Delhi Diaries — A Long-Awaited Short Trip.

After weeks of planning and waiting, our quick Delhi getaway finally happened! As parents, our main goal was simple — to spend quality time together, just us and our little explorer, Yana.

We wanted this trip to be more than just sightseeing — something that would stay in her memory for life. At this beautiful age, children absorb everything — the joy of visiting new places, the thrill of handling small challenges like managing tickets or navigating crowds, and the excitement of discovering the real-world stories they’ve only read in books.

We wanted Yana to see the history she’s learning — from ancient India to the Mughal era to the modern Delhi she knows today.

And honestly, every parent would agree — these learning-based trips are pure magic! They’re fun, full of laughter, and packed with small life lessons that no classroom can teach. In today’s fast-paced world, such trips bring families closer, help us slow down, and remind us what truly matters — togetherness.

Highly recommended for every family — because memories made on the road last a lifetime!!!!!

🏛️ DAY 1 — Exploring the Heritage and Heart of Delhi

1. Qutub Minar (Mehrauli)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Qutub Minar is the world’s tallest brick minaret. This stunning complex marks the beginning of Muslim rule in India, with intricate carvings and the famous rustproof Iron Pillar. For Yana, it was like walking through a real-life page from her history book on the Delhi Sultanate.
Entry Fee: Indians: ₹40, Foreigners: ₹600, and Children under 15: Free

2. Lotus Temple

A beautiful Bahá’í House of Worship shaped like a lotus flower — open to people of all religions. The serene atmosphere and unique architecture make it a peaceful stop. Inside, silence is the rule — a perfect moment to teach Yana the value of quiet reflection.
Closed on Mondays
Entry Fee: Free

3. Akshardham Temple (Optional)

 A magnificent modern Hindu temple complex known for its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and fascinating exhibition with a boat ride through India’s history.
📱 Note: Phones, cameras, and bags are not allowed inside. There’s a free cloakroom.
Closed on Mondays

4. Raj Ghat & Shakti Sthal

Raj Ghat: The simple black marble platform marking Mahatma Gandhi’s cremation site — serene and humbling.

Shakti Sthal: The memorial of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, located nearby.
Entry Fee: Free

5. Red Fort (Lal Qila)

A grand symbol of Mughal India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort stands as a magnificent reminder of the empire’s glory. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan, this vast fort of red sandstone tells stories of power, art, and architectural brilliance. Walking through its majestic gates and exploring the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) felt like stepping back in time — as if the Mughal era had come alive before our eyes.
Closed on Mondays
Entry Fee: Indians: ₹50, Foreigners: ₹600, Children under 15: Free, and Museum/ Sound & Light Show: ₹100–₹300 approx.

6. Jantar Mantar

An ancient astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh II, Jantar Mantar features 13 remarkable architectural instruments that once measured time, tracked celestial movements, and studied the stars. It’s a fascinating and interactive place.

However, it’s disheartening to see that the site isn’t properly maintained — such a significant piece of history truly deserves better care.
Entry Fee: Indians: ₹40, Foreigners: ₹600, and Children under 15: Free

7. India Gate (Evening Lights)

A war memorial dedicated to Indian soldiers. In the evening, it glows beautifully, surrounded by families, food stalls, and laughter — perfect for a relaxed stroll after a long day.
Timings: Lights on from dusk till late (Closed after midnight)
Entry Fee: Free

8. Khan Market & Connaught Place (CP)

Delhi’s premier shopping and dining hubs.

Khan Market: Boutique stores, cozy cafés, and bookshops — great for a quiet coffee stop.

Connaught Place: A vibrant circular market filled with restaurants, shops, and colonial charm — perfect for dinner and souvenir shopping to end the day.

🌳 DAY 2 — Delhi’s Green Corners & Old-World Charm

1. Lodhi Garden

A beautiful, sprawling park dotted with the tombs of 15th-century Sayyid and Lodi rulers — Lodhi Garden is perfect for a peaceful morning walk, bird watching, or even a relaxed picnic. Though the place could be better maintained, its charm remains undeniable. Yana loved running freely amid the lush greenery and centuries-old domes. Entry Fee: Free

2. Humayun’s Tomb

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Humayun’s Tomb is a grand Mughal garden tomb that inspired the design of the Taj Mahal. Its perfect symmetry, red sandstone façade, and serene Persian-style gardens make it a photographer’s delight.
The complex also houses several smaller tombs of royal family members, adding to its timeless charm and historical depth. Truly, every corner here feels like a walk through Mughal elegance.
Entry Fee: Indians: ₹40, Foreigners: ₹600, and Children under 15: Free

3. Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s House)

The official residence of the President of India — an architectural marvel and a symbol of modern Indian democracy.
We were pleasantly surprised to learn that visiting inside Rashtrapati Bhavan is actually possible! Most people don’t know this.
If you wish to explore the Rashtrapati Bhavan and Secretariat from inside, simply download the ‘RASHTRAPATI BHAVAN’ mobile app. Through it, you can check available slots and book your visit a day in advance. It’s an amazing opportunity to witness one of India’s most important landmarks up close.

4. Agrasen ki Baoli

A mysterious ancient stepwell tucked between modern buildings. The play of light and shadow gives it a unique atmosphere. Movie lovers may recognize it from popular Bollywood scenes!
Entry Fee: Free

5. Chandni Chowk

The beating heart of Old Delhi — chaotic, colorful, and completely unforgettable. Take a rickshaw ride through narrow lanes, see Jama Masjid from outside, and dive into the world of Delhi’s legendary street food — from paratha’s at Paranthe Wali Gali to jalebis and spicy chaat.
Entry Fee: Free

Final Thoughts

Our short Delhi trip turned out to be far more enriching than we had imagined. It wasn’t just about the monuments or the food — it was about rediscovering history through Yana’s curious eyes.

If you’re planning a visit, make sure to plan and prioritize your itinerary well. Many places, including government museums, remain closed on Mondays, so it’s best to avoid that day. Hiring a taxi for the entire day is highly recommended — figuring out metro routes or waiting for Ola/Uber can eat up a lot of time.

And yes, safety always comes first. Just the next day after our visit, we heard about an unfortunate explosion near the Red Fort — truly sad and unsettling. 💔

Traveling with kids can be both educational and emotional — watching them learn, laugh, and create memories that last a lifetime is the real joy of parenting.