The crumbling remains of the Purana Qila are known as the sixth city of Delhi and represent a brief interruption in Delhi's Mughal history when the Afghan ruler Sher Shah defeated Emperor Humayun. Of the buildings still standing within this oldest known structure in Delhi, the Qila-i-Kuhna Masjid (Mosque of Sher Shah), is quite stunning. The Sher Mandal is an octagonal observatory and library. The north gate, Talaqi-Darwaza, has been partially rebuilt and gives a good impression of how formidable the fortifications would have been in their heyday.

Daily dawn-dusk (fortress); daily 0800-1830 (museum).

Yes

Better known as the Lotus Temple, the stunning Baha'i House of Worship was designed by Iranian-Canadian architect Fariburz Sahba in 1986 as a tribute to the lotus flower (a divine flower in many Eastern religions). Giant white petals of marble open out from nine pools and walkways in the shape of an unfolding lotus, symbolising the nine spiritual paths of the Baha'i faith. Inside, the central hall rises to a height of over 30m (98ft). Photography is not permitted inside the temple and visitors are also requested to refrain from talking. Lines may be long, and while the inside is stunning, it may be better to drive by and snap a photo, using your time to see other sites rather than waiting to enter.

Tues-Sun 0900-1900 (Apr-Sep); Tues-Sun 0900-1730 (Oct-Mar).

No

It takes a good few hours to even skim the surface of Indian culture at Delhi’s National Museum. Highlights include excavations from Indus Valley civilisation sites, carved pillars and statues from various Indian empires, Central Asian antiquities and Tibetan manuscripts. But there's much, much more. One gallery houses over 300 musical instruments while another displays Mughal clothing, tapestries, ornaments and weapons. The admission ticket includes an informative audio-guide in English, Japanese, Hindi, German or French (you will need ID to obtain an audio-guide).

Tues-Sun 1000-1700.

Yes

Rajpath (Kingsway) is the grand approach to Lutyen's Delhi. Lined with trees, fountains and pools, this ceremonial boulevard hosts the colourful Republic Day parade every 26 January. At the western end stands Rashtrapati Bhavan (President's House), an immense palace originally built as the Viceroy’s residence but now the official home of the President of India. Witness the changing of the guard in the forecourt every Saturday morning. The neighbouring Mughal Gardens are open to the public on selected days in February/March. At the eastern end stands India Gate, a popular picnic spot on balmy evenings and weekends.

Daily dawn-dusk; President’s House:0900-1600.

No

Dedicated to the remarkable story of the world's biggest railway system, Delhi’s National Rail Museum reflects the social and historic importance of what effectively bound India into a single nation. Trainspotters of all ages will love it, with its open-air display of old steam locomotives and rolling stock. Spread over 4 hectares (10 acres), this excellent museum houses 30 trains and old carriages and includes an 1855 steam engine and lavish carriages belonging to British and Indian grandees. There's a 'Joy Train' ride (great for kids), and on Sundays the Steam Mono Rail is open to all. The somewhat down-at-heel indoor gallery features train models, antique clocks, railway furniture, and historical photographs.

Tues-Sun 0930-1730.

Yes

Lodhi Garden is a romantic 90-acre public park just south of India Gate and Khan Market. Inside, you’ll find dream-like sights: quiet ponds, grassy hills and winding paths mingling around 15th-century tombs and monuments. It’s a popular spot for locals to take morning walks, and in the afternoon you’re likely to see something you won’t see almost anywhere else in India – young couples canoodling shyly under the trees.

Dawn to dusk.

No