Start your day at the India Gate, the war memorial that is reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. After a quick photo-op, head to the Red Fort, a stunning red sandstone fort that served as the main residence of Mughal emperors for over 200 years. It's best to hire a guide here to learn about the fort's rich history. Next, visit the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. The intricate carvings on the walls and the view from the minaret are both worth the climb. Finally, head to the Lotus Temple, a beautiful temple shaped like a lotus flower, where people of all religions come to pray.
Start your day early for a day trip to Agra, the home of the world-famous Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal is a mausoleum built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend the morning and early afternoon exploring the Taj Mahal and the nearby Agra Fort, which offers great views of the Taj Mahal from afar. In the afternoon, visit Fatehpur Sikri, a ghost town that was once a bustling Mughal capital. End the day back in Delhi where you can enjoy dinner at Khan Chacha, one of the city’s most famous kebab spots.
Start the day at Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory built by Maharajah Jai Singh II in the 1720s. Next, visit Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage site that boasts the tallest brick minaret in the world. Afterwards, head to Hauz Khas Village, a trendy neighborhood filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes. Finally, end your day at Humayun’s Tomb, another UNESCO World Heritage site and a stunning example of Mughal architecture, inspiring the design of the Taj Mahal.
If you have more time, consider adding a day in Agra to visit the Itimad-ud-Daula or “Baby Taj,” a smaller monument often overlooked by tourists. You can also take a stroll through Chandni Chowk, one of Delhi’s oldest markets, where you can sample street food and explore small shops selling everything from textiles to spices. If you have less time, eliminate Fatehpur Sikri from the Agra day trip and consider visiting the Raj Ghat instead, a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi.