Free Attractions to Explore in Delhi with iBestTravel

If there’s one thing you can guarantee when travelling somewhere new, it’s an unexpected cost you didn’t budget for – an irresistible detour, a magical memento you just have to have, or a few extra days in somewhere amazing.

Take heart though; in Delhi, you can stretch your budget by exploring a string of free sights and attractions, leaving more left over for those little indulgences.

Highlights of Free Attractions in Delhi

When visiting India’s historic capital, it’s worth paying out for big-hitting sights such as the Red Fort and Qutb Minar, but don’t overlook the abundant free sights and experiences in this fascinating city. You can choose from:

• Verdant parkland
• Centuries-old monuments
• Mysticism and faith
• Colonial history and culture
• Contemporary Indian culture and arts

Keeping the faith at the Bahai House of Worship

This lotus-shaped temple was conceived and created by architect Furiburz Sabha in the suburbs of South Delhi, close to the burgeoning commercial district of Nehru Place. In step with the tenets of the Bahai religion, the house of worship is open to all and everyone is invited to worship according to their own customs. The gleaming marble structure is reflected in nine encircling pools and is set in expansive gardens that teem with visitors, yet it retains a peaceful air of prayer and contemplation. Dusk finds the monument painted in surreal colours by floodlights as the sun sinks over the cityscape.

Soulful stirrings at the Nizamuddin Auliya shrine

You can step back seven centuries at the shrine of Delhi’s most beloved Sufi mystic. Every Thursday evening, singers fill the air with soulful qawwalis (spiritual songs) honouring both Hazrat Khwaja Syed Nizamuddin Auliya and his disciple, the poet Amir Khusrao. A warren of narrow streets lined with vendors, mendicant holy men, and snack stands leads to the shrine, which is a riot of colours, fragrant with incense and rose petals. Irrespective of faith, gender, or age, the Nizamuddin Dargah is one of Delhi’s most emotive and stimulating spots.

Calm green spaces and crumbling mausoleums

The Lodi Gardens, formerly Lady Willingdon Park, are one of the city’s favourite green spaces, frequented by residents for daily walks and a favourite spot for couples and picnicking families. Sitting in the heart of New Delhi, these sprawling but well-tended acres are criss-crossed with tree-lined walking and jogging paths. Between the flowerbeds are crumbling medieval monuments – mosques, tombs, and ceremonial bridges – lending the park a romantic ambience; unsurprisingly, it’s a popular spot for romantic selfies.

Pomp and circumstance, Indian style

Despite only being introduced a decade ago, the splendid ceremony held once a week at the Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s Estate) is reminiscent of the richest excesses of India’s colonial history. Highlights of this public show of military precision include an equestrian display by the President’s Body Guard, an elite mounted unit founded in 1773 to escort and protect the British governor-general, and a foot drill by the Army Guard Battalion. There’s no fee, but spectators are required to present photo IDs at the point of entry. Drills take place on Saturdays at different times depending on the season.

Cultural synergy at Habitat World

After indulging in history, take a moment to explore Delhi’s contemporary culture. Part of the landmark India Habitat Centre, Habitat World was founded to promote synergies between cultural institutions and artistically-minded individuals, ensuring there’s always something interesting to see. This is where Delhi’s artistic set can be found admiring modern artworks at the Visual Arts Gallery or engaging in academic presentations at the Stein Auditorium. If you work up an appetite, you can visit nearby dining options.

Raj resonance at Delhi’s Coronation Park

Almost forgotten, Delhi’s calm Coronation Park was created to mark the centenary of the 1911 Delhi Durbar, a grand assembly hosted by Viceroy Lord Hardinge. A major event on the colonial calendar, these durbars honoured the ascension of a new monarch to the British throne. While the parade ground now slumbers quietly, it occasionally comes to life with local cricket matches or strolling couples. In the heart of the 60-acre park is a stone column marking where King George V anointed Delhi as the new capital of British India.

Explore Cultural Centers from Around the Globe

A string of foreign nations have established cultural centres in Delhi, offering a variety of cultural experiences, from art shows to classical concerts and seminars on history and gastronomy. Locations like the American Center (in.usembassy.gov/education-culture/american-space-india), the Japan Foundation (jfindia.org.in), and the Alliance Francaise (delhi.afindia.org) are great places to start. Check their respective websites for concert schedules and events, as many have well-stocked libraries and film clubs showing international movies with English subtitles.