Found in 1052 by Anangpal Tomar, Delhi is one of the oldest and most ancient cities in India. Many also believe that the history of ancient Delhi goes back to 800 BCE when King Dhilu built it. Further, the tales of Mahabharata present Delhi as the capital of the Pandavas, Indraprastha.
So, exploring the city’s history is one of the best things to do in Delhi for first-time tourists. However, that’s not all! Every nook in Delhi offers you a unique cultural experience through street food and people.
However, as a first-time traveler, you must seek a credible service for Delhi city tours. Despite the availability of public transportation, it will be safer and more convenient for you.
Check for certifications, licenses, and official registration of these service providers and then discuss the itinerary with them.
These Are The Top Things To Do In Delhi For First Time Tourists
Delhi is like a book, and every chapter has amazing stories, twists, and turns. Honestly, the things to do in Delhi can be overwhelming for a first-time tourist.
So, here, I have curated some places that will offer you an eclectic experience. These places will also offer you a slice of the Indian culture. So, you will know what to expect when you come back to this ancient yet modern city.
Visit the elaborate tomb of Humayun
Entry Fee: INR 35 for Indians, INR 550 for Foreigners
Came as a precursor for the Taj Mahal, an inspiration for it as well, the Humayun Tomb ironically mixes the Persian architecture with precision and Indian craftsmanship. The tomb is picturesquely surrounded by symmetrical Mughal Gardens and displays the iconic and grand architectural heritage of the Mughals. For the best photos and scenic views, you should visit the tomb during the sunset when it is complement by the various vibrant colors of the sky.
Explore Indian Art and Ancient Culture
Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indians, INR 650 for Foreigners, Free for Students up to 12th Standard
The National Museum of Delhi is one of the largest museums in India with a huge collection of ancient Indian artifacts like sculptures, wood carvings, pottery, weapons, seals, coins, idols, archaeological remains, stupas, and many more. The artifacts from various major archeological excavations are preserved and put on display here at the National Museum. Its huge collection of 200000 artworks comprises artifacts of both Indian and foreign origin covering a history of about 5000 years. One of the best things to do in Delhi and India is to take a look at the Harappan Gallery, Maurya, Shunga and Satvahana Art Gallery, Gupta gallery, and Kushana Gallery to name a few popular art collections at the museum.
Travel back in time with a stroll in Old Delhi
Don’t get lost in the bazaars of Old Delhi, instead of travel back in time and take the steps and the path that a 17th-century detective takes in the Eighth Guest and Other Muzaffar Jang Mysteries written by Madhulika Liddle. Old Delhi has a unique mix of ancient structures from the Mughal era, which are almost in ruins while the historic parts stay well preserved, and modern buildings coexisting together.
Taste Delhi’s Mouth-Watering Street Food
Delhi is known for its delicious street food like chaat papri, panipuri (golgappas), parathas, kebabs, chole bhature, and pav bhaji. Some of the sweets that you must try are Dahi Bhalla, jalebis, and kulfi. But if you want to go full street-kid, you should definitely munch on the appetizing and healthy Chanan Zor Garam – something that is exclusively available on the streets. The street food only gets betters during monsoons as the pagodas bring new heat to your body and a delicious taste to your tongue. You can’t leave without trying its delicious food and not mention that it is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Delhi. Also check out the historic British colonial art at the National Gallery of Modern Art, a collection known as “Company Paintings”. They were made by the Indian artists to please the British masters.
Go shopping
No tour is complete without getting souvenirs back for friends and relatives to remind them that you travel but they don’t. All joking aside, buying clothes and other memorabilia which you can only get in the street bazaars of Delhi. From Baba Kharak Singh Marg to Connaught Place, there are many markets, stalls, craft stores, and ethnic wear in Dilli Haat to make for an all-around quick one-day shop stop. For many tourists, it is among the top list of things to do in Delhi.
Experience the life of a prisoner
This is an upcoming tourist attraction that hasn’t opened yet. But soon the largest prison in India, Tihar Jail is opening up its cells for tourism. Yep, you read that right. You will soon be able to pay money to go to jail, live in a prison, eating prison food, and work in the prison just like any other prisoner there. Forget about the costly and five-star resorts that Delhi has to offer and instead stay at the Prison Inn (not an official name). Don’t worry about safety though because the cells are separated from the violent inmates and criminals who “live” in the Jail. Of course, you will also be given prison clothes and will be treated like any other prisoner.
Pay respect to Mahatma Gandhi at his Tomb
M.K. Gandhi, also known as Mahatma Gandhi, is an important public figure, politician, and freedom fighter who brought peace and independence to India. Is it any wonder that India considers him as the Father of the Nation? He is known as the man who redefined the revolution by not partaking in violent acts and gave courage to the world by living his life according to his philosophy. Visit the tomb of Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat where a black marble stone was placed where his body’s cremation took place. Among the most peaceful things to do in Delhi, pay respect to the eternal flame and remember everything he did for this great nation. His tomb is made to represent what he was as a man – simple.
Check out Lodi Garden, Qutub Minar, and Red Fort
When you’re in town, you must not miss the historic monuments that the city has to offer. One of the must-do things in Delhi is checking out its historical forts and monuments including Qutub Minar, Red Fort, and Lodi Gardens. Lodi gardens are filled with historic monuments belonging to the Islamic Sayyid and Lodi dynasties. Meanwhile, Qutub Minar is a UNESCO inscribed World Heritage Site which a monument built by the founder of Delhi Sultanate, Qutb ud Din Aibak. The Red Fort was the first place where Jawaharlal Nehru hoisted the Indian tricolor flag after India got its independence.
Don’t miss any of these amazing things in Delhi and check off all the entries on this list. To get the most of your stay, check out the complete travel guide to Delhi before you book flights or make any plans.
Visit The India Gate
The India Gate, located near the Kartavya Path or the Rajpath, is one of the most prominent memorial sculptures in India. It is like the Arc-de-Triomphe in its architecture.
This iconic arch-like structure commemorates 70,000 soldiers from India sacrificing their lives for the British in World War I.
Further, under the arch, there is Amar Jawan Jyoti or an unextinguishable flame. It remembers the lives of Indian soldiers lost in the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971.
As the Sun sets, the India Gate looks amazing with floodlights. The nearby fountains add to the ambiance. Visiting the India Gate is a somber experience. A visit to the India Gate is essential if you want to share solidarity with the true spirit of the country.
Visit The Hauz Khas
Hauz Khas literally translates to the Water Tank (Hauz) of the Royal (Khas). This quaint village in South Delhi is home to iconic institutes like the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), and Indian Institute of Foreign Trade.
Amidst the quaint and medieval structures of the place thrives a modern chic culture that began here in the 1980s.
Frequently Asked Questions!!! (FAQs):
Q1: Where can I Spend a Whole Day in Delhi?
Ans: There are many places you can choose to spend an entire day in Delhi, such as • Nehru park • Deer park • India gate lawns • National zoological park • Lodhi gardens • Badhkal lakes
Q2: What are the Things not to do in Delhi?
Ans: There are a few things that you should do and show respect while you are in Delhi. • Don’t break rules, laws. • Don’t disrespect anyone from any community, as Delhi is the capital of India, and there are many people from different cultures. • Don’t fight with anyone unnecessarily.
Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.
By recent estimates, about 40 people are killed, and many are still missing due to the heavy rain and flash floods. For the past three days, these flash floods are triggered by heavy monsoon clouds.
The flood and rain washed hundreds of villages, mud houses, bridges and roads in places of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
More heavy rain is predicted for the next two days, predicted by the Indian Meteorological Department. In the state of Himachal Pradesh, 36 people were killed, and more than hundreds of people were taken to relief camps.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MV3wPNQqVpM
In Uttarakhand, after a series of cloud bursts, 4 people died, and more than 13 people went missing. Ranjit Kumar Sinha of Uttarakhand’s disaster management department said,
We have deployed choppers to rescue people who are stuck in remote areas due to rain-related incidents. The rescue operation is in full swing.
Floods and landslides have become common in the Northern part of India during the monsoon months. Last year, during flash floods, at least 200 people were either killed or washed away by the rain in Uttarakhand.
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Udaipur is one of the most amazing cities in Rajasthan founded by Maharana Udai Singh. The city is popularly called – City of Lakes and houses several beautiful monuments including the Jag Mandir Palace. There is no better way to experience Udaipur than through the Deccan Odyssey train in luxury.
The Deccan Odyssey is one of the finest luxury trains in the world and is only next to the Palace on Wheels, the first luxury train in India. Guests can go sightseeing to Udaipur while enjoying the royal facilities on the Deccan Odyssey. Famous as India’s Blue Train the blue exteriors of the train offers amazing luxury services onboard on the six itineraries.
The Indian Odyssey Luxury Tour :
The Deccan Odyssey train takes guests to visit the Venice of the East – Udaipur for a full day en route the Indian Odyssey Luxury Tour. This journey begins at the national capital – Delhi and covers destinations including Sawai Madhopur where you travel to Ranthambore National Park to witness a wildlife safari. The other destinations en route include Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Vadodara, Aurangabad, Ellora Caves, and Mumbai. India’s Blue Train reaches Udaipur on the Day 5 of this luxury tour. After a hearty breakfast onboard the Deccan Odyssey train, guests de-board for the sightseeing tour in the scenic city of Lakes.
1. City Palace:
The first structure that guests see soon after breakfast is the City Palace nestled within the scenic Aravalli Mountain Ranges. Founded by Maharana Udai Singh this magnificent Palace is the biggest royal structure in Rajasthan dating back to the mid-fifteenth century. There are terraced gardens, pavilions, courtyards, and hanging gardens as the Palace lies in lush greenery. It is the finest structure of Chinese & European architectural touches. You can witness ancient artifacts with historical significance & Rajasthani art & crafts in the museum Crystal Gallery inside the City Palace.
2. Lake Pichola:
This is one of the largest and picturesque lakes of the City of Lakes. It is connected to various other smaller lakes by which their waters are connected. The waters look unique at different times of the day and tourists get a splendid view of the shimmering lake at sunrise. The Deccan Odyssey guests get a fascinating ferry ride on the placid waters of the scenic Lake Pichola to reach the next sightseeing destination – Jag Mandir.
3. Jag Mandir:
This marble palace build on an island in Lake Pichola dates back to the seventeenth century and is the structure that inspired Shah Jehan to build the Taj Mahal. The Gul Mahal has beautiful blue carvings in the region inside the palace where exactly the emperor was hiding. A part of the Palace is now a premium hotel. There are colorful lights emitted that color the waters of Lake Pichola at evening. This is the hotel where guests of Deccan Odyssey can enjoy a lunch with traditional musical instruments of Jal Tarang & tabla rhythms in the background.
4. Old City:
This is the old city of Jaipur. After taking rest onboard the Deccan Odyssey, guests go for a heritage walk in the evening here. Get to listen to historical stories of the ancient city on this walk. Guests enjoy sumptuous dinner onboard the Deccan Odyssey and an overnight comfortable sleep as they head to the next destination on the Indian Odyssey Tour.
The Deccan Odyssey facilities :
There are 12 guest carriages with various cabin occupancies, a Bar & Lounge, a Conference Car & a Health Spa. It offers two comfortable restaurants in bright light on the comfortable seating of two at one side & four at the other. Guests can have a hearty chat while having their meals. Know more about the cost of Deccan Odyssey train and take the comfort of seeing the outside while having their meal, from the panoramic views that the large windows offer.
With all these facilities onboard the guests can enjoy the sightseeing the Venice of the East – Udaipur in the royal opulence of the Deccan Odyssey.
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Welcome to the “Queen Of The Hills!”
Darjeeling is one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. Hidden beneath the Lesser Himalayas, Darjeeling is an “abode of god.” Situated among the serenity of nature, it is a must places to visit in Darjeeling for some intoxicating time in nature’s lap.
Travel Guide About Darjeeling
NicknameThe Queen of the HillsDarjeeling Whole Area3149 sq.kmLanguage SpokenNepali, Hindi, and BengaliPopular Places to VisitBatasia Loop, Tinchuley, Darjeeling Rock Garden, Lepchajagat, Darjeeling Ropeway, Happy Valley Tea Estate, Tiger Hill, etc. Best Time to VisitApril-June to experience summer, October-January to experience winter. Popular Places to visit for couplesMirik, Love Road, Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Mall, Observatory Hill, Darjeeling Ropeway, Tea Gardens, Mahakal Temple, and Glenburn Estate. Top Religious Places Ghoom Monastery, St.Andrew’s Church, Dali Monastery, Dhirdham Temple, Aloobari Monastery, etc.Top Things To DoTrekking, Shopping, River Rafting, Toy Tain Ride, Visit the Tea Garden, Camping, Explore the wildlife and flora, Mountaineering, etc.
Darjeeling: Why Even Go There?
Darjeeling is one of the biggest tourist destinations in India. Its natural beauty, perfect climate, and captivating mountain view are a few of the reasons to visit here.
Darjeeling is a part of West Bengal and is located at a height of 2134 meters. It is a proud possession of West Bengal Tourism. The exotic flora, fauna, and chilly weather are a few reasons why it is named the “Queen of the Hills.”
It is a perfect abode for trekkers and mountaineers. The view of the Kanchenjunga is spectacular from here. This spectacular view is what attracts a lot of tourists year-round in Darjeeling.
However, Darjeeling has a lot more to offer tourists. From Darjeeling, you have access to most other hill stations such as Gangtok, Kalimpong, and many more. There are great places to visit in Gangtok, and Darjeeling is your starting point for that.
Here is a list of the best places to visit in Darjeeling.
1. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute And Darjeeling Zoo
The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute of Darjeeling is one of the best in the country. It exhibits the mountaineering gears from the early days along with certain artifacts.
The Institute was built here in honor of Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa who accompanied Sir Edmund Hillary to climb Mt. Everest. They were the first to climb the tallest mountain in the world for the 1st time in 1953.
All the mountaineering gear that the men used is also here in the Institute itself. There are souvenirs and a restaurant here on the premises for the tourists.
Located beside the Institute on the same premises is the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. Here you can experience the best wildlife Darjeeling has to offer.
Here you will find a number of exotic animals such as the Siberian Tiger, snow leopard, goral, Tibetan wolf, Himalayan black bear, and red panda.
Timings: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm in Summer & 8:30 am to 4:00 pm in Winter.
2. Darjeeling Ropeway
Opened in 1968, known as the Rangeet Valley Passenger Cable Car; from here, you can have the best view of Darjeeling. This was the first cable car system ever built in India.
From the beautiful Tea Gardens to the majestic peak of the Kanchenjunga and the dense forest beneath it. You will be able to experience everything Darjeeling has to offer at once.
Timings: 10:00am to 4:00pm (Winter and Monsoon), 10:00am to 2:00pm (Summer and Autumn).
3. Happy Valley Tea Estate
Enjoy the lush greenery and the sweet taste of Darjeeling Tea. This is a 150 years old Tea Estate, one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. Although this is only the second oldest tea estate in Darjeeling, built in 1854, situated 2100 meters above sea level.
Timings: Tuesday to Saturday- 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
4. Senchal Lake And Wildlife Sanctuary
This is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in India, set up in the year 1915. Situated about 11 kms away from Darjeeling town, it is a must-visit place in Darjeeling.
Senchal Lake, which is situated within the wildlife, has the most beautiful picturesque view. For nature lovers and photographers, this is an ideal place.
Here you will find a number of wildlife such as leopards, rhesus monkeys, and Himalayan black bears. Along with that, here, you will see a wide variety of exotic birds.
5. Shrubbery Nightingale Park
If you are someone who loves flowers and exotic flora, then you must visit Shrubbery Nightingale Park. Here you will find beautiful flowers along with a majestic view of the Kanchenjunga mountain.
The park was totally destroyed during a massive earthquake in 1934; it was rebuilt to its former glory. It has pebblestone pathways, a musical fountain and benches to sit on. This park is among the best places to visit in Darjeeling.
Timings: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
Blooming Seasons: October and November.
6. Dhirdham Temple
Another gorgeous tourist attraction is the Dhirdham Temple; it is a Hindu temple in Nepalese style. This is located just below the Toy Train station. This temple was built by the King of Nepal, Purna Bahadur Pradhan, in the year 1936. The temple has the idol of Lord Shiva.
The idol is of white color, and Shiva is represented to have various expressions with his third eye. This temple has the architectural design of the Pashupatinath Temple of Kathmandu.
Aarti Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
Note That: Inside the temple premises, cameras are not allowed.
7. Darjeeling Mall And Chowrasta
At the heart of Darjeeling town are the Darjeeling Mall and the Chowrasta. This is one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. It is the best places to hang out for both tourists and localities.
Here you will find the best restaurants, shops, boutiques and cafes. This is a must-visit place in Darjeeling for anyone to visit. During the evening, you will find a lot of entertainment options here.
Few of the best shops around here are Nathmulls Tea & Sunset Lounge, Curio Corner, Habeeb Mullick & Sons and the Jolly Arts & Bhutan Tibetan Art Shop.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. What Are The Nearest Railway Station And Airport To Darjeeling? The nearest railway station to Darjeeling is Darjeeling Railway station and Siliguri Railway Station. And the nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, located 70 km from Darjeeling. 2. What Is The Best Time To Plan A Holiday To Darjeeling? Depending on the season, you need to plan your trip here. If you are planning to visit during the summer for pleasant sightseeing you can visit from April-June.But if you are willing to experience the cold and with it wildlife, you can visit from October-December. 3. How Are The Accommodation Facilities For Tourists In Darjeeling? Darjeeling has a huge number of good quality accommodation facilities for tourists. No matter how you are traveling, big group, solo, as couple, or with family, there are options for all.From 5-star hotels to luxury resorts, pocket-friendly hotels, and even homestays, everything is present here in Darjeeling.
Visit Now!
Here I have pointed out the 7 best places in Darjeeling to visit, but there are more than 25 places to visit in Darjeeling, and Gangtok should be your next destination of choice.
Darjeeling is a staple tourist destination for every Indian. It is the first place our parents took us to. It has a different emotion on my part.
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