Being the capital of India, Delhi is one of the most visited cities. It is the hub of political action, cultural fusion, a hot spot of education, and the perfect blend of architecture and history. No matter how long you have stayed in Delhi, it will keep surprising you with nooks and corners around the streets from where you can catch a glimpse of the entire city. These centuries-old beauties will make you go through the remarkable past of India, once more! Delhi is so huge. And often, the less-known places go unnoticed. On my trip to Delhi, I focused on exploring the hidden places where I found a piece of myself. Before exploring the unexplored places, read my guide – 20 Things to do in Delhi for Solo Female Travellers.

Even though these significant places of Delhi were not able to get the same attention from the government and locals, but let me assure you that they certainly deserve a visit. Here, I have curated a list for all my fellow travellers to visit the unpopular places in Delhi that you should NOT miss. 

1. Agrasen Ki Baoli

Situated in the heart of Delhi, Cannaught Place, this Boali has historical significance from the British era. Poets, artists, photographers, and travellers come here to find themselves. This stepwell has a different charm to itself and can be felt as soon as you reach here. It would help if you visit this ancient water reservoir in search of some ‘quiet time.’ The easiest way to get here is through Janpath or Rajiv Chowk metro station, and there is no entrance fee for this. 

2. One with Nature at Sanjay Van

What’s better than to be in the company of nature itself? It is one of the famous forest areas in Delhi, but not many visitors come here due to its low maintenance. Environment enthusiasts and those looking for an eerie silence should visit here. Thick timbers and wild plants surround it, and the sunset in this woodland is to-die-for. Spread across 443 acres of land, morning walkers, joggers, and yoga lovers often visit this little forest. Get down at Vasant Kunj metro station to reach Sanjay Van at the earliest and be one with nature. 

3. Visit India’s ancient spice market: Khali Baoli

Not many people know about it as these days we are habitual of getting packed products from the store, but you have not seen the real India if you have not visited here. This place got its name as a vast salt well was situated here, but this old place took a turn and now houses spices of all kinds with time. You will find various spices, herbs, dry fruits, nuts, and grains that you can carry back with you as a delicious little souvenir. Chandni Chowk is the nearest metro station to here at Khali Baoli, and this place is a free walk-in. 

4. Explore the unexplored Haveli of Mirza Ghalib

India is called the land of poets for a reason. Situated in old Delhi, this is the residence of 19th centaury Hindu poet Mirza Ghalib, who penned some timeless and classic poems and writings. His home is now converted into a heritage site where wanderers come to seek meaning and inspiration. This hidden gem of Delhi is built in the Mughal style of architecture and offers insight into the poet’s life. There is a private gallery in the house’s hallways, which adorns the famous pot’s work. Owing to its rustic charm Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) now maintains it. Get down at Chawri Bazaar metro station to reach here soon, and there are no entry charges applicable. 

5. Asola Wildlife Sanctuary

Living in the cemented jungle of megacities moved me to visit this place. It is situated on the outskirts of South Delhi and is full of trees and wild animals. There is a man-made lake inside where I enjoyed my brunch with little puppies and squirrels. The Indian military maintains it, and safety is guarded at all times. It is ideal for visiting if you are into hiking, trekking, or animals. Tughlakabad metro station is the nearest point from where you can reach this wildlife sanctuary. Ensure that you carry your ID proof as for foreign visitors, the fee is charged. 

6. Roam around Humayun’s Tomb

It was the first garden-tomb to be built in India in tribute to the Mughal Emperor – Humayun. The Architecture of this tomb is similar to an Indo-Islamic style, and it is a spectacular spot for pictures. It took eight years to build is a testament to how huge and personalized it is to the Mughal culture. There are several other Mughal garden tombs in it, along with the burial of empresses. The grandeur of architecture and culture comes under UNESCO world heritage site. The easiest way to reach here is to get down at Jorbagh metro station and walk to Humayun’s Tomb. Ensure that you carry your ID proof as for foreign visitors, the fee is charged. While you are there, don’t miss going to India Habitat Centre as it a conventional hall where art from all over India is displayed. 

7. Every Traveller’s Stop-By Cafe

Alert to all the solo female travellers out there! This Kunzum café is ideated with the theme to initiate a discussion and interaction between the travellers. Globetrotters worldwide have visited this café and inspired many fellow beings to set out on the journey. It is where urban and rural co-exist in a rare occurrence, and entrepreneurs and designers fuse their energies. Many call it the ‘hippy-happy district.’ All the travellers are encouraged to pin a photograph or an anecdote of their travel to the wall of the café. They often organize workshops to promote tourism and training sessions if you need any expertise before travelling. So visit this café for music, food, and stories that will stay with you forever. Get down at Hauz Khas metro station and walk up to every traveller’s fairyland. 

8. Explore the ‘Seven Arch Bridge.’ 

Satpula Bridge with seven adjacent bridges was built with water conservation and harvesting. Back then, this sturdy bridge acted as a defensive wall during Sultan Mohammed Shah Tughlaq. This two-storied high structure hosts a soothing green area and lets you see a completely different Delhi side. The water has dried here, but you will still enjoy a long walk with a view. The Saket metro station is the nearest point where you can reach Satpula Bridge, and no entrance fee is charged here. 

9. The Vintage Street of Delhi

Champa Gali has recently risen to its prominence of developing a casual, warm, and friendly vibe. Situated in South Delhi, this street has a plethora of theme cafes and a young crowd. More or less, you will find a band performing here or a poetry session going on. Champa Gali is one of my favourite places to be when I want to have some me-time. It’s Parisian labyrinthine setting makes it picturesque.

This place received it’s name as Champa Gali due to the high number of ‘Champa’ plants. This offbeat place in Delhi is home to some beautiful cafes like Jugmug Thela, Blue Tokai, and Rose Café. It has a vintage postcard vibe added by art galleries and quaint little stores. I bought seeds for my plants and hand-made bookmarks from here, and they indeed are unique. The Saket metro station is the nearest point where you can reach Champa Gali, and no entrance fee is charged here.

10. Blast from the Past at Chunnamal Haveli

Touring around Old Delhi may take you to the ancient land where heritage and culture were closely knitted. At Chunnamal Haveli, you get to relive the past and feel the same. It is stuffed with an ornate and aesthetic ambience, as it is one of the famous yet unexplored Haveli in Delhi. It indeed preserves the heritage of old times and still is intact with floor-length chandeliers, old portraits, and antique furniture. This hidden gem dated back to 1848, belongs to one of the wealthiest men in Delhi, Lala Chunnamal. The eighth generation of the family still lives on the upper floor while the ground floor has several shops selling perfumes and jewelry. It is a three-storied mansion filled with an aura of royalty. Get down at Chandni Chowk metro station to reach here, and there are no entry charges applicable.

11. Mehrauli Archaeological Park

To see the blend of history and architecture, Mehrauli Architecture Park is the place for you. Spread across 200 acres, it contains the tomb of Balban and Maulana Jamali Kamali. It includes ruins of Rajputs and architectural relics of the Lodhi dynasty of Delhi, Khalji dynasty, and Tughlaq Dynasty. You can enjoy an entire day in the sunshine surrounded by greenery. It is THE PLACE for you if history and art interests you. Get down at Chattarpur metro station, and don’t forget to carry your ID proofs as there is an entrance fee for foreign passport holders.

12. Missing some Tibetan vibe? Head here

Get a taste of Tibet in Delhi at this offbeat place – Majnu Ka Tila. It is famous for creating a little Tibet in Delhi. From its authentic food to accessories, this place has all the culture preserved from their clothes to furniture. Afghanis and Tibetans stay here in the majority and often organize musical nights connecting back with their local vibe. Ama Café, Yamuna Café, and Himalaya Café are really popular, and all of these are very budget-friendly, costing near to Rs 500 for two. Don’t miss going to Kori’s Café for having the best Korean food in Delhi. Get down at Civil Lines metro station to reach here soon, and there are no entry charges applicable.

13. Find your own Ministry of Happiness 

Unlike other countries, India is conservative and orthodox when it comes to the LGBTQ community. By legal means, the bill is passed, but yet people are caged in their thought. Hijron Ka Khanqah is one place that creates a different secluded world inside for the eunuchs away from the world’s noisy opinions. It is a solitary attraction for those who have questions about themselves and are being neglected by their families. You will see an iron grill and freight of stairs as soon as you enter. You can then escalate to see around fifty whitewashed tombs.

The immense courtyard lets the dreams of insiders come true with the support of the LGBTQ community. You will also enjoy reading about it in Arundhati Roy’s book – Ministry Of Utmost Happiness. Chattarpur is the nearest metro station to reach here, and it is advisable to carry your ID proofs as there are an entrance fee and security check. 

14. Delhi War Cemetery

If you want to switch off from the world and remember your loved ones, you should head to Delhi War Cemetery. This memorial is a graveyard to soldiers of both the British Commonwealth World Wars. This place is all about tall pillars and exquisite memoirs. Situated in the Delhi Cantonment area, it was created in 1951. The site envelops the feeling of patriotism and love. It was made when all grave cemeteries from Northern India were permanently moved here for their lifetime maintenance. Get down at Dhaula Kuan metro station, and don’t forget to carry your ID proofs as there is an entrance fee for foreign passport holders.

15. Chhota Qutub Minar

Shah Jahan built this minaret tower situated in West Delhi in 1650. This three-storied tower is 55 feet high and resembles the Qutub Minar of Delhi. This heritage monument is built with brick and clad with red stones and is protected by the Department of Archaeology, India. Back then, it was utilized as a housing lodge after returning from hunting in the wilderness. Get down at Uttam Nagar metro station, and don’t forget to carry your ID proofs as there is an entrance fee for foreign passport holders. 

You don’t have to stop here but travel further North from Delhi and discover other hidden spots. Read my guide – The Ultimate Travel Guide to North India

For those seeking pleasure in offbeat places to try out food, travel, photography, and architecture, Delhi is the host city. Going to a non-touristy place ignites the interest to meet like-minded people. These remote and hidden gems of Delhi made me fall in love with this place all over again. I hope you too travel and get lost in your beautiful way. 

For more insights, read – Delhi’s 10 Best-Kept Secrets For Travelers.