Day 3: Self-Guided Tour of Delhi's History and Mural Art | India Purple Travel Guide

Today is your last full day in Delhi, and it we will make good use of your time and experience a powerful journey through history, memory, and modern art.
You will begin with the serene grandeur of Humayun's Tomb, often called the precursor to the Taj Mahal, which offers vast gardens and sublime Mughal architecture. From there, you will take a tuk-tuk to dive into the vibrant, modern cultural scene by exploring the colorful street art and murals of the Lodhi Art District. Finally, you will experience the quiet gravitas of modern Indian history at Raj Ghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi.

This itinerary perfectly balances Delhi's imperial past, its founding political history, and its contemporary creativity.
Unlike the packed, walkable lanes of Old Delhi, the highlights of New Delhi are spread out across much wider avenues and distances. Therefore, using ride-sharing apps like Uber or Ola is by far the easiest and most efficient way to link these three distinct sites – except for the murals tour in the Lodhi Art District, which we think is best done with a tuk-tuk.

Given that most of your time will be spent outdoors, wandering the massive gardens of the tomb complex and exploring the open-air gallery of the Lodhi District, practical precautions are essential. Sun protection is non-negotiable; ensure you have a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. Furthermore, since Raj Ghat is a solemn memorial, a moment of respectful quiet is appreciated, and modest dress is advised. Enjoy this final, multifaceted look at India's capital city!

Here at Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides, we promote self-guided walking tours.
But we realize that not everybody likes to walk by themselves in a foreign city. So, just in case that you rather go with ab guide: NO PROBLEM! Please see the GuruWalk and Viator tours below.

The Blueprint of Beauty: Humayun’s Tomb

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If you are excited to see the Taj Mahal, your Day 3 adventure starts at its spectacular precursor: Humayun's Tomb. This UNESCO World Heritage site is regarded as the first grand Mughal garden-tomb in India, setting the standard for the architecture that would eventually culminate in the Taj Mahal nearly a century later.

Surrounded by immaculate Charbagh (four-part Mughal) gardens, the massive red sandstone structure is a serene and peaceful contrast to the chaos of Old Delhi. Its scale and symmetry are breathtaking, offering endless photographic opportunities and a deep dive into early Mughal history.

Why Humayun's Tomb is Unmissable:

• Taj Mahal Preview: See the architectural innovations—like the double dome—that inspired the world’s most famous mausoleum.

• Park-like Serenity: Enjoy the vast, well-maintained gardens, which offer a quiet refuge from the city.

• Rich History: Explore the complex and the tombs of various members of the royal family.

Want to find the perfect photo spots? Click here for our detailed Humayun's Tomb guide, including its full history, best walking routes through the complex, and tips for finding a moment of solitude for self-discovery!

Lodhi Art District: Delhi's Open-Air Gallery

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Ready for a burst of color after the serene history of Humayun's Tomb? Welcome to the Lodhi Art District, Delhi's vibrant Open-Air Gallery!

This unique neighborhood is the first-ever public art district in India, where over 50 renowned street artists from India and around the world have transformed the plain walls of Lodhi Colony into monumental, thought-provoking, and stunningly beautiful murals. This is Delhi's contemporary pulse—a place where political statements, cultural commentary, and pure imagination collide on the canvas of the city itself.

Why You Should Visit the Lodhi Art District:

• Visual Feast: It's a massive, free, walkable museum. Every block offers a new, photogenic masterpiece.

• Modern Contrast: See the cutting edge of Indian art and culture—a refreshing break from historical monuments.

• Easy Exploration: The murals are located on the ground floor of residential blocks, making this the ideal place for a self-guided stroll, or a tuk-tuk ride.

Don't miss the best murals! Click here for our detailed Lodhi Art District guide, including a map of the must-see street art, the stories behind the most famous pieces, and tips on finding the newest, hidden masterpieces!

A Place of Peace: Raj Ghat Memorial

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Your exploration of Delhi concludes at Raj Ghat, the simple yet profoundly moving memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. This is not a grand, towering structure, but a place of quiet, dignified remembrance.

Raj Ghat marks the spot where Gandhi was cremated in 1948. The memorial itself is a simple, black marble platform, perpetually bathed in the light of an eternal flame and set within a serene garden. It is a necessary stop for anyone seeking to understand the philosophical and political foundations of modern India. The atmosphere demands respect and quiet reflection.

Why Raj Ghat is a Meaningful Stop:

• Solemn Remembrance: Pay your respects at one of the most important historical sites in modern India.

• Simple Beauty: The memorial's plain elegance is a powerful reflection of Gandhi’s own philosophy of simplicity.

• Serene Conclusion: The surrounding park offers a final peaceful walk before you conclude your Delhi leg of the Golden Triangle.

Planning your visit? Click here for our detailed Raj Ghat Memorial guide, including the historical context of the site, essential etiquette tips for visitors, and information on the nearby memorials to other national leaders.

Unless you have been speeding through all of today’s attractions, it should not be time for dinner.
Should you still have time, then you can consider visiting Gandhi Smitri, Agrasen ki Baoli, or Lodhi Garden.

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Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel

Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.

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