New Delhi, India’s capital city, is a treasure trove of historical sites. With a history dating back over 3,000 years, Delhi has been home to many different empires and dynasties, each of which has left its mark on the city’s architecture and culture.
If you’re planning a trip to Delhi, be sure to add these top 10 historical places to your itinerary:
- Red Fort
The Red Fort is one of the most iconic landmarks in Delhi and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, the Red Fort is known for its red sandstone walls and intricate architecture. Visitors can explore the fort’s many palaces, mosques, and gardens, and learn about its fascinating history.
- Humayun’s Tomb
Humayun’s Tomb is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for any visitor to Delhi. Built in the 16th century as the tomb of the Mughal emperor Humayun, Humayun’s Tomb is considered to be one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture in India. Visitors can admire the tomb’s white marble facade and intricate carvings, and learn about the Mughal dynasty.
- Qutub Minar
The Qutub Minar is a towering minaret that is one of the tallest brick minarets in the world. Built in the 12th century, the Qutub Minar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination. Visitors can climb the minaret’s 379 steps to the top for stunning views of Delhi.
- Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India and a popular tourist destination. Built in the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, Jama Masjid is known for its red sandstone facade and intricate architecture. Visitors can explore the mosque’s courtyard and prayer hall, and learn about Islamic architecture and culture.
- Purana Qila
Purana Qila, or Old Fort, is a fort that was built in the 16th century by the Mughal emperor Humayun. The fort is now a popular tourist destination for its historical significance and beautiful architecture. Visitors can explore the fort’s many palaces, mosques, and gardens, and learn about the Mughal dynasty.
- Akshardham Temple
Akshardham Temple is a Hindu temple that is known for its intricate architecture and beautiful gardens. Built in the early 2000s, Akshardham Temple is one of the largest Hindu temples in the world and a popular tourist destination for people of all faiths. Visitors can admire the temple’s white marble facade and intricate carvings, and learn about Hindu culture and religion.
- Rashtrapati Bhavan
Rashtrapati Bhavan is the official residence of the President of India. Built in the early 20th century, Rashtrapati Bhavan is a sprawling complex that is known for its beautiful architecture and gardens. Visitors can take a guided tour of the complex to learn about its history and significance.
- India Gate
India Gate is a war memorial that was built in the early 20th century to commemorate the Indian soldiers who died in World War I. India Gate is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Delhi and a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and enjoy the city’s skyline.
- Lotus Temple
The Lotus Temple is a Baha’i House of Worship that is known for its unique lotus-shaped architecture. Built in the 1980s, the Lotus Temple is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Delhi and a popular spot for people of all faiths to come together and pray.
- Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory that was built in the 18th century by the Mughal emperor Maharaja Jai Singh II. The observatory is known for its unique architectural instruments that were used to study the stars and planets. Visitors can explore the observatory’s many instruments and learn about the Mughal dynasty’s interest in astronomy.