Wanderlust in India: Exploring the 5 Best-Kept Secrets in Delhi, India
Most travellers to India will, at some point, end up in the capital, Delhi. For some, this metropolis can be a little overwhelming but those who look beyond the main attractions to discover Delhi’s off beat gems are richly rewarded.
Delhi is known for its historical significance and colourful street fare and is a destination where past treasures and present delights intersect.  Delhi has been the capital to several empires and is one of the oldest cities in the area, the historic architecture of this bustling metropolis dates back centuries. Layered deep within the city you will find many off beat things to do, ancient scenery to intrigue one’s curiosity and fine Indian cuisine that tantalizes even the most discretionary pallet.
Old Delhi’s fortress walls date back hundreds of years, revealing an exciting and exotic variety of traditional food peddlers that the locals have come to rely on, and that tourists talk about long after they return home. Hidden amongst the winding roads, food carts, and ancient walls of Delhi, you’ll find all-inclusive street fairs, amazing cuisine, lush gardens, and historical tombs.
Sometimes the best part about exploring India’s capital is wandering these old streets, discovering Delhi’s hidden gems and and interesting, offbeat things to do in Delhi.
Here are 5 of the best offbeat things to do in Delhi:
Dilli Haat Flea Market
Dilli Haat flea market is an open air bazaar offering a one-stop destination for anyone interested in Indian art, relics, food, and collectibles. This outdoor shopping area is one of the best off beat things to do in Delhi and the epicentre of the business region and is a perfect stop for the traveller who is short on time but still wants to sample the food and wares of Delhi. You can dine adventurously while shopping for that unique souvenir. There is something for everyone at the Dilli Haat marketplace and shoppers will surely find a traditional artefact that can serve as a keepsake for the adventure.
Mughal Gardens
Mughal Gardens, located in the residence of the President, Rashtrapati Bhavan, is a quiet oasis of canals and serene fountains. Why not sit on a terrace and enjoy one of four waterways sporting distinctive fountains crafted to show off the sprawling lawns and gardens? The circular and butterfly gardens are aimed to help refresh travellers after a long day of sightseeing.
Connaught Place
Connaught Place offers some of the most deliciously authentic food in India and is well known as a food lover’s paradise. Surrounded by the rainbow of colourful tents lining the streets are several food carts each serving authentic Delhi home style cooking. Some of the most popular Northern Indian dishes served include chicken tikka (marinated chicken grilled to perfection), aloo muttar (potatoes and peas floating in a delicate curry) and naan, a traditional staple amongst the locals. With so many food choices to peruse, partaking in a walking tour of the food carts is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in this city’s food culture. Grab some comfortable walking shoes and get ready to sample the richest and most appetising and mouth-watering cuisine that India has to offer.
Humayun’s Tomb
Humayun’s Tomb is known as one of the finest sights in Delhi and one of the world’s greatest preserved monuments. This amazing cultural landmark is one of the top things to do in Delhi and is UNESCO listed. Humayun’s Tomb dates back to 1500 AD and is the place of rest for the late Mughal Emperor Humayun. Surrounded by over 30 acres of garden, this architectural gem is home to some less famous tombs within its borders, such as Barber’s Tomb and Bu Halima Garden. Pack a lunch and meander the various marked and unmarked tombs and natural setting of this dynamic structure.
Lotus Temple
The majestic Lotus Temple, also known as the Bahá’à House of Worship, depicts a beautiful lotus flower and offers a welcoming, serene setting for all to visit, worship and meditate. This incredible marble structure is situated around tranquil gardens and pools for a truly magical sight, especially at dusk with the temple is awash in light. This award-winning holy place is one of the most peaceful things to do in Delhi and offers prayer halls for all people of all religions to rest and rejuvenate their spirit inside the stunning lotus flower.
So, when will you explore the delights of Delhi for yourself?
Incredible India has so much to offer that it would take a lifetime to see it all! Luckily, traveling to India has never been easier. For those traveling from one of the 150 accepted countries, an electronic application for your Indian visa through iVisa is the quickest way to enter the country. When you use iVisa the process to obtain an Indian visa is very straightforward and suitable for those staying up to 30 days. Visitors can now submit an application up to 33 days before their trip. Â If you want to stay longer in India than 30 days check out my post about how to get a Indian visa the more complicated way!
If you’re thinking of visiting India, be sure to make a stop in the ancient capital city of Delhi. This charming city is not only home to some of the best traditional Indian fare After just a few days dining on authentic cuisine, shopping, and taking in the area’s rich historical landmarks, you’ll be ready to add a few tales to your own adventure chronicles.
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Read More:
Delhi Facts – Insider Journeys
Delhi by Foot – Trip Advisor
4 comments
Hi Anna, it was lovey to read your offbeat experience in Delhi city. Delhi is a perfect delight for history and architecture lovers. Thanks for so much detailed information. When it comes to best things to do in Delhi, there are lot of things one can explore from food to history.
Thanks Anjali, glad you liked the post, you’re right – there is alot to see and do in Delhi 🙂
Interesting Read! Delhi not only is a place to visit for architect lovers but it is also a place for foodies too. You get all types of food, from stalls to proper cuisines.
Thanks, yes there’s so many things to do, see and eat in Delhi!