April 16, 2024

Delhi – 24 Lesser-Known Best Places to Visit

Delhi India

Unexplored & Hidden Tourist Places in Delhi

Be it famous historic monuments or old-time damages from a bygone era, there are many hidden treasures in Delhi that have yet to be explored to their full potential. From the imaginative to the architectural, the spiritual to the haunted, and the historic to the deeply rooted in culture, these 24 unexplored places in Delhi reveal centuries-old beauty that will undoubtedly entice you to return to the remarkable past of India’s resources.

delhi
India Gate, Delhi

Offbeat Places to Visit in Delhi

Here are 24 offbeat & unexplored places in Delhi that you must visit on your next trip.

  1. Champa Gali, Saket Delhi
  2. Hauz Khas Village
  3. Santushi Shopping Complex
  4. Agrasen ki Baoli
  5. Tughlaqabad Fort
  6. Majnu ka Tila
  7. Sanjay Van
  8. Mirza Ghalib ki Haveli
  9. Bhuli Bhatiyari ka Mahal
  10. Satpula Bridge
  11. Chunnamal Heritage Haveli
  12. Ghazipur Phool Mandi
  13. Jahaz Mahal
  14. Delhi War Cemetery
  15. Adham Khan’s Tomb
  16. Bhardwaj Lake Asola
  17. Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary
  18. Lodi Garden
  19. Chhota Qutub Minar, Uttam Nagar
  20. Bhuli Bhatiyari Ka Mahal
  21. Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb
  22. Hijron Ka Khanqah
  23. Bijay Mandal
  24. The Skies High Bar & Lounge

1. Champa Gali, Saket Delhi

Champa Gali Saket is one of the most fascinating hidden lanes that everyone should explore. It has everything from a coffee shop to handmade art and craft items, a reading room, and a design studio. Land khasra number 258 is a Parisian passageway that used to have cow shades and also furniture workshops. Champa Gali Delhi is a thriving neighbourhood that is growing by the month. This location is home to some new restaurants, including PhoKing Awesome, a Vietnamese restaurant.

Coffee Shops in Champa Gali

So while you are around, below is a listing of coffee shops that you can see.

Jugmug Thela

Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters

Soho Diner & Coffee Shop

 Address: Behind Kuldeep House, Shed 4, Khasra 258, Lane Number 3, Westend Marg, Saidulajab, Saket, New Delhi, Delhi 110030,

2. Hauz Khas Village

The Hauz Khas Village is a must-see for its perfect kaleidoscope of the city’s mediaeval remnants and new age party culture. Built on the ruins of a mediaeval city called Siri, this small neighbourhood is home to some of the city’s best cafes and bars.

Because it is located in South Delhi, it attracts a good crowd. You’ll find it all here, from the quaint old world charm to the hip and happening weekends.

Hauz Khas Village was built on the ruins of Siri, a medieval city. This is an artsy neighborhood known for its well-established galleries, cafes, fashion boutiques, handicrafts, and vintage Bollywood posters. The people of South Delhi adore it. With its hip and happening weekends, Hauz Khas retains its old-world charm. You can also go to the Hauz Khas cafes, which have interesting restaurants and are one of the best places to go out at night in Delhi.

Hauzkhas Village Chalo ghumane
Hauz Khas Village

Where: Hauz Khas Village, New Delhi

How to reach: The nearest Metro station is Hauz Khas, you can also take a cab or an auto to the place.

3. Santushi Shopping Complex

Shopping and quaint ambience are two words that rarely appear in the same sentence in reference to the same location, owing to the big mall culture of a city like Delhi. However, the Santushti Shopping Complex is a place where these words are true. This small shop witnesses the cream of society and provides a posh shopping experience. Clothing, footwear, jewellery, and even ayurvedic products can all be found here. Santushti Complex in Chanakyapuri is a shopper’s paradise, with immaculately manicured lawns, spacious walkways, and a location away from the bustling city life. This is one of the lesser-known places to visit in Delhi for shopaholics. This initiative of the Air Force Wives’ Welfare Association is ideal if you are looking for local handicrafts, shoes, and fabrics at reasonable prices.

Where: Chanakyapuri, Race Course Road, New Delhi

How to reach: The nearest Metro station is Lok Kalyan Marg (formerly Racecourse). An auto or a taxi can also be opted for directly to the complex in Chanakyapuri.

4. Agrasen ki Baoli

Agrasen ki Baoli is a fascinating historic action well located in the middle of the high structures as well as hustle-bustle of Connaught Area. Its striking design dates back to the 14th century, when it was built to keep water and provide a relaxing environment for visitors. This unexpected framework is now frequently visited by poets, musicians, and even digital photography enthusiasts. Stroll down its elegant streets, discover its unique curved niches, or simply relax and enjoy some quiet time in this vibrant area of the city.

One of the few step wells in the capital city, this location has a distinct charm that is not tangible but can be felt as soon as you arrive. This step well, located in the heart of the city near Connaught Place, has served as an inspiration and meeting place for many poets and artists.

The Archeological Survey of India has preserved an ancient historical structure known as Agrasen ki Baoli (ASI). It was built around the 14th century by the king of Haryana, Maharaja Agrasen, for the sole purpose of water conservation during the time of the Mahabharata. A baoli is a stairwell-shaped pond. You can get here by taking the Janpath Metro Station or the Barakhamba Station.

Agrasen ki Baoli
Agrasen ki Baoli

Where: Hailey Road, Near Diwanchand Imaging Centre, KG Marg, New Delhi, Delhi

How to reach: Janpath and Barakhamba Road Metro Stations lie closest and again are a walking distance away; you can also take a cab or an auto directly to the place.

Address: Hailey Road, Near Diwanchand Imaging Centre, KG Marg, New Delhi – 110001

Opening Hours: 9: AM to 5:30 PM

5. Tughlaqabad Fort

Ghiyas-ud-din built Tughlaqabad Fort. Tughlaq is one of Delhi’s lesser-known attractions. The Tughlaqabad fort was built by Ghiyasuddin Tughluq after he defeated the Khalji dynasty. He built a fortified city with houses, markets, and reservoirs for water supply. Inside the fort, there is Ghiyasuddin’s mausoleum. The nearest metro station is Tughlaqabad. Even today, the remains of this fort, though not in the best of condition, are worth a visit. Even in the busy and hectic life of Delhi, this place’s not-so-popular status earns it tranquillity and serenity. This fort was built by the founder of the Tughlaq Dynasty and was known for its magnificent bastions that reached heights of 30 metres.

Where: Tughlaqabad, New Delhi

How to reach: Tughlaqabad is the nearest Metro station, or you can take a cab or an auto to the place directly.

6. Majnu ka Tila

This location, also known as ‘Little Tibet,’ has housed Tibetan refugees who have followed their spiritual leader, the great Dalai Lama, into exile in the country.

This area, known as Little Tibet, has housed all of the refugees who fled Tibet and followed their spiritual leader, the great Dalai Lama. This unique Tibetan culture is presented in the heart of North India at this location in North Delhi. You can visit Tibetan temples and eat mouthwatering Tibetan cuisine and momos at cafes and restaurants. To get to this location, take the Metro to Vidhan Sabha station.

This section of North Delhi offers a vivid display of Tibetan culture in the form of temples, cafes, restaurants, bookshops, and guest houses.

Majnu ka Tila
Majnu ka Tila

Where: GT Road, New Delhi

How to reach: Take a Metro ride to the Vidhan Sabha Metro station or rent a cab or an auto to the place.

7. Sanjay Van

Sanjay Van, a vast area of abundant plant life and thick timbers, is one of Delhi’s most popular forest areas. Because of its obscurity, this wooded area provides an ideal sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers, far from the crowds of the city’s prominent gardens. Explore this forest area, discover the various kinds of birds that live there, and unwind in the peace and quiet of the woods. Sanjay Van, which covers an area of 10 square kilometres, contains the graves of several Sufi saints and is also said to be haunted. Many people have reported seeing ghosts and hearing children sobbing in the middle of the night. If you can stand it, check out this woodland after sunset, as well as the eerie silence on your own.

A birdwatcher’s paradise Sanjay Van is a city forest area in Delhi that is visited by a variety of domestic and migratory birds. It is located near Vasant Kunj and Mehrauli. It is one of the most densely forested areas in the heart of Delhi, covering 443 acres, and is a popular spot for morning walkers and joggers who live nearby.

A city with such a diverse population as Delhi has managed to keep a lush green forest at its heart. This forest, which covers 780 acres of land, is known as Sanjay Van and is one of the best-kept secrets in Delhi.

Sanjay Van
Sanjay Van

A rising hub for jogging and cycling, this place is situated between Mehrauli and Vasant Kunj.

Where: Vasant Kunj. New Delhi

How to reach: The nearest Metro station is Chattarpur. An auto or a cab can also be taken to Vasant Kunj.

Address: Near Vasant Kunj and also Mehrauli in Delhi

8. Mirza Ghalib ki Haveli

 This haveli was built in memory of the world-famous Urdu poet Mirza Asadullah Baig Khan, also known as Mirza Ghalib. This area was his home during one of the most difficult years of his life, and it still houses several of his beautiful jobs today. The area, which is located in Chandni Chowk, also has a private gallery, which is currently owned by the Indian government. This haveli was built in memory of the world-renowned Urdu poet Mirza Asadullah Baig Khan, also known as Mirza Ghalib. This was his home during one of the most difficult years of his life, and it still houses some of his most exquisite works today.

This is the birthplace of the world-renowned Urdu poet Mirza Asadullah Baig Khan, also known as Mirza Ghalib. This was his home during his difficult years, and it bears witness to some of his unique works. This has a museum and is located in Chandni Chowk. The Archeological Survey of India is in charge of preserving it (ASI). The place, which is located in Chandni Chowk, also has an in-house museum, which is now maintained by the Indian government.       

Mirza Ghalib ki Haveli
Mirza Ghalib ki Haveli

Where: Qasim Jan Street, Baradari, Shahjahanabad, Ballimaran, New Delhi

How to reach: Chawri Bazar is the nearest Metro station. you can also take a cab or an auto until Shahjahanabad and from there on take a rickshaw or walk the distance to the Haveli.

Address: Qasim Jan Road, Baradari, Shahjahanabad, Ballimaran, New Delhi

9. Bhuli Bhatiyari ka Mahal

The site, which was originally built as a hunting lodge for Firoz Shah Tughlaq, now lies desolate and neglected in the central ridge forest and has piqued the interest of many tourists and photographers from all over the world. The architectural design of the building, as well as sightings of paranormal activity in this fort, make this location even more appealing for a visit.

Where: Southern Ridge Forest, Central Ridge Reserve Forest, New Delhi

How to reach: Jhandewalan is the nearest Metro station, you can also take a cab or an auto to the Southern ridge forest and walk further to the place.

10. Satpula Bridge

The Satpula Bridge, one of the most admirable hidden places in Delhi, has a significant historical significance. In the past, this bridge, which gets its name from a collection of seven bridges, was used for water harvesting. To add to its allure, this location served as a defensive wall during the reign of Sultan Mohammed Shah Tughlaq.

The Satpula Bridge gets its name from a group of seven bridges built with the theme of water conservation in mind. During Sultan Mohammed Shah Tughlaq’s reign, this bridge also served as a defensive wall. Satpula is to the east of the Khirki Masjid. In the ancient years this bridge connected Qila Rai Pithora or Qutub complex, Siri, Tughlaqabad and the Jahanpanah.

Satpula Bridge
Satpula Bridge

Where: Khidki Village, Malviya Nagar, New Delhi

How to reach: The nearest Metro station is Malviya Nagar; you can also take an auto or a cab to the place.

11. Chunnamal Heritage Haveli

The Chunnamal Haveli, built by Rai Chunnamal in 1850 and located in old Delhi’s Chandni Chowk area, stands tall with its rich heritage. This Haveli is Delhi’s best kept secret, with Hollywood and Bollywood movie locations to visit. You can see how the Chunnamals lived royally and meet the current family residents here. The Chunnamal Haveli is difficult to miss because it is located in the middle of one of Delhi’s busiest lanes. Despite its location in Chandni Chowk, this building embodies old-world grace and charm.

This hidden place of Delhi is now surrounded by about 140 shops and stores and yet is a must visit the place, when in Delhi.

Where: 838, Chandni Chowk Road, Katra Neel, New Delhi

How to reach: The nearest metro station is Chandni Chowk, you can also take an auto to Katra Neel in Chandni Chowk and then walk from there on.

12. Ghazipur Phool Mandi

As soon as you walk in, you are overwhelmed by the fragrance of fresh flowers such as marigolds, tulips, roses, carnations, orchids, irises, anthuriums, and lilies, all of which come in a variety of colours to suit your mood. Not only is the location stunning for its large collection of flowers, but it also works wonders for your wallet. These flowers are available at unimaginably low prices at Ghazipur Mandi, making this location well worth a visit.

Where: Ghazipur Village, Gazipur, New Delhi, Delhi

How to reach: The nearest metro station is Anand Vihar ISBT. From there you can take an auto to reach the place. You can also take a direct auto or cab.

13. Jahaz Mahal

The palace known as the Jahaz Mahal is also one of the hidden places in Delhi to visit. This location gets its name from its reflection in a nearby lake, which resembles a floating ship. Tranquility is essential here, and a visit here is an unforgettable experience. The Ship Palace, also known as the Jahaz Mahal, is located in Mehrauli, Delhi, next to the Hauz-i-Shamsi. The Jahaz Mahal was so named because its reflection in the surrounding reservoir resembled a ship on the water. It was constructed during the Lodi dynasty and served as a resort at the time. The nearest metro station is Qutub Minar.

Where: Talaab Lane, Aam Bagh, Khandsa Colony, Mehrauli, New Delhi

How to reach: The nearest Metro station is Qutub Minar, from there you can take an auto to the place, or you can reach the place directly through a cab or an auto.

14. Delhi War Cemetery

When you arrive at the Delhi War Cemetery, you are greeted by immaculately manicured lawns. This cemetery, located in the Delhi Cantonment area, is a repository for the graves and memories of soldiers who fought for the British Commonwealth during World War II. The Delhi War Cemetery contains the graves of all service personnel who served in the British Empire during the World Wars. This was established in 1951 to preserve the remains of soldiers who died during that time period. The Delhi 1939–1945 War Memorial, located at the entrance, honours the Indian forces who served in both world wars. This is in the Delhi Cantonment area.

Quite a visit even today the place is all about tall pillars and exquisite memoirs.

Delhi War Cemetery
Delhi War Cemetery : Source : Animesh Sharma

Where: Delhi Cantonment, New Delhi

How to reach: The nearest Metro station is Dhaula Kuan, you can also take a cab or auto to the cemetery directly.

15. Adham Khan’s Tomb

This tomb dates back to 1561 and was home to one of the most famous generals of the Mughal Dynasty. Emperor Akbar’s reign. The tomb, which has extreme archaeological significance, is currently cared for by the Archeological Survey of India and is one of the best-kept secrets in Delhi.

Where: Seth Sarai, Mehrauli, New Delhi

How to reach: Qutub Minar is the nearest Metro station from there on you can take a rickshaw or an auto. A direct cab or auto to the place is also possible.

16. Bhardwaj Lake Asola

As incredible as it may sound, the hustle and bustle of a city like Delhi has a hidden gem of a lake towards its southern end. This lake is beautiful in more ways than one, and it is located in the Asola Wildlife Sanctuary, which is managed by the Delhi Wildlife Department. A variety of birds and animals can be found here.

Where: Asola Wild Life Sanctuary, Asola, New Delhi

How to reach: The nearest Metro station is Badarpur, an auto or a cab can also be preferred until the wildlife sanctuary, from there on there has to walk to the lake.

17. Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary

This lake, as well as the capitals bordering it, is an unsubstantiated site on the city’s outskirts. The lake is surrounded by the Asola wild animal sanctuary and is guarded by the Indian military. A trip to the Asola Wildlife Sanctuary in South Delhi is one of the offbeat places to visit in Delhi for hikers. It is a vast wildlife area on the outskirts of Delhi, bordered by thorny Kikar trees. Hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and trekkers frequent the beautiful man-made lake at the far end.

Opening Hrs: 9 AM to 5 PM

Address: Capturing Array Rd, Asola Wildlife Sanctuary, Tughlakabad, New Delhi – 110044

18. Lodi – The Garden Restaurant

This area is a large garden restaurant for couples that is only found cold to the Lodi Garden. The outside seat setups are outfitted with all of the required points for a happening occasion.

Address – Reverse Mausam Bhawan, Lodi Road, New Delhi

Lodi Garden
Lodhi Garden Delhi

19. Chhota Qutub Minar, Uttam Nagar

After citizens told a storey about an aeroplane collision that knocked down the high minor in Uttam Nagar, this set came as quite a surprise. It was built by Shahjahanabad and used as a hunting lodge during the 1650s, according to history buffs. The three-story towers stand 16.87 metres (55 feet) tall and are supported by an elevated octagonal system.

Previously, the Hastsal area where the Minar is located was immersed in water and also served as an elephants corridor and also relaxing area. This is reflected in the location name ‘Hastsal,’ which begins with haathi (elephant) and ends with sthal (area).

Address: Hasthsal town in Uttam Nagar, New Delhi

20. Bhuli Bhatiyari Ka Mahal

This location is located on the main ridge from the past. Firoz Shah Tughlaq built Bhuli Bhatiyari ka Mahal in the 14th century as a hunting lodge. This building is said to be the most haunted in Delhi. There are no metal gates that need to be locked. The only thing guarding this massive structure is a note written at the entrance warning people not to approach this location after sunset.

Address: Central Ridge Reserve Forest, New Delhi, Delhi 110001

21. Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb

The Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb is another hidden gem in Delhi, housing the graves of the great Sufi saint Shaikh Jamali Kamboh and the common man of Kamali with whom he was associated. One of the two graves is a mosque, while the other is a tomb.

Where: Archeological Village Complex, Mehrauli, New Delhi

How to reach: The nearest Metro station is Qutub Minar, you can also land on the Chattarpur Metro station from there on you can take an auto rickshaw to the place. A direct cab or auto can also be opted for.

22. Hijron Ka Khanqah

In the midst of the bustling Mehrauli bazaar, there is a lesser-known attraction that is well worth a visit. This location, known as Hijron ka Khanqah, is a memorial built in honour of eunuchs.

The tranquil atmosphere surrounding the graves of the Lodi era eunuchs has been well preserved to this day, making it a hidden gem to visit if seeking some solitude from the hectic life of Delhi.

Where: Ward 6, Mehrauli, New Delhi

How to reach: The nearest Metro station is Qutub Minar; from there, take an auto to the location. There is also the option of taking a direct auto or cab to the location.

23. Bijay Mandal

Bijay Mandal is another architectural masterpiece from the 14th century that was built in the area. The rustic feel of the location, combined with the fort’s distinguished architecture, ensures that it is among the top contenders on the list of hidden gems in the capital city. In many ways, a city like Delhi is endowed with some of the best places, both natural and man-made. Take a day trip to any of the above-mentioned locations to grasp the true depth of India’s capital city’s greatness.

Where: Begumpur, New Delhi

How to reach: The nearest Metro station is Hauz Khas; you can take an auto from there to the fort. A direct auto or cab to the fort can also be opted for.

24. The Skies High Bar & Lounge

Looking for a fantastic roof dining restaurant in South Delhi? Go to the Skyscraper. If the magnificent sight isn’t enough to excite you, the beautiful online songs will. The cooking experience at The Skies High lives up to its name, offering the best Continental, Italian, North Indiana, and Mughlai prices. You should try their juicy and tender barbequed shellfish. Tangri kebab with minced meat and poultry malai tikka are must-orders for Mughlai fans. A must-try is the flavorful peri hen pizza, mango mojito, and too fantastic delicious chocolate fondue with an addition of fresh fruits!

Address: Ansal Plaza, C 306A, 307, T101, 102, August Kranti Marg, Hudco area, Khel Gaon, Andrews Ganj, New Delhi, Delhi 110049

Stay visited chaloghumane.com to get the information about offbeat travel places in domestic and international destinations.