A rich history coupled with a cosmopolitan character, Delhi presents the ideal blend of traditional and modern. This capital city is never short of enticing places to see and touristy engaging things to do. However, there are also a number of lesser-known places offering unique experiences that are, often overlooked by locals as well as tourists. To help you discover these hidden gems, here is a list of 7 secret places in Delhi, waiting to be explored.
1. Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb
Besides several famous monuments and World Heritage Sites, Delhi is home to a number of lesser-known but fascinating structures. One such monument, the Jamali Kamali Mosque, and Tomb, is a must-see for its red sandstone mosque, beautifully adorned arches, walls inscribed with verseus from the Koran, and red and blue painted designs of the tomb. Situated in the Mehrauli Archaeological Complex, right next to the Qutub Minar, this ancient structure houses the tombs of a Sufi saint Shaikh Jamali and his aide Kamali and is considered to be a forerunner in Mughal mosque architecture.
2. Haveli of Mirza Ghalib
Poetry lover or not, one is sure to have heard of Mirza Ghalib, the great poet of the Mughal empire and his literary works in Urdu and Persian. However, not many people know about the existence of his haveli in the narrow lanes of old Delhi. This 150-year-old haveli in Chandni Chowk has been converted into a museum, retracing the poetic days of Ghalib and the old world charm of his time. A delight for lovers of poetry, history buffs, and admirers of Ghalib, this memorial haveli displays his famous works, quotes, and paintings, and photographs, statues, and objects of his life.
3. Agrasen ki Baoli
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Set amidst the tall buildings and hustle-bustle of Connaught Place, Agrasen ki Baoli is an intriguing historical step well. Its striking architecture dates back to the 14th century when it was constructed to preserve water and provide a resting place for travelers. This hidden structure is now often frequented by poets, artists, and photography enthusiasts. Walk down its elegant steps, explore its arched niches or just sit back and enjoy some quiet time in this bustling part of the city.
4. Majnu ka Tilla
Get a taste of Tibet in Delhi at the Tibetan colony of Majnu ka Tila. Set up in 1959-60 as a refugee camp for Tibetans, this area was named after a local Sufi mystic called Majnu, and is now popularly known as Little Tibet. Shop for accessories, trinkets, handicrafts, and everything Tibetan at its local market, experience Tibetan culture and Buddhist customs in its narrow lanes, and sample authentic Tibetan delicacies at the many cafes and restaurants of this unique neighborhood. Owing to their elaborate variety, Streetside momos are a must-try here.
5. Sanjay Van
A sprawling area of lush greenery and thick woods, Sanjay Van is one of Delhi’s largest forest patches. Owing to its obscurity, this wooded area offers the perfect refuge for nature lovers and bird watchers, away from the crowds of the city’s popular gardens. Walkthrough this forest area, explore the many species of birds here, and relax in the calm and quiet of the woods. Spread over an area of 10 square kilometers, Sanjay Van has tombs of a number of Sufi saints and is also believed to be haunted. Many people have reported ghost sightings, and voices of children crying in the dark. If you’re brave enough, visit this forest after dusk and explore the eerie silence for yourself.
6. Santushti Shopping Complex
Escape the hustle-bustle of the malls and the chaos of the popular markets for an exclusive shopping experience at the Santushti Shopping Complex. Located in the posh area of Delhi’s Chanakyapuri, this beautiful complex features high-end stores, souvenir shops, a boutique tea store called Sancha, and a few cafes housed in charming huts, amidst manicured lawns and lush greenery. Shopaholic or not, one is sure to enjoy browsing through the plethora of clothing, accessories, and home décor here, especially during winters, monsoons, and good weather days.
7. Kumhar Colony
Tucked away in the narrow lanes of Uttam Nagar is Delhi’s biggest potter’s colony called Kumhar Gram. This area is home to over 700 families of potters, who have passed on the art of pottery making from generation to generation. Unknown to the rest of the world, many of these potters are national award winners, their elegant clay items and earthenware sold not only locally but also at popular markets in various parts of the country. Explore the genius and skill of these arty families, see them carving intricate designs and handcrafting various earthen items on the wheel, and shop for clay utensils, flower pots, figurines, glazed ceramics, and all kinds of beautiful pottery at cheap prices.
