Delhi's Greatest Hits (and a Few Secrets)

Delhi's Greatest Hits (and a Few Secrets)

The spots worth your time, ranked by a local who’s eaten near every single one

Real talk: Delhi's attractions are next level, but half the magic is what you eat near them. Every fort has a kebab guy, every temple has a chaat corner. Here's my honest take on what's worth the auto ride—and what's just okay.

Red Fort
History & Architecture

Red Fort

Mughal Masterpiece (+ Legendary Kebabs Nearby)

Absolute icon. Shah Jahan built this beast and honestly it still slaps. But the real move? Hit Karim's right after for mutton burra kebabs. Thank me later.

Diwan-i-AamDiwan-i-KhasSound & Light ShowMuseums
Old Delhi
2-3 hours
India Gate
Photography & Evening

India Gate

Sunset Magnet & Ice Cream Spot

Go at sunset, grab a kulfi from the vendors, and just vibe. It's giving picnic energy. The ice cream alone is worth the trip, the monument is a bonus.

Amar Jawan JyotiKartavya PathSunset ViewsGardens
New Delhi
1 hour
Qutub Minar
History & Photography

Qutub Minar

Ancient Flex + Mehrauli Eats

73 meters of pure 1193 AD flex. The Iron Pillar that won't rust? Still unexplained. But honestly I come for the kebab shops in Mehrauli village nearby. Priorities.

Iron PillarAlai DarwazaRuinsArchaeological Park
Mehrauli
1.5-2 hours
Humayun's Tomb
Architecture & Gardens

Humayun's Tomb

Taj Mahal's Cool Older Sibling

Honestly? Better than the Taj in some ways—fewer crowds, same Mughal grandeur. Sunset here is *chef's kiss*. Walk to Nizamuddin Dargah after for qawwali and biryani.

Mughal GardensIsa Khan's TombSunset ViewsArchitecture
Nizamuddin
1.5-2 hours
Akshardham Temple
Culture & Architecture

Akshardham Temple

Over-the-Top in the Best Way

This place is absolutely unreal. No phones allowed inside (yes, really) so you actually experience it. The food court inside is surprisingly solid—try the thali.

Main TempleExhibitionsMusical FountainGardens
East Delhi
3-4 hours
Chandni Chowk
Food & Shopping

Chandni Chowk

THE Food Destination. Period.

My spiritual home. Paranthe Wali Gali, jalebi from the OG shop, kebabs at every turn—this is where Delhi really happens. Come hungry or don't come at all.

Paranthe Wali GaliKarim'sSpice MarketStreet Food
Old Delhi
3-4 hours
Lotus Temple
Architecture & Peace

Lotus Temple

Insta-Worthy & Free Entry

Gorgeous building, zero entry fee, open to everyone. It's giving peaceful vibes in a city that never shuts up. Grab momos from the market outside when you're done.

Lotus ArchitectureGardensMeditationFree Entry
South Delhi
1 hour
Jama Masjid
Architecture & Views

Jama Masjid

Massive Mosque, Even Better Food Scene

The courtyard alone is jaw-dropping, and the minaret views are insane. But let's be honest—the real reason you're here is the food lane right outside. Nihari, kebabs, everything.

Grand CourtyardMinaret ViewsArchitectureNearby Food
Old Delhi
1 hour

Pro Tip From a Local

Three days minimum, seriously. You need one full day just for Old Delhi's food scene. Trust me, I've tried cramming it into less and it's a tragedy.

My 3-Day Game Plan