A great city is measured by the character it has and the conversations it starts. And Delhi, the capital city of India, scores high on both these counts. With its many historical monuments, parks, temples, heritage sites, and entertainment zones, the city exudes certain magnetism that is hard to resist. From sightseeing to shopping to pub hopping, there is no dearth of things to do once you have checked in at your hotel in Delhi.
Want to soak in the best of experiences when you are in the national capital? Here is a list of things to do in Delhi on your next trip:
Things to do in Delhi:
1. Visit the Red Fort
If there ever were a fortification that can be a symbol of Indian history, it would be the Red Fort aka Lal Qila. Stories of triumph and defeat, glory and conspiracy are etched in every corner of this red sandstone and marble complex built by Shah Jahan in 1639. Architecturally, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an everlasting icon of the Mughal style blended with design elements from India and Central Asia.
- Timings: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm; closed on Mondays
- Entry Fee:
₹ 35 for Indians
₹ 500 for foreigners
2. Watch the Light and Sound Show at Purana Qila
Purana Qila is one of the oldest forts in the city with a legacy that dates back to the period before the Mauryan Empire. One of the biggest attractions here is the Light and Sound show named Ishq-e-Dilli or Romancing Delhi, held in the evenings. The show, which is counted among the Best Light and Sound shows in India, is a combination of narration and stunning visuals that will take you back to the time when India was a medieval superpower.
- Show Timings:
7:30 pm to 8:30 pm (Hindi)
9:00 pm to 10:00 pm (English)
Closed on Fridays - Show Tickets:
₹ 100 for adults
₹ 50 for children, students, and senior citizens
3. Marvel at the Architectural Splendor of Qutub Minar
Built in 1192 with a height of about 237 feet, Qutub Minar is the tallest tower in the world and one of the prominent UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Delhi. Although influenced by a famous minaret in Afghanistan, the design of this tapering edifice incorporates uniquely Indian motifs across its height and flanges. The key attractions here are an iron pillar that never rusts and the Qutub Festival that takes place every year in November or December.
- Timings: 7:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Entry Fee:
₹ 30 for Indians
₹ 500 for foreigners
4. Explore Old-world Astronomy at Jantar Mantar
An equinoctial sundial and observatory that features 13 astronomical apparatuses built on a scale that is hard to imagine, Jantar Mantar is one of the best places to visit in Delhi with family and kids. Though the complex was built way back in 1724, some of the instruments are still well-preserved. The Samrat Yantra can pinpoint the location of planetary bodies and the direction of the North Pole while the Rama Yantra was meant to study the heights of stars from the surface of the earth.
- Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Entry Fee:
₹ 15 for Indians
₹ 200 for foreigners
5. Experience the Spiritual Vibes of Jama Masjid
Grand architecture and an authentic cultural experience await you at Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques and a top historical place to visit in Delhi. The beautiful central dome, arched entrance, and the flanking minarets are some of the notable highlights of the complex. It was built by Shah Jahan at a mammoth cost of over one million rupees back in the 17th century using a combination of sandstone and marble.
- Timings*: 7:00 am to 12:00 pm and 1:30 pm to 6:30 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
* No entry for tourists during the prayer hours
6. Soak in the Age-old Charm of Humayun’s Tomb
A 16th-century garden tomb commissioned by Humayun’s wife Bega Begum and built by Persian architects, Humayun’s Tomb is a precursor to the rich Mughal style that would prevail in the later generations. Surrounded by a landscaped garden and built of red sandstone, the mausoleum features arches and a geometric layout. Take a walk around the Charbagh, a Persian-style garden and marvel at the stone latticework in the building.
- Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Entry Fee:
₹ 30 for Indians
₹ 500 for Indians
Also check couple friendly hotels in Delhi
7. Enjoy an Evening at India Gate
A triumphal arch where all of India’s national parades are held, India Gate is a memorial to fallen British Indian troops of the First World War. It is also where you can pay your respects at the Amar Jawan Jyoti, the eternal flames dedicated to the Indian soldiers who have died in the many wars and battles since independence. Visit this landmark in the evenings to spend some leisurely hours in the green lawns surrounding the area, playing cricket or flying kites or take a stroll on Rajpath. The majestic structure looks spectacular in the night when illuminated with spotlights, making it one of the top places to visit in Delhi at night.
- Timings: 24×7
- Entry Fee: Free
8. Explore the History of Indian Railways at the National Rail Museum
Want to learn about the history of Indian Railways, a network that binds together a nation of millions? Then make your way to the National Rail Museum, one of the must-visit museums in Delhi. The key highlights here include over a hundred life-size exhibits such as signaling systems and well-preserved engines and coaches, some dating back to the 19th and early 20th century. The toy train rides and the 3D virtual coach at the museum will keep you entertained.
- Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm; closed on Mondays
- Entry Fee:
Weekdays – ₹ 50 for adults; ₹ 10 for children
Weekends – ₹ 100 for adults; ₹ 20 for children
9. Visit the One-of-its-kind Sulabh International Museum of Toilets
We don’t spend too much time thinking about how the toilet, such an indispensable part of our lives, has evolved. Founded by eminent social reformer, Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, the Sulabh International Museum of Toilets addresses this question. The establishment has won many awards because of its theme, huge information database, and well-maintained, chronologically arranged exhibits. The place gives you insights into the sanitation habits and infrastructure in the Harappan civilization and how the toilet developed over many centuries.
- Location: Palam-Dabri Marg
- Timings:
Monday to Saturday – 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
Sundays and Public Holidays – 10:00 am to 5:00 pm - Entry Fee: Free
10. Watch Stars at the Nehru Planetarium
Taking a trip through the known universe at the Nehru Planetarium must be in your list of things to do in Delhi. The daily shows in Hindi and English at the dome-shaped theater will take you on a visual journey through the universe and its many wonders. Visitors can also enroll for workshops on astronomy which are held throughout the year and there are many other activities for stargazing enthusiasts.
- Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; closed on Mondays
- Show Timings:
Hindi – 1:30 pm and 4:00 pm
English – 11:30 am and 3:00 pm - Entry Fee:
₹ 80 for adults
₹ 50 for children
Also Read: Best Places to visit in April in India
11. Have a Fun-Filled Day at the National Science Center
Everything science is celebrated at the National Science Center, an ideal destination for families, kids, and science enthusiasts looking to learn wonderful things about science. The many galleries housed within the center will keep you entertained for hours, including Pre- Historic Life Gallery, Information Revolution Gallery, Human Biology Gallery, Emerging Technologies Gallery, and Fun Science Gallery. The giant kaleidoscope, 3D film shows, and the aquarium at the center add to the experience.
12. Celebrate Many Cultures at Dilli Haat
A visit to Dilli Haat counts among the top things to do in Delhi, especially for those who love a heavy dose of culture. This craft bazaar cum open-air food plaza is where you can discover and explore the specialties of all Indian states. From exotic meat preparations from the North East to rustic flavors from Rajasthan and spicy treats from the Southern states, everything is available here. While here, you can also shop for traditional textiles, handicrafts, souvenirs, and antiques, among others.
- Timings: 11:00 am to 09:00 pm
- Entry Fee:
₹ 30 for adults
₹ 20 for children
13. Shop at Janpath Market
Janpath Market is touted as one of the top shopping centers in Delhi and for a reason. You will find an amazing variety of products in this 1.5 km long roadside bazaar, from colorful traditional clothes and fairly decent knock-offs of top brands to wonderfully made curios and souvenirs. Don’t forget to grab some great deals at the Tibetan and flea market sections of Janpath.
- Timings: 10:00 am to 09:30 pm
- What to buy: Souvenirs, accessories, junk jewelry, apparels, handicrafts, Tibetan items
14. Get Adventurous at the Indian Mountaineering Foundation
Trying out your climbing skills at the Indian Mountaineering Foundation is one of the top adventurous things to do in Delhi. Whether you are starting off for the first time or this is your life-long passion, there is always a challenge ready for you. With instructors and top-notch equipment to ensure your safety, all you need to do is to strap yourself up and start the upward trail.
- Location: South Campus
- Timings:
Summer – 8:00 am to 12:00 pm and 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Winter – 9:00 am to 11:00 am and 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm - Charges: ₹ 100 per hour
15. Have Fun at the Amusement and Water Parks in Delhi
Looking for things to do in Delhi during summers? Our national capital has many theme parks and waterparks where you can spend a day splashing around in the water or enjoying the thrill of a roller coaster. Our suggestions include:
Adventure Island
- Location: Rohini
- Timings: 11:00 am to 7:00 pm
- Tickets: ₹ 350 to ₹ 600
Fun N Food Village
- Location: Old Delhi – Gurgaon Road
- Timings: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Tickets: ₹ 300 to ₹ 1000 + GST
Just Chill Water Park
- Location: Main GT Karnal Road
- Timings: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm
- Tickets: ₹ 500 to ₹ 1200
Read our blog on the top amusement and water parks in Delhi to know more about your options.
16. Spend an Evening at the Garden of Five Senses
A visit to the Garden of Five Senses is one of the top things to do in Delhi with your friends or special one. Although primarily a park and open recreation area, it has some unique attractions including art installations, well-manicured lawns, beautiful flower beds, fountains, an open-air amphitheater and the like. Various exhibitions are held here throughout the year, so check the local calendar and plan your visit accordingly.
- Location: Saket
- Timings:
April to September – 9:00 am to 07:00 pm
October to March – 9:00 am to 6:00 pm - Entry Fee:
₹ 20 for children
₹ 10 for children
17. Eat, Drink and Dance the Night Away at the Pubs in Delhi
The people of Delhi love to party, which is evident from the number of night clubs and pubs dotting the city. Whether you want to delve into the underground EDM scene, unwind over some drinks or shake a leg with your buddies, Delhi night spots have it all. Our recommendations include:
- Playboy Club (Chanakyapuri)
- Kitty Su (Connaught Place)
- Kylin Sky Bar (Vasant Kunj)
- Privee (Connaught Place)
- The Electric Room (Lodhi Road)
- Pass Code Only (PCO) (Vasant Vihar)
Want to know more about the nightlife in Delhi? Read our blog on the top pubs and nightclubs in Delhi.
18. Go on a Food Walk in Chandni Chowk
A quintessential Indian bazaar, Chandni Chowk is a place for foodies, shopaholics, and photographers. The street food here is celebrated as the best in the country. From simmering kebabs to traditional desserts, the place offers many gastronomic delights to sample and experiment with.
- Must-try Items: Paranthas, Kebabs, Rolls, Biriyanis, Chaats, Dahi Balle, Jalebis, Chole Bhature
- Must-visit places: Babu Ram Paranthe Wale, Aslam Chicken Corner, Natraj Dahi Balle, Quereshi Kebabs, Babu Ram, Jung Bahadur Kachori Wala, and Old Famous Jalebi Wala
19. Enjoy a fun-filled day at Hauz Khas Village
Hauz Khas is an enigma. Where else can you enjoy a drink at some of the most happening social hubs in the city and soak in the charm of age-old remnants? Many tombs and structures from the Khilji dynasty dot the area and one of the picturesque attractions here is the village lake. The nearby Rose Garden is a good place for a fresh morning walk while evenings are the best time to unwind over food and drinks at some of the top pubs and eateries in the area. Our recommendations include:
- Hauz Khas Social
- Auro Kitchen and Bar
- Summer Hosue Café
- Imperfecto
- Kunzum Travel Café
20. Take a HoHo Bus Tour
The Hop On Hop Off (HOHO) bus tours is the most fitting way to discover the major attractions in Delhi. All you need to do is to take a ticket, board a bus, hop off at an attraction, do the sightseeing, and then board another bus that will you to the next attraction. Sightseeing cannot get better than this, right?
- Pick-up Location: Connaught Place
- Tickets: ₹ 499 to ₹ 1199 (approx.)
21. Spend a Day at Connaught Place
Connaught Place is the ultimate hub for recreation in Delhi. Take a pause and marvel at the architecture of the place and its circular layout that is home to many iconic structures and establishments. You can visit some of the vintage cinemas in Connaught Place, an experience that is becoming increasingly rare with the advent of modern multiplexes. The Dhoomimal Art Centre and the Ram Chander Toy Store (India’s oldest) are two offbeat attractions in Connaught Place. Do not miss out on the underground Palika Bazaar where you can shop till you drop.
22. Seek Peace at the Akshardham Temple
The Akshardham Temple provides a soothing space for those who seek a quiet retreat from the busy world. The building is a celebration of the architectural and design traits of ancient India. The key attractions here include the Sanskruti Vihar, a gentle boat ride that will take you through many motifs and representations of the cultural history of Vedic India, and the Light and Sound show held in the evenings.
- Timings: 9:30 am to 8:00 pm
- Akshardham Ticket Price:
₹ 170 for adults
₹ 100 for children
23. Visit the Lotus Temple
The center of the Baha’i faith, the Lotus Temple is one of India’s architectural marvels and counts among the must-visit temples in Delhi. The highlights here include the free-standing petals that collectively resemble a blooming lotus and a spacious central hall. People of all religions are welcome to visit this outstanding marble structure.
- Location: Kalkaji
- Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
24. Hang Out at Select City Walk
The Select City Walk Mall, one of the most popular shopping malls in Delhi, has become a modern cultural attraction in Delhi due to the shopping and entertainment options it provides. Apart from over 200 showrooms housed here, you can chill with your loved ones at the many bars and bistros, including the rainforest-themed Hangout. Catching a blockbuster at the mall’s Imax screen is one of the many fun things to do in Delhi.
- Location: Saket
- Timings: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm
From heritage attractions to modern entertainment zones, India’s capital offers you a plethora of places to explore. There are many places to visit in Delhi for youngsters and oldies, groups and solo travelers, backpackers and luxury tourists, and everyone in between. So go ahead, and plan a memorable itinerary.
25. Marvel at the splendour of Sunder Nursery
Delhi’s stunning heritage park Sunder Nursery is spread across 90 acres of landscaped gardens adjacent to Humayun’s Tomb. Listed among the World’s 100 Greatest Places to Visit by the TIME Magazine in 2018, the park has over 300 varieties of trees, many marble fountains and geometric flower beds. It also boasts an array of Mughal-era monuments, six of which are named World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. If you are looking at things to do in Delhi for one day, Sunder Nursery deserves to be on your list.
- Location: Lutyen’s Delhi
- Timings: 7 am to 6 pm
- Entry Fee:
- Indian or SAARC Adults: ₹ 35/-
- Senior Citizens and Children (5-12 years): ₹ 15/-
- Children under 5 years and disabled persons: Free
- For Foreigners: ₹ 100/-
26. Experience the grandeur of Safdarjung Tomb
One of the last garden mausoleums built in the grand Mughal style, Safdarjung Tomb is a stately red sandstone structure surrounded by several smaller enclosures and charming gardens. Do not miss the intricate carvings in the sandstone and the fine ornamental paintings exhibited at the main entrance. The stately historical relic is a perfect spot to spend a peaceful morning alone or with family.
- Location: Intersection of Safdarjung Road and Aurobindo Marg
- Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
- Entry Fee: ₹ 25/-
27. Give Yourself an Immersive Experience of Delhi with a Cycling Tour
Adventurous. Experiential. Unique. If these are boxes to tick on your travel agenda, then you cannot miss taking a cycling tour of the grand old city. Easily navigate Delhi’s bylanes and gullies thriving with life and history, and allow the city to envelop you in all its grandeur. There are many reputable operators offering cycling tours that give you the best experience of history, culture, food and contemporary life in Delhi. Tours offering various mixes of locations start from approximately ₹ 2000 and could last four hours or more.
28. Start your day at Lodhi Gardens
One of Delhi’s best-loved parks, Lodhi Gardens is a mesmerising mix of lush greenery and historical relics. Plus, it is in the proximity of some well-known attractions on the tourist circuit. When in Delhi, start your day with a walk in Lodhi Gardens and you would join the ranks of heads of state and celebrities who consider it as one of the top activities to do in Delhi. As you stroll across the garden, take in the quiet charms of Sikandar Lodi’s tomb and look out for Athpula Bridge dating back to Emperor Akbar’s time. The park is open all year round and entry is free.
29. Reflect on love at the Khan-i-Khanan Tomb
Much before the Taj Mahal became the symbol of the love of a yearning husband, the Khan-i-Khanan Tomb was built by Abdur Rahim in the memory of his wife. Abdur Rahim was a poet and military commander in the court of Akbar. He was later buried there. The structure was in ruins for a long time before it was restored to its original magnificence and reopened to the public recently.
- Location: Nizamuddin East
- Timings: 9 am to 5 pm
- Entry Fee: ₹ 40/-
30. Soothe your Soul at Nizamuddin Dargah
A visit to the iconic shrine is a must on the list of things to do in Delhi for everybody. A spiritual and cultural centre, Nizamuddin Dargah attracts pilgrims and tourists alike. The Dargah is famed for hosting Qawwali renditions in the evenings. The complex houses the tombs of Sufi saint Hazrat Nizam-ud-din Auliya as well as the tombs of poet Amir Khusrau and Princess Jahanara, a daughter of Emperor Shah Jahan. The intricate jaalis (latticed windows) and marble arches in the complex make it a treat for the eyes.
- Location: Nizamuddin
- Timings: 5 am to 10.30 pm
31. Boating on Naini Lake
Delhi’s own Naini Lake is open to the public after around five years. The water body offers a peaceful spot to spend a lazy day amid the hustle and bustle of the city. One of Delhi’s largest lakes, the newly-revamped attraction offers paddle-boat rides, a perfect activity that should be on the list of things to do in Delhi for couples.
- Location: Model Town
- Timings: 11 am to 6 pm
- Entry Fee: ₹ 130 for half-an-hour
32. Indulge your inner shopaholic at Sarojini Nagar Market
No experience of Delhi is complete without an afternoon spent picking up bargain buys at the Sarojini Nagar market. This is where you can try out your bargaining skills and also pick-up export rejects for throwaway prices. From branded clothes and shoes to jewellery and accessories, the options are endless.
How to reach: The market is easily accessible from the INA station on the yellow line of Delhi Metro.
33. Be enchanted by Agrasen ki Baoli
Let your photographs tell a tale of times gone by at Agrasen ki Baoli. The captivating stepwell is said to have its origin in mythology. However, the records date it back to the 14th century. A protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India, the baoli has three stories and 108 steps leading down to the supposedly magical black waters. This is a destination that brings alive the antiquity and rich history of Delhi in all its glory.
- Location: Hailey Road
- Timings: 7 am to 6 pm
34. Walk through the National Gallery of Modern Art
Soak in the excellence of Indian art over the past 150 years at the National Gallery of Modern Art and you can call your trip to Delhi a well-rounded one. Experience the magic of masters like Rabindranath Tagore and Amrita Sher-Gil; get a taste of the various artistic traditions from around the country and also get to know about European painting and sculpture along with contemporary Indian art. For the art novice, there are guided walkthroughs at 11 am, 1.30 pm and 3.30 pm.
- Location: Jaipur House, India Gate
- Timing: 11 am to 6.30 pm (Tuesdays to Fridays); 11 am to 8 pm (weekends); Closed on Mondays and National holidays.
- Entry Fee: ₹ 20/-
35. Visit the National Zoological Park of Delhi
Be awed by the beauty of nature at Delhi’s sprawling Zoological Park. It is home to an amazing variety of animals, reptiles and birds—all in their natural habitat. The park also has around 200 varieties of trees and medicinal plants. Counted among the largest and best-maintained parks in Asia, the National Zoological Park offers 176 acres of lush greenery in the heart of the city. Among the top activities to do in Delhi, a trip to the Delhi Zoo is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and energised.
- Location: Mathura Road, New Delhi
- Timings: 9 am to 4.30 pm (Closed on Fridays)
- Entry Fee:
- Adults: ₹ 80/-
- Senior Citizens and Children: ₹ 40 /-
36. Take a stroll through Sanjay Van
Often described as the city’s green lungs, Sanjay Van is a sprawling stretch of green where peacocks and antelopes run free, that too right in the heart of Delhi. The park is a bird watcher’s paradise and witnessing a sunrise or sunset at the park will be an experience to cherish. With well-laid-out walking parks, little ponds and streams running through, Sanjay Van is a 446-acre of forest area that provides many photo options. It also has a watchtower from which you can get an amazing view of the city.
- Location: Near Qutub Minar, Mehrauli
- Timing: 6 am to 8 pm
- Entry Fee: ₹ 50/-
37. Shop in Style at Khan Market
How can the list of fun things to do in Delhi be complete without an afternoon spent at the upmarket shopping centre, Khan Market? Here you can find some of the fanciest eating and shopping outlets in the city. Books, pets, clothes, jewellery, international beauty brands, you name it and you will find it here. Even if you buy nothing, the experience of exploring this iconic market is worth it.
- Location: Rabindra Nagar, New Delhi
38. Enjoy a meal at the India Habitat Centre
The India Habitat Centre is a unique institution where ideas merge with culture in a stunning complex full of facilities that the public can also avail of. While several cultural events happen here throughout the year at their well-appointed auditoriums and galleries, an impromptu visit to the centre needs no better excuse than to explore the culinary options it offers. The All-American Diner is one of the best-loved restaurants in the complex that is open to the public. The Centre also houses Eatopia, the food court that offers a wide range of cuisine from around the world.
- Location: Lodhi Road
- Timings: 10 am to 8 pm
39. Participate in Langar at the Bangla Sahib Gurudwara
Located near Connaught Place, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is a magnificent bungalow turned into a Sikh pilgrimage centre. The Gurudwara attracts not just pilgrims but also people of all faiths and nationalities for its air of spirituality and brotherhood. Visit the Bangla Sahib on your next Delhi trip for an uplifting experience. While there, also grab the opportunity to have ‘langar’ (food made by the Gurudwara staff and volunteers) in the Gurdwara kitchen. Langar is a free of cost public meal served to all irrespective of their religion, caste or background.
- Location: Hanuman Road Area, Connaught Place
- Timings: 24×7 for worship; 9 am to 3 pm for langar
40. Be a Kid again at Shankar’s International Doll Museum
Put together by the late political cartoonist K. Shankar Pillai, the International Dolls Museum showcases a big collection of dolls from all around the world. The museum has two collections of dolls—one from the Western world and the other from countries in Asia and Africa. However, the highlight is a collection of 150 Indian dolls crafted in the museum’s workshop. These dolls pay homage to the costumes and cultural diversity of India in amazing detail.
- Location: Nehru House, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg
- Timings: 10 am to 6 pm (Closed on Mondays and Public Holidays)
- Entry Fee:
- Adults: ₹ 25/-
- Children: ₹ 10 /-
41. Enjoy Live Bollywood in the Kingdom of Dreams
Dance, music, food and Bollywood—it all comes together at Gurugram’s fabulous entertainment centre, the Kingdom of Dreams. Here you get to live out your Bollywood fantasies and be simply be mesmerised by the performances. Bollywood-themed performances, food-themed Culture Gully and a variety of events make the entertainment city an ideal destination for the entire family. Check for show timings online before planning your trip. Ticket rates may vary based on the day of the week, time and categories.
- Location: Gurugram
42. Take a Segway Delhi Art District Tour
There is something uniquely Delhi about gliding through the city on a Segway. Various operators offer this novel and convenient way to cut through the city at your own pace. Coupled with knowledgeable guides who can give you curated experiences of the city, this is an experience worth having. We recommend a Segway tour of Lodhi Art District, Delhi’s first open-air public art venue. Here you can marvel at the creative output of Indian and international artists who have made a drab neighbourhood come alive with colours and reflections of life.
- Price: ₹ 800 on a weekday; ₹ 1000 on weekends
43. Spend a morning at Okhla Bird Sanctuary
Situated on the banks of the Yamuna, Okhla Bird Sanctuary is a birder’s paradise. Spread across over 3.5 sq. kms., it is home to around 320 species of birds. The park’s bird population includes many resident species, migratory birds and several rare exotic birds. If bird-watching is not your kind of thing, then you may relax in the lap of nature amid towering trees, a beautiful lake and exploration trails that make the sanctuary ideal for family picnics.
- Location: Delhi-UP border district of Gautam Buddha Nagar
- Timings: 7 am to 5.30 pm (may vary slightly each season)
- Entry Fees: ₹ 30/- (camera fees extra)
44. Attend the Changing of the Guard Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan
Does the mention of the changing of the guard ceremony remind you of London and Buckingham Palace? Then you need to spare a Saturday morning for the equally elegant and solemn ceremony that unfolds in the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Saturday mornings. The President’s Bodyguard (PBG), a regiment of the Indian Army dedicated to ceremonial duties for the President, puts up an impressive half-an-hour display in full regalia. The ceremony involves the PBG sitting astride their impressive horses and proceeding to the Jaipur Gate to the accompaniment of the Army Brass Band.
- Timings: Changes according to the season. Be sure to check online before your visit.
- Entry Fee: Entry is free but requires prior online booking and is subject to the availability of slots.
45. Do a food tour of Old Delhi
Foodie or not, your Delhi trip cannot be complete unless you have dedicated some time to sample the culinary wonders of Old Delhi. For the uninitiated, there are guided food tours available that will take you through the famed alleys of Chandini Chowk and ensure you sample all the iconic items on offer. But you can also curate your list and make a half-day of it, touching all the important hotspots and relishing every exquisite taste.
We recommend:
- Jalebis from the famous Jalebiwala
- Kebabs and Mutton Nahari from Karim’s
- Butter Chicken from Moti Mahal
- Parathas from the Paranthe Wali Gali
46. Take a Stroll through Khari Baoli
We know all about how Europeans first landed on Indian shores seeking our famed spices. But did you also know that Asia’s largest spice market is right here in Delhi? Walking down the fragrant lanes of Khari Baoli is like walking down the lanes of history as this market has been in operation since the times of Mughal rule. While you stock up on the amazing assortment of spices and dry fruits, do not forget to click some Insta-worthy photos that you will be truly proud of.
- Location: Near Red Fort
- Timings: 10 am to 9 pm
47. Embark on a City Walk with Salaam Baalak Trust
There are many ways to know a city. But hearing about it from children who lived on the streets of that city offers a rare and unique perspective. This is exactly what you get when you take an Old Delhi walk with the children of Salaam Baalak Trust. The Trust provides shelter and rehabilitation for children who live on the streets and the Walk is designed to help them improve their communication skills as they tell their stories. The children conducting the walk are trained to act as local guides.
- Starting Point: Jama Masjid
- Timings: 9 am to 12 pm
- Fee:
- ₹ 400 per person
48. Visit the Waste to Wonder Theme Park
See the Seven Wonders of the World in Delhi at the unique Waste to Wonder Theme Park. Here you will see the replicas of the Taj Mahal, Eiffel Tower, Leaning Tower of Pisa and more, all made of scrap metal. The park is powered by wind and solar energy. In the evenings, the lighting gives it a feel of a dreamland. The Waste to Wonder Theme Park is an ideal spot for a memorable family outing.
- Location: Sarai Kale Khan
- Timings: 11 am to 11 pm
- Entry Fee:
- Adults: ₹ 50/-
- Children between 3 and 12 years of age: ₹ 25/-
- Children below 3 years of age: Free
49. Indulge in Luxury at the DLF Emporio Mall
Shopping is among the best-loved activities to do in Delhi and to truly make a day of it, head straight to the DLF Emporio mall. A treasure trove of luxury merchandise, the mall offers a memorable experience of space and aesthetics. Take your time browsing through the high-end stores to find exactly what you want and then relax in the luxurious restaurants and bar at the mall.
- Location: Vasant Kunj
- Timings: 11 am to 8 pm (9 pm on weekends)
50. Get Adventurous with a Night Walk
In a city so steeped in history and vibrant, throbbing culture, it is only to be expected that the night wears a whole other hue compared to the day. Whether it is to catch the city’s wonders minus the crowds or to chase after the many stories of hauntings that fill the world of urban myth, taking a night walk is an unmissable experience in Delhi. Opt for a group walk with a reputed operator to make sure you do not miss out on anything.
Here are some recommendations:
- Catch the lights at the India Gate after dark
- Visit the most happening pubs in the city
- Try mouth-watering parathas at Moolchand Paranthe Wala
- Drop-in at a 24×7 eatery
- Party at Hauz Khas