1. Explore the holiness of the Sikh religion at the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

The city of New Delhi is pretty close to the Indian state of Punjab, which is a place native to the followers of Sikhism. So, there is a sizable proportion of Sikhs living in New Delhi, as well. They prepare food in large kitchens and distribute it, without discrimination. Even the water here is considered holy.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

Address: Ashoka Road, Connaught Place, Next to Grand Post Office, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, India

Website: Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

2. Discover the great personality behind the Indian freedom struggle at Gandhi Smriti

This is a government-run memorial tribute to Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, better known as Mahatma Gandhi. It is also the same spot where he was killed in 1948, about half a year after India gained independence from British rule. This is also where Mahatma Gandhi would usually stay, while in Delhi. Even the road where this place is located, is named after the date when he was killed, (30th of January). At this site, you will get a peek into the greatness of his life.

Gandhi Smriti

Address: 5, Tees January Marg, Tees January Road Area, Motilal Nehru Marg Area, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, India

Website: Gandhi Smriti

3. Meditate at the Bahai Lotus Temple

The construction of this iconic landmark looks very similar to the Sydney Opera House. However, as the name suggests, it is actually supposed to be symbolic of a lotus blossoming. There is a meditation hall here, where there is usually pin-drop silence. Followers of the Bahai religion manage the temple. There is also a visitors’ center, where you can find out more information.

Bahai Lotus Temple

Address: Lotus Temple Rd, Bahapur, Shambhu Dayal Bagh, Kalkaji, New Delhi, Delhi 110019, India

Website: Bahai Lotus Temple

4. Experience devotion and tradition at the ISKCON Temple

The ISKCON Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is widely worshiped, not just in New Delhi, but also throughout the rest of India. This is one of the largest such temples of its kind. On important religious festivals, events are held here, symbolizing the rites and rituals associated with the Hindu faith. You will even find a traditional restaurant here, offering simple, organic food.

You will find a very high degree of neatness and cleanliness here and devotees, singing and dancing, praising the greatness of Lord Krishna. This place is easily reachable via metro.

ISKCON Temple

Address: Hari Krishna Hill, Sant Nagar, East of Kailash, New Delhi 110065, India

Website: ISKCON Temple

5. Experience peace and bliss at the Birla Mandir Temple (Lakshmi Narayan)

This is another temple dedicated to followers of the Hindu religion. It contains beautiful idols of Lord Shri Lakshmi Narayan, often spelled Laxmi Narayan. Cell phones, cameras and even footwear, are not allowed inside. You will have to leave your belongings in a locker, near the entrance.

There was plenty of marble used in the construction of this temple, and it can be uncomfortably hot to walk on when the temperature is high. The name ‘Birla’ refers to the builders of the temple and it was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi. Compared to many other temples, you will find fewer crowds here. The temple is easily accessible from Connaught Place.

Birla Mandir Temple (Lakshmi Narayan)

Address: Mandir Marg, Near Gole Market, New Delhi, 110001, India

Website: Birla Mandir Temple (Lakshmi Narayan)

6. Explore deeper into the Indian freedom struggle at the National Gandhi Museum

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This is another memorial, depicting the life and journey of Mahatma Gandhi. There are very detailed collections of photographs and other memorabilia here, which illustrate different phases of his life. This place can serve as a good history lesson for children and there are many objects on display, which Mahatma Gandhi used himself. Entrance is free.

National Gandhi Museum

Address: Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, New Delhi 110002, India

Website: National Gandhi Museum

7. Marvel at the architecture of the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple

Looking at the grand scale and immense proportions of this temple complex, it is easy to mistake it as solely a place of worship. However, it’s more than that. There are boat rides here, laser water shows and even musical fountains. Huge gardens offer plenty of space to walk around and a very intricate level of detail has gone into the carvings, on the pillars. Note that it is not an ancient temple, it was constructed very recently.

This is the perfect, serene place to get a sense of calm and peace, and in order to feel blessed. Please keep in mind that although the complex as a whole can be easily reached using the metro station nearby, there is some walking to do, after leaving the station.

Swaminarayan Akshardham

Address: Noida Mor, Pandav Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 110092, India

Website: Swaminarayan Akshardham

Walk through the corridors of power in the world's largest democracy!

Being the national capital, there are also plenty of government institutions in Delhi, which visitors can access. There is much more to explore than what is listed here. Regardless of the time of the day, you will always find plenty of eateries nearby, waiting to satisfy your culinary desires. The metro network makes it easy, safe and comfortable to quickly reach different places, especially during the daytime. Don’t miss touring this beautiful city to its fullest!