Tour overview

Delhi, India's capital, encompasses at least eight historic cities built over centuries, creating layers of heritage alongside contemporary development. This specialized package explores Delhi's remarkable architectural evolution from ancient monuments to colonial grandeur and modernist landmarks. The journey connects UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Qutub Minar, Red Fort, and Humayun's Tomb with vibrant markets, culinary experiences, and cultural performances, providing a comprehensive understanding of this complex metropolis spanning over 1,000 years of continuous habitation.

Day 1: Arrival and Modern Delhi Introduction

Arrive in Delhi and check into your hotel. Afternoon orientation drive through Lutyens' Delhi, the British imperial capital, viewing Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Palace), Parliament House, and government buildings. Stop at India Gate, the imposing war memorial, for photography. Visit National Museum to contextualize Delhi's multi-layered history. Evening welcome dinner featuring diverse regional Indian cuisines at a specialty restaurant.

Day 2: Old Delhi Heritage

Morning visit to magnificent Red Fort, the Mughal imperial residence with its impressive red sandstone walls and white marble pavilions. Continue to Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque accommodating 25,000 worshippers. Experience Old Delhi's vibrant culture through a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk's narrow lanes. Stop at Khari Baoli, Asia's largest spice market, followed by visit to Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, an important Sikh temple. Afternoon visit to Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhi's memorial, and Gandhi Museum. Evening sound and light show at Old Fort (Purana Qila) narrating Delhi's history.

Day 3: Medieval Delhi Monuments

Morning visit to UNESCO-listed Qutub Minar complex featuring the world's tallest brick minaret (73m) built in 1193, along with the mysterious Iron Pillar that has not rusted for 1,600 years. Continue to Mehrauli Archaeological Park, an overlooked treasure with over 100 historically significant monuments. Afternoon exploration of magnificent Humayun's Tomb, the architectural precursor to the Taj Mahal, set in beautiful Persian-style gardens. Visit adjacent Sunder Nursery, recently restored Mughal garden complex. Evening cultural performance at Kamani Auditorium or Habitat Centre showcasing classical Indian dance.

Day 4: Religious Diversity and Colonial Heritage

Morning visit to Akshardham Temple, a massive contemporary Hindu temple complex showcasing traditional Indian craftsmanship. Continue to Lotus Temple, the striking Bahá'í House of Worship shaped like a lotus flower. Afternoon heritage walk through Connaught Place, the colonial-era commercial hub with its distinctive white colonnaded buildings. Visit National Gallery of Modern Art housed in the former Maharaja of Jaipur's palace. Evening food walk through Paranthe Wali Gali in Old Delhi, sampling traditional street foods and sweets.

Day 5: South Delhi and Departure

Morning visit to Lodi Gardens, a beautiful park containing 15th-century tombs and monuments of the Lodi dynasty. Continue to Safdarjung's Tomb, one of the last grand Mughal garden tombs. Explore the vibrant Khan Market area with its boutiques and cafés. Final shopping opportunity at Dilli Haat, showcasing handicrafts from across India, before departure.