From the grandeur of the Red Fort to the aromatic lanes of Chandni Chowk, every corner of this historic district tells a story of India's past. Here’s a guide to the must-visit icons of Old Delhi.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort (Lal Qila) stands as a grand reminder of Mughal splendor. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1639, this fort was the political hub of Mughal rule. The magnificent Lahori Gate, Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), and Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) reflect intricate Mughal artistry. The fort comes alive every evening with a spectacular Sound and Light Show, narrating its rich history.
Just a short walk from the Red Fort, Jama Masjid is one of India’s largest mosques, built by Shah Jahan in 1656. The mosque’s grand red sandstone and marble structure can accommodate over 25,000 worshippers at a time. Climbing its southern minaret offers breathtaking panoramic views of Old Delhi’s bustling streets.
No visit to Old Delhi is complete without experiencing Chandni Chowk, the city's oldest and busiest market. Established by Jahanara Begum, daughter of Shah Jahan, this marketplace still thrives with vendors selling everything from traditional textiles and silver jewelry to spices and street food. Highlights include:
Nestled within the chaos of Chandni Chowk, Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib is a revered Sikh shrine built at the site where Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, was martyred in 1675. The gurudwara continues to offer free community meals (Langar) to visitors of all faiths, embodying the Sikh principles of equality and service.
For lovers of literature, the Haveli of Mirza Ghalib, located in Ballimaran, is a must-visit. This restored mansion was once home to the legendary Urdu poet Mirza Ghalib, who penned some of the most beautiful verses in Indian poetry. The haveli now houses a small museum showcasing Ghalib’s handwritten letters, poetry, and personal belongings.
A place of deep reverence, Raj Ghat is a simple yet powerful memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. The black marble platform marks the spot where Gandhi was cremated on January 31, 1948. The peaceful gardens surrounding the memorial offer a serene escape from the hustle of the city.
03 Jan 2025