Unforgettable Things to Do in Delhi's Vibrant Tourism Scene
Updated: May 25
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New Delhi is the capital city of the country of India. Now, in a place like Delhi with vibrant streets, bustling neighborhoods, where towering skyscrapers coexist with ancient minars and markets teeming with life, it’s hard to note down an exhaustive list of things to do or attractions to see.
Prelude…
I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have visited Delhi twice, both times during its most vibrant and impressive moments. The first occasion was in 2010, when the city hosted the Commonwealth Games. Delhi was transformed into a sparkling clean and well-maintained destination. The Indian athletes' outstanding performance during the Commonwealth Games, winning 38 gold, 27 silver, and 36 bronze medals, was truly a remarkable achievement.
The second visit took place in 2023, during the preparations for the G20 summit. This event holds great significance for India, as it marks the first time the nation has hosted such a vital international gathering. In order to showcase the city to foreign dignitaries and tourists, it was crucial to clean up and beautify the capital. The preparations for the summit ensured that Delhi was presented in its best form. I take immense pride in India hosting these prestigious events, which firmly establish our country on the global stage.
As a nation, we boast a wealth of history, culture, heritage, art, stunning landscapes, and delightful cuisine, leaving us with no shortage of offerings compared to other countries. However, our most significant challenge lies in maintaining and ensuring cleanliness. My earnest wish is for all citizens to recognise that India's excellence isn't limited to Commonwealth Games or G20 Summits. We have the power to shine every day, and maintaining cleanliness and hygiene should be a constant commitment. It's imperative for both the people and the government to work together consistently to fulfill this fundamental responsibility.
Moving on from that food for thought, it is from both these visits, I've come up with a list of unforgettable things to do in Delhi's kaleidoscope, scanning Central Delhi and the other regions from North to South and East to West.
Unforgettable Things to Do in Delhi's Vibrant Tourism Scene The Dynamic Spirit of Delhi: The Delhittes2. The “Posh” Delhi (South Delhi) 3. The Heart of Delhi (Central Delhi) 4. Trans-Hindon Region (West Delhi) and Trans-Yamuna Region (East Delhi) |
The Dynamic Spirit of Delhi: The Delhittes
Dilliwale (People of Delhi) are known for their hospitality and their generosity, often going out of their way to make guests feel welcome. So it's without doubt that Delhi, apart from being the capital city of India, is considered as the prime location to host such prestigious events. Moreover, the residents of Delhi, also known as Delhiities, celebrate and enjoy their festivities magnanimously. They are also known to be passionate about their food. With their mouth-watering foods like Chole Bhature, Tikkis, Mithais, Kebabs and Gulab Jamuns, their festive spirit extends to sharing these delicacies and sweets with neighbors and strangers too. Thus they foster a sense of community and togetherness, enriching their their culture and their traditions. And these are not people just from a single background, language, or culture. Delhi is a meeting pot of a multicultural and diverse population. And in the bustling chaos of city life and extreme temperatures, they thrive and survive. Hats off to their resilience and adaptability. With this thought in mind, I embarked on my journey through Delhi, starting from its most crowded yet charmingly old quarter - Old Dilli or northern part of Delhi.
1. Old Delhi (North Delhi)
When the air is filled with the aroma of exotic spices, street food sizzling on grills, and the melodies of local music, you know you are in Old Dilli. Here honestly only the locals know the hidden gems and secret corners. If you try to navigate through the winding alleys by yourself, you might get lost in the labyrinthine charm of this ancient city. As a tourist, my personal preference has consistently leaned towards the city's historic charm, where the past, culture, heritage, and art seamlessly blend into the present. It serves as a tourist's haven, offering the opportunity to experience the city like a local, immersing oneself in its cuisine, people, culture, and traditions.
North Delhi is home to several attractions that offer a mix of historical, cultural, and recreational experiences. It comprises a wide array of districts and neighborhoods, such as Chandni Chowk, Kashmere Gate, Civil Lines, Model Town, Kamla Nagar, Rohini, Pitampura, Shalimar Bagh, among others.
To explore the top attractions in North Delhi, check out my blog post titled 'Unveiling the 5 Timeless Charms of Old Delhi'.
2. The “Posh” Delhi (South Delhi)
South Delhi is often referred to as the "posh" or "upscale" part of Delhi. I'd describe South Delhi as a fascinating mix of boldness and sophistication, of charm and confidence. At first glance, it may exude a certain attitude, but upon closer interaction, its' elegant suave and charm shine through. This section of the city races by exuding an air of confidence, but you'll be pleasantly surprised by its warm banter and welcoming nature. Its composed exterior, often complemented by high heels and Gucci bags, may astonish you with its capacity for engaging in profound discussions on global matters, revealing a blend of beauty and intellect. In general, South Delhi is renowned for its affluence and desirability, drawing residents and visitors who value its luxurious lifestyle and range of amenities.
But the beauty of South Delhi resides in its seamless fusion of past and present, not only in its affluence and desirability. Here, you can delve into ancient wonders like Qutub Minar and Humayun's Tomb, while also indulging in the contemporary charms of Hauz Khas Village. South Delhi caters to a variety of interests, be it history, art, culture, or adventure. These five attractions beckon you to uncover the captivating blend of heritage and modernity that defines South Delhi. Check out my blog post titled 'Exploring South Delhi's Hidden Gems: 5 Must-See Attractions.'
3. Heart of Delhi (Central Delhi)
Central Delhi, often referred to as the "Heart of Delhi," is the face of India to the world. It's bustling district housing the symbols of India's historical and political significance encapsulates the city's essence. Moreover, the grand avenues, lush green spaces, and architectural marvels showcase Central Delhi's rich heritage and modernity. There is so much for tourists to do here. Visitors can explore museums, government buildings, and busy markets while immersing themselves in the energetic spirit of Central Delhi.
What I call the political tour circuit in Delhi, including the India Gate, Parliament House (Sansad Bhavan), Rashtrapati Bhavan, and the National War Memorial, is all based in Central Delhi. Now you know that the city's rich political and historical heritage lies here. And then there are the other tranquil wonders like the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib and Agrasen ki Baoli which are located amidst all this, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of politics and history, allowing you to experience the spiritual and peaceful side of Delhi's Heart. To know more on the attractions of Central Delhi and how to visit these marvellous places, check out my blog post titled 'Central Delhi - 8 Incredible Attractions in the Heart of Delhi'.
4.Trans-Hindon Region (West Delhi) and Trans-Yamuna Region (East Delhi)
You'll must have heard and watched about the disastrous floods caused by the over swelling of the Yamuna river in New Delhi. Now this mighty river has segregated Delhi further into West and East, with East Delhi often referred to as the 'Trans-Yamuna' region. This term is used because East Delhi is located on the eastern bank of the Yamuna River, which flows through the city of Delhi. This region includes localities like Mayur Vihar, Shahdara, Laxmi Nagar, Preet Vihar, and others. The flood zoning map covers almost the entire Trans Yamuna Area on the East bank. So I'd caution you to not venture into this part of the city during the monsoon months from late June to early September. This particular are may result in heavy rainfalls and waterlogging. However, having said that, if you fancy budget-friendly clothing, electronics, and street food, the bustling Laxmi Nagar Market is your go to place. Even the Mayur Vihar Phase 1 Pocket 1 Market is a popular spot for shopping and dining.
West Delhi often referred to as the 'Trans-Hindon' region. This term is used because West Delhi is located on the western side of the Hindon River, which is a tributary of the Yamuna River. The Trans-Hindon region includes famed areas such as Rajouri Garden, Janakpuri, Dwarka, Punjabi Bagh, and Patel Nagar, among others.
4.1 Akshardham Temple
Indian temples are famed for their stunning architecture, intricate carvings, cultural exhibits and spiritual atmosphere. Among these architectural marvels stands the Swaminarayan Akshardham temple in Delhi, a true embodiment of magnificence. So grand is its allure that even British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife Akshata Murty offered prayers during a visit to the Swaminarayan Akshardham Hindu temple in New Delhi during the G20 Summit. Hear Hear !
Akshardham means the divine abode of God. The temple is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, so the name Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple. Start the day by visiting this majestic temple, and you'll feel so spiritually uplifted for the rest of the day.
Recognised by Guinness World Records as the largest all-encompassing Hindu temple globally.
Within the temple complex, there is an attraction known as the 'Sahaj Anand Water Show.' This captivating multimedia water show typically takes place in the evening and combines light, sound, and water effects to narrate a story related to Indian spirituality and heritage.
The Sahib Anand Water Show also involves a boat ride experience. Visitors are transported through a specially designed water canal.
The Yagnapurush Kund, home to the world's largest stepwell, provides a magnificent backdrop for the breathtaking water show. It spans an impressive 300 feet by 300 feet and features an astonishing 2,870 steps, along with 108 small shrines.
More about the water show, timings, and ticket prices on this Link. If you're interested in booking a akshardham exhibition light water show tour, you may book it here.
Address: Noida Mor, Pandav Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi, 110092, India
Opening times: 10.00 AM to 6.30 PM. Mandir Aarti timings are from 10 AM to 6 PM.
5. The 'Millennium City' Gurgaon
Now with all the chaos and hustle-bustle in Delhi, its obvious residents are moving out to the outskirts in search of modern living set-ups which have more space, modern amenities, security, and green space. Gurgaon, now known as Gurugram, provides affordable apartments to luxury condominiums and gated communities. The availability of s in residential complexes appeals to many families. Moreover, with the rise in the number of multinational corporations, IT companies, and startups in the city, Gurgaon attracts more skileld job seekers. You'd often see young families with kids moving to this part of the city where they enjoy a better quality of life.
The first time I visited Delhi, my friend took me to DLF Cyber City, a vibrant destination for entertainment, shopping, and dining. That was the first time I was introduced to Gurgaon. I recollect seeing Farzi Café in Cyber City, but we didnt dine there. We dined at Oh! Calcutta where we relished some really authentic Bengali food but I guess that restaurant has now closed down. The second time I visited Gurgaon was for another close friend's wedding and that's when I got more acquainted with this 'Millennium City'. During my visit to Gurgaon in July 2023, my friends introduced me to 32nd Avenue, a trendy hotspot bustling with both party enthusiasts and families looking for an extravagant shopping and dining experience.
The nightlife of Gurgaon is also very highly spoken about. There are a plethora of bars, clubs, or live music venues, that contribute to its super chic nightlife scene including Cyber Hub Social, Soi 7 Pub & Brewery, The Wine Company - all located in Cyber Hub in Gurugram. One must visit the Hard Rock Café in the same Cyber City to experience live music in a truly electrifying ambience.
6. Museums and Galleries
In my opinion, museums present an excellent opportunity for individuals to educate themselves through captivating displays and artefacts focused on specific subjects. Considering the abundant history, culture, and heritage that India possesses across various domains, it is only logical for individuals to explore Indian museums. These institutions serve as structured repositories of knowledge, aiding visitors in comprehending this vast information, appreciating and admiring artistic and cultural achievements and leaving a lasting impression for the future. The museums of prominence in New Delhi are listed below:
National Museum - Located on Janpath, near India Gate, this museum showcases a vast collection of art, artefacts, and historical exhibits.
National Gallery of Modern Art - Located at Jaipur House, Shershah Road, near India Gate, the museum showcases contemporary Indian art.
National Rail Museum - located in Chanakyapuri, near the Embassy of Bhutan, the museum showcases the history of Indian railways.
National Handicrafts & Handlooms Museum (Crafts Museum) - Situated on Bhairon Road, Pragati Maidan, in New Delhi, the museum showcases a diverse array of traditional crafts and textiles from across the country.
7. Shopping in Delhi
I'm familiar with individuals who journey to Delhi from all over the country to purchase their 'shady ka joda' (wedding attire). Delhi is renowned for its wide array of options for wedding trousseau shopping, catering to shoppers with varying budgets. And not just wedding shopping, Delhi offers a plethora of options ranging from clothes, books, household goods, souvenirs, jewellery, spices etc. Specify your choice, and you'll discover it here, be it traditional, modern, or decorative variations. Whether one seeks high-end luxury brands or budget-friendly street markets, Delhi offers something for everyone. It truly is a shopper's haven, leaving no need to explore elsewhere.
Chandni Chowk - For traditional Indian clothing, jewellery, and spices. A distinctive and exceptional item available in Chandni Chowk includes 'Zari and Embroidery Worked Fabric.' Chandni Chowk is renowned for its skilled artisans who meticulously craft intricate zari and embroidery work on textiles.
Khan Market is a popular and upscale shopping destination, especially for jewellery enthusiasts. One exceptional and unique item that can be purchased in Khan Market is 'Handcrafted Artisanal Jewelry.' Located in the heart of New Delhi, specifically in the vicinity of Lodhi Gardens and India Habitat Centre, Khan Market is known for its wide range of shops, boutiques, bookstores, cafes, and restaurants. This hip place is a go-to place for clothing, home decor, accessories, books, and gourmet food items.
Dilli Haat - One special and unique item that can be purchased in Dilli Haat is 'Handwoven Ethnic Textiles.' Dilli Haat is known for its diverse collection of traditional and handcrafted textiles from various regions of India, showcasing the rich diversity of Indian handicrafts and textiles. Handmade items such as pottery, rugs, woodwork, and leather goods are also very popular purchases from Dilli Haat.
Hauz Khas Village -Art enthusiasts here is your calling. With its trendy boutiques and art galleries, catering to the fashion-forward crowd, Hauz Khas village is just not your ordinary village. Hauz Khas Village is renowned for its art galleries and studios that showcase the work of emerging and established Indian artists. One special and unique item that can be purchased in Hauz Khas Village is 'Contemporary Indian Art.'
Sarojini Nagar - With its affordable clothing and accessories, Sarojini nagar is known for its trendy and affordable festive clothing. A distinctive and one-of-a-kind find in Sarojini Nagar includes 'Stylish Secondhand Apparel' or fashionable thrift clothing. The thrift shops located here offer the latest fashion trends from the likes of Zara and H&M for 1/3rd price. A haven for bargain hunters!
Laxmi Nagar Market - For tech-savvy shoppers, one special and unique item that can be purchased in Laxmi Nagar Market is 'Affordable Electronic Accessories.' Apart from electronics, the bustling Laxmi Nagar Market is also renowned for its street food.
Karol Bagh is another destination in Central Delhi which is popular for its bridal wear shopping, including sarees, suits, lehengas and accessories. For those seeking timeless and elegant accessories, Karol Bagh is the perfect place to be.
South Extension - If you’d ask the locals, they’d say South Extension for its 'Designer Bridal Wear.' For those fashionable wedding outfits and trendy bridal wear, South Extension offers upscale boutiques and designed showrooms that serve customers with an exquisite taste.
Khari Baoli - High-quality teas and spices from Khari Baoli make for popular gifts for tourists looking to take home a taste of India.
8. Culinary Delights
I won't lie when I say I made this trip to Delhi solely to meet my friends and to dive into the irresistible world of Delhi's culinary treasures. The taste of the biryani from outside Jama Masjid and the kebabs from Karim's from my visit in 2010 still lingers in my mouth. And on this journey, from the mouthwatering street food stalls to fine dining experiences, I wanted to discover all the flavours that define Delhi's diverse food culture. Join me as I explore with my husband the 15 must-visit culinary destinations, that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
For the finest culinary experiences and delectable delights in Delhi, be sure to visit my blog article named: 'Delhi's Divine Eats: Savouring the 15 Best Culinary Gems in the Capital'.
Special mention to my dear friends for some of their fabulous recommendations.
9. Accommodations
There are a number of charming Bed & Breakfasts and guesthouses, often run by local families that attract tourists for a more personal experience.
From distance from centre point of view, and the area around the hubbub, convenient for both business and leisure travellers, hotels in Connaught Place (CP) would be the best bet. The Imperial New Delhi and Radisson Blu Marina Hotel Connaught Place are two upscale hotels in CP, that provide comfortable accommodations and modern services.
If you're a budget-conscious traveler, consider Paharganj, located in close proximity to New Delhi Railway Station, renowned for its affordable hotels and accommodations suitable for backpackers.
For travellers seeking tranquility and luxury, green and quiet spaces, here are three of the top luxury hotels to consider for your stay in Delhi:
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good article, you changed my whole perspective of Delhi... will try to visit again to explore your article in full.