Image courtesy of Wendy Wallace
I recently traveled to India for the first time. While I was expecting beautiful chaos, I didn’t imagine how it would feel. There were moments that felt straight out of a movie: rickshaw rides through tight alleys with power lines hanging down, flying kites on a haveli rooftop, the sound of car horns mixed with temple bells.
There were moments that tested me, too: spicy air that made my eyes water, heat that made everything heavy and sticky and traffic that moved an inch at a time. Somehow it all works. Delhi gets under your skin in the best possible way. It is a lot, but it’s also magic. Below are a few of my favorite things to do in Delhi — places to eat, shop and soak up the city.
Things to do in Delhi
Images courtesy of Wendy Wallace
Haveli Dharampura: While in Old Delhi, you must visit Haveli Dharampura, a beautifully restored mansion, and UNESCO World Heritage Site, from 1887. You can have lunch or tea here. Better yet, go to the roof for a cocktail and fly a kite with the kids from the neighboring buildings. It’s a nice respite from the hectic Old Delhi streets.
The Lotus Temple: It’s one of the city’s iconic landmarks and a gorgeous feat of architecture. Open to all faiths, it’s a place to sit, breathe and take it all in. There are no shoes or speaking allowed inside, so it’s a total vibe shift from the city’s chaos.
National Gandhi Museum: A look at the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. You will find some of his personal items and photographs, and learn about Gandhi’s journey and India’s struggle for independence.
Humauyun’s tomb: Visit this incredible mausoleum commissioned by Humayun’s widow. It was the first garden tomb (more like a park) and influenced Mughal architecture, including the Taj Mahal.
Qutub Minar: The tallest brick minaret in the world and somehow still standing strong since the 1100s (!). The carvings are beautifully intricate. Pictures don’t do justice here — it is definitely worth a visit.
Lodhi Art District: After seeing so many ancient monuments, it is nice to see something modern. Lodhi is full of incredible street art and murals. Make sure to go with a guide who will help you get a glimpse into contemporary India and understand some of their problems, passions, protests and modern challenges. Afterwards, spend some time wandering around the Lodhi gardens, where you’ll find some rare green space, a lake and several ancient tombs.
Bollywood dance class: If you’re feeling up for it, take a Bollywood dance class. I had the BEST time trying (and failing) to learn some of the moves.
Where to shop in Delhi
Images courtesy of Wendy Wallace
You can’t skip shopping when in Delhi. (The shopping in Jaipur is equally amazing.) See below for some favorite shops and markets.
Raw Mango: This beautifully curated shop is a love letter to Indian textiles. Whether you’re shopping for a sari (wedding guest moment?) or just want to browse, this shop is worth a visit.
En Inde: If NYC and Delhi had a baby, this would be it. Sculptural, bold, minimalist jewelry with a serious design edge.
Napa Dori: Interesting modern leather handbags at great prices in the Dhan Mill market.
Sofomasi: Handcrafted rugs and textiles with a playful, graphic touch. I especially love the colorful rug designs.
Serendipity Delhi: Hidden in a restored haveli, this is a dreamy little homewares shop full of color, pattern and charm. From block-printed linens to vintage finds, it’s an interior decorator’s dream.
Dilli Haat: This open-air market is the real deal — think curated chaos with a cultural twist. Artisans from every corner of India set up shop here, selling everything from handwoven Kashmiri shawls and chunky tribal jewelry to Rajasthani puppets and Madhubani paintings. The stalls rotate, so there's always something new. Haggling is expected (and half the fun). Bring cash, your best bargaining game and a big tote — you will leave with something.
Khan Market: A Delhi classic. This is where old-school charm meets high-end India chic. You’ll find everything from Anokhi’s breezy block-printed cottons to Good Earth’s dreamy, design-forward homewares. Try SodaBottleOpenerWala for a Bombay-style meal while you’re in the area.
Dhan Mill Compound: Delhi’s coolest industrial makeover. Once a warehouse zone, it is now a stylish collection of art galleries, concept stores and sleek boutiques. Think fashion-forward Indian designers (Druv Kapoor is a fav), curated home goods and a few solid places to eat (Caara is great).
Where to eat in Delhi
Images courtesy of Wendy Wallace
Spice Route: Located in the Imperial hotel, it is almost like a restaurant in a museum filled with antiques, murals and hand-painted designs made with vegetable and flower dyes. The cuisine is inspired from the Southeastern trade routes.
Dhilli: Located in the Oberoi in Delhi, Dhelli served one of my favorite meals. It’s a very flavorful, modern take on Indian classics.
Olive Bar and Kitchen: Mediterranean food for if and when your palate needs a break from the spicy Indian food. Sit outside in the garden.
