Delhi is the home to many historical places in India. If you love to explore India’s past, then plan a trip to Delhi with this travel guide.
If you are a history enthusiast, then plan a day trip to Delhi. The city has several old forts, monuments, museums, and buildings that tell the stories of ancient kings, emperors, and colonial rulers. This makes Delhi a perfect historical destination in India for a culturally immersive day trip.
Specifically, in Delhi, you can explore the centuries of history, from the grand Mughal era to the days of British rule. The rich past of India’s capital will also provide you with a unique and memorable travel experience. Like Hampi, Delhi also has plenty to offer for history buffs.
In case you are curious to discover the historical side of Delhi, then plan a trip with this guide. Here, you will get to know about the best places to visit, where to stay, where to eat, and how to get around in Delhi.
Exploring Delhi: A City Where History Lives On
Delhi is in the northern part of India and has a history that goes back over a thousand years. It is the capital of India that showcases a mix of old traditions and modern life.
The city has two main areas: Old Delhi, which was once the capital of the Mughal Empire, and New Delhi, which was built by the British.
In Delhi, you can see many different styles of buildings, like the Mughal-style Humayun’s Tomb and the British-designed Connaught Place.
Delhi is full of famous historical places such as the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and India Gate. For anyone who loves history, the city will feel like a living museum. The ideal time for visiting Delhi is between October and February, when the climate is pleasant.
Must-Visit Historical Places in Delhi
Delhi is a paradise for history lovers. Here are the best historical spots you must visit during your day trip to Delhi.
Red Fort: It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a symbol of Mughal power and architecture. This beautiful fort was built in 1648 by Emperor Shah Jahan with red sandstone.
Qutub Minar: It is a 12th-century tall tower that is surrounded by ancient ruins and carvings that reflect Delhi’s early medieval history. It is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Delhi.
India Gate: It is a war memorial that was built to honor Indian soldiers who died in World War I. It stands tall in the heart of New Delhi and is a popular spot for visitors and locals.
Jama Masjid: It is one of the largest mosques in India that was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. This mosque offers wide views of Old Delhi from its towers and is a strong symbol of the city’s Islamic history.
Humayun’s Tomb: It is a precursor to the Taj Mahal. This tomb is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a brilliant example of Persian-Mughal design.
Other Notable Historical Attractions in Delhi
When you plan your trip to Delhi, you can also add these popular historical sites to your itinerary
- Lodhi Gardens
- Purana Quila
- Raj Ghat
- Hauz Khas Complex
- Tughlaqabad Fort
- Jantar Mantar
- Safdarjung’s Tomb
- Nehru Memorial Museum
- Mehrauli Archaeological Park
Where to Stay in Delhi
For a day trip to Delhi, you might not need to stay overnight. But if you want to explore more or stay longer, Delhi has lots of accommodation options. For luxury, the Imperial, New Delhi offers five-star comfort with colonial-era charm. You can also book luxury hotels like the Oberoi or the Taj Mahal Hotel.
Some best mid-range accommodation options in Delhi with comfort and access to historical spots are Hotel Ibis, Aloft Delhi Airport, and Bloomrooms @ Janpath. For budget travelers, there are hostels and hotels like Backpacker Hostel, Hotel Red Fox, Zostel Delhi, or Madpackers Hostel.
If you are struggling to book the best hotel near you as per your budget and preferences, then visit Plane Pockets and get a good hotel booking experience.
Where to Eat in Delhi
Delhi’s food scene is a real treat for anyone who loves travel and history. In Old Delhi, especially around Chandni Chowk, you must try authentic street food like stuffed parathas at Paranthe Wali Gali, Dahi Bhalla from Natraj, and Spicy Chole‑Kulche and Kachoris from stalls like Lotan Kulche and Jung Bahadur Kachori Wala.
For classic Mughlai flavors, head to Karim’s near Jama Masjid, where dishes like nihari, mutton korma, and seekh kebabs reflect old royal cooking traditions. In upscale Khan Market, you must taste Parsi and colonial-inspired dishes like mutton dhansak and lagan nu custard and fish wrapped in banana leaf served by SodaBottleOpenerWala.
How to Reach Delhi
Delhi is easily approachable by road, train, and air. Delhi itself has major railway stations and is well-connected by buses. Alternatively, you can fly into Delhi directly from most major cities.
For flight bookings, you can use airline websites or travel platforms like Plane Pockets. Upon arrival in Delhi, you can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or metro train to get around.
Do you find it difficult to plan a day trip to Delhi for exploring its rich history? Call us!
We will create a customized itinerary for you as we are IATA license. It will include visiting historical landmarks, experiencing the local culture, and strolling through the historic streets. This way, you can have a memorable day trip to this city full of history.
