For all its climate hazards and population overgrowth, Delhi remains a charming cosmopolitan capital. If the words of Scottish-Indian historian William Dalrymple are anything to go by, Delhi could once only be compared to Rome, Cairo, or Paris for its rich heritage. With historic centres scattered throughout, Delhiites enjoy the peripatetic pleasure of heritage walks through Mughal tombs, British-era landmarks, graveyards and vibrant bazaars that bring history to life. Whether it's following the trail of the most sumptuous breakfast places in Shahjahanabad, spanning the overgrown expanse of Mehrauli Archaeological Park, or marvelling at the colonial charm of Connaught Place, each corner in Delhi tells a story; in the words of Rana Safvi, the competent Delhi historian, it's a city where the stones speak. Owing to such historical excesses, we have curated a list of top heritage walks that you can look forward to this November. Check out the list and plan an enlightening trip to archaic bits of Delhi that remain pulsating under the modern metropolis the city has turned into.
The Delhi government, keen to boost tourism, offers a range of heritage walks across the city, each revealing fascinating histories of iconic sites. One of these is the walk to Safdarjung Tomb, a striking example of late Mughal architecture from the mid-18th century. This tomb, built for Nawab Safdarjung, displays intricate sandstone and marble craftsmanship and is known for its imposing structure surrounded by lush gardens in the classic Charbagh style. The tour highlights architectural marvels, unique design features, and lesser-known stories about the tomb’s creation, giving visitors a profound glimpse into Delhi’s rich historical background. You can visit delhitourism.gov.in which is the official website of Delhi Tourism for bookings and further details.
Date: 9 November
Venue: Safdarjung Tomb
Address: Air Force Golf Course, Delhi Race Club, New Delhi, Delhi 110003
Delhi Walks, an organisation known for its enjoyable heritage walks in Delhi, is on an enchanting journey combining nature and history with a guided walk through the verdant Lodhi Garden. Set amidst lush greenery, the garden is home to striking 16th-century sultanate monuments, each adding to the site’s historic charm. Participants of the walk can expect to explore flora and fauna while delving into the legacy of the Delhi Sultanate, marvelling at four architectural gems from the Lodi period. Early risers can enjoy the serene morning atmosphere, with bird calls and the soft glow of dawn enhancing the experience. To book your spot for the walk, you can visit Delhi Walks's official website or contact share@delhiwalks.in.
Date: 11 November
Venue: Lodhi Garden
Address: Lodhi Road, Lodhi Gardens, Lodhi Estate, New Delhi, Delhi 110003
The Mughal world was all about the excesses of the senses, from grand architecture to experimental music and scents that evoke the notion of the Oriental. You can experience the intoxicating scents of history with En Route History on an exclusive perfume walk through Old Delhi’s historic alleys. Guided through the aromatic heritage of Dariba Kalan, participants will discover the ancient craft of ittar-making, a tradition deeply embedded in Old Delhi's cultural tapestry. The tour meanders through bustling Chandni Chowk, where legendary ittar vendors, or “Ittarwallahs,” share stories and secrets behind their timeless fragrances. This immersive walk promises a sensory journey, blending fragrance and tradition, to captivate both the senses and the soul. For further details on the walk, you can visit enrouteindianhistory.com.
Date: 16 November
Venue: Chandni Chowk
Address: Chandni Chowk, Delhi, 110006
Renowned numismatist Shah Umair, popularly known as "Sikkawala" on social media, is organising a heritage walk this month following the trail of Phoolwalon Ki Sair. Phoolwalon ki Sair, a historic festival symbolising communal harmony, is celebrated annually in Delhi, blending floral offerings with cultural rituals. The walk will explore key sites starting at the Yogmaya Temple and proceed through key sites like Adam Khan’s Tomb, Zafar Mahal, Jharna, Jahaz Mahal, and the Dargah of Qutubuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki. Along the trail, Umair will be sharing insightful stories about the history of Mehrauli at large. The walk is Ideal for history enthusiasts and the experience promises an immersive journey through Delhi’s layered cultural heritage. For further bookings related inquiries, you can reach out to Umair directly on umair.numis@gmail.com.
Date: 17 November
Venue: Yogmaya Temple
Address: Yogmaya Maa Mandir, Seth Sarai, Mehrauli, Delhi, New Delhi, Delhi, 110030
Among the various Mughal-era buildings in Delhi, Humayun's Tomb remains one that you would be criminal to miss out on if you are in Delhi. Explore the grandeur of Humayun's Tomb, an iconic Delhi monument set amidst 30 acres of lush, char bagh gardens. Built by Humayun's wife, Haji Begum, and his son, Emperor Akbar, this UNESCO-listed site commemorates Emperor Humayun and is often considered the architectural precursor to the Taj Mahal. Known as the "Dormitory of the Mughals," the tomb houses the remains of many Mughal descendants within its crypt. Visitors can also marvel at the Isa Khan Tomb, Arab Sarai, Barber's Tomb, and the Mosque and Tomb of Afsarwala within the expansive complex. For further details on the walk, you can visit enrouteindianhistory.com.
Date: 23 November
Venue: Humayun's Tomb
Address: Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah, Mathura Rd, Nizamuddin, Nizamuddin East, New Delhi, Delhi 110013