🌄 Introduction
Delhi, India’s bustling capital, is a city where ancient history meets modern life. From majestic forts and Mughal gardens to temples, museums, and vibrant markets, Delhi offers a perfect mix of culture, heritage, and urban experiences.
This guide covers the Top 10 attractions in Delhi, complete with history, architecture, timings, distances, travel tips, and expenses for a memorable trip.
1️⃣ Red Fort (Lal Qila) 🏰
- History: Built in 1639 by Shah Jahan; symbol of Mughal grandeur
- Architecture: Red sandstone walls, intricate carvings, Diwan-i-Aam & Diwan-i-Khas
- Timings: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed Mondays)
- Entry Fee: ₹40 (Indians) / ₹550 (Foreigners)
- Travel Tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds; audio guide recommended
2️⃣ Qutub Minar 🏹
- History: Built in 1193 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak; tallest brick minaret in the world
- Architecture: Indo-Islamic style, intricate carvings and inscriptions
- Timings: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹40 (Indians) / ₹600 (Foreigners)
- Travel Tip: Combine with nearby Qutub complex and tombs
3️⃣ India Gate & Rajpath 🎖️
- History: War memorial for soldiers of World War I and Afghan Wars
- Architecture: Triumphal arch, ceremonial boulevard
- Timings: Open 24 hours (best at sunset for photography)
- Entry Fee: Free
- Travel Tip: Evening visit recommended for illuminated views; horse rides available
4️⃣ Lotus Temple (Bahai Temple) 🌸
- History: Completed in 1986; open to all religions
- Architecture: Lotus-shaped structure made of marble; serene ambiance
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Travel Tip: Attend meditation session for peaceful experience
5️⃣ Humayun’s Tomb 🏛️
- History: 1565 AD; precursor to Taj Mahal architecture
- Architecture: Mughal garden tomb, Persian influence
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹40 (Indians) / ₹600 (Foreigners)
- Travel Tip: Explore the surrounding gardens and Isa Khan’s tomb
6️⃣ Akshardham Temple 🕉️
- History: Opened in 2005; modern cultural complex
- Architecture: Pink sandstone and marble carvings; traditional Indian motifs
- Timings: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM (Closed Mondays)
- Entry Fee: Free (shows have separate charges)
- Travel Tip: Don’t miss the musical fountain in the evening
7️⃣ Chandni Chowk & Old Delhi Markets 🛍️
- History: Established in 17th century by Shah Jahan
- Highlights: Spice market, Paranthe Wali Gali, street food, jewelry shops
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Travel Tip: Hire a rickshaw guide; carry cash; enjoy street food
8️⃣ Rashtrapati Bhavan & Parliament House 🇮🇳
- History: Built during British era; official residence of President of India
- Architecture: Classical British-Indian fusion, Mughal garden
- Timings: Garden visit 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (advance booking for tours)
- Entry Fee: ₹50–₹100
- Travel Tip: Book online for guided tours of Rashtrapati Bhavan
9️⃣ Raj Ghat 🕊️
- History: Memorial of Mahatma Gandhi; serene black marble platform
- Architecture: Simple, open-air platform with eternal flame
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Travel Tip: Visit early morning for a peaceful experience; photography allowed
🔟 National Museum / India National Art Museum 🖼️
- History: Established 1949; preserves Indian history, culture, and artifacts
- Architecture: Modern museum with Mughal and Rajput exhibits
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
- Entry Fee: ₹20 (Indians) / ₹650 (Foreigners)
- Travel Tip: Allocate 2–3 hours for exploring; guided tour recommended
🧭 Travel Guide for Delhi
- Best Time to Visit: October – March (pleasant weather)
- How to Reach:
- Air: Indira Gandhi International Airport
- Train: Delhi has multiple major railway stations (New Delhi, Old Delhi)
- Metro & Road: Well-connected metro and buses across the city
- Ideal Duration: 3–4 days to cover top 10 attractions comfortably
💸 Approximate Expenses (per person/day)
| Category | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Entry Tickets | 200–1,500 |
| Local Transport | 400–800 |
| Accommodation | 1,500–4,000 |
| Food & Misc | 500–800 |
Total Estimated Cost: ₹2,600 – ₹7,100/day per person
💡 Visitor Tips
✅ Dress comfortably; modest attire for temples
✅ Use metro or taxis to avoid traffic
✅ Carry water and sunscreen
✅ Morning or evening visits recommended for photography
✅ Respect cultural sites
