Delhi is not just a city; it’s an emotion, a living museum, and a chaotic carnival all rolled into one. Whether you’re here for a few days or a lifetime, there are certain experiences that define the soul of India’s capital.
From ancient monuments to modern marvels, from bustling markets to serene spiritual hubs, here is the definitive bucket list of 50 essential things to do in Delhi before you say goodbye.
Iconic Landmarks & History (The Must-Dos)
- Witness the Majesty of the Red Fort: Walk through Lahori Gate and imagine the era of the Mughal emperors. Don’t miss the sound and light show in the evening.
- Stand Before the Qutub Minar: Marvel at the world’s tallest brick minaret, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has stood for centuries.
- Pay Respects at India Gate: Witness the iconic war memorial, especially beautiful at night when it’s illuminated.
- Explore Humayun’s Tomb: Get lost in the beautiful gardens and architecture of this precursor to the Taj Mahal.
- Visit the Lotus Temple: Experience the profound silence inside this breathtaking Bahá’í House of Worship, shaped like a blooming lotus flower.
- See the President’s House (Rashtrapati Bhavan): Admire the grand colonial architecture during a tour of the majestic building and its stunning Mughal Gardens (open seasonally).
- Discover Purana Qila (The Old Fort): Explore one of the oldest forts in Delhi and enjoy a boat ride on its lake.
- Walk Through the Ruins of Tughlaqabad Fort: Feel the eerie grandeur of this massive, ruined 14th-century fort.
- Find Peace at Jama Masjid: Climb the southern minaret of India’s largest mosque for a breathtaking panoramic view of Old Delhi.
- Visit the Lodi Gardens: Stroll, picnic, or jog among the tombs of the 15th-century Sayyid and Lodi dynasties.
Old Delhi & Chandni Chowk Chaos
- Go on a Paratha Tour in Paranthe Wali Gali: Stuff yourself with a variety of deep-fried, stuffed parathas.
- Get Lost in the Spice Market (Khari Baoli): Let the vibrant colors and intoxicating aromas of Asia’s largest wholesale spice market overwhelm your senses.
- Eat at Karim’s: Taste legendary Mughlai cuisine near Jama Masjid, a culinary institution since 1913.
- Shop for Wedding Finery at Kinari Bazaar: Immerse yourself in a street dedicated to zari, zardozi, and all things glittery.
- Visit the Sikh shrine, Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib: Experience the community spirit and have a free meal (langar) at this historic gurudwara.
- Hop on a Cycle Rickshaw: Take a thrilling, chaotic ride through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk.
- Buy Famous Jalebiwala’s Jalebis: Taste the iconic, syrupy orange jalebis that have been made here for over a century.
Culture, Art & Museums
- Spend a Day at the National Museum: Take a journey through 5,000 years of Indian history and art.
- Explore Art at the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art (KNMA): See one of India’s best private collections of modern and contemporary art.
- Catch a Play at the Sri Ram Centre or Mandi House: Experience Delhi’s vibrant theatre scene.
- Attend a Musical Evening at the India Habitat Centre: Enjoy performances, lectures, and exhibitions in a cultural hub.
- Visit the Sulabh International Museum of Toilets: Yes, it’s a thing! Discover the quirky and fascinating history of sanitation.
- Admire the Architecture of Agrasen Ki Baoli: Discover this hidden, ancient stepwell in the heart of the city, a serene escape from the urban chaos.
Food & Drink Experiences
- Have a Fine-Dining Meal at Indian Accent: Consistently ranked among Asia’s best restaurants for its innovative Indian cuisine.
- Eat Chole Bhature at Sita Ram Diwan Chand: Indulge in Delhi’s most beloved breakfast dish.
- Experience a Dilli Ki Sardi with Momos & Tea: Enjoy steaming hot momos and a cup of ginger tea from a local stall on a winter evening.
- Go Café Hopping in Hauz Khas Village: Enjoy a coffee with a view of the historic lake and ruins.
- Try Street Food at Majnu Ka Tilla: Explore the Tibetan colony and feast on authentic momos, thukpa, and thenthuk.
- Have a Thali at Andhra Bhavan Canteen: Enjoy an authentic, delicious, and incredibly affordable South Indian meal.
- Savor a Kulfi from Kuremal Mohan Lal: Try their legendary stuffed kulfis, a perfect treat for a hot day.
Markets & Shopping
- Haggle at Sarojini Nagar Market: Master the art of bargaining and score amazing deals on export-surplus clothing.
- Shop for Books at Daryaganj Sunday Book Market (Now at Mahila Haat): Hunt for second-hand books and rare editions.
- Buy Souvenirs from Dilli Haat: An open-air craft bazaar offering handicrafts and cuisines from all over India.
- Explore the Bohemian Lanes of Shahpur Jat: Discover indie designer boutiques, quirky cafes, and street art.
- Shop for Home Decor at Janpath Market: Find everything from funky t-shirts to silver jewelry and Tibetan curios.
Nature & Relaxation
- Cycle Around India Gate & Rajpath: Rent a cycle early in the morning for a peaceful ride.
- Take a Boat Ride at the India International Centre (IIC): A hidden oasis of calm in the city.
- Walk or Birdwatch at the Yamuna Biodiversity Park: A restored wetland area that is a haven for bird lovers.
- Explore the Aravalli Biodiversity Park: A great spot for hiking and experiencing the city’s natural ridge area.
- Relax at the Garden of Five Senses: A beautifully landscaped park perfect for a leisurely evening stroll.
Unique & Quirky Delhi
- Take the Delhi Metro Airport Express: Experience one of the fastest and most efficient airport metro rides in the world.
- Go on a Heritage Walk: Join organizations like INTACH to discover Delhi’s hidden history with an expert.
- Spot the “I Love Delhi” Sign: Get your classic tourist photo at the sign located near the Delhi Golf Club.
- Visit the National Rail Museum: A fun outing for all ages, featuring vintage locomotives and a toy train ride.
- Try Ice Skating at iSKATE: Experience the novelty of ice skating in the middle of a city known for its extreme heat.
- Explore the Mehrauli Archaeological Park: A sprawling complex with ruins spanning different centuries, right next to the Qutub Minar.
- See the Baha’i House of Worship (Lotus Temple) at Dusk: It’s even more magical when lit up against the evening sky.
- Attend the Pragati Maidan Book Fair: If you’re in town during the event, it’s a book lover’s paradise.
- Take a Day Trip to the Kingdom of Dreams: Experience a Bollywood-style musical and Indian culture on a grand scale in Gurugram.
- Just Wander: Get off the main road, explore a random neighborhood (like Lutyens’ Delhi bungalows), and create your own unique Delhi memory.
Final Words
This list is just a starting point. Delhi is a city that reveals itself slowly, in layers. The true magic lies in getting lost, talking to people, and stumbling upon your own hidden gems.
What’s on your Delhi bucket list? Share your top experiences with us in the comments below!