Things to Do in Delhi – Ultimate 2025 Travel Guide

Delhi, the heart of India, is a city that beautifully blends ancient heritage with modern charm. Known for its historic monuments, bustling markets, mouth-watering street food, and vibrant cultural life, Delhi has something for every traveler. Whether you are visiting for a day or a week, there are endless things to do in Delhi that will make your trip memorable.

From exploring centuries-old Mughal architecture to indulging in world-class shopping experiences, Delhi offers activities for history buffs, food lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts alike. In this guide, we’ll explore the best things to do in Delhi that should be on your travel bucket list

In this guide, we’ll take you through the top things to do in Delhi to make the most of your visit.

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1. Explore the Historic Monuments

Delhi is dotted with magnificent monuments that narrate tales of the past. Visiting these landmarks is one of the most iconic things to do in Delhi for both locals and tourists.

Red Fort

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort stands as a symbol of India’s rich history. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, it showcases Mughal architectural brilliance.

Qutub Minar

This towering minaret is another UNESCO site, famous for its intricate carvings and historical significance.

Humayun’s Tomb

Often considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal, this beautiful tomb is surrounded by lush gardens and is a must-visit for architecture lovers.

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2. Indulge in Delhi’s Street Food

If you’re a foodie, one of the most exciting things to do in Delhi is to embark on a street food trail. Delhi’s culinary scene is as diverse as its culture.

• • Chandni Chowk: Try parathas at Paranthe Wali Gali, chaat, jalebis, and kebabs.

• • Karol Bagh & Rajouri Garden: Famous for momos, chole bhature, and golgappas.

• • Connaught Place: A mix of street food stalls and upscale cafes.

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3. Experience the Vibrant Markets

Shopping is one of the most fun things to do in Delhi. The city’s markets are perfect for finding souvenirs, clothes, handicrafts, and jewelry.

• • Sarojini Nagar Market: Trendy clothes at throwaway prices.

• • Janpath Market: Handicrafts, jewelry, and decorative items.

• • Dilli Haat: A cultural hub showcasing handicrafts from across India.

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4. Visit Spiritual & Religious Sites

Delhi is home to numerous temples, mosques, gurudwaras, and churches, making it a spiritual melting pot.

• • Lotus Temple: A Bahá’í House of Worship known for its lotus-like architecture.

• • Akshardham Temple: A spiritual and cultural complex with grand architecture.

• • Jama Masjid: One of the largest mosques in India, offering panoramic city views from its minarets.

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5. Explore Museums & Art Galleries

For art and history lovers, visiting museums is one of the top things to do in Delhi.

• • National Museum: Houses artifacts from the Indus Valley Civilization to modern art.

• • National Gallery of Modern Art: A paradise for contemporary art lovers.

• • Gandhi Smriti: Dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi’s life and philosophy.

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6. Relax in Gardens & Parks

Delhi offers serene green spaces where you can escape the hustle and bustle.

• • Lodhi Garden: Perfect for morning walks and picnics.

• • Garden of Five Senses: A beautifully landscaped park with artistic installations.

• • Deer Park: A peaceful retreat in the Hauz Khas area.

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7. Enjoy Delhi’s Nightlife

When the sun sets, the city comes alive with bars, clubs, and lounges. Experiencing Delhi’s nightlife is among the most exciting things to do in Delhi for youngsters and party lovers.

• • Hauz Khas Village: Trendy pubs, cafes, and art galleries.

• • Connaught Place: Popular for rooftop bars and late-night eateries.

• • Cyber Hub (Gurugram): A short drive away, offering premium nightlife experiences.

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8. Attend Cultural Festivals & Events

Delhi hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, making participation in these events one of the most colorful things to do in Delhi.

• • Republic Day Parade: A grand showcase of India’s cultural diversity.

• • Delhi International Arts Festival: Celebrating music, dance, and theater.

• • Diwali & Holi: Experience the joy of India’s biggest festivals.

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9. Take a Heritage Walk

Joining a heritage walk is one of the most insightful things to do in Delhi for history buffs. Guides take you through old lanes, hidden gems, and untold stories of the city’s past.

Popular heritage walks include:

• • Old Delhi Food & Heritage Walk

• • Lutyens’ Delhi Walk

• • Mehrauli Archaeological Walk

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10. Explore Modern Attractions

Delhi isn’t just about history – modern attractions are equally worth visiting.

Worlds of Wonder (Noida): An amusement and water park for fun-filled days.

Kingdom of Dreams (Gurugram): A live entertainment destination.

Delhi Eye: A giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic city views.

Discover Delhi’s Rich History

Red Fort

• • Location: Old Delhi

• • Entry Fee: ₹35 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)
    A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort is an architectural marvel built by Emperor Shah Jahan. Every evening, a light and sound show narrates its glorious history.

Qutub Minar

• • Location: Mehrauli

• • Famous For: Tallest brick minaret in the world
    Built in the 12th century, Qutub Minar is surrounded by historical structures like the Iron Pillar and Alai Darwaza.

Humayun’s Tomb

• • Location: Nizamuddin

• • Significance: Inspiration for the Taj Mahal
    The gardens and symmetry of this tomb make it a photographer’s paradise.

Exploring these monuments is one of the must-do things to do in Delhi for history lovers.

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2. Indulge in Delhi’s Legendary Street Food

Delhi’s food scene is an experience in itself. You can’t say you’ve truly visited without trying these dishes:

• • Chole Bhature – Sadar Bazaar & Karol Bagh

• • Parathas – Paranthe Wali Gali in Chandni Chowk

• • Kebabs – Karim’s, Jama Masjid area

• • Momos – Majnu ka Tilla & North Campus

• • Golgappas – Rajouri Garden & Lajpat Nagar

For foodies, tasting street food is one of the most exciting things to do in Delhi.

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3. Shop Till You Drop at Delhi’s Markets

Shopping is one of the most fun things to do in Delhi, thanks to its diverse bazaars:

• • Sarojini Nagar Market – Fashion at unbeatable prices

• • Janpath Market – Handicrafts, souvenirs, jewelry

• • Chandni Chowk – Fabrics, wedding wear, spices

• • Dilli Haat – Regional handicrafts and street food from across India

Tip: Bargaining is a skill worth mastering here!

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4. Visit Religious & Spiritual Landmarks

Delhi is a city of faiths, where diverse religions coexist:

• • Lotus Temple – A serene Bahá’í House of Worship

• • Akshardham Temple – A grand spiritual complex with exhibitions and a water show

• • Jama Masjid – India’s largest mosque with city views from its minaret

• • Gurudwara Bangla Sahib – Famous for its langar (community kitchen)

Visiting these sites offers peace and insight into Delhi’s cultural harmony.

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5. Explore Museums & Art Galleries

Learning about Delhi’s past and present through museums is among the most educational things to do in Delhi.

• • National Museum – Ancient artifacts, Harappan relics, sculptures

• • National Gallery of Modern Art – Contemporary paintings and sculptures

• • Gandhi Smriti – Tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s life

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6. Relax in Delhi’s Green Spaces

Despite its busy streets, Delhi offers plenty of green retreats:

• • Lodhi Garden – Historical tombs, jogging tracks, and picnic spots

• • Garden of Five Senses – Floral displays and artistic installations

• • Deer Park – A peaceful spot with walking trails and deer sightings

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7. Experience Delhi’s Nightlife

Nightlife in Delhi is buzzing with energy, music, and flavors:

• • Hauz Khas Village – Trendy bars, cafes, and lakeside views

• • Connaught Place – Rooftop bars and lounges

• • Cyber Hub, Gurugram – Premium dining and entertainment options

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8. Attend Delhi’s Cultural Festivals

Timing your visit with a festival is one of the best things to do in Delhi:

• • Republic Day Parade – January 26th, showcasing India’s military and cultural heritage

• • Holi – Festival of colors in March

• • Diwali – Festival of lights in October/November

• • Delhi International Arts Festival – Music, dance, and theater performances

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9. Join a Heritage Walk

A guided heritage walk offers hidden stories that even locals don’t know:

• • Old Delhi Food Walk – Tasting local delicacies while exploring narrow lanes

• • Lutyens’ Delhi Walk – Colonial architecture and history

• • Mehrauli Archaeological Walk – Ancient ruins and monuments

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10. Discover Modern Attractions

For a change of pace from historical landmarks, try these modern experiences:

• • Kingdom of Dreams (Gurugram) – Live Bollywood-style shows

• • Delhi Eye – A giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic views

• • Worlds of Wonder (Noida) – Water park and rides for families

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11. Take a Day Trip from Delhi

Delhi’s location makes it perfect for short getaways:

• • Agra – Taj Mahal (3 hours away)

• • Jaipur – The Pink City (5 hours away)

• • Neemrana Fort – Heritage stay and zip-lining adventure

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12. Explore Delhi by Metro

One of the most practical things to do in Delhi is experiencing the Delhi Metro. It’s clean, efficient, and connects almost all major attractions.