India Gate: Standing 42 m tall at the heart of Kartavya Path, India Gate is a sandstone war memorial designed by Edwin Lutyens and unveiled in 1931 to honour over 13,000 soldiers who fell in World War I and the Afghan Wars. Illuminated each evening beautifully, it is equally beloved as a gathering spot for families and a powerful symbol of national pride.
Red Fort: Commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1639, the Red Fort served as the principal Mughal residence for over 200 years. Its towering red sandstone walls enclose palaces, halls, and gardens. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, it remains the backdrop for India's Independence Day celebrations each 15th August.
Qutb Minar: The tallest minaret in India, at 72.5 m, Qutb Minar was built in the early 12th century during the Delhi Sultanate period and forms part of the UNESCO-listed Qutb Complex. Constructed of red sandstone and marble, it is a remarkable example of early Indo-Islamic architecture. The complex also houses the intriguing Iron Pillar, a 4th-century metallurgical marvel that has resisted rust for over 1,600 years.
Humayun's Tomb: Built in 1558 and the first garden-tomb ever constructed on the Indian subcontinent, Humayun's Tomb is widely regarded as the architectural precursor to the Taj Mahal. Commissioned by Empress Bega Begum and designed by Persian architects, this UNESCO World Heritage Site rises from manicured Mughal gardens and stuns visitors with its intricate red sandstone and white marble craftsmanship.
Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah: One of the most spiritually charged sites in all of India, this 14th-century Sufi shrine is dedicated to the revered saint Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia. Devotees of all faiths gather here daily, and the soulful qawwali performances held each Thursday and Sunday evening create a genuinely unforgettable atmosphere. The tomb of Mughal poet Mirza Ghalib is also located within the complex.
Lotus Temple: Completed in 1986 and designed by Canadian architect Fariborz Sahba, the Lotus Temple is one of the most visited buildings on a Delhi tour. Open to people of all religions, this stunning white marble structure unfolds in the shape of a half-open lotus, surrounded by tranquil reflective pools and lush gardens that make it as pleasing to photographers as it is to those seeking quiet contemplation.
Akshardham Temple: A spectacular spiritual-cultural complex dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, Akshardham is renowned for its intricately carved stone architecture, extensive exhibitions on Indian culture and spirituality, and a breathtaking evening water and light show. The complex is also home to India's largest step well, making it as architecturally impressive as it is devotionally significant for the millions who visit each year.
Lodhi Garden: A rare and beautiful combination of history and greenery in the heart of the city, Lodhi Garden contains 15th-century tombs of the Sayyid and Lodhi rulers set amidst 90 acres of manicured parkland. The Bara Gumbad and Sheesh Gumbad are the standout architectural specimens here. Ideal for an early morning stroll, it is particularly spectacular in February when the gardens are in full bloom.
Chandni Chowk: One of the oldest and most vibrant markets in Asia, Chandni Chowk (meaning 'Moonlit Square') is a sensory feast. Navigate its lanes by rickshaw, stopping to devour stuffed parathas at the iconic Paranthe Wali Gali, sip on creamy lassi, and browse everything from spices to bridal jewellery. This is where Delhi's gastronomic heritage is most alive, and it's unmissable for any first-time visitor.
Hauz Khas Village: Named after a 13th-century royal reservoir, Hauz Khas Village perfectly encapsulates Delhi's dual personality. Medieval ruins and tombs sit shoulder to shoulder with chic boutiques, independent galleries, and rooftop cafes and bars overlooking a serene lake. It's the city's creative and social hub, and the ideal spot for an evening that moves from history to nightlife seamlessly.
Dilli Haat: Located near the INA Metro Station, Dilli Haat is a government-run open-air crafts market and food plaza that brings together artisans and cuisines from every corner of India. From handwoven textiles and tribal jewellery to regional dishes you'd struggle to find anywhere else in the capital, a few hours here offers a genuinely immersive cultural exploration without leaving the city.
Connaught Place: At the geographical and social centre of New Delhi sits Connaught Place, a grand British-era circular marketplace now buzzing with international brands, beloved restaurants, lively bars, and open-air cafes. The colonnaded Georgian architecture lends it a distinctive character, while the underground Palika Bazaar and the surrounding blocks offer great street shopping. By evening, CP, as locals call it, is one of the most energetic spots in the city.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Delhi Experience
Carry cash for street food, local markets, and auto-rickshaws, as many small vendors do not accept digital payments. ATMs are widely available across the city.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites such as mosques, dargahs, temples, and gurdwaras. Carry a scarf or shawl and remove footwear as required at each site.
Download the Delhi Metro app and an app-based cab service such as Ola or Uber before you arrive. Both are invaluable for navigating the city safely and affordably.
Stay hydrated and opt for bottled water at all times. Carry hand sanitiser, sunscreen, and a hat if you're sightseeing during the warmer months between April and June.
How Many Days You Need
How long to stay depends on how much history you want to absorb. A single day covers the headline sights at a brisk pace, while two to three days let you slow down, wander the markets and eat properly.
One Day: A focused Delhi day tour suits layovers, covering two or three nearby monuments in South or Central Delhi.
Two Days: Split the city into Old Delhi and New Delhi, with one day for each side's landmarks and food.
Three Days or More: Add museums and historical sites, slower mornings and time for Akshardham or a longer market crawl.
Best Time to Visit Delhi
Delhi has a clear travel season. The months from October to March bring cool, dry days that suit long hours of sightseeing, while April to June turn fiercely hot, and July to September add monsoon humidity. Winter mornings can be foggy, which occasionally delays flights and trains.
Winter (October to March): It offers comfortable, dry weather for walking tours and outdoor monuments. Temperatures range from 7°C to 25°C. Clear skies make sightseeing ideal.
Summer (April to June): Temperatures can reach up to 45°C, making midday sightseeing difficult. However, lower hotel prices, fewer crowds, and early morning or evening visits make it manageable for budget travellers.
Monsoon (July to September): Temperatures ease to around 33°C, and the city turns lush and green, with thinner crowds at major sites.
Getting Around Delhi
Delhi Metro: The fastest, cleanest, and most reliable way to get around, with 271 stations across 374 km. A Tourist Card offers unlimited travel and is ideal for visitors.
App-based Cabs: Best for door-to-door comfort, especially late at night or with luggage. Fares are fixed and shown in the app.
Auto-rickshaws: A classic Delhi experience for short distances and narrow Old Delhi lanes. Always agree on the fare or use the meter.
DTC Buses/HOHO Bus: DTC runs an extensive city network. The Hop On Hop Off (HOHO) bus covers 16+ attractions with onboard English commentary.
Private Cars/Rentals: Chauffeur-driven cars via services like Savaari are ideal for a comfortable Delhi day tour covering multiple sights.
The Meriton, New Delhi: Stay Close to Delhi’s Key Attractions
Make the most of your time on a tour to Delhi by staying at The Meriton, where some of the city's most iconic attractions are within easy reach. Walk to the Lotus Temple, hop on the metro at Okhla NSIC Station, or set out to explore landmarks such as India Gate, Shish Gumbad and Red Fort.
Choose from our five categories of rooms and suites, ranging from Standard Rooms to the Presidential Suite, and return each day to a space designed for comfort and convenience. Grab a coffee and a quick bite at Cafe Latina near the metro entrance, or sit down for a meal at Bayleaf, which serves both buffet and à la carte options.
If you're visiting for work or hosting an event, make use of 10 flexible venues, including banquet halls, boardrooms and a rooftop setting. Throughout your stay, rely on practical amenities such as concierge assistance, valet parking, laundry services and a dedicated travel desk. Whether you're in Delhi for sightseeing, attending meetings or doing a bit of both, The Meriton puts you close to where you need to be.
