Delhi is layers on layers — Mughal, British, and very-modern all crashing into each other. On a first day I don't try to 'do' the whole thing; I pick one hit from each era and let the rest wait. This is that loop.
1. India Gate & 2. Humayun's Tomb
India Gate first, before the heat and crowds — it's a quick stop but it orients you. Then Humayun's Tomb, which is honestly my favourite monument in the city and far calmer than you'd expect. If it reminds you of a certain more-famous tomb in Agra, that's because it was basically the blueprint.
3. Qutub Minar & 4. Old Delhi
Qutub Minar next, for the tallest brick minaret in the world and some genuinely ancient ruins to wander. Then dive into Old Delhi — take a cycle-rickshaw through the lanes of Chandni Chowk near the Red Fort. It's loud, tight, and the best part of the day.
5. Sunset at Lodhi Garden or Hauz Khas
Wind down at Lodhi Garden (locals jogging among 15th-century tombs) or Hauz Khas for ruins-meets-cafes. Practical stuff: the Delhi Metro is clean, cheap, and beats sitting in traffic; for autos, agree the fare or insist on the meter before you get in. Anything changed? Comments, please — I'll fix it.
