Weekend in New Delhi

Massive museum covering 5,000 years of Indian history, from Indus Valley artefacts to Mughal miniatures. Entry is free for Indian citizens; foreigners pay a small fee.

Tip: Skip the Harappan section if you're short on time. The Buddha relics and coin gallery are standout sections. Go on a weekday morning to avoid school groups.

War memorial arch and ceremonial boulevard flanked by lawns. At night, the gate is floodlit and locals gather for ice cream and street food. Crowds are part of the experience.

Tip: Go after 7pm for the light show and a cool breeze. Street vendors sell sweet corn and kulfi – the one at the south-west corner is best. Don't cross the barrier onto the grass.

Sprawling 90-acre green space dotted with 15th-century tombs and a glass house. Popular with joggers, dog walkers and picnickers. Quiet and well-maintained.

Tip: Enter from the Lodhi Road gate for the best tomb views. Early mornings (6–8am) are cool and uncrowded; bring your own water as cafe prices are steep.

Permanent crafts bazaar and food court showcasing regional Indian handicrafts, textiles and street food. Entry fee is 30 rupees for Indians, 100 for foreigners.

Tip: Sample the momos from the north-east stall and the Kerala banana chips, but avoid the 'authentic' Kashmiri shawls unless you're haggling hard. Weekday afternoons are quietest.

UNESCO World Heritage site – a 16th-century Mughal tomb set in symmetrical gardens. Entrance fee is 40 rupees for Indians, 600 for foreigners (still reasonable).

Tip: Visit late afternoon for soft light on the red sandstone. Bring cash – cards not accepted at the ticket booth. The west gate exit leads to Nizamuddin dargah, worth a short walk.