Places to Visit in Delhi: Top Sights for First-Time Visitors

Delhi is a big city with thousands of years of history, so choosing where to start can be hard. This guide lists the 15 best places to visit in Delhi, explains who each one suits, and gives you easy 1, 2 and 3-day plans so you spend your time seeing the city, not sitting in traffic.

Top Places to Visit in Delhi at a Glance

Historic Monuments and Forts

Delhi's historic sights are the main reason most people visit, and they are the best tourist places in Delhi to start with.

Red Fort

The Red Fort is a historic Mughal fort built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century as the palace fort of his new capital, Shahjahanabad. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, it is known for its imposing red sandstone walls, historic courtyards and distinctive Mughal architecture. Allow around 1.5–2 hours to explore the complex, depending on your pace. The Red Fort is generally open from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM and closed on Mondays, according to Incredible India. Check the official visitor information for the latest opening hours and ticket details before your visit.

Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid is one of India’s largest mosques, located in Old Delhi near the Red Fort. Commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and completed in 1656, it is known for its vast courtyard, grand gateways and red sandstone and marble architecture. Allow time to appreciate the mosque’s historic design, while respecting its religious significance. Visitors should remove their shoes and dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees. Tourist access may be restricted during prayer times, so check the latest visiting hours, entry conditions and photography rules before your visit.

Humayun’s Tomb

Humayun’s Tomb is a 16th-century garden mausoleum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, commissioned by Empress Bega Begum in memory of Mughal Emperor Humayun. Its symmetrical Charbagh gardens, red sandstone structure and white marble dome make it one of Delhi’s most photogenic historic landmarks. The tomb is generally open from sunrise to sunset. Visit in the morning for a more comfortable walk through the gardens and better opportunities for photography. You can also combine your visit with nearby Sunder Nursery, which adjoins the tomb complex. Check the latest opening information and ticket details before you go.

India Gate and Kartavya Path

India Gate is a prominent war memorial in New Delhi, commemorating Indian soldiers who died during the First World War and other conflicts. Nearby, Kartavya Path formerly known as Rajpath is a ceremonial avenue stretching from Rashtrapati Bhavan towards India Gate. The surrounding lawns and open spaces make the area a popular spot for families, leisurely walks and photography. Access to the India Gate area is generally free, although access restrictions may apply during official events. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy a more comfortable walk, especially during Delhi’s hot summer months. Before travelling, check for temporary closures or security restrictions.

Purana Qila

Purana Qila, also known as the Old Fort, is one of Delhi’s oldest historic fortifications, with massive gateways, ancient walls and spacious grounds. Developed during the reigns of Mughal Emperor Humayun and Afghan ruler Sher Shah Suri, the 16th-century fort offers a glimpse into Delhi’s rich history. Allow around 1–2 hours to explore the fort at a relaxed pace. The complex is generally listed as open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but check the latest visitor information before your trip. Boating on the lake has resumed in recent years, although availability and operating arrangements may change, so confirm the service before planning your visit.. 

Qutub Minar

Qutub Minar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in South Delhi, featuring a 72.5-metre-high red sandstone tower built in the early 13th century. The surrounding Qutub Complex includes historic monuments such as the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Alai Darwaza and the famous Iron Pillar, which bears an ancient Sanskrit inscription. The site is a rewarding stop for visitors interested in Delhi’s history and Indo-Islamic architecture, particularly those staying in Vasant Kunj, Saket or Mehrauli. Allow around 1–2 hours to explore the complex. Visiting early in the day can help you avoid some crowds and enjoy a more comfortable walk. The complex is generally open from sunrise to sunset, but check the latest official timings and ticket information before your visit.

Temples and Spiritual Places

Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple is a Bahá'í House of Worship shaped like a lotus flower, and it welcomes people of all faiths. The grounds are calm and quiet, which makes it one of the more peaceful places in Delhi. Check entry rules and the weekly closing day. 

Akshardham

Akshardham is a large temple complex known for detailed stone carving and exhibitions. It is popular with families and needs about three hours. Security is strict: phones, cameras and bags are usually not allowed inside, so plan to use the lockers. Check the weekly closing day. 

Bangla Sahib Gurudwara

Bangla Sahib is a Sikh gurudwara near Connaught Place with a calm sacred pool and a free community meal (langar) for visitors. Cover your head and remove your shoes before entering. It is easy to visit between other central Delhi stops.

Gardens, Museums and Quiet Spots

If you want peaceful places in Delhi away from the crowds, start here.

Lodhi Garden

Lodhi Garden is a 90-acre landscaped park in central Delhi that contains several 15th-century tombs from the Lodhi dynasty, including the tombs of Sikandar Lodi and Muhammad Shah. Tall trees, open lawns and paved walking paths make it popular with joggers, couples and anyone seeking a calm start to the day. The park is generally open from sunrise to sunset and is free to enter. Early morning is the best time to visit for soft light and fewer people

Sunder Nursery

Sunder Nursery is a 90-acre restored heritage park that adjoins Humayun’s Tomb. Developed by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, it features Mughal-era monuments, formal gardens, water channels and wide lawns. The park is open daily from around 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM (timings can vary seasonally). Entry requires a ticket. It pairs naturally with Humayun’s Tomb — most visitors explore both in a single morning or afternoon.

National Museum

The National Museum on Janpath holds one of India’s largest collections of art, sculpture, archaeology and decorative arts, spanning more than 5,000 years. Key galleries cover the Indus Valley Civilisation, Buddhist art, miniature paintings and textiles. The museum is fully indoor, making it a practical choice during Delhi’s hot afternoons or monsoon rains. It is usually open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM and closed on Mondays and certain public holidays. Check the official website for current ticket prices and any temporary gallery closures. 

Agrasen ki Baoli

Agrasen ki Baoli is a protected 14th-century stepwell near Connaught Place, featuring 108 steps descending to the water level and three levels of arched corridors. The structure is compact and can be seen in 20–30 minutes, making it an easy photography stop between other central Delhi sites. Entry is free. The stepwell is open during daylight hours; mornings are quieter and better for photographs.

Markets, Food and Hangout Places in Delhi

Chandni Chowk

Chandni Chowk is Old Delhi's busiest market street, famous for street food, spices and narrow lanes. Go with a group, carry small change or UPI, and eat at busy stalls. Many shops have a weekly closing day.

Hauz Khas Village

Hauz Khas Village combines medieval ruins around a lake with cafés and shops, which makes it one of the most popular hangout places in Delhi for couples and friends. Visit in the afternoon to see the ruins and stay for a café meal.

Other popular stops are Khan Market for cafés and bookshops, Dilli Haat for crafts and regional food, and the shops and restaurants at Ambience Mall in Vasant Kunj.

Best Places to Visit in Delhi by Type of Traveller

Places to visit in Delhi with family: India Gate, Akshardham, Qutub Minar, Sunder Nursery and Purana Qila. They have open space, are easy to reach and suit children and older relatives.

Places to visit in Delhi for couples: Lodhi Garden, Sunder Nursery, Humayun's Tomb and Hauz Khas Village. Go in the morning or late afternoon for softer light.

Places to visit in Delhi with friends: Hauz Khas Village, Khan Market, Chandni Chowk and Connaught Place.

First-time visitors: Red Fort, Humayun's Tomb, India Gate and Qutub Minar.

Solo and women travellers: choose busy daytime places, use the metro (the first coach is reserved for women) or app-based cabs, and share your plan with someone you trust.

Free or low-cost places: India Gate, Kartavya Path, Lodhi Garden and many temples and gurudwaras are free or low-cost.

Delhi Sightseeing Plans: 1, 2 and 3 Days

1 day (central Delhi): Humayun's Tomb and Sunder Nursery in the morning, lunch at Khan Market, then India Gate and Kartavya Path in the afternoon.

2 days: Day 1 is Old Delhi: Red Fort, Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk. Day 2 is the central Delhi plan above.

3 days: Add a South Delhi day with Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple and Hauz Khas Village. Keep Akshardham for a separate half day because it is far from the others.

Grouping places by area saves a lot of travel time in Delhi's traffic.

Best Time to Visit Delhi

October to March is the most comfortable time for sightseeing, with cooler days. April to June is very hot, so visit early in the morning. July to September is humid with monsoon rain. Air quality can be poor in late autumn and winter, so check the air quality index before long outdoor days.

How to Get Around Delhi

The Delhi Metro reaches many major sights and avoids road traffic. App-based cabs are convenient between places the metro does not reach. Auto-rickshaws are useful for short trips, but agree on the fare first. Start early, because traffic builds up through the day.

Where to Stay for Sightseeing in Delhi

Staying in Vasant Kunj puts you in South Delhi, close to malls and restaurants, with access to the airport and metro routes. The Grand New Delhi offers on-site dining for guests after a long day of sightseeing, and you can check current offers.

Delhi After Dark

Many of Delhi's monuments close at sunset, but the city has plenty to enjoy later. See our guide to places to visit in Delhi at night and our page on nightlife in Delhi.

Where to Stay for Sightseeing in Delhi

The Grand New Delhi in Vasant Kunj is a comfortable base for sightseeing in South Delhi. You are close to Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, Hauz Khas Village and the Vasant Kunj malls, and the airport is easy to reach.

• Rooms and suites for couples, families and business travellers: see accommodation and our photo gallery.
• Longer stays: our service apartments give you extra space for a week or more.
• Dinner after sightseeing: eat at Dilli Kanteen & Kitchen or Cascades, or relax at the bar.
• Unwind: the spa is a good way to rest after a day on your feet.
• Offers: check our current offers before you book.

Planning a Delhi trip? Contact The Grand New Delhi and our team can help with rooms and trip planning

Delhi After Dark

Many of Delhi's monuments close at sunset, but the city has plenty to enjoy later. See our guide to places to visit in Delhi at night and our page on nightlife in Delhi.