Delhi is the city of monuments. While it has 174 protected and cared for monuments, it has hundreds more that are still a mystery. We often make the same visits to Red Fort, Old Fort, Hauz Khas and more but end up overlooking some of the city’s equally attractive but much less visited and explored spots. If you fancy yourself as a true Delhiite, make sure you cover your bases by visiting the spots on this list of Delhi’s overlooked spots ASAP!

1. Mirza Ghalib Ki Haveli

Picture Credits: Pradeep Verma

Mirza Ghalib has been at the centre of fantasy for all Delhiites. We rush in packs to see his poetry readings and plays at Mandi House. But his haveli in Chandni Chowk hasn't yet caught on popularity with the masses, which is such a shame as it’s the perfect spot to sit and feel the way his poetry readings would have felt with him living in the 1800s. The ASI Protected Monument is a beautiful reminder of Ghalib, his work and his life, perfect for all history, Ghalib and poetry fans.

Where | Haveli Mirza Galib - 2469, Gali Captain, Baradari, Balli Maran

2. Champa Gali

Picture Credits: foodietraveller1

Delhi’s secret cultural hub is reminiscent of Athenian streets - in soft flooring surfaces, twinkling with fairy lights, buzzing with drinks and conversations and headed by colourful decorative hangings. Champa Gali apart from being the perfect date spot is also the perfect place in the city to get away from the buzz of it all. For a charming ambient night with a rustic, old-world charm, visit Champa Gali and we promise you it would be different from any date you’ve ever been on in the city.

Where | Champa Gali - Khasra 258, Lane, Number 3, Westend Marg, Saidulajab, Saket

3. Jahaz Mahal

Picture Credits: pawan.kamrani

Can you look at this picture and honestly tell us you’re not surprised this is in Delhi? No, this is not part of the Red Fort or Old Fort Complex. This is a marvellous architectural timepiece located in Mehrauli named Jahaz or ship due to its reflection in the Hauz-i-Shamshi water body built around it. While the actual origins of the monument are still in contention, it is believed that it was built during the reign of the Lodhi dynasty as a literal pleasure resort. And to date what a pleasure the monument is to look at!

Where | Jahaz Mahal - Talaab lane, Aam Bagh, Khandsa Colony, Mehrauli

4. Chota Qutub Minar

Picture Credits: enroute_indian_history_

We can safely place our bets when we say that most people didn’t even know about the existence of a ‘Chota Qutub Minar’ in our very own Delhi. Shahjahan’s forgotten Mini Qutub is located in Uttam Nagar and is a shorter, 5 storey version of the original minaret. Built in the same stone with the same techniques as the Qutub, the Kaushal Minar is like finding a hidden treasure in the city.

Where | Kaushal Minar - Hastsal Village, Uttam Nagar

5. Satpula Bridge

Picture Credits: delhiexplorer

Saket has a skew of malls to its name but it is also home to some glorious monuments, one of which is the often wrongly overlooked- Satpula Bridge. Satpula is a Hindi word meaning saat pul or seven bridges and the structure still stands as a testament to the name. The structure is today in a dilapidated condition but looks glorious and completely different set against the vast greens it is in. For a completely off-beat way of looking at Delhi, take the road less travelled and head to Satpula for a peaceful afternoon.

Where | Satpula - Khidki Village, Malviya Nagar

6. Bhardwaj Lake Of Asola

Picture Credits: deepanshu_rajora

To come here in the morning with friends, cook, play, and just be, how fun would it be to have a campfire here for dinner and maybe set up a grill? Or maybe how different would it be to cycle around the lake early morning on the weekends? Well now that you know this isn't a mirage but an actual tranquil water body in the city, we say head over ASAP!

Where | Bharadwaj Lake - Shooting Range Rd, Asola Wildlife Sanctuary, Tughlakabad

7. Naughara

Picture Credits: nirmaldayani

Colourful doors and patterned tiles - aren't these the latest fads to grab us all? If you’re looking for a place in Delhi to be clicked against that gives you the perfect backdrop allowing you to flaunt your outfits in dreamy poses, then Naughara is just for you. The old architecturally stunning gateways give the perfect chance to stop time and experience the old world charm of paranthe waali gali.

Where | Naughara - Gali Mata Wali, Kinari Bazar, Katra Shah N Shah, Chandni Chowk

8. Bara Gumbad

Picture Credits: arjunphotographer

The Lodi Garden is one of the most popular attractions in the city, however, tourists often miss this hidden gem tucked in the heart of the Lodhi Gardens - the Bara Gumbad or the ‘Big Dome’. It was built back in the 15th century by Sikander Lodi and is the entryway to the three-domed mosque. While visiting here, you can also look out for Athpula, an eight-pierced bridge stretching across a tranquil lake, built during Emperor Akbar’s reign. Head over here to revel in the charm of these majestic architectural pieces ASAP!

Where | Bara Gumbad - Lodhi Gardens, Lodi Estate

Well, don't you feel excited like a tourist visiting a new city for the very first time? So what are you waiting for? Get moving and visit all 8 spots in one long day!

Aarushi Jain