While most people want to visit the same old famous monuments Delhi is renowned for, others may want to go beyond the norm and visit places that are unheard of and hidden from the general public. To help this type of tourist, we have articulated this list of some of the most obscure and hidden tourist places that you can visit while in Delhi.
As many of these places are situated in different parts of the city, it is advised that you use your private vehicle to drive around or rent a car in Delhi with RenTrip. Renting a car will be your best bet to easily navigate the different places around Delhi and see as much as possible. So, buckle up and get ready to drive on over to the first spot. When exploring a city as vast and diverse as Delhi, having your own means of transportation can make all the difference. While public transport is an option, it may not always provide the flexibility and convenience needed to uncover the hidden gems tucked away in different corners of the city. This is where renting a car emerges as the perfect solution for travelers seeking to delve deeper into Delhi’s rich tapestry of history and culture.
Benefits of Renting a Car
Renting a car in Delhi offers unparalleled convenience, especially when venturing off the beaten path to discover lesser-known historical sites. With a rental car at your disposal, you have the freedom to chart your own course and explore at your own pace. No longer bound by rigid public transport schedules, you can spend as much time as you desire at each location, soaking in the sights and immersing yourself in the stories of the past. Whether it’s navigating the bustling streets of Old Delhi or meandering through the serene lanes of Mehrauli, a rental car provides the flexibility to traverse the city with ease and efficiency.
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Delhi’s Colorful Past
Jahaz Mahal
Named after the shape of the reflection, Jahaz Mahal used to project in an adjacent pool, The place was built during the Lodhi dynasty from 1451 to 1562. Situated on the main road that leads to Mehrauli, this place could be the right place for history fanatics and visitors who have a keen interest in archaeology.
This is a beautiful sight to behold Lodi architecture, and if you point your cameras the right way, you will be able to get some of the best pictures.If the local authorities allow, you can also climb up the palace roof and witness the Lodhi-styled domed pavilions that were specially angled to let in just enough light and air to keep the passages and rooms of the mahal lit and airy.
You can visit the palace whenever you feel like it it’s always open, but we advise you to see the place during daylight. The Lodi dynasty was known for its connection with Afghan and Turkish chiefs still it took a few centuries for authentic shawarma to come to India.
Zafar Mahal
This peaceful alcove of the last Mughal emperor who ruled the nation, Bahadur Shah Zafar, is another palace that has been neglected in the middle of the city Mehrauli. The archaeological survey of India has showcased rudimentary plans to restore the palace to its previous glory, but as of now, the place is in a dilapidated state.
If you plan to visit the place, do it during daylight, as you will be able to witness the architectural styling of the older times and get an idea of the grandeur with which emperors must have lived. Huge arches that coax visitors to tilt their necks are a known feature of Mughal-style architecture. If you are on a quest to visit some of the most forgotten and hidden places that are not visited by tourists that often, then this would be the right place for you.
Chausath Khamba
Translated in English, the name means 64 pillars, a place that is situated in the same area as that of Nizamuddin Dargah. The place is known as the final resting place of the Mizra Aziz Koka and his family. While looking out for the place, here’s what you need to do: enter a courtyard through a massive arched gallery next to the great Ghalib Academy.
On the north preface of the place, you can bow down to pay respects to the tombs of Delhi’s most beloved poet, Mirza Ghalib and his wife, Umrao Begum. If you are a photography enthusiast, you can visit the place and plan your trip according to the golden hour. Once the golden hour passes, you will be able to witness the mellow descent of the sun behind the 64 pillars and get a shot of a lifetime.
All these places are in different parts of Delhi and if you are planning to visit them all in one day having a personal car to drive around in would be helpful.
Adilabad Fort
Constructed by the descendants of Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, visitors to the place would find that the architecture of the palace is similar to that of Tughlaqabad Fort, but the Adilabad Fort is smaller in size. You can visit this place if you ever plan to visit the Tughlaqabad Fort, as both the forts are conjoined to each other. If you are passionate about history and older architecture you would find this place to be exciting as you can decipher the various art forms and styles of the arches as well as domes throughout the fort.
We would again advise that if you were to visit the place please do so during the daytime. The official timings to visit the palace are similar to that of Tughlaqabad Fort, 9:30am to 6:00 pm daily. This could be a brilliant retreat for anyone who is a history fanatic as you would be able to witness the ruins of the fort up close, but if you are not a history fanatic, we would advise that you stay away from such sites as they may not be as interesting as you hoped.
Bhuli Bhatiyari Mahal
The monument was constructed back in the 14th century and is known for its veritable past in the yesteryears due to its use as a hunting lodge for the rules of Tughlaq’s reign. You can visit and witness the architecture that dates back to the Tughlaq era and also stand amazed at the condition the fort is in now.
We would advise that you visit the place during day as a great number of people have shared their eerie experiences about visiting the palace online. Some have shared that they have witnessed apparitions here, being close to the ridge area which has been considered to be a haunted place this place has gained prominence for being a secluded area.
You can also read about a few disappearances that have been attributed to this area. So visit the fort during the day, or if you are a passionate ghost hunter, maybe the hours of dawn would favour you.
Khooni Darwaza
Often not the first choice while articulating a list of must-visit monuments in Delhi. This place is a hidden gem for travellers who want to witness monuments that have been obscured under years and years of neglect. With its veritable History, this place harks of a Cimmerian passage of History wherein India lost its freedom. The monument has witnessed some of the most darkest events in the pages of History.
The last sons of the Mughal era, along with several other freedom fighters, were executed within the vicinity of onlookers and the general public at this place. As per several accounts that are published online, no Indian has ever experienced a paranormal experience, but several foreigners share stories about how they felt a blunt push while walking and how they felt there were ankle weights along their legs.
All in all, if you plan to visit the place, be respectful, try and maintain composure, visit during the day and stay till dawn only. It’s funny how the ghosts have chosen to torment in such a selective manner, though it really makes the case for a very selective Ghost.
Quite often, you find that such hidden and obscured places have lost their charm and lustre and are hidden in a delipidated state that is beyond belief, and we’ll try to keep you apprised of those that have taken the wrong turn, as to keep you safe. Several of these monuments are very old and hence are at risk of collapsing in on themselves. We highly recommend that you stay away from such places as no risk that endangers your life is worth taking.
Always ensure that you inform someone before travelling so that in case of an issue someone can raise concerns.
Additionally, you will find that due to vast areas of open exposure of monuments, vagabonds and peddlers have settled in within the premises. Stay away from them as well, and try to be safe and secure as much as possible. While most of the monuments have been taken under the watchful gaze of the archaeological survey of India a few are left due to their disputed past or ownership rights and may be classified as private property.
Rentrip Choice For Rentals
RenTrip prides itself on providing affordable rates without compromising on quality or service. Whether you’re looking for a compact sedan or a spacious SUV, RenTrip offers a diverse fleet of vehicles to cater to every need and preference.
One of the standout features of RenTrip is its user-friendly booking process, which makes securing a rental car quick and effortless. With just a few clicks, you can reserve the perfect vehicle for your Delhi adventure, allowing you to focus on planning your itinerary rather than navigating complex booking systems.
Furthermore, RenTrip boasts excellent customer service, ensuring that your rental experience is smooth from start to finish. Whether you have questions about vehicle options, need assistance during your rental period, or require support post-rental, RenTrip’s dedicated team is always on hand to provide assistance and guidance.
Wrapping Up
Exploring Delhi in your own rental car is well worth the experience if you feel confident enough in your own driving skills. While a variety of the ruins are spread across different parts of the city, it’s difficult for travelers to cover them all in one day if you don’t have your own transportation. RenTrip is just that service that can assist you with a rental car in Dehli at affordable prices, so make you take a moment to check it out.
Hopefully your now fully intrigued about the different historical sites you can see all across Dehli, and we are sure you will love it as make your way through this colorful city with its interesting history. But, no matter where you head to next, always remember to Travel Till You Drop!