India’s capital city is not a place for shutting doors and setting up camp at home. A quiet drip coffee in a cosy cafe is about as low-key as it gets. No, as one of the busiest places in the world, New Delhi is a city that begs to be explored. And we have compiled a list of some of the best things to do to soak up all of its pure magic!
1. Embrace the chaos of Old Delhi
The raw essence of Delhi lies within its narrow alleys holding clouds of spices in Khari Baoli, in the glistening landmark of Jama Masjid, and within dilapidated shops selling the sweetest mithais and succulent servings of mutton kebabs in Chandni Chowk. Find gorgeous garments in the famous Meena bazaar and sparkling silver jewellery in Dariba Kalan. Old Delhi remains a box of surprises with every alley offering you the finest culinary, cultural and shopping delights!
2. Spend an evening with enchanting candlelight concerts
The Candlelight series has amazed audiences with thousands of concerts worldwide. And now these captivating performances are illuminating spectacular venues in New Delhi. Listen to skilled musicians play music by Mozart, Chopin, Coldplay, and more at one-of-a-kind tributes bathed in the glow of countless candles. You can explore all upcoming concerts here.
3. Get lost in the world of art
From world-famous paintings by the likes of Amrita Sher-Gil and Raja Ravi Varma to the incredible colours Indian artists have added to the art world, the art scene in New Delhi has been and continues to be exhilarating. Wander around some of the city’s best galleries or keep an eye on upcoming art exhibitions for the perfect way to spend an afternoon absorbed in striking brush strokes or digital shows.
4. Dance to the rhythm of New Delhi’s nightlife
Everyone needs to let loose a little now and again. So why not grab some of your favourite people and take on the night together at some of the city’s most popular nightclubs? And you can always check out what’s happening at live music venues in New Delhi for a jazz concert or renditions of Bollywood hits.
5-15. Give in to temptation and try Delhi’s delicious food
Cafes, restaurants, street food and exemplary joints stacked with laurels and unique concepts litter the streets of Delhi. Find romantic restaurants perfect for date nights or breakfast joints promising to give a glorious start to your day.
Guides to curated listicles (These lists are regularly updated to bring you the best that the city offers):
🍝Best restaurants in Delhi for a delicious meal
🍝Delhi’s top street food markets
🍝Best cafes in Delhi to snuggle up
🍝Gorgeous rooftop restaurants in Delhi
🍝Leisurely brunch spots in the capital city
Our Secret Media picks (these eateries offer unique concepts and are recognised by international panels!):
🥘FES – A neighbourhood dessert bar offering gooey cookies and afternoon music sessions powered by delicious coffee.
🥘Da Susy – Recognised as one of the Top Pizzerias in the world!
🥘Leo’s Pizzeria – Make your own pizza at this eatery ranking among the Top 50 Pizzerias in the world.
🥘Restaurants recognised by the World Culinary Awards!
🥘Counter Culture Coffee – Try the viral mini and gigantic croissants here.
16. Sip an artisanal cocktail at a local bar
One of the most enjoyable things to do after a long day is to find yourself sitting in a beautiful place drinking something refreshing. And if you’re lucky, in great company. Places like Grappa Bar, The Piano Man Jazz Club, and Sidecar provide unique atmospheres with equally sizzling drinks – a foolproof recipe for a good time, if you ask us.
17. Buy yourself something pretty, you deserve it
Swap out the treadmill or at-home workout for a stroll through Delhi’s shopping mall. Besides, you’ll see the results instantly…in the form of a new outfit or stylish shoes! Aside from the variety of stores to browse through, some shopping malls in the city are also home to excellent food courts, amusement arenas, and cinemas. If you are into something more local, may be suggest a stroll through Delhi’s street shopping destinations? From the bargained delights at Sarojini Nagar to gorgeous jewellery at Janpath Market, these old markets of Delhi have it all.
18. Unleash your inner Julia Child or Martha Stewart
Spend time with a special someone while figuring out the art of Indian cooking. You can even join a local family for a Delhi Kabul cooking class, or prepare a five-course meal in Lajpat Nagar. Our best pick of the things to do listicle, hop on to your favourite cafes like Cafe Lota offering cookery classes.
19. Take some quality snaps of Naughara’s houses
For a touch of beauty, admire the nine painted houses just off Kinari Bazar. Breathtaking architecture, loud colours, intricate carvings, and other delightful design details await on this residential street in New Delhi.
20. See The Change of Guard ceremony during the weekend
Every Saturday at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Change of Guard ceremony takes place. Marvel at the traditional inspection, listen to the band and watch the equestrian display. Do not miss the symbolic moment when the key is handed over!
21. Go on a scary walking tour
A city larger than life is bound to have some dark corners lurking by. The streets of Delhi hold a lot of dark secrets and now you can explore these mind-bending places. However be warned, these haunted places in the city are not for the faint-hearted (like many of us in the office, we like our days with zero frightening anxiety thank you very much).