Best places to visit in Delhi for photography

Best places to visit in Delhi for photography

India’s capital Delhi (also known as New Delhi, depending on exactly where in the city you are) is a feast for the senses.

Best places to visit in Delhi for photography

Home to more than 18 million people, it can at times seem overwhelming when you find yourself stuck in one of its infamous traffic jams, being woken up by loud drumming from a lively wedding procession, or bartering in the chaotic, colourful Janpath Market. However, there are plenty of peaceful spots around town to seek respite, which also happen to be easy on the eyes.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Delhi for sightseeing and photography.

The Ghandi mural on Delhi Police Headquarters
The Ghandi mural on Delhi Police Headquarters

Humayan’s Tomb

Though striking on its own, Humayan’s Tomb is perhaps best known as the pre-cursor to the famous Taj Mahal. The tomb was commissioned by Bega Begam as a tribute to her husband, and it’s thought that elements of Humayan’s Tomb were used and refined in the design of the Taj Mahal nearly a century later.

Best places to visit in Delhi for photography
Humayan's Tomb DelhiAs one of the most historical places in Delhi, standout spots for photography include the pink-hued tomb, which overlooks the entire complex and is an epic spot to enjoy the sunset, as well as the pathway leading up to it which is lined with fountains. Be sure to head inside the tomb, where the detailed marble lattice screens make for a striking backdrop.

Best places to visit in Delhi for photography

Qutub Minar

Qutub Minar is one of Delhi’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, dating back to the 12th century. The 73-metre high tower was built as a sign of victory, to signify the defeat of Delhi’s last Hindu kingdom. The five-storey wonder is fashioned out of marble and red sandstone, with intricate carvings all along the facade.

Best places to visit in Delhi for photography
Qutub Minar

While the tower itself is impressive, the real highlights are the ruins around the site: think crumbling archways, detailed doors and plenty of unique vantage points, making it one of the most famous places in Delhi.

Qutub Minar, Delhi, India

Qutub Minar, Delhi, India

Qutub Minar, Delhi, India

Bahai’s House of Worship

Found on the Kalkaji Hill, this geometric architectural marvel is one of the newest Delhi attractions, commonly called the “Lotus Temple” due to its flower-like design. Made from pure white marble, it’s meant to signify the purity and simplicity of the Bahá’í faith.

For those interested in touring the interior, it’s worth noting the Bahai’s House of Worship is closed on Mondays, and admission is free.

Bahai’s House of Worship
Bahai’s House of Worship

Presidential Palace

Rashtrapati Bahavan is home to India’s president, and is every bit as magnificent as you’d expect—particularly inside. Spread out over 330 acres, the estate has more than 300 rooms and 190 acres of meticulously-kept gardens, and best of all the public is allowed to tour through it. Click here for details.

Travel tip: Bring your passport, as there are extensive security measures in place

Delhi presidential palace

Best places to visit in Delhi for photography
Highlights of the interior include the grand foyer accented with the Lord Buddha statue, the massive banquet hall used for state dinners, regal Durbar Hall, and the exquisite Ashok Hall which drips with ornate chandeliers.

Ashok Hall, presidential palace, Delhi, India
Ashok Hall

Delhi presidential palace

Best places to visit in Delhi for photography
The Banquet Hall

If you happen to visit Delhi during the months of August through March, you’ll definitely want to head out to the Mughal Gardens for gorgeous photo-ops. The sprawling gardens have overflowing beds of daffodils, tulips, roses, lilies and other seasonal flowers, framed by manicured topiaries and fountains.

Delhi, India

Best places to visit in Delhi for photography
Muhgal Gardens

India Gate

This towering war memorial archway pays tribute to the 70-thousand Indian soldiers who died in World War I fighting for the British army, and is a standard stop on every Delhi sightseeing tour. Originally called the All India War Memorial, it soars 40 metres high and is particularly striking at sunset when the light casts a soft glow over it.

India Gate, Delhi, India
India Gate

Looking for a place to stay in Delhi? Check out these top hotels in New Delhi.

Agrasen Ki Baoli

When it comes to places to visit in Delhi, don’t skip this hidden gem which combines a couple of photographer favourites: great architecture and street art.

Agrasen Ki Baoli is a historically-protected, three-storey step well with plenty of archways and a long staircase perfect for fashion shoots. It’s a favoured hangout spot, and has even been featured in a few Bollywood films.

Agrasen Ki Baoli, Delhi, India
Agrasen Ki Baoli

The laneway that leads up to it is also worth exploring, as it has some vibrant street art and cute wall cutouts.

Agrasen Ki Baoli

Looking for even more of the best places to visit in Delhi for photography? Try:

  • Jama Masjid, which is one of the largest mosques in all of India
  • The Red Fort, a massive structure in the heart of Old Delhi marked by its imposing scarlet sandstone walls
  • Jantar Mantar, a heart-shaped observatory once used to take astronomical measurements
  • Safdarjang Tomb, a beautiful enclosed garden tomb similar to the larger Humayun’s Tomb

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20 thoughts on “Best places to visit in Delhi for photography”

  1. I’ve been to Delhi and have been to the Humayun’s Tomb, India Gate, and Qutub Minar. However, I haven’t been to the palace or Agrasen Ki Baoli. I would have loved to take pics of the stepwell. So envious!

  2. Fantastic post! You’ve given us some great ideas of what to visit for a trip to Delhi. I lived in Southeast Asia for a long time but didn’t make it to India! I’ll have to go back and rectify that. 😊

  3. First time to see a close-up look of New Delhi. Thanks. Love the architecture, especially the Bahai’s House of Worship, the Qutub Minar, and the Humayan’s Tomb!

  4. Totally agree with all of these picks! Humayan’s Tomb was our favorite, and we spent hours there, exploring all the nooks and crannies, each with artistry of their own. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to see India Gate because there was a massive protest there at the time, but it’s nice to see your photos of it.

  5. Kavita Favelle

    Loving your photographs, you’ve captured some lovely perspectives that aren’t the same as the usual ones we see so often. I’ve never been inside the presidential palace, that’s one to bookmark for next time as is the stunning-looking Agrasen Ki Baoli.

  6. Wow. where do I start. Well first, awesome blog, amazing photos and tons of tips for fellow photographers. Secondly, I love that Ghandi is on the side of the Delhi Police Headquarters, LOVE. Thirdly, what was Agrasen Ki Baoli originally? I know you said a step well or something…what’s that?

    And lastly, I see on your map it says 10 hours walking…..did you walk that whole route? LMAO!

  7. Jenn and Ed Coleman

    I am always wary of bloggers and their “photography guides” but yours delivered in spades. You work, clarity, composition and all of that was fabulous. You even included a map so I could find these places- wow. I hope you didn’t walk all 11 hours on the map in one day. That would be intense.

  8. We stay in Delhi and still have not been to all the places listed in your list. Shame on us. Delhi is full of photogenic places. After seeing your pictures and post, I am surely going to visit the rest soon.

  9. I can imagine that Delhi is a wonderful destination for photographers. Bahai’s House of Worship is in stark contrast to Qutub Minar and the Humayan’s Tomb. Your pictures are really beautiful. I would love to travel to Delhi with my own camera!

  10. You’re an amazing photographer! You have beautifully captured the soul of my city, which also happens to be my hometown. I love Qutub Minar and Humayun’s Tomb as well, the architecture is so lovely. Lotus Temple is also gorgeous. There’s another lovely temple which you might want to visit next time – it’s called Akshardham. I am sure you’ll love photographing it too!

  11. Travel ETA Australia

    I was amazed by the architectures. At first, I thought the venue was somewhere in Europe. Little did I know a place like that in India. Anyhow, thank you for sharing. Great read!

  12. This is a unique type of article, all the pictures are outstanding and the information is very helpful for all the traveler especially for photographers. India is the most favourite traveling county, here have a lots of historical and highlight places which is great attraction for traveler and photographers, I visited many places in Europe for kayaking, fishing, explore the new culture and food, much more fun and take many pictures of my every vacation, All are sweet memory, but I never visit India, Now I plan my next trip in there and I will explore all the beautiful places. My first target is Agrasen Ki Baoli. Thanks for sharing this helpful article with us.

  13. Hi Tamara,
    I really liked it and looked like if these details are from a native person. 🙂
    Just a small correction – Mughal Garden opens during spring so it’s between February and March.
    Also, please add Yamuna ghat in the list as it’s a treat for birdwatchers and photographers specially during November to February when migratory birds are here.

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