India’s capital boasts some of the most unique and well-preserved historical landmarks. Spread across time, these monuments act as a relic of the empires that Delhi has seen. As you visit these sites you’ll see a startling syncretism of religions and cultures as with the Hindu motifs in the mosque in Qutub Minar.
At Delhi, you’ll find the best of Mughal architecture as well as the inspiring landmarks that hark back to India’s hard-fought independence.
1. Qutub Minar
The oldest on the list, Qutub Minar is a tall minaret built to symbolise Qutb al-Din Aibak’s victory over Delhi’s last Hindu kingdom. The tower wasn’t completed during Aibak’s reign, however. A total of 3 rulers oversaw the construction of the tower. Akbar only saw the first storey, while his son-in-law Iltutmish completed the next 3. It was then struck by lightning which knocked off the top, prompting Firuz Shah Tughlaq to add the final cherry on top with a storey.
In the Qutub Minar complex, you’ll also find an interesting mosque that carries Hindu motifs in its architecture. It was constructed from the ruins of 27 Hindu and Jain temples, so keep a lookout for yogic postures in the mosque’s engravings.
Opening hours: 7 am to 5 pm daily
2. Purana Qila
The oldest fort in Delhi, Purana Qila was a Hindustani fort built on the site of Indraprastha, an ancient city in present-day Delhi. Also known as the “Old Fort”, it is easy to see why it was assigned the title. The walls are old and seem to be in ruins, but the place has a stoic charming appeal. Less popular than the Red Fort that we’ll see later, Qila offers a quiet getaway from the noisy streets of Delhi.
Opening hours: 7 am to 5 pm daily
3. Lodhi Gardens
Had enough of sandstone buildings? Lodhi Gardens isn’t necessarily a retreat from old buildings, but it’s an enchanting blend of history and lush landscapes. The park contains Muhammad Shah’s Tomb and several other rulers from the Lodi Dynasty which preceded the Mughal Empire. It is also popular among locals who want an escape from the concrete jungle.
Opening hours: 5 am to 8 pm daily (April-Sep), 6 am to 8 pm daily (Oct-March)
4. Humayun’s Tomb
Believed to be the inspiration for the Taj Mahal’s design, you’ll find the typical features of Mughal architecture: marble, red sandstone, and remarkable attention to geometry.
Humayun’s Tomb was commissioned by Humayun’s first wife, Haji Begum, a sort of reverse Taj Mahal. It is also the first garden-tomb to be built in India. An interesting fact: within the compound is a tomb dedicated to Humayun’s barber.
Opening hours: 6 am to 6 pm daily
5. Red Fort
Fast forward to the middle of the Mughal period, and the architecture does not disappoint. The Red Fort served as the residence for the Mughal Emperors, and they certainly lived in grandeur.
Apart from the towering red sandstone walls that encircle the fort, you’ll find a reception room constructed nearly entirely from marble and precious stones (Diwan-i-Khas, meaning Hall of Private Audiences). The Diwan-i-Am or Hall of Audience shows stunning attention to symmetry in its arches and will leave you gazing in awe.
Opening hours: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm daily (Closed on Mondays)
6. India Gate
India Gate stands at the centre of New Delhi and it serves as a reminder for the lives India lost fighting for the British Army in World War I. The names of more than 13,000 soldiers are engraved on the monument. The gate turns into a lovely display of lights at night, making it a good stop to end the day.
7. Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Palace)
Before it was the official residence of the President of India, the British Viceroy took up residence at the palace. Sir Edwin Landseer Lutyens spearheaded the architectural direction. Lutyens incorporated ideas from Indian architecture in addition to classical design.
Note that tours have to be booked online before your visit.
Opening hours: 9 am to 4 pm daily
8. Raj Ghat
This is the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated. It’s a simple yet thought-provoking site dedicated to one of the most significant figures in world history. A black marble slab occupies the centre where it is decorated with flowers. It is also a place of great political significance, being visited by world leaders like Donald Trump, Ho Chi Minh, and Queen Elizabeth II among many others.
Opening hours: 6:30 am to 6 pm daily
These are some of the essential historical sites to see in Delhi. Planning an itinerary to see these spots can be tough and transport can be a barrier. You can visit all 8 of these sites and more with a day tour - book down below!
