati Bhavan is the dream of every Indian citizen who wishes to take a tour of the massive Presidential Estate, the elegant Mughal gardens, and the newly inaugurated museum that deftly depicts the history of this building. Built during the period 1912 to 1929, this 340-room building once served as the British Viceroy’s House and was first occupied by Lord Irwin during the British Raj, and later by C Rajagopalachari after India gained independence. The building incorporates classical motifs, evidently the Indo-Saracenic motifs, and also possesses structures such as statues of elephants, acanthus leaves, four pendant bells, etc., that depict a blend of Mauryan, Mughal, and regional architectural styles. This Presidential Palace is the second largest in the world after the Quirinal Palace in Rome.

• Location: President’s Estate, Delhi
• Timings: There are three circuits and the timings of each may vary.
• Entry fee: ₹ 50 per person
• Nearest Metro Station: Central Secretariat

14. Tughlaqabad Fort, Tughlakabad

Tughlaqabad Fort | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

Showcasing brilliant Islamic architecture, Tughlaqabad Fort is one of the most important historical places to visit in the national capital of India. It was built by the founder and the first Sultan of the Tughlaq dynasty, Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, in 1321 AD. Legend has it that the Sultan wanted to build an impenetrable fort as soon as he ascended the throne. The construction took around four years and the fort was abandoned in 1327 after the sudden death of Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq. This massive fort has 10-15 metres high barricading walls with multiple gateways. Parapets and circular bastions were added to the structure for better security.  The fort area also features palaces, grand halls, a secret underground passage and the mausoleum of the founder, Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, his wife and son. Although in ruins now, the fort still serves as a reminder of the strength and power of the Tughlaq dynasty.

• Location: Tughlakabad, Delhi
• Timings: 7:00 am to 5:00 pm; every day
• Entry Fee:
  • Indian Citizens: ₹ 20 per person
  • Foreign Nationals: ₹ 200 per person
  • Free entry for children up to 15 years of age

• Nearest Metro Station: Govindpuri and Saket

15. Lotus Temple, Bahapur

Lotus Temple | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

Also known as Kamal Mandir or Baha’i Lotus Temple, this magnificent structure is one of the most frequented places in Delhi. The temple, which is built in the form of a stunning white lotus, is one of the seven major Baha’i temples around the world. And like the other Baha’i temples, the one in Delhi is also open to all worshippers, irrespective of their nationality, religion, colour, or ethnicity. The temple’s structure boasts 27 freestanding white marble petals at 3 levels to form nine sides. Each side has a door, and so, there is a total of nine entrances leading to a central prayer hall that can accommodate around 2500 people at the same time. Colourful flowers and lush green shrubs adorn the pathway to the temple doors, while the nine reflecting pools add to the beauty of the complex.

• Location: Bahapur, Kalkaji, Delhi
• Timings:

Winters: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm

Summers: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm

Closed on Mondays

• Entry Fee: No fee
• Nearest Metro Station: Kalkaji

16. Mehrauli Archaeological Park, Mehrauli

Mehrauli Archaeological Park | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

Sprawling over an area of over 200 acres, Mehrauli Archaeological Park is an important site showcasing the rich heritage of India. It is located near the Qutb Complex and is known for housing over 100 historically significant tombs and monuments, some of which date back to the 10th century AD. Some notable monuments and structures here include the ruins of Lal Kot Fort, Balban’s Tomb, Qali Khan’s Tomb, Rajon Ki Baoli, Jamali Kamali Masjid and Tomb and the Dargah of Sufi Saint. Delhi has seven ancient cities, and Mehrauli is the only city that has been continuously inhabited for over 1000 years. Although some structures here are centuries old, they stand proudly till date, showcasing a variety of architectural styles, such as Rajput, Mughal and Indo-Islamic.

• Location: Anuvrat Marg, Mehrauli, Delhi
• Timings: 5:00 am to 6:30 pm; every day
• Entry Fee: No Fee
• Nearest Metro Station: Qutub Minar

17. Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah, Nizamuddin West

Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah is a revered mausoleum and shrine of Nizamuddin Chisti, a popular Muslim Sufi Saint who worked tirelessly towards spreading love and humanity. To date, the Dargah propagates Sufi traditions of spirituality and equality. People from all religions come here and pay their respects. They even offer prayers, light incense sticks and tie red threads on the jaalis for the fulfilment of their wishes. The Dargah also houses tombs of Shah Jahan’s daughter Jahan Ara Begum, a great Urdu and Persian poet Amir Khusrau, and other Mughals like Inayat Khan, Ziauddin Barani and Mohammad Shah. The brilliant Islamic style of architecture, with intricate jaalis or lattice screens, marble arches, and a dome-shaped roof, accentuates the beauty of the shrine and makes it a must-visit for architecture lovers.

• Location: Boali Gate Road, Nizamuddin West, Delhi
• Timings: 5:00 am to 10:30 pm; every day
• Entry Fee: No fee
• Nearest Metro Station: Pragati Maidan

Suggested Read: Pink Metro Route Map Delhi

18. Qila Rai Pitora, Malviya Nagar

Qila Rai Pithora | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

Delhi, which is probably one of the oldest settlements in the world, has seen many powerful empires and dynasties in the past. No wonder the city is dotted with many small and big ancient structures that are a delight to explore. One such place is Qila Rai Pitora, a fortified city built by Prithviraj Chauhan in the 12^thcentury. It is said that the Qila is an extension of Lal Kot, which was built by the Tomar Kings in the 8^thcentury. The ruins of the Qila’s walls are spread across South Delhi in Saket, Kishangarh, Vasant Kunj and around the Qutb Complex in Mehrauli. The site, which is a prominent attraction among history buffs and tourists, is now protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.

• Location: Kutub Golf Course, Malviya Nagar, Delhi
• Timings: 7:00 am to 9:00 pm; every day
• Entry Fee: No fee
• Nearest Metro Station: Saket and Malviya Nagar

19. Lado Sarai, Mehrauli

Lado Sarai | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

In bygone days, Sarais were public spaces where travellers stayed for a certain period. Lado Sarai is one such place in the Mehrauli area of Delhi. It houses some prominent structures from the Lodi Era (15^thcentury), including some nameless tombs, a mosque, a filled-in well and a dargah. The Lodi Period Tomb in Gumbad Park, also known as Gumbad Park Tomb, is a popular attraction among history and architecture buffs. Although there are no epitaphs inside, the architectural style and elements of the tomb have a strong resemblance to those constructed during the Lodi dynasty. The exterior of the tomb features some glazed tilework, motifs and medallions, while the interior displays beautiful stucco work and eye-catching floral and geometric designs. The mosque here is in ruins, while the Dargah of Sheikh Haidar (also known as Dargah Daula Peer) is still a popular place of worship for the locals.

• Location: Mehrauli, Delhi
• Timings: 24×7
• Entry Fee: No fee
• Nearest Metro Station: Saket

20. Jahanpanah, Malviya Nagar

jahanpanah | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

Jahanpanah, the fourth ancient city of Delhi, was established by Muhammad Bin Tughlaq in 1326-1327 to guard his residents from Mongol attacks. This fortified city is also called Jahanpahan Fort and takes up a massive area, from Siri to Qutub Minar. Although the city is in ruins now, there are several structures that still stand tall. Historians believe that the city had a Sultan’s Palace and the main mosque called Jama Masjid. While the palace has fallen into ruins, the main mosque stays intact. Now known as Begampur Masjid, the mosque showcases magnificent Tughlaq style architecture. The city had many gates, but none have survived. However, the site still has some prominent monuments, like Bijay Mandal, Adilabad Fort, Serai Shahji Mahal, Lal Gumbad, Kharbuze ka Gumbad and Satpula, to name a few.

• Location: Geetanjali Marg, Malviya Nagar, Delhi
• Timings: 9:00 am to 6:30 pm
• Entry Fee: No fee
• Nearest Metro Station: Malviya Nagar

21. Chota Qutub Minar, Uttam Nagar

Chota Qutub Minar | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

Also known as Mini Minar or Kaushal Minar, Chota Qutub Minar is a minaret tower commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1650. This three-storeyed structure made of red sandstone and bricks is situated in a small village in Uttam Nagar. The Minar was encircled by dense forests in the past and the emperor would spend time in this minaret post his hunting expeditions in the surrounding forests. It now lies amidst bustling localities and busy markets in Delhi. Nonetheless, the charm of this 55-feet tall tower still attracts historians and tourists alike.

• Location: Hastsal Village, Uttam Nagar, Delhi
• Timings: 24×7
• Entry Fee: No fee
• Nearest Metro Station: Qutub Minar

22. Alai Minar, Mehrauli

Alai Minar | Among The Best Historical Places in Delhi

Although an unfinished tower in the Qutb Complex, Alai Minar is a popular attraction in the capital city of India. The construction of the Minar was started by Alauddin Khilji who wanted to build a tower double the size of Qutub Minar to commemorate his victory over various kingdoms in South India. The Sultan believed that Alai Minar would remind people of his achievements even after centuries. However, the construction of Alai Minar came to a halt when the Sultan died in 1316 and the project was abandoned. Nevertheless, this massive 80-feet high and 255-feet wide red rubble structure is an outstanding testimony to the Sultan’s valour, achievements and prosperity.

• Location: Ladha Sarai, Mehrauli, Delhi
• Timings: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm; every day
• Entry Fee:
  • Indian Citizens: ₹ 10 per person
  • Foreign Nationals: ₹ 250 per person

• Nearest Metro Station: Qutub Minar

The intricate designs and carvings seen on each of these monuments explain how brilliant and innovative were the sculptors and artisans who sacrificed their lives to build these astounding structures. Traversing this splendid city and visiting each of these monuments requires at least three to four days’ time. So what are you waiting for? Book a room in any of the best hotels in Delhi, explore the city with your friends or alone, and be smitten by all these historic monuments. Make sure you carry a good sunblock to save yourself from the scorching sun and a camera to click your heart away!

Historical places in Delhi (Video):