Ancient Temples You Must Visit on a Delhi Tour

Delhi is not just Indias capital. It is a city full of stories, faith, and culture. Every corner holds a piece of history. You will see many modern buildings, big roads, and tall towers. But behind all this, there are quiet places that connect people to their faith. These are the ancient temples of Delhi.

People from all over the world visit Delhi for its forts, markets, and food. But many travelers also visit the temples. These temples are very old. Some are over a thousand years old. They are not only holy but also full of art, carvings, and peace.

In this blog, you will read about the most famous ancient temples you must visit during your Delhi tour. You will also learn about their importance, history, and the best time to go. Lets start your spiritual journey through Delhi.

Benefits of Visiting Ancient Temples

Visiting ancient temples gives peace to the mind. These holy places help you feel calm and relaxed. Many people pray here for good health, success, and happiness.

Here are some key benefits of visiting ancient temples in Delhi:

1. Spiritual Peace

You can sit quietly, chant mantras, or pray. The peaceful environment takes away stress.

2. Cultural Learning

Ancient temples show old Indian art, stories from mythology, and the history of kings and saints.

3. Architectural Beauty

You will see carvings, domes, and statues that tell stories from thousands of years ago.

4. Positive Energy

Many people believe temples hold strong positive vibes. These places lift your mood.

5. Traditions and Rituals

You can watch daily aartis (prayers), special poojas, and rituals that are centuries old.

Top Ancient Temples to Visit in Delhi

Here are the most popular and ancient temples in Delhi you must visit:

1. Yogmaya Temple, Mehrauli

• Location: Mehrauli

• Built In: More than 5000 years ago

• Main Deity: Goddess Yogmaya

This temple is one of the oldest in Delhi. People believe it was built during the time of the Mahabharata. Yogmaya is said to be the sister of Lord Krishna. The temple stands close to the famous Qutub Minar. The annual Phool Walon Ki Sair festival here brings people from all religions.

2. Kalkaji Temple

• Location: Kalkaji, South Delhi

• Built In: Ancient period, rebuilt in the 18th century

• Main Deity: Goddess Kalka (Durga)

Kalkaji Temple is one of the most powerful Shakti temples. Thousands of devotees come here during Navratri. The temple gets full of lights, chants, and joy during this time.

3. Chhatarpur Temple

• Location: Chhatarpur, South Delhi

• Built In: 1974, but follows ancient temple style

• Main Deity: Goddess Katyayani

This temple is not ancient in years but follows the Vesara style of South India. The peaceful gardens, grand halls, and white marble make it a must-visit.

4. Gauri Shankar Temple

• Location: Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi

• Built In: 1761

• Main Deity: Lord Shiva and Parvati

This temple stands near the Red Fort and has an 800-year-old Shiva Lingam. It was built by a Maratha soldier who survived a war and built this temple as thanks. It is a small but very holy place in busy Old Delhi.

5. Hanuman Temple, Connaught Place

• Location: Baba Kharak Singh Marg

• Built In: Ancient times (believed to be from the Mahabharata era)

• Main Deity: Lord Hanuman

This temple holds the Guinness World Record for continuous chanting of Shri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram. You will always hear bells, bhajans, and the sound of faith here.

6. Birla Mandir (Laxminarayan Temple)

• Location: Mandir Marg

• Built In: 1939

• Main Deity: Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi

Though not very ancient, the temple reflects classic Orissan style. Mahatma Gandhi inaugurated it. People from all castes and classes were allowed to enter, which was rare in those days.

7. Akshardham Temple

• Location: NH 24, East Delhi

• Built In: 2005

• Why Visit: Though new, it honors ancient temple design

Akshardham may be modern, but its design copies ancient Indian temples. With carved stone, grand idols, and a light show, it draws many travelers every day.

8. Ladakh Buddhist Vihara

• Location: Civil Lines

• Built In: Over 50 years ago

• Deity: Lord Buddha

It is not a Hindu temple but shows Delhis spiritual mix. This peaceful monastery reminds you of old Buddhist architecture.

Tips for Visiting Temples in Delhi

Visiting temples is not like going to a mall or park. These are sacred places. Here are some tips to follow:

1. Dress Modestly

Wear full clothes. Avoid shorts or sleeveless tops. Some temples may ask you to cover your head.

2. Remove Footwear

Always remove your shoes before entering the temple area.

3. Stay Silent

Speak softly. Do not play loud music or talk loudly.

4. Avoid Taking Photos

Some temples allow photos. Some do not. Always ask before taking pictures.

5. Do Not Touch Idols

You can offer flowers or sweets. But avoid touching the main idols unless the priest allows.

6. Visit During Morning or Evening

Temples feel peaceful during morning or evening aarti. Also, avoid the heat of noon time.

7. Carry a Small Donation

You can offer coins or small notes. It is not required, but it is part of temple tradition.

8. Respect Other Devotees

Some people come to pray deeply. Do not disturb them with selfies or loud chat.

Suggested Temple Tour Itinerary (2 Days)

Day 1: Temples in South Delhi

1. Start with Yogmaya Temple in Mehrauli (8:00 AM)

   • Peaceful, close to Qutub Minar.

2. Walk to Qutub Complex (Optional stop)

   • Quick visit to Qutub Minar nearby.

3. Visit Chhatarpur Temple (10:30 AM)

   • Large area, calm surroundings.

4. Head to Kalkaji Temple (1:00 PM)

   • Eat lunch nearby. Visit temple after.

5. Evening at Lotus Temple or ISKCON nearby (Optional)

   • Not ancient, but very peaceful.

6. Return to hotel/rest

Day 2: Old Delhi and Central Delhi Temples

1. Start with Gauri Shankar Temple in Chandni Chowk (8:30 AM)

   • See morning pooja, explore nearby Old Delhi.

2. Next, walk to Hanuman Temple, CP (11:00 AM)

   • Famous temple with strong vibes.

3. Lunch at Connaught Place

4. Visit Birla Mandir (Laxminarayan Temple) (2:00 PM)

   • Spacious temple complex with carvings.

5. Evening at Akshardham (4:00 PM)

   • Watch light show, explore gardens.

6. Dinner near Akshardham or return to hotel

This short tour lets you cover both ancient and artistic temples of Delhi.

Conclusion

Delhi is a mix of the old and new. You may come here for business or sightseeing, but never skip a visit to its ancient temples. These temples tell stories of kings, gods, and everyday people. They give you peace in the middle of the city rush. They help you connect to your roots.

From the 5000-year-old Yogmaya Temple to the modern Akshardham built with ancient design, each place brings something new to your soul. You can sit in silence, watch rituals, or simply enjoy the carvings on stone.

Next time you plan a Delhi Tour, add a temple visit to your list. It may become the most memorable part of your trip.