Introduction
Delhi is not a single city but a layered accumulation of eight successive capitals — each dynasty building on or near the ruins of the last. The result is one of the world’s most historically complex destinations, with Mughal monuments rising next to colonial British buildings, ancient ruins scattered through modern housing, and one of Asia’s most chaotic and rewarding urban experiences.
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Old Delhi (Shahjahanabad)
Red Fort (Lal Qila)
The magnificent Mughal fortress built by Shah Jahan in 1638. The Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audiences), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audiences), and the palace quarters are all extraordinary examples of Mughal architecture.
Entry: ₹600 foreigners. Allow: 2 hours. Best time: Morning (before the tour groups arrive).
Jama Masjid
India’s largest mosque. Built 1656. The red sandstone and marble courtyard holds 25,000 worshippers. Non-Muslims welcome outside prayer times. Climb the minaret for panoramic views over Old Delhi. Free (donation expected). ₹300 for minaret climb.
Chandni Chowk
The main bazaar of Old Delhi. Centuries-old spice market, silver jewelry, traditional sweetshops, chaos. Best experienced by rickshaw — hire at Fatehpuri Mosque end.
Must eat in Old Delhi: Karim’s (1913, the finest Mughal-influenced restaurant in Delhi), Paranthe Wali Gali (alley of fried bread), Natraj Dahi Bhalle for street snacks.
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New Delhi
Humayun’s Tomb
The prototype for the Taj Mahal. Built 1572, the first major example of Mughal garden tomb architecture. UNESCO. Beautiful symmetry, extensive gardens.
Entry: ₹600 foreigners.
Qutub Minar
The world’s tallest brick minaret (72.5m). Built 1193 as the first minaret in India after the Islamic conquest. Surrounded by ruins of Delhi’s first mosque and early Mughal tombs. UNESCO.
Entry: ₹600 foreigners.
India Gate
War memorial. Free access. Evening strolls popular with Delhi families. Street food vendors (bhelpuri, chaat) surrounding it.
Lodhi Garden
Beautiful park with 15th-century tombs of Sayyid and Lodi dynasties. Morning joggers, picnicking families. Free.
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Getting Around Delhi
Delhi Metro: Excellent — covers most tourist areas, clean, cheap (₹10–60/journey). Buy a tourist pass or use tokens.
Auto-rickshaws: Should use meter but rarely do. Negotiate or use Ola/Uber for fixed prices.
Uber/Ola: Best option for non-metro routes.
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Old Delhi walking tours with expert guides and Delhi UNESCO monument day trips are bookable on Klook.