Top 10 things to do in Delhi

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1. Red Fort

Northern India is the land of forts, and the Red Fort in Delhi ranks among the most gigantic ones, with walls extending up to 2km. This structure, built in the 17th century and part of the UNESCO list, has seen much history which is now crystallized into an interesting museum.

2. The Lotus Temple

This stunning temple is loosely based on Sydney’s opera house, and since its opening in 1986, it has attracted an incredibly high number of tourists, thanks also to its relaxing gardens and tranquil interiors that provide an excellent and ample space for meditation.

3. Gandhi Smriti

Gandhi Smriti is the house where Gandhi lived for the last days of his life and eventually where he was assassinated in 1948. In 1973, this house was opened to the public as a museum, displaying documents regarding Gandhi’s life and death. Outside the house, the exact space where he was shot has been preserved and it is said to reflect the simplicity of the man.

4. Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid is simply the most famous and biggest mosque in India, built in the 17th century in one of the most picturesque streets of Old Delhi. It is also possible to climb up the minaret, to get interesting views over this part of Delhi.

5. India Gate

Based on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, India Gate stands to symbolize the lives of Indian soldiers taken during WWI. On its walls, more than 13000 names of fallen soldiers have been inscribed and an eternal flame is burning there.

6. Jantar Mantar

Located in the modern side of the city, Jantar Mantar is believed to be the world’s oldest astronomical observatory, as it was built in the 18th century.

7. Akshardham Temple

This Hindu complex of temples represents millennia of Indian traditions, catalyzed in its architecture. It was opened in 2005 and has since become an important symbol of the city, attracting over the 70% of tourists who visit Delhi. Visitors must be aware that no cameras are allowed in the building and that a visit here can easily take the whole day, due to the sheer size of the complex.

8. National Museum

The National Museum of India displays a rich collection of objects, including textiles, painting, ancient statues and miniatures. Overall, including pieces of foreign origin, the museum includes 200,000 works of art, covering more than 5 millennia of history. It is widely considered among the best places to learn about Indian culture.

9. Hauz Khas

This area of Delhi will project you to another world: here new shops, along with world-class cafes and restaurants, contrast with beautiful and well-preserved ancient ruins. Clean gardens and a pond complete this already rich scenario. There is also a chance to spot several birds along with monkeys and swans.

10. Humayun’s Tomb

Delhi has the privilege of boosting 3 UNESCO sites and the tomb of the emperor Humayun, built in the 16th century, surely deserves such an honor. It is said that when Humayun died, his wife was so shattered by this event that she dedicated her entire remaining life to build something majestic to remember him. The building served later as inspiration for the Taj Mahal.