Delhi is a special place not because it is the capital of India but because it has a rich history. For several years, the Mughals, Khiljis, and Tughlaqs ruled this place, which gives Delhi a strong historical background. During that period, the rulers built many structures, such as the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, and more. Let’s explore the top historical places to visit in Delhi.
Visiting those historical places in Delhi is an exclusive experience for foreign visitors to India.
Things to Do at Historical Places in Delhi
Here are some things you can do to fully appreciate and enjoy these places:
- Attend the Light and Sound Show.
- Visit the Museums.
- Discover various historical structures.
- Capture the stunning architecture and the beautifully landscaped gardens.
- Enjoy a serene picnic in the lush gardens.
- Take a leisurely walk around India Gate, especially beautiful when illuminated at night.
- Explore the nearby streets.
- Attend Ceremonial Events.
- Shopping.
- Enjoy a peaceful walk among the historic tombs and well-maintained gardens.
- Participate in yoga sessions.
List of Top Historical Places to Visit in Delhi
1. Red Fort
Red Fort is located near Chandani Chowk, one of the prominent places in Delhi to visit. The fort was the main residence of the Mughal emperors and it was constructed by the architect Ustad Ahmad Lahori – who also designed the Taj Mahal. The Red Fort also became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. The significance of this historical place is that every year on 15th August, the Prime Minister of India hoists the Indian national flag at the fort’s main gate.
2. Qutub Minar
Qutub Minar (Victory Tower) is in Seth Sarai, Mehrauli, New Delhi. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the most visited tourist spot in Delhi. Earlier it used to be only a heritage place to visit but recently in September 2023, the Qutub Minar was illuminated to celebrate Mexico’s 213th Independence Day; on October 30, the Qutub Minar was lit up in the color of the Turkish flag to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Republic of Turkey. This is one of the best historical places in Delhi to visit.
3. India Gate
India Gate is a war memorial, and it was inaugurated on 12 February 1931 by Lord Irwin. India Gate is a popular choice among foreign visitors. The significance of this place is that it is a war memorial of 74,187 soldiers of the Indian Army who fought and died between 1914 and 1921 during World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. Every Year on Indian Republic Day, the Prime Minister of India visits India Gate to pay tribute to those soldiers or Amar Jawan Jyoti.
4. Jantar Mantar
With a height of 220 m, the Jantar Mantar is an architectural astronomy instrument built by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur. There are five observatories, and Delhi’s Jantar Mantar is the first. The sole purpose of Jantar Mantar was astronomy and astrology. However, it is now a tourist attraction and an important monument to the history of astronomy. During the British Raj, the observatory underwent considerable decay.
5. Agrasen Ki Baoli
Agrasen Ki Baoli is a prominent tourist attraction in Delhi. It is a historical stepwell 60-meter long and 15-meter wide. It is believed to have been built around the Mahabharata era. Agrasen Ki Baoli is a wonderful backdrop for the film, and several Bollywood movies, such as PK, Shubh Mangal Savdhan, etc., have some scenes from this location.
6. Humayun’s Tomb
In 1993, Humayun’s Tomb was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was the first garden tomb on the Indian subcontinent. This tomb was built by the order of Humayun’s first wife and chief consort and completed in 1572. The architectural style is Mughal. It is located at Mathura Road, Nizamuddin East, Nizamuddin, Delhi, India. This tomb is a must-visit historical place in Delhi.
7. Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid served as the imperial mosque of the Mughal emperors. Shah Jahan built it. Jama Masjid also played a significant political role during British rule. It is one of the most iconic historical places in Delhi. Chawri Bazaar metro station is the nearest to Jama Masjid.
Note: Travelers aren’t allowed to visit Jama Masjid during the prayer hour.
8. Safdarjung Tomb
Safdarjung Tomb is a Mughal-era monument in Delhi. It is a tomb within a garden. The architectural style is Mughal, Indo-Islamic. The tomb was completed in 1754. Safdarjung Tomb is in the Airforce Golf Course, Delhi Race Club, New Delhi. Those looking for historical places to visit in Delhi should explore the Safdarjung Tomb. They will witness great architectural beauty and complex designs in the tomb.
9. Rashtrapati Bhavan
Rashtrapati Bhavan, formerly the Viceroy’s House, was built during the zenith of the British Empire. It is India’s president’s official residence, however, a tourist desirous of visiting this place can pre-book their visit. The Rashtrapati Bhavan is an ideal visit for the history buff, a culture enthusiast, or someone looking for a memorable experience.
10. Lodhi Gardens
Lodi or Lodhi Garden belongs to the Sayyid, Lodi and Mughal dynasties. It is a city park spread across 90 acres that remain open through the years. ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) is protecting this site. This garden is a popular choice for locals for morning walks. Lodhi Gardens contains Mohammed Shah’s Tomb, the Tomb of Sikandar Lodi, the Shisha Gumbad and the Bara Gumbad. People searching for top historical places in Delhi should explore Lodhi Gardens, between Khan Market and Safdarjung’s Tomb on Lodi Road.
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