11 Top Tourist Places To Visit In Delhi

Delhi or Dilli,is one of the seven Union Territories of India. It is a city that is said to be known amongst the oldest existing cities of the world. The territory of Delhi has been reincarnated 11 times, so far. Every empire that ever rested their kingdom within the boundaries of this flat land has left a part of its charm that still exists within the structures and the people. All the historic monuments and structures that surround this vibrant capital reflect the rich culture and the long history that has carved the face of Delhi. The current status of Delhi as the centre of the Indian Government makes it all the more exquisite. Here is our list for you to keep in your back pocket when exploring the capital. The 11 top tourist places that you must visit when in Delhi.

The Red Fort

Photograph by http://www.newsnation.in

The Red Fort (Lal Qila) is a famous historic monument of Delhi. It is one of the oldest structures in the city and a top tourist visiting spot. It has a majestic aura that reflects from its red sandstone walls and binds the spectators with its opulent charm. Built by the famous Mughal emperor Shahjahan, the Red Fort includes many monumental buildings built inside its walls which can be entered via a huge entrance called the Lahore Gate. A sound and light show describing Mughal history is a tourist attraction in the evenings.

Open: Tue-Sun; Mondays closed | Timings: Sunrise to Sunset | Entry Fee: Rs.10 (Indians), Rs.250 (foreigners) | Photography: Nil (Rs.25 for video filming) | Sound & Light Shows: 6pm onwards in English and Hindi. Ticket: Rs.80 (adults), Rs.30 (children)

Connaught Place

Photograph by www.flickr.com user Benicto the Traveller

Connaught Place (CP) also called as Rajiv Chowk serves as the most bubbling shopping spot in the whole of Delhi. Drawing its roots from the British colonial government, CP branched out into one of the major places for the upmarket shopping outlets after the opening of the metro junction of Rajiv Chowk under it. If you are visiting Delhi for shopping souvenirs, don’t forget to stalk the nearby Palika bazaar that suits the need of every shopper looking for modern to traditional markets.

Jama Masjid

Photograph by http://www.filmapia.com/tourism/locations/jama-masjid

The Jama Masjid is the largest mosque in India. Situated opposite Red Fort, it should be paid a visit at least once while you are roaming across the streets of Delhi. It is preserved in perfect state which reminisces the dwelling of the Mughal rulings in the city. Though visiting the Masjid is free, you may be charged accordingly if you want to climb the minar all the way up that gives you scenic view of Delhi. Still a mosque that functions to its entirety, the visitors are restricted to keep their visits to a minimal and photography during prayers is not allowed.

Kebab Lane

Photograph by www.flickr.com by user ANKURSABS

You don’t stand a chance to miss the street food in Delhi. Their recipes and flavours have earned a respectful name in and beyond the borders of the country. And if you land up in a lane full of food joints, then you are probably in Kebab Lane, the soul of foodies in Delhi. Located to the south of Jama Masjid, there are a plenty of options that you can vouch for while you are in this lane. The kebabs, biryanis and royal tandooris have set a benchmark in the field of street food in Delhi.

Chandni Chowk

Photograph by www.flickr.com by user Raul_click

A small section of Old Delhi that still remains at the heart of the city, Chandni Chowk is a major hub to experience the original and authentic Indian bazaar. Bustling with chaos and vibrant people with voices bargaining over the prices, this place is sure to give you a glimpse about life in Delhi. Chandni Chowk hosts a series of junctions that include places of worship, bazaars, restaurants and reasonable budget hotels. The crowd and cornered shops placed in a congested inch-of-a-place are sure to amaze you.

Chawri Bazaar

Photograph by www.flickr.com by user Traveling Man

Chawri bazaar is particularly famous for ‘Chaat’ - a type of Indian street food that literally means ‘to lick’. Chawri Bazaar is arguably the most hygienic place for enjoying chaat. Apart from its chaat, Chawri bazaar also offers a wildly packed cycle-rickshaw tour towards the Jama Masjid or the Red Fort which gives you a chance to experience Delhi like it is shown in the movies.

Humayun's Tomb

Photograph by www.flickr.com by user idb1979

Built by a grieving wife for her husband, the Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The complex consists of three major buildings that act as tombs of three different Mughal greats. The tombs are bordered by generously maintained lush green gardens that are designed in Persian Char Bagh (four corners) style. These gardens reflect the majestic awe of the first major Mughal structure in the city, dating back to 1562. Historians describe the centre structure that hosts the tomb of Humayun, as a prototype to Agra’s Taj Mahal. Even though Humayun’s tomb is built in red sandstone and not white marble, the design and style remarkably resemble that of the Taj Mahal.

India Gate

Photograph by www.flickr.com by user imjuthy

India Gate is situated towards the end of Rajpath, the main parade route that leads from the Rashtrapati Bhavan (the residence of the President). The route via Rajpath towards India Gate is surrounded by grassy lawns that act an outdoor resting spot in the evening. At night, the structure is lit up and looks brilliant as you cross the lawns. India Gate was built in the memory of Indian soldiers who died in the First World War. There is an eternal flame that is kept burning for the soldiers who laid down their lives for the nation.

National Museum

Photograph by www.flickr.com by user pramodtalekar

The National Museum hosts a variety of masterpieces that are preserved with utmost care. The artefacts draw a distinct picture of Indian history that is encased within the walls of this very museum. It includes a major section based on the Indus Valley Culture that marks the remains of the first civilization on the Indian land. The museum also showcases various other religious and informational sections that include handicrafts and art forms that represent different regions of India. Some of the major attractions are a 4,600 year old Harappan temple dancer, the miniature painting gallery and a giant temple chariot that stands outside the museum.

National Zoological Park

Photograph by http://grooverment.blogspot.in

Situated on Mathura Road, the National Zoological Park (NZP) is a huge green park that is maintained with an intention to preserve the biodiversity of the country. More like a sanctuary, the NZP serves as a home to some of the rare wild animals that are rehabilitated from their original natural habitat from all across India. The entire park can be explored by foot if you want to witness the white tigers and Indian elephant in their natural surroundings.

Feroz Shah Kotla

Photograph by www.flickr.com by user VinayakH

You may know this place by the famous International cricket arena named after it. Feroz Shah Kotla poses a natural aura that derives itself from the medieval ages and their beliefs. The tall built structures that resemble an old temple of sorts, is said to be a known place as the hub of Jinns (genies) in Delhi. People of all faiths worship this place and put forth their wishes within the dark and spooky walls of Feroz Shah Kotla. A visit to Feroz Shah Kotla is a must especially if you have a penchant for all things spooky.