March 9, 2017 — Delhi, the capital of India, is the country's largest metropolis. A dynamic city with a rich past, Delhi is considered one of the world's historic capitals. As the seat of numerous powerful empires, the city of Delhi is home to many carefully preserved historical monuments, ancient forts, and tombs.

The city is divided into two parts — Old Delhi and New Delhi. Old Delhi represents the history of India through its mosques, forts, and other monuments, while New Delhi is the seat of government and home to government buildings as well as embassies.

Here is a non-exhaustive list of the main monuments to visit in Delhi:

1. Red Fort

Built in 1638, the Red Fort exemplifies the era of Mughal dominance in India. The fort was indeed a residence for the Mughal Empire nearly 200 years ago.

The site is today inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List and will undoubtedly impress you during your visit.

2. Humayun's Tomb

A perfect blend of Persian and local architecture, Humayun's Tomb was constructed by Queen Haji Begum, widow of Humayun. Resembling the famous Taj Mahal, Humayun's Tomb is the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent.

3. Qutab Minar

Built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, this 73-meter-high tower is said to have been constructed to commemorate the victory and the beginning of the Mughal era in India. This five-story minaret is constructed with red sandstone and white marble. Red sandstone was used for the first three stories, while the last two were built with marble and sandstone.

4. India Gate

Built in 1931, India Gate is a war memorial for more than 70,000 soldiers killed during World War I and the war in Afghanistan. You can see the names of soldiers inscribed on the walls of India Gate. The pleasant atmosphere makes it the perfect place for an evening stroll.

5. Lodi Gardens

Lodi Gardens is an excellent place to wander and enjoy the beauty of nature in all its splendor. It covers an area of 90 acres and is home to five 15th-century architectural monuments (the Tomb of Mohammad Shah, the Tomb of Sikandar Lodi, Sheesh Gumbad, and Bada Gumbad). It's an ideal spot for family picnics.

6. Dilli Haat

It transports you into the magical world of Indian art and heritage presented through a fascinating panorama of Indian craftsmanship, cuisine, and cultural activities. Purchase ethnic clothing to complete your suitcase with the finest pieces of Indian craftsmanship. It's also the ideal place to taste delicious Indian delicacies. If you're lucky, you may also witness a whimsical exhibition as well as dance or music performances.

7. Agrasen ki Baoli

Located in the heart of the city, surrounded by the tall buildings of Connaught Place, Agrasen ki Baoli is the perfect place to experience the magic of the historic city. You can catch glimpses of poets and artists working their craft on paper, among the crowds.

8. Lotus Temple

Lotus Temple is an architectural marvel that will enchant you through its serene surroundings. Many come here to pray to their respective gods while enjoying this peaceful atmosphere.

9. Tughlaqabad Fort

With its walls of gray rubble debris, perched on desolate hills, its position gives it a natural advantage. Tughlaqabad was erected as a stronghold rather than an architectural monument. It was built by the founder of the Tughlaq dynasty in 1321 and covers an area of 6.5 km.

10. Bangla Sahab Gurudwara

Don't forget to stop at the Sikh Gurudwara, a magnificent white marble monument. The melodious chanting of hymns will transport you to another world. The Sarovar, the sacred water reservoir, is located in the center of the Gurudwara. The delicious taste of kada Prasad will surely enchant you, transporting you to a paradisiacal universe.

HistoryReligionTourismCharlène NomadaysCharlène has been an SEO editor since Nomadays' earliest days, later becoming content manager and head of the communications department, accompanying the adventure from its inception with passion and loyalty. After spending seven years in Asia—from China to Thailand, passing through Mongolia and South Korea—she has made travel a way of being in the world. A lover of words, nature, and human connection, she strives to convey in her writing a sensitive, engaged, and responsible vision of tourism. For her, each article is a bridge between curiosity, respect, and wonder.