10 Best Things to Do in Delhi
What is Delhi Most Famous For?
This list will take you on a journey through the best things to do in Delhi, featuring some of the city’s most iconic attractions. They each offer a unique glimpse into Delhi’s multifaceted character and India’s intriguing culture.
India’s vibrant capital is a city that seamlessly blends its rich historical past with its modern, cosmopolitan present. From ancient monuments to bustling markets, from serene temples to lively neighbourhoods, Delhi offers a diverse range of experiences that you’ll treasure forever. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast or a foodie, you’ll find something to inspire and delight you.
What are the best things to do in Delhi?
1. Chandni Chowk Market
A busy market with real India vibes
Ideal para: Compras, Alimentação, Econômico
At the historic Chandni Chowk Market, you’ll experience the authentic atmosphere of a popular Indian market. It’s packed and noisy, but this is where locals get their everyday essentials, and they love it. If you’re looking for souvenirs, you’ll find anything from inexpensive trinkets and spices to exquisite jewellery and natural perfumes called attar.
Visit the cloth bazaar of Katra Neel to find beautiful fabrics such as silk, satin, muslin and crepe. Or, why not have a saree or suit made? For the best bargains on electronics, head to Bhagirath Palace. Chandni Chowk is also home to some of the most popular restaurants in Delhi, so dig into your paratha and savour the flavours of India.
Localização: Sis Ganj Guru Dwara, Chhippy Wada, Chandni Chowk, Delhi 110006, India
Abre: Monday–Saturday from 9.30 am to 8 pm (closed on Sundays)
Chandni Chowk Market
2. Mehrauli
Historic landmarks and breathtaking landscapes
Ideal para: História, Foto, Econômico
The South Delhi neighbourhood of Mehrauli is brimming with history as it’s one of the 7 Medieval cities that make up the present union territory of Delhi. It boasts mosques, mausoleums, madrasas and stepwells. This is where you’ll find the famed Qutb Minar complex and the country’s tallest minaret. Explore Ahinsa Sthal Jain temple with the over 4-metre granite statue of Tirthankara Mahāvīra or the Tomb of Balban, a prime example of Indo-Islamic architecture.
For great holiday photos, head out to the Mehrauli Archaeological Park. Enjoy the lush green scenery and discover historical monuments around every corner. To learn more about the area, book a guided tour with an expert English-speaking guide and a light snack included.
Mehrauli
3. The Lotus Temple
A stunning place of worship welcoming people of all religions
Ideal para: Foto, Viagens alternativas
The impressive Lotus Temple for the Baha’i faith offers a peaceful escape from the busy, hot and noisy streets of Delhi. It’s famous for its striking and award-winning lotus-like shape, composed of 27 free-standing marble-clad ‘petals’. While the temperature outside can rise above 45° Celsius in summer, the temple remains relatively cool thanks to genius construction and the 9 pools surrounding the building.
You can attend the 10–15-minute prayer services at various times during the day Tuesdays through Sundays, no matter what your religion. Note that you need to leave your shoes in a shoe room outside the prayer hall. If you’re travelling by metro, exit at Kalkaji Mandir Metro Station or Okhla NSIC Station.
Localização: Lotus Temple Rd Bahapur, Kalkaji, New Delhi, Delhi 110019, India
Abre: Tuesday–Sunday from 8.30 am to 5 pm (closed on Mondays)
Telefone: +91 11 2644 4029
The Lotus Temple
4. Jama Masjid
One of the largest mosques in India
Ideal para: História, Foto
Jama Masjid is said to have the best views of Delhi from its 40-metre minarets. For your amazing holiday photos, you need to climb the 121 steps to the viewing platform, but you’ll be rewarded with stunning scenery. This opulent mosque is a photogenic jewel in its own right with 3 great gates, walls and floors made of red sandstone and white marble and a courtyard that can house 25,000 worshippers.
As Jama Masjid is a place of worship, you need to dress modestly and respectfully. You can rent appropriate attire for a fee at the northern gate. There’s no admission charge, but if you’d like to take photos, be prepared to pay a small fee.
Localização: Jama Masjid, Old Delhi, Delhi 110006, India
Abre: Daily from 7 am to noon and from 1.30 pm to 6.30 pm
Telefone: +91 11 2336 5358
Jama Masjid
5. Hauz Khas Village
A bohemian neighbourhood with cosy cafes and Delhi designs
Ideal para: Compras, Alimentação, História
Spread throughout a labyrinth of medieval ruins, Hauz Khas Village is one of Delhi’s top spots for shopping, partying and dining. This arty enclave has grown over the ruins of Siri, the fortress city founded by Sultan Alauddin Khilji. Today it’s home to the coolest galleries, boutiques and bars in the city. This is where you’ll see young Delhiites forging a new, cosmopolitan identity, sipping cappuccinos and rainbow-coloured cocktails.
Come before breakfast time and you’ll find the streets half-deserted and morning mist hanging over the madrasa ruins and the onion domes of the mausoleums. Spend your day browsing art galleries and antique shops, strolling through atmospheric ruins and enjoying the cool, calm waters of Hauz Khas Lake.
Localização: Deer Park, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, Delhi 110016, India
Hauz Khas Village
6. Humayun’s Tomb
UNESCO World Heritage Site and garden tomb that inspired the Taj Mahal
Ideal para: História, Foto
They say that no one can prepare you for what you’ll see when you visit Humayun’s Tomb. This magnificent monument is the final resting place of emperor Mirza Nasir al-Din Muhammad and a prime example of Mughal architecture in India. The massive tomb is set in a series of gardens where it rises majestically on a plateau and dominates everything around it. There are other tombs in the same complex and all worth seeing.
Go early in the morning on a weekday to avoid queues and catch the nature in the area at its best. You’ll see peacocks roaming around, woodpeckers pecking palm trees and kingfishers sitting on the edge of shallow pools. So, be sure to bring your binoculars.
Localização: Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah, Mathura Rd, Nizamuddin, Nizamuddin East, New Delhi, Delhi 110013, India
Abre: Daily from sunrise to sunset
Telefone: +91 11 2435 5275
Humayun's Tomb
7. Swaminarayan Akshardham
A magnificent Hindu temple and spiritual-cultural centre
Ideal para: História, Foto, Viagens alternativas
Swaminarayan Akshardham is a marvel of architecture, with intricate carvings and sculptures adorning every surface. It’s built from pink sandstone and marble and is said to be the world’s largest Hindu temple. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features exhibitions on the life story of Lord Swaminarayan and the history of Hinduism. There are also regular cultural events such as spectacular music and dance performances.
The vast Akshardham complex boasts a picturesque garden and a lake. To cool off on a hot day, take a boat ride around the lake and enjoy stunning views of the temple and the gardens. To get to Swaminarayan Akshardham from Delhi city centre, hop on a Blue Line metro train and exit at Akshardham station.
Localização: NH 24, Pramukh Swami Maharaj Marg, Pandav Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 110092, India
Abre: Tuesday–Sunday from 10 am to 6.30 pm (closed on Mondays)
Telefone: +91 11 4344 2344
Swaminarayan Akshardham
8. Raj Ghat
A memorial dedicated to the ‘Father of the Nation’
Ideal para: Econômico, História, Foto
The simple, yet powerful Raj Ghat marks the place where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated on 31 January 1948, a day after his assassination. It’s a place of reflection and remembrance, honouring the life and teachings of the famous civil rights activist. The modest black marble platform is decorated with fresh flowers and an eternal flame burns at one end, symbolising Gandhi’s enduring legacy. For many Indians, Raj Ghat is a significant pilgrimage site. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Indian history.
The surrounding area is a well-maintained park with lush greenery and fountains where you can enjoy some peace and quiet in the midst of busy Delhi life. Or stroll around the beautiful lake to stretch your legs.
Localização: J6RX+6RR, Behind Red Fort, Delhi 110006, India
Abre: Daily from 6 am to 6.30 pm
Raj Ghat
9. The Red Fort
A historic Mughal fort with an evening multi-media show
Ideal para: História, Foto, Viagens alternativas
The Red Fort is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, known for its massive red sandstone walls, intricate carvings and stunning palaces. Many significant events in Indian history, including the Indian Independence Day celebrations, have taken place here. The fort houses the Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience) and the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) which showcase the grandeur and sophistication of the Mughal era and offer insights into the court’s functioning and the cultural practices of the time.
Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site in the evening and witness the captivating sound and light show that recreates historical events and brings the fort’s stories to life. Have your camera ready to catch the best sights in the breathtaking spectacle.
Localização: Netaji Subhash Marg, Lal Qila, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi 110006, India
Abre: Tuesday–Sunday from sunrise to sunset (closed on Mondays)
Telefone: +91 11 2327 7705
The Red Fort
10. National Museum, New Delhi
Showcasing the incredible diversity and richness of Indian culture
Ideal para: História, Casais, Famílias
The National Museum covers a wide range of themes, including archaeology, history, art and culture. You can explore exhibits on ancient civilisations, medieval India, Mughal art and more. The museum offers interactive displays and multimedia presentations that bring history to life. If you’re travelling with kids, this engaging museum is a great place to learn about India’s past, present and future.
As the gigantic museum houses 2 million objects that span 5,000 years of history, including 17,000 paintings, check out the collection highlights on their website in advance to optimise your visit. Or book a free guided tour and embark on a fascinating journey through time.
Localização: Janpath Rd, Rajpath Area, Central Secretariat, New Delhi, Delhi 110011, India
Abre: Tuesday–Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm (closed on Mondays)
Telefone: +91 11 2301 9272
National Museum, New Delhi
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