1. Red Fort

The Red Fort, Delhi's most famous landmark, not only stands as a powerful reminder of India's Mughal era, but is also a symbol of India's struggle for freedom. It was built by the fifth Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, when he decided to move his capital there from Agra in 1638. The turbulent history of the fort includes its capture by the Sikhs and the British. To take your imagination back to the ancient era, an hour-long sound and light show of the history of the fort is held every night.

• Location: Opposite Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi.
• Entry Cost: Foreigners, 500 rupees. Indians, 35 rupees.
• Opening Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., plus light shows in the evenings. Closed Mondays. 

2. Jama Masjid

The Jameh Mosque is another wonderful treasure in the old city, one of the largest in India. The courtyard can accommodate 25,000 worshipers. The mosque took 12 years to build and was completed in 1656. The arduous climb to the top of its south tower will reward you with a spectacular view (albeit obscured by metal safety bars) across the rooftops of Delhi. Make sure to dress appropriately when visiting the mosque or else you will not be allowed in. This means covering your head, legs and shoulders. The outfit is available there.

• Location: Opposite Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi. Near the Red Fort.

3. Chandni Chowk

Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi's main street, is a stark contrast to New Delhi's wide, orderly streets. Cars, bike rickshaws, hand-painted buggies, pedestrians, and animals all compete for space. It's chaotic, ramshackle, and cluttered, but it's also totally captivating. As one of the oldest and busiest markets in India, its narrow, winding streets are lined with cheap jewellery, fabrics and electronics. For the adventurous, Chandni Chowk is a great place to sample Delhi street food. The famous Karim's Hotel, Delhi's gastronomic institution, is also located there.

• Location: Old Delhi, near the Red Fort and Jama Masjid.

4. Swaminarayan Akshardham

This massive temple complex was built by the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha spiritual organization and opened in 2005. Dedicated to showcasing Indian culture, it is a relatively new attraction. In addition to the stunning pink stone architecture and white marble sanctuary, the complex includes an expansive garden, sculptures, and boat ride. Leave enough time to explore it well, at least half a day. Please note that cell phones and cameras are not allowed.

• Location: National Highway 24, near Noida Mor, New Delhi.
• Entry Cost: Free. However, tickets are required to view the exhibitions.
• Opening Hours: 9.30 a.m. until 6.30 p.m. (last entry). Closed Mondays.

5. Humayun's Tomb

If you think that Humayun's Tomb is somewhat similar to the Taj Mahal in Agra, it is because it was the inspiration for the creation of the Taj Mahal. The tomb was built in 1570 and houses the body of the second Mughal Emperor Humayun. This was the first of this type of Mughal architecture to be built in India, and it was followed by the Mughal rulers with a long period of building throughout the country. The cemetery is part of a larger complex set in beautiful gardens.

• Location: Nizamuddin East, New Delhi. Near the Nizamuddin train station, off Mathura Road.
• Entry Cost: Foreigners, $5 U.S. Indians, 10 rupees. Free for children under 15 years.
• Opening Hours: Sunrise until sunset, daily. It's best viewed in the golden light of the late afternoon.

6. Lodhi Gardens

Lodhi Gardens offer a peaceful escape from city life and are the place to go if you feel tired and exhausted. The Great Gardens were built by a British in 1936 around the tombs of 15th and 16th century rulers. Runners, yogis, and young couples enjoy this park.

• Location: Lodhi Road, not far from Humayun's Tomb.
• Entry Cost: Free.
• Opening Hours: Daily from sunrise until 8 p.m., but Sundays are particularly busy.

7. Qutab Minar

The Qutab Minar, one of the tallest brick minarets in the world, is a fine example of early Indo-Islamic architecture built in 1193, but the reason remains a mystery. Some believe it was made to signify victory and the beginning of Muslim rule in India, while others say it was used to call the faithful to prayer. The tower has five different floors and is covered with intricate carvings and verses from the Holy Quran. There are also a number of other historical monuments on site.

• Location: Mehrauli, south Delhi.
• Entry Cost: Foreigners, 500 rupees. Indians, 30 rupees. Free for children under 15 years.
• Opening Hours: Sunrise until sunset, daily.

8. Gandhi Smriti and Raj Ghat

A visit to Gandhi Smriti will show you the exact location where Mahatma Gandhi, known as the Father of the Nation, was assassinated on January 30, 1948. He lived in the house for 144 days until the time of his death. The room in which he slept has been kept just as he left it, and the prayer field in which he held a huge gathering every night is open to the public. Many pictures, statues, paintings and inscriptions are also displayed. You can also visit his memorial at Raj Ghat.

• Location: 5 Tees January Marg, central New Delhi.
• Entry Cost: Free.
• Opening Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Mondays.

9. India Gate

The towering arch of India Gate in central New Delhi is a war memorial, built in memory of Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army in World War I. Boulevard line is a popular place to enjoy a warm summer night.

• Location: Rajpath, near Connaught Place, New Delhi.
• Entry Cost: Free.
• Opening Hours: Always open.

10. Bahai (Lotus) Temple

The Bahai Temple is called the Lotus Temple, as it takes the shape of a lotus flower. It is especially beautiful at night, when it has attractive lighting. The temple is made of concrete covered with white marble, and it belongs to the Bahai Faith, which proclaims the unity of all people and religions. Everyone is welcome there.

• Location: Near Nehru Place, south Delhi.
• Entry Cost: Free.
• Opening Hours: 9.00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Closed Mondays.

 
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