40 Unmissable Experiences We Tried & Loved In Delhi This Year

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Delhi, as a city, matches everybody's freak. Whether you are a culture snob wanting to take in all the charm the streets of Old Delhi have to offer, an adventure seeker who 'jumps' at every mention of a new activity, or a liver (in Orry's words) who just wants to simply vibe — Delhi has it all and frankly, no one does it all as well as this city.

Since the end of the year equates to the season of giving, we thought we would go all out with selflessness with our Mega Lists (because the gift of legit recommendations tops it all, right?) and finally make the only list that matters when you are looking for the best things to do (and experience) in Delhi. 

Rock Climbing At Delhi Rock

Bored with your usual weekend routine? Head to Delhi Rock for an unforgettable rock climbing experience. We are suckers for adventurous activities, especially when they are happening in an enclosed space with air-conditioning to keep you sane in the Delhi heat. Not only will the activity satisfy the adrenaline junkie in you, but it will also help you focus on your fitness and health. What we love about them is how they have many other fun things for you to try at the premises. 

Timings: 4 PM to 8:30 PM

Price: 400 INR onwards

Pro-Tip: 8 Adventure Sports In Delhi-NCR For The Thrill-Seeker In You

Light Show At Qutub Minar

Fine, we understand some might feel it's a typical touristy thing to do, but the light show that happens at Qutub Minar every evening is a stunning visual to witness. The dynamic lighting with different patterns is projected on the minaret’s carvings, which makes for a spectacular sight. And while you are at it, you can drop by Ambawatta in Mehrauli to grab dinner.

Timings: Every day 8 PM - 8:15 PM for the light show

Price: INR 35 per person for entry 

Pro Tip: Here’s our complete guide to Mehrauli.

Food Walk In Chandni Chowk

Besides being the OG shopping spot, Chandni Chowk has the most scrumptious, irresistible and iconic street food offerings. From kachorisrabri falooda and kebabs to the piping hot parathas at Parathe Wali Gali, you need more than just a stopover to cover all of these delights! We suggest booking a tour on Delhi Food Walks’ website so that you don’t have to aimlessly wander in the streets and know exactly where to eat.

Art Gazing At National Gallery Of Modern Art

Got a heart for art? National Gallery for Modern Art (NGMA) in Delhi preserves and presents contemporary Indian art from the last century and a half. The gallery is roughly divided into two sections – Traditional Art and Modern Art – and houses some of India’s top artists from the last 150 years, like Rabindranath Tagore and Amrita Sher-Gil.

Timings: 11 AM - 6:30 PM, Tuesday to Friday and 11 AM - 8:00 PM, Saturday and Sunday

Price: INR 20 per person for entry

Pro Tip: For all art lovers, Delhi delivers with her heart and soul at these must-visit art galleries. 

Concerts At JLN Stadium

It doesn’t matter if you’re from Delhi or not; everyone knows that the best concerts in Delhi happen at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. The stadium comes with a 60,000 capacity, which is exactly why huge artists always come here with thousands flocking — the latest sensation being Diljit’s Illuminati Tour. So, the next time you’re in Delhi, or if you need some concert magic, then head over for a show. 

Timings: Depends on the show

Price: Varies from show to show

Pro Tip: Start beating your event FOMO right away with this guide of events in Delhi.  

Horse Riding At The Caffe Cavallo

An Instagram-famous place now, The Caffe Cavallo, located in Faridabad of Delhi’s NCR, is a place you need to head to if you’re looking for some respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Other than being a wholesome cafe, with multi-cuisine food, wine, and open spaces where you can literally “touch grass”, they also offer horseback riding! This is an experience we believe everyone needs to go through if they even remotely love the idea of horseback riding. Be assured that everything is safe, guided, and, of course, totally worth it. 

Timings: 3 PM - 11PM

Price: Contact them for details through DM here.

Pottery Making At The Vault by 32nd

Pottery as a hobby has been all the rage for a couple of years now in Delhi. But for us, the buck stops at The Vault by 32nd, which is essentially an underground market that is all about featuring new-age Indian brands. Other than shopping opportunities, painting and the like, they also have Pottery Making. Be it a date or a hang session with your friends, there is nothing more therapeutic than pottery. All the sessions are guided as well, so be assured you’ll leave making something cool to take home! 

Timings: 11 AM - 11 PM 

Price: On request 

Pro Tip: If you are all up for getting your hands dirty, this pottery class guide should help you. 

Pilates At Life Pilates

The pilates wave has got everyone talking about how they need to morph into a ‘pilates girlie’ now. And a recently opened pilates spot that caught our eye is Life Pilates in Chhatarpur. With minimal interiors and the best equipment, you definitely want to head here with the girl gang. They offer group and private classes along with easy-to-book trials as well. Oh, and they also serve coffee and matcha in-house!

Timings: 7 AM - 9 PM

Price: On request

Sound Bath At Zaazen Wellness

Sound baths have been the latest addition to the craze that is wellness at the moment, and rightly so. If an escape is what you need, then we highly suggest you head to Zaazen Wellness for a guided sound bath session that will calm you down tenfold. 

Timings: 6:30 AM - 9:30 PM

Price: Book on their website.

Picnic At Sunder Nursery

Get your baskets ready because you really should not be missing out on this experience. Picnics at Sunder Nursery have become really popular in the past few years, and why wouldn’t they be? Originally called Azim Bagh, this area is spread over 90 acres, where you can play sports, sit and chill by the lake, eat at the pretty Carnatic Cafe, and of course, have a little picnic with your friends and family! 

Timings: 6 AM - 10 PM

Price: INR 50 for adults, INR 25 for kids

Pro-Tip: Cure your picnic fever with this guide to the top picnic places in the city! 

Cultural Experiences At Kathika

Kathika Cultural Centre is located in the heart of New Delhi. It was created to celebrate and highlight the living cultures of the capital city. The second you step inside, you will be greeted by the old-world charm of the vintage havelis, thanks to the Mughal-like archways and the medieval art that can be seen every step of the way. They host everything when it comes to cultural experiences, from pottery workshops to classical dance. 

Timings: 10 AM - 6 PM, closed on Mondays

Price: Differs as per the event

Golfing At Siri Fort

If you are up for some sporty fun, golfing at Siri Fort is the way to go. You can rent golf equipment, including clubs, at the complex, and if you are new to this, the trainers will be there to help you learn. If the sport makes you fall in love with it, they also offer memberships at a reasonable price. There is even a small cafe/canteen, so you can have a drink or two, munch, or just rest whenever you want. 

Timings: 6 AM - 9 PM, closed on Mondays

Price: INR 300 for 50 balls

Qawali at Nizamuddin Dargah

Spending a Sufi night will not just be a good way to dive into this mystical art form, but it will also be a soul-enriching experience. Qawwalis, the most popular form of Sufi, at Nizammudin Dargah, are sung in the open space inside the Dargah every Thursday evening. The marble jaalis adorned with red threads, the fragrance of incense sticks, and the devotional music will definitely have you coming back here. Before entering, leave your shoes outside the gate of the Dargah.

Timings: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM, 9:00 PM - 10:30 PM, every Thursday

Price: Free entry

Pro Tip: Qawwalis are serene and addictive, so here's a list of the best Sufi nights in the city!

Langar At Bangla Sahib, CP

Gurdwara Bangla Sahib in Connaught Place is an unmissable tourist experience recommended by everyone, but we will go one step further and tell you what we love about visiting this place, apart from the calm and peace. This Sikh temple has a main prayer hall, a calming sarover, and a langar hall where people get free meals, which usually contain chapati, pulses, vegetables, and rice. You can even be the server here or help in making langar food at the back. A wholesome experience you should share with your friends and family!

Timings: Open 24 hours

Price: Free entry

Book Hoarding At Daryaganj Sunday Book Market

Books and Sunday are the perfect combination, and if you are in Delhi, you cannot miss hoarding books at the Daryaganj book market. Imagine a lane of books, the smell of pages and the sound of novels being browsed through and definitely, loads of book lovers thronging the market. We have to warn you, though, the books here sell at such low prices that there are people here who bring suitcases and backpacks to hoard their favourite picks. The market also sells stationery and quirky posters that are dirt cheap. 

Timings: The market opens at 8 AM, only on Sundays and runs out of good stock by midday, so we suggest you reach there early to avoid the crowds and get good books. 

Price: Books start as low as INR 50

LBB Tip: The books here might also be pirated copies, so we suggest spending at least an entire day here so you can skim through the mix and find good ones. 

Plays At Akshara Theatre

Delhi, the bustling city, has pockets of art and culture peeking out for those who will entertain an evening of music, theatre and poetry. Watching plays at Akshara Theatre is an experience that you must add to your Delhi itinerary. Since 1972, the theatre has been a lifeline for small and budding artists. It has also produced acclaimed plays like The Ramayana that have been performed on Broadway in New York. For upcoming events at Akshara Theatre, check here or their social pages

Timings: 11:30 AM - 9 PM

Price: Depending on the play you want to watch. 

Changing Of The Guard Ceremony At Rashtrapati Bhavan

Delhi, being the capital of India, has much of India’s history ensconced in its lanes and buildings. The Rashtrapati Bhavan is a prominent landmark that everyone visits or passes by when in Delhi. If you are planning to visit, plan it on a Saturday to catch this timeless tradition of the changing of the guard ceremony. It was first introduced by the British to mark the changing of the guard at the Viceroy's House (now the Rashtrapati Bhavan). 

Timings: Every Saturday, 8 AM in the summer and 10 AM in the winter. Not on gazetted holidays. 

Price: You can book to attend the ceremony for free online at https://visit.rashtrapatibhavan.gov.in/%3C/a%3E %3C/p%3E?utm_source=LBB&ref=lbbpost

Eating At Jain Chawal Wale After Exploring CP

If you are in Delhi, Connaught Place must be on your radar for some fun time or chilling with your friends. Take it from someone who moved to Delhi- no trip to CP is complete without gorging on some delicious meals at Jain Chawal. They are a street-side food stall that is mostly crowded by students and office goers rushing to get their pick of chawal with dal, paneer, rajma, chole and more. They are located near Block P and are just a 10-minute walk from the metro station. 

Timings: 6 AM to 12:30 AM

Price: INR 200 (approx)

LBB Tip: Must try the Shahi Paneer Chawal, Soya Masala, Salted Lassi, and Kadhi Chawal when you visit!

Club Hopping & Delhi Nightlife

Delhi never sleeps is the popular belief. And staying true to this sentiment, there are several clubs, bars, resto-bars and cafes in Delhi that are open past midnight for you to hop door to door, buzzed or energetic, to dance, meet new people and maybe, if it’s that kind of day, drown your rants with some alcohol. Start with some late evening partying at Qutub Institutional Area, where there are a number of clubs and resto-bars that you can check out. A lot of Delhi’s clubs get into the Bollywood groove only after midnight, so make sure you time your pre-boozing and dinner before this slot. For the after-party, try out clubs in Ansal Plaza, August Kranti Marg.

Pro-Tip: If you are looking for the best nightclubs in Delhi, here’s a guide. If you are looking for free entry, this is your guide. And ladies, if you are looking for a night of free drinks, here’s a guide to get you going. 

Handicraft Shopping At Dilli Haat

Visiting Dilli Haat in INA is always a good hangout plan. Covering delicious food and offering a great shopping experience from artisans and small businesses around India, strolling in Dilli Haat always makes the heart full. For shopping, you can find amazing real silver jewellery, quality pashminas, one-of-a-kind suit sets, eye-catching home decor, ceramics, and more. For food, we recommend going to the Nagaland stall and trying the best of Delhi's momos scene and chilli garlic noodles, which will definitely make you overeat. 

Timings: 10:30 AM - 10 PM

Price: For entry, adults have to pay INR 30, for kids it's INR 20, and for Foreigners it's INR 100. 

Art Date At Bikaner House

If you are in Delhi and looking for a cute date plan, you should head straight to Bikaner House, where you can always find a gallery or an exhibition going on. Close to Pandara Road (where you will find Delhi’s best food scene), Bikaner House makes for a great artsy date. 

Timings: 10 AM - 6 PM

Price: Free Entry

Street Shopping

Delhi might be less famous for the India Gate and more famous for shopping, especially for street shopping at Sarojini, Kamla Nagar, Lajpat Nagar and other markets. When one says that you can buy a whole new wardrobe under INR 2K, it is really possible here. You can find everything here, from home decor and soft furnishing to, obviously, a bunch of clothes, footwear, and more. Beware of the beauty and tech rip-offs there, plus brush up on your haggling skills as much as you can before your visit.

Pro Tip: Our market guide here has all the spots and their details covered!

Exploring Different Indian Cuisines At State Houses

If you are a true-blue foodie, then you must go for a state bhawan hopping and taste some astronomical delicacies. All these Bhawan canteens serve the most authentic food that fits an array of budgets, along with the cosiest ambience. We recommend heading here for early breakfast and brunches, and our personal favourite has to be Andhra Bhawan, loved for their special South Indian thali. 

Timings: 8 AM - 10 PM

Price: Starting at INR 100

Bar Hopping In Vasant Vihar

Vasant Vihar is definitely the neighbourhood for the cool kids, housing great eateries, cafes, and well, our favourite bars. Lair, Red, Khi Khi, PCO, Hoots, and so many more, bar hopping in Vasant Vihar is a super fun experience, that’s coded with great times. The cocktails here will hit you just right, and we highly recommend heading here for a night out with friends. 

Price: Starting at INR 1,000

Nearest Metro Station: Vasant Vihar Metro Station

Pro-Tip: Check out our complete guide on Vasant Vihar Market here

Exploring Tibetan Market and Gujarati Lane In Janpath

We recommend Tibetan Market and Gujarati Lane at Janpath for their eclectic shopping experience that offers a unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern style. Tibetan Market is perfect for those seeking authentic Tibetan handicrafts, woollen clothes, and beautiful trinkets. Gujarati Lane, on the other hand, is a haven for ethnic wear and accessories. These markets are a must-visit for anyone who loves to shop for unique, handcrafted goods while soaking in the lively, energetic atmosphere of Janpath.

Timings: 11 AM - 8 PM

Price: Starting at INR 100

Pro-Tip: Here’s a guide to street shopping in Janpath market

Theatre at IHC

The Theatre at India Habitat Centre is an unmissable experience in Delhi, adding an ideal dose of culture, creativity, and artistic expression to your itinerary. Located in the city’s heart, it’s renowned for vibrant performances across genres, from contemporary plays to classical productions. The centre nurtures Indian theatre by providing a platform for both established and emerging artists. The intimate setting of its venues creates an immersive experience, making each performance feel personal. 

Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM

Price: Depends on the show playing

Pro Tip: Not Convinced? Here Are 12 Things That Make Us Keep Going Back To India Habitat Centre

Explore Closer To The Stars At Nehru Planetarium

The Nehru Planetarium in Delhi is a must-visit for anyone fascinated by astronomy and science. It offers an immersive experience with its interactive exhibits and engaging shows. The planetarium features a state-of-the-art digital sky theatre, where visitors can embark on a virtual journey through space, exploring planets, stars, and galaxies. Whether you're a space enthusiast or simply curious, the Nehru Planetarium provides a unique and enriching experience that brings the wonders of the universe closer to you.

Timings: 11 AM - 6 PM

Price: Starting at INR 70

Pro Tip: Learn more about Nehru Planetarium here

Old Delhi Charm At Haveli Dharampura

Haveli Dharampura in Chandni Chowk, a restored 19th-century haveli, offers a chance to experience the charm of Old Delhi with its traditional Mughal architecture, intricate woodwork, and stunning courtyards. A visit here allows you to step back in time and explore the rich heritage of the area, with its proximity to key landmarks like Jama Masjid and Red Fort. The haveli also offers cultural experiences, rooftop dining, and heritage walks, making it a perfect spot for history lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Pro Tip: You can call them and inquire about the pricing and timings. Learn more about Haveli Dharampura here.

Pickleball At GD Goenka Sports Academy

One of the best venues to play pickleball at in Delhi. Known for its top-notch facilities and professional coaches, the academy offers an excellent setting for players of all levels. With affordable rates and a dedicated pickleball arena, it's the perfect place to enjoy the game. In addition to pickleball, the academy provides a variety of other sports like table tennis, cricket, football, squash, and tennis. Session prices start at INR 999, and you can easily book through Hudle’s website for a seamless experience.

Timings: 9 AM to 10 PM

Price: Starting at INR 999

Pro Tip: Feeling sporty? Explore these pickleball courts in Delhi. 

Shopping All Homegrown At The Kunj

One of the most unique experiences in Delhi, The Kunj is a Ministry of Textiles initiative to showcase India’s rich art, culture and handicrafts. From the get-go, you’re promised authenticity with a beautiful sculptural installation hanging down the ceiling with 100 sarees draped with utmost precision, with geometric folds inspired by structured Ragas of classical music and free-flowing folk music lyrics. This is 'The 100 Sarees Project', done by Ankon Mitra. Moving on, expect to see a lot of homegrown brands and the best of Indian textile heritage. 

Timings: 11 AM - 8 PM

Entry Fees: Free

Pro-Tip: Get to know more about The Kunj here.

Evening Tour Of Safdarjung Tomb

We all know the Safdarjung Tomb, but do we really know it? Whether you're a history buff or not, a guided tour of this monument is definitely worth trying. Many organisers offer heritage walks where you’ll learn about its construction, the era it belongs to, and the nuances of Nawabi culture.

Timings: Varies

Price: Varies (You can purchase tickets from one of several tour providers online)

Tufting At GO Rug Yourself

GO Rug Yourself is India’s first and largest tufting studio, and it’s the perfect place to go when you want to art your heart out. Here, you get to make your own rug, not just as a new skill to learn, but as a therapeutic, feel-good experience surrounded by colours, creativity, and great company. It’s a fun 3-hour immersive session that feels totally worth your time, energy, and money.

Timings: Every day, multiple slots

Price: INR 2,499 onwards

Titanic VR At 32nd Avenue

We’ve all cried our hearts out watching Titanic, but digging into its real history feels like a whole different experience, and now you actually get to live it. Titanic: A Voyage Through Time at 32nd Avenue (MEC) offers an extraordinary VR journey into the world’s most famous ship. You can explore the wreck site, take in the surroundings, and step straight into the past to relive the story in a way that feels eerily real.

Timings: Multiple time slots, check here.

Price: INR 1,040 per person onwards. Closed on Mondays

Mehrauli Archeological Park Walk

Delhi has a lot to offer in terms of heritage and historical sites. However, one that is close to our heart and an experience we recommend everyone is a walk through the Mehrauli Archaeological Park, one of the oldest inhabited places in the subcontinent. Mehrauli is rich in historical ruins, tombs, and other monuments from many eras of Delhi’s past —from the pre-Islamic to the late Mughal and colonial periods. This trail will take you on a thrilling journey, accompanied by an exciting session of storytelling around the history and myths of one of Delhi’s oldest cities.

Timings: 6:30 AM - 7PM 

Price: Free 

Look At Quirky Replicas At Waste To Wonder Park

Waste To Wonder Park is a rather quirky, eco-friendly theme park that brings together mini versions of famous global landmarks. You’ll spot everything from the Taj Mahal to the Eiffel Tower — all crafted from recycled materials. 

Timings: 11 AM - 11 PM 

Price: INR 50 for adults and INR 25 for kids, while kids under 3 and senior citizens get in for free.

Serious Home Shopping At IKEA

The city stopped for a bit when IKEA debuted in Delhi earlier this year! Tucked inside Tagore Garden’s Pacific Mall, the space is filled with over 2,000 trendy home decor and furnishing products. Expect to get lost in the home decor wonderland, where you sift through hundreds of products. 

Price: INR 55 onwards for mugs

Timings: 11 AM - 10 PM 

Theatrical Dining At Dramique

Experience theatre with your food at  Dramique in Delhi. A one-of-a-kind experience, it gives you a break from your usual dining scene. It’s a mix of storytelling, music, and engagement with food and guests — all of which make it a must-visit, especially if you’re celebrating an occasion, as it makes your meal ten times more special. The performances are very well curated, with each meant to stand out with a fabulous playlist.

Timings: 9:30 PM - 3 AM

Price: INR 10,000 for two (approx)

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An opinionated Gen-z beauty enthusiast who knows about a beauty product even before it goes viral. Oh, also loves all things food and matcha. With over two years of experience in content, watch this space for the best recommendations :)