Delhi is a city steeped in history, offering a fascinating blend of iconic landmarks and lesser-known treasures. Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or a traveler seeking unique experiences, these monuments tell stories of empires, architectural brilliance, and cultural evolution. Here’s a detailed guide to must-see, and offbeat historical monuments in Delhi, complete with essential travel information.
General tips to visit these sites
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting
- Book tickets online wherever possible to avoid the long queues at the ticket counter. Also online tickets are cheaper
- Wear comfortable shoes. Each site requires a lot of walking
- Dress modestly
- Carry water and snacks along
Must-See Historical Monuments in Delhi
1. Red Fort (Lal Qila)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort is a stunning example of Mughal architecture. Built in the 17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan, this iconic red sandstone fortress in Old Delhi symbolises India’s rich history and serves as the site of India’s Independence Day celebrations. The impressive architecture, historic significance, and sound-and-light show make it a must-visit.
- Nearest Metro: Chandni Chowk (Yellow Line). Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available.
- Opening Hours: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm | Closed on Monday
- Entry Fee:
- Indian Citizens: Rs 80 (With Museum) | Rs 50 (Without Museum)
- Foreign Nationals: Rs 950 (With Museum) | Rs 600 (Without Museum)
- Children below 15 years : Free
- Note: Ticket prices are subject to change. Consider these for tentative idea. Booking tickets online is slightly cheaper
- Time Required : To fully experience the Red Fort in Delhi, it takes a minimum of 2 hours, and if you plan to explore it thoroughly, it might extend to 3 or 4 hours. It’s best to allocate sufficient time to leisurely visit the fort and capture breathtaking photos of the Red Fort. (Rephrase)
- Best Time to Visit:
- Without light and sound show : Morning hours (9 AM – 12 PM) to avoid crowds and harsh sunlight.
- With light and sound show : Time your visit accordingly
- Photography: Cameras allowed; tripods not permitted.
- Washrooms : Available
- Food Availability Inside : Yes
- Parking Available: Yes
I would recommend to take a guide to truly understand the history behind. The other way is to watch the light and sound show. The Red Fort Light and Sound Show is an immersive experience that brings Delhi’s rich history to life through stunning visuals, dramatic narration, and captivating music. The show narrates the tales of India’s Mughal era, the fight for independence, and the Red Fort’s historic significance. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts and families, offering a magical blend of storytelling and architecture under the night sky. The vibrant illumination and ambiance create unforgettable memories, making it a perfect end to your day in Old Delhi.
Buy tickets online on Archeological Survey of India website
Note:
- Red Fort is closed on Mondays
- Tickets for the museum is not available after 4 PM.
- Ticket prices are subject to change. Consider these as indicative prices
- Red Fort is usually closed during late July till August 15 for Independence Day preparations
2. Humayun’s Tomb
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the precursor to the Taj Mahal in architectural style. It houses the tomb of Emperor Humayun and is surrounded by lush gardens. The serene gardens and stunning Persian-inspired architecture make it a favourite.
- Nearest Metro: JLN Stadium (Violet Line). Jor Bagh (Yellow Line)
- Opening Hours: 6 AM to 6 PM | Open all days
- Entry Fee: ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (Foreign Nationals). Online bookings save you 50 rupees.
- Time Required: 2 hrs
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or at the time of Sunset
- Photography : Rs 25 for professional video camera. No charges for normal digital camera. Tripod is not allowed
- Washrooms: Available
- Food Availability Inside : No
- Parking Available: Yes
Couple your visit with the recently opened (in 2024) India’s first Sunken Museum at Humayun’s Tomb. The museum showcases over 500 artefacts, many of which have never been publicly displayed before. Ticket price for the museum is Rs 50 for Indians and Rs 300 for foreign nationals.
Buy tickets online on Archeological Survey of India website
3. Qutub Minar
The Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an iconic red sandstone minaret towering over Delhi. Built in the 13th century by Qutub-ud-din Aibak, it symbolizes the victory of the Delhi Sultanate. This architectural masterpiece showcases a blend of styles and stands as a testament to India’s rich history. The surrounding complex features the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the Iron Pillar, adding to its historical significance. In the evenings, a captivating sound and light show illuminates the monuments, bringing their history to life.
- Nearest Metro: Qutub Minar (Yellow Line).
- Opening Hours: 7 AM to 8 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (Foreigners Nationals). Online bookings save you 50 rupees.
- Time Required: 1-2 hrs
- Photography: Cameras allowed; tripods not permitted.
- Washrooms : Available
- Food Availability Inside : No
- Parking Available: Yes
- Timing for Light and sound show: 8 PM
Buy tickets online on Archeological Survey of India website
4. India Gate
Located in the central Delhi, India Gate is a symbol of national pride. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, it honors the 82,000 Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. The names of 13,300 servicemen are inscribed on its surface, serving as a solemn reminder of their courage and sacrifice. The India Gate has become a significant national landmark, symbolising India’s strength and resilience. Every year on Republic Day, the Prime Minister of India visits the Gate to pay homage to the martyred soldiers, post which the Republic day parade starts.
This architectural marvel stands amidst sprawling lawns, making it a perfect spot for picnics in winters. Couple your visit with National War Memorial located just adjacent to India Gate.
- Nearest Metro: Central Secretariat (Yellow & Violet Lines).
- Opening Hours:
- Open all day
- Boating hours: 2 PM to 9 PM
- War Memorial timings: 9 AM to 6:30 PM
- Entry Fee: Free.
- Best Time to Visit: Evening.
- Time Required : 30-45 mins
- Photography: Camera and tripods allowed
- Food Availability: Plenty of roadside vendors in and around India Gate
5. Hauz Khas Village and Fort
Hauz Khas Village and Fort is one of Delhi’s most unique destinations, offering a mix of history, art, and culture. The Hauz Khas Fort, built in the 14th century by Alauddin Khilji, overlooks a beautiful lake that was originally a water reservoir for the city. The fort complex includes remnants of pavilions, domed structures, and a mosque, reflecting Delhi’s medieval architecture.
Surrounding the fort is Hauz Khas Village, known for its trendy cafes, art galleries, and boutique stores. This combination of ancient ruins and vibrant modern life makes it a must-visit spot for history enthusiasts, food lovers, and photographers. Whether you want to explore heritage or enjoy a lively social scene, Hauz Khas has something for everyone.
- Nearest Metro: Hauz Khas (Yellow Line) | 2.3 kms walk or an auto ride
- Opening Hours: 10:30 AM to 7 PM | All days
- Entry Fee: ₹25 (Indians), ₹250 (Foreigners Nationals).
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to enjoy the sunset by the lake and stay for the nightlife in the village
- Time Required : You can spend an entire day here visting the entire village and experiencing the urban cafe culture
- Photography: Camera and tripods allowed
- Washrooms: Public washrooms are not well maintained. Prefer to use cafe washrooms.
- Parking Available: Yes
There is a Deer Park as well inside the village territory. Though not a must visit you can check it out if you have time in hand.
6. Old Fort (Purana Qila)
The Old Fort, or Purana Qila, is one of Delhi’s oldest forts with a really interesting history! The foundation of this fort was laid by the Mughal Emperor Humayun in the 16th century. Later, the Afghan ruler Sher Shah Suri seized the power and expanded it’s structure renaming the fort to Shergarh. After 15 long years Humayun returned and reclaimed the fort restoring it’s original name Dinpanah.
Today, you can walk along its impressive walls, check out the Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque, and see the Sher Mandal, a tower with a sad story connected to Humayun. But here’s a cool thing: the fort also has a beautiful lake inside! Imagine relaxing by the water while you explore the history around you. It’s a great place to step back in time and feel the vibe of ancient Delhi.
- Nearest Metro: Pragati Maidan (Blue Line) | 2kms walk or an auto ride
- Opening Hours: 7 AM to 5 PM
- Entry Fee:
- Fort : ₹20 (Indians), ₹250 (Foreigners Nationals)
- Purana Qila Lake: ₹20 (Indians and Foreigners)
- Purana Qila Museum: ₹5 (Indians and Foreigners)
- Time Required: 2-3 hrs
- Photography: Cameras allowed; tripods not permitted.
- Washrooms : Available
- Food Availability Inside : Yes
- Parking Available: Yes
Buy tickets online on Archeological Survey of India website
Offbeat Historical Monuments in Delhi
When travellers visit Delhi, iconic landmarks like Qutub Minar and Red Fort are often at the top of their list—and for good reason. These monuments have become symbols of the city’s rich heritage, attracting thousands of visitors every year. However, Delhi is home to a treasure trove of lesser-known historical sites that are equally fascinating. These hidden gems, often overshadowed by their more famous counterparts, hold stories that shaped the city’s past and offer a quieter, more intimate glimpse into its history. Exploring these offbeat monuments is like uncovering a different side of Delhi—one that is steeped in mystery, charm, and architectural brilliance.
1. Tughlaqabad Fort
Tughlaqabad Fort is a massive stone fort built in the 14th century by Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq, the founder of the Tughlaq dynasty. Located on the outskirts of Delhi, this imposing fortress once served as the capital of the Delhi Sultanate. Its massive stone walls, fortified with bastions and gates, once protected a thriving city. Today, the ruins offer a glimpse into the grandeur and power of this bygone era. Explore the remnants of palaces, fortifications, and the tomb of Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq himself, and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a forgotten age.
Pro Tip : Climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Nearest Metro: Tughlaqabad (Violet Line).
- Opening Hours: 7 AM to 5 PM (All days)
- Entry Fee: ₹25 (Indians), ₹300 (Foreign Nationals). Booking online is cheaper by Rs 50.
- Time Required: 1-2 hrs
- Best Time to Visit: Winter mornings.
- Photography: Camera and tripods not allowed
- Food Availability: No food available inside. You can carry water but no eatables are allowed inside
Buy tickets online on Archeological Survey of India website
Disclaimer: Be prepare to ignore couple elements. Although this place is great unforunately it has become couple adda. Keep ignoring them
2. Agrasen (Ugrasen) ki Baoli
Agrasen ki Baoli is a fascinating historical stepwell hidden near Connaught Place, right in the heart of Delhi. This unique structure, believed to date back to the 14th century, has 103 stone steps leading down to what used to be a water reservoir. It used to serve as a vital source of water for the local community during times of scarcity.
This site attracts moderate crowd and the architecture is perfect for photography. It is also known for its mysterious and quiet vibe, making it different from other crowded monuments. The unique architecture of Agrasen ki Baoli has also caught the attention of Bollywood filmmakers. It has been featured prominently in several films, with the most notable being P.K., where the baoli played a significant role in the storyline.
- Nearest Metro: Barakhamba Road (Blue Line). Janpath (Violet Line)
- Opening Hours: 7 AM to 6 PM (All days)
- Entry Fee: Free.
- Time Required: 10-15 mins
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon.
- Photography: Camera and tripods allowed
- Food: Allowed to carry
3. Safdarjung Tomb
The Safdarjung Tomb, located in New Delhi, is a remarkable piece of history and architecture that stands as the last grand garden tomb built during the Mughal era. Constructed in 1754 by Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula, it was commissioned as a mausoleum for his father, Safdarjung, a prominent statesman and the Prime Minister under Emperor Muhammad Shah.
This tomb is a significant example of the declining Mughal dynasty. Unlike the symmetry and finesse seen in earlier Mughal monuments like Humayun’s Tomb, Safdarjung Tomb lacks perfect alignment and symmetry. The quality of materials used in its construction was inferior, reflecting the weakening power of the empire. Interestingly, stones and marble used to build the tomb were taken from the Tomb of Abdur Rahim Khan-i-Khanan, highlighting the resource constraints of the period.
Despite its imperfections, the tomb showcases the beauty of Indo-Islamic architecture, with its grand domed structure, intricate carvings, and lush Charbagh-style gardens. It is a peaceful spot in the heart of the city, offering visitors a glimpse into the art and culture of a fading Mughal empire.
- Nearest Metro: Jor Bagh (Yellow Line) | 300 metres walk
- Opening Hours: 7 AM to 5 PM (All days)
- Entry Fee: ₹25 (Indians), ₹300 (Foreign Nationals). Booking online is cheaper.
- Time Required: 1-2 hrs
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon.
- Photography: Professional photography, tripods not allowed
- Parking Available: Yes
- Food Availability: No food options inside. You can carry your items
- Washroom : Available
- Neighbourhood
- Lodhi Garden
- Lodhi Art Street
- Khan Market
- Dilli Haat
4. Abdur Rahim Khan-i-Khanan
The Tomb of Abdur Rahim Khan-i-Khanan, located near Nizamuddin in Delhi, is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture with a touch of Persian influence. Built in the 17th century by Rahim, a renowned poet, scholar, and noble in Akbar’s court, this tomb was constructed in honor of his beloved wife, Mah Banu. Often referred to as the “Mini Humayun’s Tomb,” it’s architecture derived it’s inspiration from the latter.
Though less visited, the tomb offers a peaceful atmosphere and is perfect for those who enjoy exploring Delhi’s historical treasures without the crowds. Its intricate carvings and symmetrical design are a treat for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
- Nearest Metro: JLN Stadium (Violet Line)
- Opening Hours: 6 AM to 6 PM (All days)
- Entry Fee: ₹20 (Indians), ₹250 (Foreigners)
- Time Required: 30 mins
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for pleasant weather and great lighting
- Photography: Camera and tripods allowed
5. Azim Khan Tomb
Located on a quiet hill near Mehrauli, Azim Khan’s Tomb is a lesser-known yet fascinating monument in Delhi. This 17th-century tomb built in the honour of Azim Khan, a noble in Emperor Akbar’s court is a bit off the beaten path, so you’ll feel like you’ve discovered a secret place.
Though the architecture is not that fascinating in comparison to other structures in Delhi but views from the top are amazing, especially during sunset! You can see the Qutub Minar silhouetted against the sky, the serene Ahinsa Sthal, and even get a glimpse of Pragati Maidan. If you enjoy exploring hidden treasures with fewer crowds, this is a place you shouldn’t miss. You can pay a quick visit here if you are visiting Qutub Minar. Trust me, you won’t regret it! You may also get a chance to see airplanes flying very close overhead.
- Nearest Metro: Qutub Minar (Yellow Line).
- Opening Hours: Sunrise to Senset (All days)
- Entry Fee: Free
- Time Required: 30 mins
- Best Time to Visit: During sunset
- Photography: Camera and tripods allowed
- Parking Available: No. You can park in Qutub Minar parking and walk from there. Two wheelers can be parked at the site
These monuments in Delhi not only narrate tales of its rich past but also provide experiences that range from peaceful to awe-inspiring. Whether you’re a local rediscovering the city or a tourist, exploring these gems will leave you mesmerised.
Note: The Delhi Metro might seem a bit confusing at first. Get all the details here.
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