20+ Tourist Places to Visit in South Delhi

South Delhi stands as the crown jewel of India's capital, seamlessly blending ancient heritage with contemporary sophistication. From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to bustling markets, from serene temples to vibrant art districts, South Delhi offers an unparalleled experience for every type of traveler. Whether you're a history enthusiast, shopping aficionado, spiritual seeker, or culture vulture, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best of what South Delhi has to offer.

Historical Monuments & Heritage Sites

1. Qutub Minar - The Towering Glory of Delhi

Location: Mehrauli, New Delhi, Delhi 110030
Timings: Daily 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹30 per person
Nearest Metro: Qutub Minar Metro Station

Standing majestically at 240 feet, the Qutub Minar is not just South Delhi's most iconic landmark but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to 1199. Built by Qutub-ud-din Aibak, the founder of the Delhi Sultanate, this architectural marvel features five distinct storeys with intricate Parso-Arabic and Nagari inscriptions.

What Makes It Special:

• Climb 379 spiral steps to reach the top
• Marvel at the red sandstone construction
• Explore the surrounding Qutub Complex with its ancient ruins
• Perfect for photography and leisurely exploration

Insider Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.

2. Humayun's Tomb - The Garden of Paradise

Location: Mathura Road, Nizamuddin East, New Delhi
Timings: Daily 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹30 per person (Indians), ₹500 (Foreigners)

Often called the precursor to the Taj Mahal, Humayun's Tomb was commissioned by his wife Biga Begum in 1565. This magnificent garden tomb houses 150 graves of the Mughal royal family and represents the pinnacle of Mughal architecture with its octagonal chambers and Persian-influenced design.

Highlights:

• First garden tomb built in India
• Stunning Charbagh (four-garden) layout
• Red sandstone and white marble construction
• Houses the graves of multiple Mughal emperors

3. Iron Pillar - The Rust-Free Wonder

Location: Within Qutub Minar Complex, Mehrauli
Timings: Same as Qutub Minar Complex

This 1,600-year-old metallurgical marvel continues to puzzle scientists worldwide. Made of 98% wrought iron, the pillar has withstood centuries without showing a speck of rust, making it one of the world's most mysterious monuments.

Fascinating Facts:

• Over 1,600 years old and still rust-free
• Height of 7.2 meters
• Inscribed with Sanskrit verses
• Legend says making a wish while hugging it comes true

4. Safdarjung Tomb - The Last Mughal Garden Tomb

Location: Safdarjung Road, New Delhi
Timings: Daily 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹25 per person

Built in 1754 for Safdarjung, the Prime Minister of the Mughal Empire, this is the last garden tomb built in the Mughal architectural style. The mausoleum's unique golden effect comes from its sandstone and marble construction.

Special Features:

• Beautiful Charbagh garden layout
• Hidden stairways and secret chambers
• Stunning golden-hour photography opportunities
• Less crowded than other Mughal monuments

5. Mehrauli Archaeological Park - A Journey Through Time

Location: Anuvrat Marg, opposite Qutub Minar Metro Station
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
Entry: Free

Spread across 200 acres, this park contains ruins from over 1,000 years of Delhi's history, including remains from the Lal Kot built by Tomar Rajputs in the 11th century.

What to Explore:

• Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb
• Balban's Tomb
• Rajon ki Baoli (step well)
• Guided heritage walks available

Spiritual & Religious Sites

6. Lotus Temple (Bahai House of Worship)

Location: Lotus Temple Road, Bahapur, Kalkaji, New Delhi
Timings: Daily 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry: Free (No photos allowed inside)

Shaped like a blooming lotus with 27 free-standing marble petals, this architectural masterpiece welcomes people of all religions for meditation and prayer. The white marble used is sourced from the Penteli mountains of Greece - the same marble used in the Pantheon.

Unique Features:

• Capacity of 2,500 people in the central hall
• Partially powered by solar electricity
• No religious symbols or images inside
• Perfect acoustics for meditation

7. ISKCON Temple - Krishna Consciousness Hub

Location: ISKCON Temple Road, Sant Nagar, East of Kailash
Timings: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM

This sprawling temple complex offers spiritual solace along with beautiful gardens, cultural programs, and excellent vegetarian cuisine at its in-house restaurant.

Experiences:

• Daily aarti and bhajan sessions
• Govinda's restaurant serving pure vegetarian food
• Cultural events and festivals
• Peaceful gardens for meditation

8. Kalkaji Temple - Ancient Goddess Shrine

Location: Kalkaji, New Delhi
Open: 24 hours during festival seasons

Dedicated to Goddess Kali (Kalka Devi), this ancient temple attracts thousands of devotees, especially during Navratri. The temple complex features beautiful architecture and spiritual energy.

9. Chattarpur Temple - South Delhi's Largest Temple Complex

Location: Chhatarpur, New Delhi
Timings: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Dedicated to Goddess Katyayani, this temple complex is famous for its intricate architecture, beautiful gardens, and the captivating light and sound show held in the evenings.

Shopping Destinations

10. Sarojini Nagar Market - The Bargain Hunter's Paradise

Location: Sarojini Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 110023
Timings: Daily except Monday, 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Nearest Metro: INA Metro Station

This vibrant market is every shopaholic's dream, offering branded clothes, accessories, shoes, and fabrics at incredibly affordable prices. From street fashion to ethnic wear, Sarojini Nagar has it all.

Shopping Tips:

• Never pay more than ₹250 for basic garments
• ₹100-150 is the usual price for tops
• Check for wear and tear before purchasing
• Carry large bags as shop covers are flimsy
• Best time to visit: Weekdays between 12 PM - 4 PM
• Always bargain aggressively

Market Sections:

• Babu Market - Garments and accessories
• Central Market - Mixed items
• Subzi Market - Food items
• Mandir Wali Side Market - Traditional wear

11. South Extension Market - Upscale Shopping Hub

Location: South Extension, New Delhi
Specialty: High-end brands, designer wear, electronics

A more upscale shopping destination featuring both street shops and branded stores, perfect for those looking for quality fashion and lifestyle products.

12. Lajpat Nagar Central Market - Electronics & More

Location: Lajpat Nagar, New Delhi
Famous For: Electronics, gadgets, clothing, footwear

This bustling market is particularly famous for its electronic goods and offers a wide range of products at competitive prices.

Art & Culture Districts

13. Hauz Khas Village - The Art District

Location: Hauz Khas, New Delhi
Best Time: Evening and night

HKV, as it's popularly known, is South Delhi's hippest neighborhood, combining medieval Islamic architecture with contemporary art galleries, trendy cafes, boutiques, and vibrant nightlife.

What to Experience:

• Art galleries showcasing contemporary works
• Rooftop restaurants with stunning views
• Boutique shopping for unique items
• Medieval ruins of Hauz Khas Fort
• Lake-side walking paths

14. Champa Gali - Millennials' Favorite

Location: Near Saket Metro Station
Famous For: Quirky cafes, street art, boutiques

This narrow lane has become South Delhi's most Instagram-worthy destination, packed with artistic cafes, unique boutiques, and colorful street art.

Parks & Natural Spaces

15. Lodhi Garden - Delhi's Most Beautiful Park

Location: Lodhi Road, New Delhi
Timings: 5:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Entry: Free
Nearest Metro: Khan Market Metro Station

Spread across 90 acres, Lodhi Garden is one of Delhi's most picturesque parks, combining lush green landscapes with medieval monuments. This historic garden houses tombs of the 15th and 16th-century rulers and offers a perfect blend of nature and heritage.

Key Attractions:

• Mohammed Shah's Tomb (1444 AD)
• Sikander Lodi's Tomb (1517 AD)
• Bara Gumbad and Sheesh Gumbad
• Rose Garden with over 100 varieties
• Perfect for morning walks, yoga, and photography
• Popular picnic spot for families
• Birdwatching opportunities

16. Deer Park - Family-Friendly Recreation

Location: Hauz Khas, New Delhi
Features: Large open spaces, deer enclosures, children's play areas

Perfect for family outings with its well-maintained lawns, deer enclosures, and recreational facilities.

Hidden Gems & Offbeat Attractions

17. Agrasen Ki Baoli - The Mysterious Stepwell

Location: Hailey Road, Connaught Place (easily accessible from South Delhi)
Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Entry: Free

This ancient stepwell, dating back to the 14th century, features hypnotic step-like architecture and offers a cool respite from Delhi's heat.

18. Tughlaqabad Fort - Ruins of the Past

Built by Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq in 1321, these imposing ruins offer spectacular views and great trekking opportunities for adventure enthusiasts.

19. Sunder Nursery - Heritage Garden

Location: Near Humayun's Tomb
Timings: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹35 per person

This beautifully restored 90-acre garden features Mughal monuments, themed gardens, and over 300 tree species.

Dining & Entertainment

Modern Dining Experiences

Mocha Art House: Combining art exhibitions with international cuisine, this contemporary space offers an unique cultural dining experience.

Hauz Khas Village Restaurants: From rooftop dining to cozy cafes, HKV offers diverse culinary experiences with stunning ambiance.

ISKCON Temple Restaurant (Govinda's): Authentic vegetarian cuisine in a spiritual setting.

Premier Shopping Malls & Modern Attractions

South Delhi is home to some of India's most luxurious and popular shopping malls, each offering a unique retail and entertainment experience. From high-end luxury brands to family-friendly shopping, these malls cater to every taste and budget.

1. Select City Walk - The Shopping Paradise

Location: District Centre, Saket, New Delhi - 110017
Timings: Daily 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Nearest Metro: Saket Metro Station
Area: 1.3 million sq. ft. with 6 lakh sq. ft. retail space

Nexus Select CITYWALK is Delhi's most beloved shopping destination, spreading across 6 acres with over 175 brands. This award-winning mall has been consistently recognized as the 'Country's Most Admired Shopping Centre' and offers an unparalleled shopping experience.

Key Features:

• Cinema: PVR Cinemas with 6 screens including 2 Gold Class theaters and Delhi's first IMAX theater
• Dining: My Square food court (10,000 sq. ft.) with diverse cuisine options
• Brands: Zara, H&M, MAC, Sephora, Nike, Dior, Tommy Hilfiger, Forever New, Guess
• Services: Personal shopping assistance, concierge services, EV charging stations
• Special Amenities: Mother's feeding room, rent-a-stroller service, gift wrapping

What Makes It Special:

• Beautiful outdoor landscaped plaza covering 8,992 sq. meters
• 175+ international and national brands
• High-street shopping experience with outdoor kiosks
• State-of-the-art multiplex with IMAX experience

2. DLF Emporio - India's Finest Luxury Destination

Location: 4, Nelson Mandela Road, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi
Timings: Daily 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Phone: +91 11 4611 6666
Nearest Metro: Vasant Vihar Metro Station
Area: 320,000 sq. ft. across 4 floors

Known as one of India's most expensive and luxurious malls, DLF Emporio is synonymous with exclusivity and high-end fashion. This opulent destination houses over 100 of the finest international brands and Indian designers.

Luxury Brands:

• International: Louis Vuitton, Dior, Cartier, Burberry, Giorgio Armani, Versace, Hugo Boss, Bottega Veneta, Salvatore Ferragamo, DKNY, Kenneth Cole
• Indian Designers: Ritu Kumar, Tarun Tahiliani, Nikhil & Shantanu
• Dining: Café E for freshly brewed espresso and gourmet food, Cha Shi oriental café

Unique Features:

• 130+ brands including 50 international luxury labels
• Exclusive shopping experience with personalized service
• Elegant interiors reminiscent of international fashion capitals
• Limited edition and exclusive collections

3. DLF Promenade - Premier Shopping & Entertainment Hub

Location: 3, Nelson Mandela Road, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi
Timings: Daily 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Phone: +91 11 4610 4466
Nearest Metro: Vasant Vihar Metro Station

DLF Promenade is a vibrant, upscale shopping destination known for its curated offerings and exceptional entertainment options. It features Delhi's only 7-screen PVR ICON Cinema and hosts top retail brands.

Key Attractions:

• Cinema: 7-screen PVR ICON Cinema with latest technology
• Brands: High-street fashion labels, exclusive collections
• Dining: Wide selection of restaurants and cafes including SOCIAL
• Entertainment: Regular events and cultural programs

Special Features:

• Trendy, contemporary shopping environment
• Excellent food and beverage options
• Premium cinema experience
• Art galleries and cultural spaces

4. Ambience Mall Vasant Kunj - Complete Family Destination

Location: Ambience Island, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi
Timings: Daily 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Nearest Metro: Vasant Vihar Metro Station

Located adjacent to DLF Promenade and DLF Emporio, Ambience Mall offers a perfect blend of high-end and affordable shopping options, making it a popular family destination.

Shopping Options:

• Affordable Brands: Biba, Big Bazaar, Bata, Reliance Digital, Lifestyle, Global Desi, Home Centre
• Department Stores: Well-stocked retail outlets for all age groups
• Entertainment: Fun City play zone with games and rides for children
• Dining: Food court on 3rd floor with Burger King, KFC, McDonald's, Subway

Popular Restaurants:

• Kylin Skybar for rooftop dining
• Chili's for international cuisine
• Punjabi By Nature for authentic Indian food

Family Features:

• Dedicated kids' play area (Fun City)
• Family-friendly dining options
• Wide range of price points
• Easy accessibility and parking

5. DLF Avenue Saket - Cultural Shopping Experience

Location: Saket, New Delhi
Timings: Daily 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Phone: +91 11 4606 4444

DLF Avenue offers a thoughtfully curated blend of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. This mall is known for its unique concept of combining retail with cultural activities.

Unique Features:

• COMMONS: Exclusive F&B hub with diverse dining options
• Social Steps: Iconic indoor landmark fostering social connections
• The Plaza: Open-air cultural center for events and exhibitions
• Connected internally to Select City Walk

Cultural Aspect:

• Regular art exhibitions and cultural events
• Community engagement programs
• Creative spaces for local artists
• Interactive cultural experiences

Mall Comparison Guide

Shopping Tips for South Delhi Malls

Best Times to Visit:

• Weekdays: Less crowded, better service
• Early Morning: Fresh stock, peaceful shopping
• Late Evening: Great for dining and entertainment

Parking & Transportation:

• All malls offer multi-level covered parking
• Metro connectivity to most locations
• Valet parking available at premium malls
• EV charging facilities at select locations

Special Services:

• Personal shopping assistance
• Home delivery services
• Gift wrapping and concierge services
• Currency exchange facilities
• First aid and emergency services

Seasonal Sales:

• End of Season Sales: January, June-July
• Festival Sales: Diwali, Dussehra, Christmas
• Mall Anniversary Sales: Check individual mall calendars
• Brand-specific Sales: Follow brand social media for updates

Transportation & Getting Around

Metro Connectivity

• Qutub Minar: Qutub Minar Metro Station
• Sarojini Nagar: INA Metro Station
• Hauz Khas: Hauz Khas Metro Station
• Lotus Temple: Kalkaji Mandir Metro Station

Other Transport Options

• Yulu Bikes: Eco-friendly bike sharing available throughout South Delhi
• Auto-rickshaws and Taxis: Easily available
• Ola/Uber: Convenient for longer distances

Best Time to Visit

October to March: Ideal weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities
April to June: Hot weather, early morning visits recommended
July to September: Monsoon season, indoor attractions preferred

Budget Planning

Budget-Friendly Options:

• Street food and local markets
• Public transportation
• Free entry monuments and parks

Mid-Range Experiences:

• Restaurant dining
• Shopping in branded stores
• Guided tours

Luxury Options:

• Fine dining restaurants
• Premium shopping destinations
• Private tours and transport

Pro Tips for Exploring South Delhi

1. Start Early: Beat the crowds and heat by beginning your day early
2. Dress Appropriately: Modest clothing for religious sites
3. Stay Hydrated: Carry water, especially during summer months
4. Bargain Wisely: Essential skill for street markets
5. Use Metro: Most efficient way to travel between attractions
6. Plan by Area: Group nearby attractions to save time
7. Check Timings: Some monuments close on certain days
8. Carry Cash: Many street vendors don't accept cards
9. Photography Rules: Check restrictions at religious sites
10. Local Guides: Consider hiring for historical monuments

Seasonal Events & Festivals

• Diwali (October/November): Temple celebrations and markets
• Navratri: Special celebrations at Kalkaji Temple
• Delhi Heritage Week: Special events at monuments
• Art Gallery Events: Regular exhibitions in Hauz Khas Village

South Delhi truly offers something for everyone - from ancient history to modern culture, from spiritual experiences to shopping adventures. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, these destinations promise to surprise and delight you with their unique charm and character.

Plan your South Delhi adventure today and discover why this part of the capital continues to captivate visitors from around the world. Each location tells a story, each market offers an experience, and every corner holds the promise of discovery in this magnificent part of Delhi.