Delhi Road Map 2020
Delhi, also known as the National Capital Territory of India, is a city that is steeped in history and culture. The city is a perfect blend of old and new, with ancient monuments and bustling bazaars coexisting with modern skyscrapers and high-end shopping malls. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, an adventure seeker, or a culture vulture, Delhi has something to offer to everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports in Delhi.
Top Attractions in Delhi
Delhi is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in India. The Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Humayun’s Tomb are some of the must-visit attractions in Delhi. The Lotus Temple, India Gate, and Akshardham Temple are also popular tourist spots. If you are interested in history, you should visit the National Museum, which has a vast collection of artifacts from different eras. The National Gallery of Modern Art and the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art are perfect for art lovers.
Hidden Gems in Delhi
Delhi has many hidden gems that are not on the usual tourist trail. The Hauz Khas Village is a trendy neighborhood that is home to some of the best cafes, bars, and boutiques in Delhi. The Lodhi Art District is an open-air art gallery that features murals and installations by local and international artists. The Tughlaqabad Fort, which is located in the southern part of Delhi, is a massive fort that is surrounded by lush greenery. The Agrasen ki Baoli, a stepwell that dates back to the 14th century, is another hidden gem in Delhi.
Food Scene in Delhi
Delhi is a foodie’s paradise. The city has a diverse culinary scene, with street food, fine dining, and everything in between. Some of the must-try dishes in Delhi are butter chicken, kebabs, chaat, paranthas, and chole bhature. Chandni Chowk, Karim’s, and Paranthe Wali Gali are some of the best places to try street food in Delhi. If you are looking for fine dining options, you can try Indian Accent, Bukhara, or Varq.
Budget-Friendly Tips in Delhi
Delhi can be an expensive city, but there are ways to save money while exploring the city. You can use the Delhi Metro to get around the city, which is cheap and efficient. You can also try street food, which is not only delicious but also affordable. Many museums and galleries in Delhi offer free entry on certain days of the week. You can also stay in budget-friendly hostels or guesthouses instead of expensive hotels.
Outdoor Adventures in Delhi
Delhi has many options for outdoor enthusiasts. You can go for a jog or a picnic in the lush greenery of the Lodhi Gardens or the Nehru Park. You can also go for a boat ride in the Old Fort Lake or the Hauz Khas Lake. The Yamuna River, which flows through Delhi, offers opportunities for kayaking and rafting. The Aravalli Hills, which are located on the outskirts of Delhi, are perfect for hiking and trekking.
Historical Landmarks in Delhi
Delhi has a rich history, and the city is home to many historical landmarks. The Red Fort, which was built in the 17th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit attraction in Delhi. The Qutub Minar, which is the tallest brick minaret in the world, was built in the 12th century and is another iconic landmark in Delhi. The Jama Masjid, which is one of the largest mosques in India, and the India Gate, which is a war memorial, are also popular historical landmarks in Delhi.
Family-Friendly Activities in Delhi
Delhi has many options for families with children. The National Science Centre, the National Rail Museum, and the Delhi Zoo are perfect for children who are interested in science and animals. The KidZania Delhi NCR, which is an indoor theme park, is a great place for children to learn and have fun. The Adventure Island, which is an amusement park, and the Splash Water Park, which is a water park, are perfect for families who want to spend a day outdoors.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences in Delhi
If you want to explore the lesser-known parts of Delhi, there are many off-the-beaten-path experiences that you can try. You can take a heritage walk in the Mehrauli Archaeological Park, which has many historical monuments and ruins. You can also take a bicycle tour of Old Delhi, which will take you through the narrow lanes and bustling bazaars of the city. The Nizamuddin Dargah, which is a Sufi shrine, is another off-the-beaten-path experience in Delhi.
Natural Wonders in Delhi
Delhi may be a bustling metropolis, but the city has many natural wonders that are worth exploring. The Yamuna Biodiversity Park, which is located on the banks of the Yamuna River, is a vast park that has many species of plants and animals. The Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary, which is located on the outskirts of Delhi, is home to many species of birds and animals. The Ridge, which is a forested area in the heart of Delhi, is perfect for a nature walk or a picnic.
Vibrant Nightlife in Delhi
Delhi has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, pubs, and nightclubs that cater to different tastes. The Hauz Khas Village, Connaught Place, and Nehru Place are some of the best places to experience Delhi’s nightlife. The Kitty Su, which is located in the Lalit hotel, is one of the best nightclubs in Delhi. The Social, which is a chain of bars, and the Piano Man Jazz Club, which is a live music venue, are also popular nightlife spots in Delhi.
Local Markets in Delhi
Delhi is a shopper’s paradise, with many markets that sell everything from clothes to jewelry to handicrafts. Chandni Chowk, which is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Delhi, is famous for its textiles, jewelry, and spices. The Dilli Haat, which is a handicrafts market, is perfect for buying souvenirs. The Khan Market, which is a high-end market, is perfect for designer clothes and accessories.
Beaches and Mountains near Delhi
Delhi may not have any beaches or mountains, but there are many options for day trips from the city. The Neemrana Fort Palace, which is located in the Aravalli Hills, is a perfect weekend getaway from Delhi. The Damdama Lake, which is located in the state of Haryana, is perfect for a day trip from Delhi. The Tijara Fort Palace, which is located in Rajasthan, is another option for a weekend getaway from Delhi.
Cultural Immersion in Delhi
Delhi is a melting pot of different cultures and religions. The city has many festivals and events that celebrate the diversity of the city. The Dilli Haat, which is a handicrafts market, also features cultural performances and workshops. The Nizamuddin Dargah, which is a Sufi shrine, is a perfect place to experience the spiritual side of Delhi.
Art and Music Scene in Delhi
Delhi has a thriving art and music scene, with many galleries, museums, and performance venues. The National Gallery of Modern Art and the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art are perfect for art lovers. The India Habitat Centre and the Kamani Auditorium are popular venues for music and theater performances. The Delhi International Arts Festival, which is held every year in November, is a celebration of art, music, and dance from around the world.
Walking Tours in Delhi
Walking tours are a great way to explore the city on foot and learn about its history and culture. The Delhi Walks, which offers guided tours of Old Delhi, is a popular walking tour company in Delhi. The Delhi By Foot, which offers walking tours of different neighborhoods in Delhi, is another option. The Salaam Baalak Trust City Walk, which is a walking tour led by former street children, is a unique way to explore the city.
Architectural Marvels in Delhi
Delhi is home to some of the most impressive architectural marvels in India. The Lotus Temple, which is a Bahai house of worship, is a stunning piece of modern architecture. The Rashtrapati Bhavan, which is the official residence of the President of India, is a grand colonial-era building. The Parliament House, which is the seat of the Indian Parliament, is another impressive building in Delhi.