Delhi, the vibrant capital of India, is a city steeped in history and culture. Its landscape is adorned with majestic ancient monuments, intricate mosques, bustling markets, and formidable forts. Iconic landmarks such as the Qutub Minar and India Gate undoubtedly hold a magnetic allure, beckoning visitors to witness their grandeur. However, beyond these well-trodden paths lies a realm of unique and unconventional experiences waiting to be discovered. Once you’ve explored the quintessential sights of this captivating metropolis, what lies in store? Prepare to delve into a curated selection of 16 offbeat things to do in Delhi, India, that will unveil a different facet of this dynamic city.
Are you traveling with children? Fear not, for Delhi offers a plethora of engaging activities suitable for all ages. Whether you have a fleeting 48 hours or an entire week to dedicate to exploration, you’ll find ample opportunities to create lasting memories with your little ones.
Let’s embark on a journey to uncover the hidden gems and unusual adventures that await in Delhi:
1. Browse Asia’s Largest Wholesale Spice Market
Immerse yourself in a sensory explosion at Khari Baoli Road, situated adjacent to Fatehpuri Masjid at the western edge of Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi. This vibrant locale is home to Asia’s largest wholesale spice market. Dating back to the 17th century, this market was instrumental in connecting India to the Western world through the trade of exotic spices. The Gadodia Market, where many of the spice shops are concentrated, was erected in the 1920s by a prominent local merchant. As you wander through the market’s labyrinthine alleyways, you’ll witness a captivating spectacle of colossal sacks of spices being transported and sold.
The market is an assault on the senses. The potent aroma of countless spices fills the air, a kaleidoscope of colors assaults your vision, and the cacophony of bartering and trade creates an electrifying atmosphere. However, be forewarned: the spice market is often intensely crowded and navigating its narrow passages can be overwhelming, especially for first-timers. Consider joining a guided tour, such as the Old Delhi Spice Market and Sikh Temple tour, to navigate the market with ease and gain valuable insights into its history and operations. Keep in mind that the market remains closed on Sundays.
2. Marvel Over the Painted Houses at Naughara
Escape the frenetic energy of Old Delhi and Chandni Chowk by venturing into a tranquil lane just off Kinari Bazar. Here, you’ll discover Naughara, a serene enclave boasting nine vibrantly painted Jain havelis (mansions) constructed in the 18th century. This charming hamlet culminates in an exquisitely carved white marble Jain temple. Step inside to admire the magnificent murals and paintings that adorn its interior. Remember that leather items and photography are prohibited within the temple premises.
The painted houses of Naughara are a visual treat. The intricate details and vibrant colors of the artwork provide a stark contrast to the surrounding hustle and bustle. The Jain temple offers a peaceful sanctuary, where you can reflect on the beauty of the art and architecture.
3. Go Inside a Monster’s Mouth
Prepare for an encounter with the colossal Hanuman statue, a towering 108-foot-tall landmark depicting the powerful monkey god. This statue stands sentinel above the railway tracks at Karol Bagh, northwest of Connaught Place. The Hanuman Temple, with the gleaming new Metro train zipping past, has become a symbol of the juxtaposition between traditional and contemporary Delhi.
The base of the statue houses the Sankat Mochan Dham temple, which is entered through the cavernous carved mouth of a demon slain by Hanuman. This unique entry is believed to ward off bad luck. Tuesdays draw the largest crowds of devotees, particularly for the evening aarti (prayer ceremony), during which the statue’s arms move back and its chest opens to reveal images of Lord Rama and Sita. This mechanical spectacle also occurs in the morning. The temple is conveniently located near the Jhandewalan metro station on the Blue line.
4. Listen to Qawwalis at Nizamuddin Dargah
Nizamuddin Dargah, the revered resting place of the renowned Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya, attracts Sufi devotees from across the globe. On Thursday evenings, the Dargah’s courtyard transforms into a mesmerizing stage for live qawwalis (Sufi devotional songs). The soulful melodies, accompanied by traditional Indian instruments, resonate with the audience, creating an atmosphere of spiritual transcendence. One of the families performing the qawwalis has maintained this tradition for centuries.
Nizamuddin Dargah is situated in the Nizamuddin West neighborhood, surrounded by a vibrant market and in close proximity to Humayun’s Tomb. Arrive before sunset to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Be prepared to navigate through crowded alleyways and encounter touts and beggars, especially if you’re a foreigner. Dress modestly, and consider bringing a head covering, although it’s not mandatory for entering the courtyard. You’ll need to remove your shoes before entering the Dargah. Avoid leaving your shoes with shopkeepers who offer to mind them for a fee. Delhi by Foot offers an enriching walking tour that delves into the Sufiyana Silsilas and heritage of Nizamuddin Basti.
5. Admire the Street Art
Discover India’s first public open-air art gallery, the Lodhi Art District, nestled between Khanna Market and Meharchand Market in south Delhi’s Lodhi Colony. St+art India, a non-profit organization dedicated to making art accessible in public spaces, has facilitated the creation of over 50 murals by international and local artists. While exploring the art district, take the opportunity to savor a meal at one of the trendy restaurants in Lodhi Colony.
The Lodhi Art District is a vibrant testament to the power of art to transform urban spaces. The colorful murals add a touch of whimsy and creativity to the neighborhood, creating a unique and engaging experience for visitors.
6. Attend the Changing of Guard
Witness the Changing of Guard ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, a spectacle reminiscent of similar ceremonies held worldwide. This relatively undiscovered attraction takes place every Saturday and Sunday morning on the forecourt of the presidential residence. An equestrian display by the president’s bodyguard, clad in ceremonial regalia, has been incorporated into the ceremony. As access to Rashtrapati Bhavan is generally restricted, the ceremony offers a remarkable opportunity to admire the architecture of this grand building, once the heart of New Delhi.
The ceremony begins at 8 a.m. on Saturdays and 5:30 p.m. on Sundays. Admission is free for all. Enter through Gate 2 or 37, and bring a government-issued photo identification.
7. Chill at the Kunzum Travel Cafe
Escape the city’s chaos at the Kunzum Travel Cafe in Hauz Khas Village. This haven for travelers offers a space to connect with like-minded individuals, exchange travel stories, discover new travel ideas, and peruse travel books. Take advantage of the free wifi while enjoying snacks, and pay what you deem appropriate for the coffee and biscuits. The cafe also hosts regular interactive talks and workshops led by travelers, photographers, and writers. Occasionally, musicians hold impromptu jam sessions.
8. Walk Into the Street Life of Delhi
Gain profound insights into the underbelly of Delhi on a guided walk through the streets of Paharganj and the area surrounding New Delhi Railway Station. These unique tours are led by children who once lived and worked on the streets. Salaam Baalak Trust, an organization that provides shelter, food, and support to the city’s homeless street children, organizes these walks to share their stories and offer a glimpse of their city through their eyes. The tour provides an eye-opening, often haunting, and heartbreaking perspective on the city’s realities. However, it also highlights the potential of these children when provided with opportunities. The tour includes a visit to a Sikh temple’s free langar community kitchen.
9. Learn About Life in a Delhi Slum
Gain a deeper understanding of the living conditions of many Delhi residents by embarking on a walking tour of an informal housing settlement. These tours offer the opportunity to visit a thriving small-scale industry, a temple, a family home, and a school. The tours are designed to be educational and inspiring, with a significant portion of the proceeds dedicated to community betterment. This is not a depressing poverty tourism experience, but rather an opportunity to connect with and learn from the community.
10. See Indian Handicrafts Being Made
Discover the little-known Crafts Museum, a serene oasis where you can witness artisans demonstrating traditional embroidery, weaving, carving, and pottery techniques. The museum also houses galleries with over 30,000 exhibits of handicrafts from all over India. A delightful cafe and stalls selling products at reasonable prices add to the museum’s appeal.
11. Eat in a Prison Restaurant at Tihar Food Court
Venture to Tihar Jail in Janakpuri, West Delhi, to discover two unexpected attractions: a food court staffed by inmates and a market selling products made by them. The food court aims to provide inmates with hospitality experience to improve their employment prospects upon release. Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Kumhar Gram, India’s largest pottery village.
12. Volunteer at the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib Kitchen
The atmospheric Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, a prominent Sikh temple near Connaught Place, is more than just a place of worship. Its enormous kitchen prepares the langar (free food for all) and is staffed mainly by volunteers. You can observe the preparations or even volunteer your time. The kitchen serves as many as 40,000 meals per day!
13. Explore Delhi on a Bicycle
Experience Delhi from a fresh perspective by exploring the city’s streets on a bicycle. Immerse yourself in the colors, smells, sounds, and tastes of this dynamic metropolis. Delhi By Cycle offers a variety of bicycle tours through Old and New Delhi, allowing you to discover different corners of the city. Be prepared for early morning starts to avoid the city’s heavy traffic.
14. Take an Indian Dance Lesson
Learn the captivating Bollywood dance moves that have made Indian cinema famous. Delhi Dance Academy offers a fun two-hour Namaste India dance workshop specifically designed for travelers. The workshop introduces you to four Indian dance forms: Bollywood, Bhangra, and Dandiya. The dances are choreographed to popular songs, and you’ll receive a two-minute video of your performance as a souvenir.
15. Check Out Champa Gali
Discover Delhi‘s newest hipster hangout, Champa Gali, a bohemian street lined with cafes, design studios, and boutiques. Located in Saidulajab, an urban village near Saket in South Delhi, this area was once agricultural land and later housed cow sheds and furniture shops. Today, it’s transforming into a contemporary and creative community, led by the street’s retailers. Impromptu jam sessions and pop-up bazaars are common occurrences. The street derives its name from the champa (frangipani) plants that adorn it.
16. Watch a Traditional Indian Wrestling Match
Witness the spectacle of traditional Indian wrestling, known as kushti (or Pehlwani), every Sunday afternoon at Meena Bazaar opposite the Red Fort. This ancient wrestling style combines Indian mud-fighting with Persian martial arts, dating back to the 16th-century Mughal era. The matches are free to watch.
These 16 offbeat things to do in Delhi, India, offer a glimpse into the city’s multifaceted character, beyond the usual tourist attractions. By venturing off the beaten path, you can discover the hidden gems and unique experiences that make Delhi a truly unforgettable destination.
