26-03-2025

23 Must-Visit Historical Places in Delhi for a Timeless Experience

Historical places in Delhi are a true reflection of our rich history and culture. Each place tells a story that connects us with our graceful past and takes us back. Red Fort is marked as a revival of Islamic architecture, and Akshardham is a place where you find peace with magnificent marble pieces.

This TripzyGo guide covers the top 23 historical places in Delhi. Also, add information about historical places to your knowledge while shopping at Sarojini Nagar market.

Top Historical Places in Delhi

Whether you want to enjoy a New Year party in Delhi NCR or witness the beauty of history, Delhi historical sites have everything! Here is the list of the best historical places in Delhi you must visit in a lifetime to experience the beauty of our proud history:

Safdarjung Tomb

Safdarjung Tomb, built in 1754, is one of the last grand Mughal-era monuments in Delhi. Tucked inside a peaceful garden, this mausoleum was commissioned by Nawab Shujaud Daula for his father, Safdarjung. Its architecture reflects the fading glory of the Mughal empire, making it a must-visit for history lovers who want to explore historical places in Delhi.

Purana Quila

Puaran Qila is one of the most beautiful Delhi historical monuments, carrying stories of emperors, battles, and legends. Built by Humayun and later expanded by Sher Shah Suri, this grand fort is believed to stand on the ancient city of Indraprastha. Its massive gateways, stunning mosque, and stepwall whisper tales of a bygone era. Whether you are a history buff or just looking for a peaceful escape, this fort promises an unforgettable journey through time.

Humayun’s Tomb

Humayun’s Tomb is one of the historical places in Delhi, known for its grand Mughal architecture and serene gardens. It was built in 1570 by Emperor Akbar for his father, Humayun; it was the first garden tomb in India and later inspired the Taj Mahal. Surrounded by greenery and historic structures, this UNESCO site is a timeless symbol of Mughal grandeur.

Isa Khan’s Tomb

Tucked away near Humayun’s Tomb, Isa Khan’s Tomb is a hidden gem among historical places in Delhi. This stunning octagonal structure reflects the architectural elegance of the Sur dynasty. Surrounded by one of India’s earliest sunken gardens, the Tomb features intricate latticework, vibrant glazed tiles, and a beautifully carved dome. A small mosque nearby adds to its charm.

Ugrasen ki Baoli

Hidden among the skyscrapers of Connaught Place, Agrasen ki Baoli is a mesmerizing stepwell that whispers stories of the rich past of Delhi. Believed to date back to the Mahabharata era and rebuilt by the Agarwal community, this ancient structure once served as a water reservoir and social hub. With 108 steps leading into its depths, it is a hauntingly beautiful relic among historical places in Delhi.

Tughlakabad Fort

Tughalqabad Fort is a haunted relic of ambition, power, and mystery. Built-in 1321 by Ghiyasddin Tuglaq, this fortress was meant to be Delhi’s strongest city, with towering walls, hidden chambers, and grand gateways. But legend has it that a curse by Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya doomed it to ruin. Today, its abandoned walls and silent corridors tell the tales of kings and betrayal. Among historical places in Delhi, it offers visitors a glimpse into a lost empire and its great past.

Hauz Khas Fort

Hauz Khas Fort is a hidden gem among Delhi historical sites. Built during Alauddin Khilji’s reign, it was later revamped by Firoz Shah Tuglaq, who added a madrasa, mosque, and Tomb. The stunning lake was once a royal water reservoir but still reflects its lost grandeur. The fort’s domes and arched corridors stand as echoes of its glorious past, offering a glimpse into Delhi’s medieval splendor.

Mehrauli Archelogical Park

The Mehrauli Archeological Park showcases stunning monuments like the Tomb of Balban, which has India’s first true arch, the ornate Jamali Kamali Mosque, and the elegant Rajon ki Baoli step walls. As one of Delhi’s historical sites, it is unique for experiencing continuous habitation for over 1000 years, from the Tomar Rajputs to the British Raj.

Alai Minar

The Alai Minar stands as a testament to Alauddin Khilji’s grand ambitions. It stands proudly near the Qutub Minar. This unfinished structure was meant to be twice the size of its famous neighbor. Construction started around 1300 CE, but it stopped when Khilji died in 1316. Today, its rough circular mass and incomplete story draw visitors curious about this Sultan’s dream of architectural supremacy. This, among historical places in Delhi, deserves your attention!

India Gate

When making a list of historical places in Delhi, you can not miss the India Gate. India Gate is a symbol of bravery and sacrifice, standing tall in New Delhi to honor the 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives in World War I and the Third Anglo-Afgan War. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, this majestic arch is a blend of Western and Indian architectural styles. Intricate carvings and inscriptions show fallen heroes.

Rajghat Memorial

Raj Ghat is a serene tribute to Mahatma Gandhi located on the banks of the Yamuna River in Delhi. This memorial, with its simple black marble platform where Gandhi was cremated, symbolizes his value of truth, non-violence, and humanity. The memorial is hugged with greenery and also houses the Gandhi Memorial Museum, reflecting his life and teaching through exhibits, photos, and artifacts. Do not miss it when exploring historic places to visit in Delhi.

Sikandar Lodhi Tomb

The Tomb of Sikandar Lodi, built by his son Ibrahim Lodi in 1517-1518, is a stunning symbol of Indo-Islamic architecture that stands amazingly among Delhi historical sites. Located in the peaceful Lodhi Garden, it features an octagonal design, a double dome, and intricate latticework. As the first garden tomb in India, its design influenced Mughal architecture, leaving a lasting legacy on India’s architectural landscape.

Jantar Mantar

Jantar Mantar in Delhi was built between 1724 and 1730 by Maharaja Jai Singh II; it is an extraordinary blend of science, architecture, and culture. This observatory was one of five constructed by Jai Singh II across India, designed to track celestial events, improve calendar accuracy, and advance astronomical knowledge.

The instruments here, like the Samrat Yantra sundial, were important in measuring time and studying planetary movements. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jantar Mantar is a testament to India’s rich scientific heritage and showcases Jai Singh II’s commitment to both astronomy and mathematics.

Bhuli Bhatiyari Ka Mahal

Bhuli Bhatiyari ka Mahal is one of the historic places to visit in Delhi. Originally built by King Firoz Shah Tughlaq as a hunting lodge, it later became famous for the legend of a woman who is said to have died there, her whispers etching in ruins. While it is a quiet, haunting spot, it is better to avoid it after dark. It remains one of Delhi’s top ghost story destinations!

Bada Gumbad

The Bara Gumbad was built in 1490 and is an important architectural landmark in Delhi’s Lodi Garden. It showcases the first complete hemispherical dome in the city. Part of the complex includes a Friday mosque and a mehman khana; these structures were constructed under the Lodi dynasty but at different times.

The exact purpose of the Gumbad is still a mystery, as it lacks a tombstone, leading some to speculate it might have been a gateway. Its geometric design and the Friday mosque are significant in the evolution of Lodi and Mughal architecture.

Rang Mahal

The Rang Mahal, built by Shah Jahan in 1637 within the Red Fort, served as the zenana, or women’s quarters. Its striking design features a central hall with ornamental piers, cusped arches, and intricate floral patterns. The pavilion includes a lotus-shaped fountain and marble relief carvings. With its glided ceiling and mirror work, it remains a great piece of art and counts amongst the historical places to visit in Delhi.

Jahaz Mahal

The Jahaz Mahal in Mandav, built by Ghiyasuddin Khilji in the 15th century, is a unique and stunning example of architecture. It was created for his 15000 queens and features beautiful lotus-shaped pools and a breathtaking view of Munj Sagar Talab. The place blends Hindu-style architecture with iron and stone construction. Its artistic staircase makes it stand out as one of the historical places to visit in Delhi.

Red Fort

The Red Fort is one of the iconic historical places in Delhi. It was built by Shah Jahan as the palace fort of his new capital, Shahjanabad. Its grand red walls, pavilions, and flowing Nahr-i-Behist reflect the uniqueness of Mughal rule to British occupation and India’s Independence celebrations.

Qutub Minar

Qutab Minar is one of the most fascinating historical places in Delhi, standing 72.5 meters tall. It was built in the early 13th century by Qutb-ud-din Aibak and later expanded by Iltutmish and Alauddin Khilji. It showcases Indo-Islamic architecture. The complex also houses the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Alai Darwaza, and the mysterious Iron Pillar.

Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid in Delhi is one of Delhi’s most stunning historical sites. This grand mosque, which is made of red sandstone and marble, can hold 25,000 worshippers in its vast courtyard. Its minarets, intricate carvings, and sacred relics add to its charm. A visit during Ramadan is truly special, with festive prayers and celebrations bringing it to life.

Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple in Delhi is such a fascinating place! Imagine a big lotus flower made of marble, welcoming everyone through its nine doors regardless of their faith. What really touches is how it came to be – from an Iranian architect’s vision to the heartwarming story of a man who donated his life savings to help build it. It’s no wonder it’s become one of Delhi historical monuments.

Akshardham Temple

You know what’s really special about Akshardham in Delhi? It’s this incredible temple complex that opened in 2005, but it feels like it’s been there forever. What amazes me is how 8,000 volunteers poured their hearts into building it! It’s more than just a temple – it’s filled with beautiful gardens, exhibitions about Hindu culture, and the most intricate carvings you can imagine. It really shows what people can create when they work together with devotion.

Mumtaz Mahal

Mumtaz Mahal in Delhi’s Red Fort—it’s such a fascinating place! Built around 1648, it was part of the royal women’s quarters during the Mughal era. What I find really interesting is how they decorated it with beautiful floral designs and precious stones. The place was more than just living quarters, though—it was where royal women would enjoy poetry and music and even help make important decisions.

Meet History at Delhi Historical Monuments

Historical places in Delhi are treasures of history, and these iconic landmarks reflect the city’s rich cultural past. From the grand Mughal era like Red Fort, Jama Masjid, and Humayun’s Tomb to ancient forts like Puaran Qila and Tughalqabad Fort, each of Delhi’s historical monuments tell a story. The city also boasts spiritual sites like Akshardham Temple and Lotus Temple, as well as scientific wonders like Jantar Mantar.

Whether you seek architectural brilliance, historical depth, or spiritual serenity, Delhi has it all. Plan your trip to Delhi with TripzyGo and explore the best historical places with guided tours along with hill stations near Delhi!