41 Great Things to Do With Kids in Delhi
Delhi is a great city to visit with kids. I know because I lived in Delhi and have visited all of these places, and I’m a parent. As the capital of India, there are plenty of things to do that will keep kids entertained and busy.
Because Delhi is so vast and diverse your kids can experience one of the most eye opening travel experiences they will ever have.
Besides the best things to do with kids in Delhi, I’m going to cover:
- list of cultural sites kids will enjoy
- family oriented hotels
- child friendly restaurants
- safety & transportation tips
Great Things to do With Kids in Delhi
If you asked me to pick the top cultural sites that kids would enjoy in Delhi, I think Sunder Nursery, National Rail Museum and Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple are the very best sites for kids.
1. Sunder Nursery
Sunder Nursery is the best heritage park in Delhi for kids. Not only is it the site of beautiful 16th century monuments, it has a wonderful interactive children’s play zone, walking paths, and hosts many educational programs on topics like bee conservation and nest building.
It’s also one of the nicest green spaces in South Delhi. Giant swings hang from huge trees, and every Sunday morning there’s an organic bazaar. There’s a great cafe by the lake too.
The park has won UNESCO awards for heritage conservation and sustainable development. Over 80 species of birds and 40 species of butterflies have been sighted.
2. Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple
Out of all the temples in Delhi, Akshardham Temple is the one your child will probably enjoy the most. And that’s great, because it’s also one of the most impressive temples in Delhi and you should see it.
The temple itself is one of the largest Hindu temples in the worlds, and it’s formed completely of intricately carved marble. It’s breathtaking.
But what makes it great for kids are the ‘exhibits’ which include a series of 3D dioramas and immersive projections, a giant screen movie and a 12 minute cultural boat ride.
There’s also a playground and huge cafeteria with decent food. If you go in the evening, there’s a nightly outdoor water show at 7:15 pm.
Security and the dress code at Akshardham are strict. All electronics must be left at security (no photos of the temple allowed), and you should be well covered up (shoulders, knees etc.). Shoes must be removed for the temple.
3. National Rail Museum
This is a great museum for families and one of the best things to do with kids in Delhi. The grounds resemble a railway yard with an extensive outdoor collection of locomotives and historic carriages on old railway tracks – there’s even a wheelhouse.
Kids will love exploring the rail cars and taking a ride on the mini Joy Train. When the kids are done looking at trains, the can burn off some steam in the playground.
The restaurant in the museum is a replica of the famous Mumbai train station, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus). There is even a steam locomotive that chugs around the tables.
4. Nehru Planetarium
Delhi’s planetarium is a great place for kids who want to get up close to the stars and planets. In addition to the 2D and 3D space shows, the planetarium is a bit of a museum which aims to educate children and highlight India’s role in space.
The planetarium was the initiative of India’s first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru and is located on the grounds of Teen Murti Bhavan, where he lived as prime minister. The last time I went to the planetarium there were peacocks on the grounds.
Tickets can be purchased online through Book My Show.
5. National Science Centre
Delhi’s National Science Centre is one of the largest science centres in Asia and one of the best things to do with kids in Delhi. Its goal is to educate through entertainment, and I think it does a pretty good job.
There are exhibitions on nuclear power, human biology, pre-historic life and water, as well as Indian themed exhibits such as India’s role in science and technology.
The centre hosts many workshops and events.
6. Red Fort Sound and Light Show
If you’re brave enough to tackle Old Delhi at night, the Red Fort hosts a dynamic sound and light show called Jai Hind (Victory to India). The show features live performers, puppets and state of the art sound and visual effects.
Narrated by Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan, the show is a roundup of recent Indian history covering the Mughal empire, British Raj, India’s independence movement and the Indian Army.
The show is 60 minutes long and takes place at 3 historic locations within the Red Fort. Guests walk from one location to the next.
Tickets can be purchased online through Book My Show. A separate ticket is required to enter the Red Fort, but your Jai Hind ticket gives you access after 6:00 pm.
7. Take a Bollywood or Bhangra Dance Class at Delhi Dance Academy
Indian dance is a lot of fun, especially lively bhangra and Bollywood dance. Your little ones will love the happy, exuberant moves of bhangra and the theatrics of Bollywood. Taking a local dance class is one of the best active things to do with kids in Delhi.
Dance is a significant part of Indian culture and features prominently at festivals and weddings. Both bhangra and Bollywood styles are happy, joyful dances – and they’re great exercise!
Delhi Dance Academy is one of the best dance schools in Delhi and they offer a 2 hour introductory Indian dance class called “Namaste India Dance Workshop” for both children and adults.
8. Museum of Illusions
This is a great family museum and one of the best things to do with kids in Delhi. Kids will love the mind bending and fun illusions that let them climb a wall like Spiderman and lift an auto rickshaw.
The installations are based on mirrors, holograms, colours and sound, using science to trick the brain.
To avoid the crowds and lineups, go during the week and in the morning.
9. Take a Cycle Rickshaw Ride Through Chandni Chowk
An Old Delhi rickshaw ride is one of the best things to do with kids in Delhi and will be a real eye opener. They will not forget it!
Chandni Chowk is ground zero for exploring the sites of Old Delhi. It’s full of historic sites and colourful markets, but can be overwhelming. But on an cycle rickshaw you’ll whiz through the crowds and get to see everything in a slightly more relaxed way.
Make sure the rickshaw driver takes you down the lanes and into the various markets like Kinari Bazaar (wedding market), Dariba Kalan (silver market) and Khari Baoli (spice market). Negotiate the price upfront.
10. Dilli Haat INA
Dilli Haat INA is a great place to bring children if you want to buy authentic souvenirs or gifts. The market is a pedestrian only zone with clean toilets and an excellent outdoor food court. There’s even a kids playground in the back.
It’s a one-stop shop for Indian handicrafts from all around the country. Artisans and craftsmen change every two weeks and the variety of crafts, arts and textiles is excellent.
Make sure you go the right market – there are 3 Dilli Haat markets in Delhi. You want the INA location. It is the largest and nicest by far. There is also a Delhi Haat INA store in Saket – do not go there!
11. National Zoological Park
Delhi’s National Zoological Park has a reasonable collection of birds, reptiles and mammal. I visited it to see the 14th century tomb from the Tughlaq period and the Kos Minar which are on the grounds.
To be honest, this is not a great zoo and several animals have died in recent years because they weren’t cared for properly. But, it will please small kids and is centrally located. Just keep your expectations in check.
Food is strictly prohibited once you enter the zoo, so make sure you eat before you go, and bring water. There’s a canteen just outside the main entrance. Strollers are available and there’s an electric trolley service.
If you have an Indian SIM, the easiest way to book tickets is online on the National Zoological Park website. Otherwise you can buy tickets there.
12. Indian Air Force Museum
This is an excellent museum and one of the best things to do with kids in Delhi. Children and aviation enthusiasts will love walking through the hangars and getting up close to the planes.
The museum is well done, informative and a popular field trip destination for students.
Over 37 aircraft are on display indoors and outdoors. The collection includes vintage jets, helicopters, airplanes and remnants of crashed Pakistani jets from the 1972 India Pakistan war.
13. Bharat Darshan Park
This is one of Delhi’s most ingenious parks. It features over 21 replicas of famous temples and heritage buildings from across India, built entirely of scrap metal.
It’s a great way for kids to see India’s most famous buildings, like the Taj Mahal, Char Minar, Gateway of India, Konark Temple, Mysore Palace and Victoria Memorial. At dusk the monuments are lit up with coloured lights.
The park is set on 8.5 acres and has plenty of shaded seating, toilet facilities and vending machines with snacks.
14. Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar is a historical group of 13 architectural astronomy instruments.
For budding scientists or anyone interested in astronomy this is a must see site. Kids can get up close to the instruments, which are massive. The park is relatively compact and can be done in about an hour.
There’s not much shade, so avoid going on really hot days or mid afternoon.
15. Have Langar at Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
Langar is the free community meal served at gurudwaras (Sikh temples). Gurudwaras are very welcoming – and this particular gurudwara gets a lot of tourists. It’s a good one to visit with your children.
Eating langar is a special and unique experience. Everyone eats together sitting in rows on the floor of the dining hall. Volunteers move up and down the aisles dishing out vegetarian food.
Ask one of the volunteers for a tour of the kitchen to see the giant vats of dal, huge stacks of vegetables being prepared for cooking and automatic roti machine. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib serves about 10,000 meals a day and that number can triple on special festival and holy days.
Avoid the gurudwara on the weekend, unless you go early in the day. It can get very crowded and the langar hall might be overwhelming for children.
16. Nehru Park
Nehru Park is one of Delhi’s best parks for families. It’s located in the affluent neighbourhood and diplomatic enclave of Chanakyapuri and is over 80 acres.
There’s a large diversity of trees and flowers and many species of birds. It’s a favourite family picnic spot in the cooler months.
The park is well serviced with a children’s playground, parking, toilets, tennis courts, outdoor gym, and two temples. Unusually, there’s a statue of Vladimir Lenin which was unveiled by Mikhael Gorbachev before the fall of the Soviet Union.
17. Take an Indian Cooking Class
Delhi is India’s culinary capital – it’s a serious foodie destination. What better way to get kids involved in the food of India than a hands on cooking class?
I highly recommend Gourmet Desire. It’s centrally located in Delhi and offers options for adults and children. You can book an Indian cooking class, baking class, chocolate making class or produce market tours.
Your kids will get hands on and learn about Indian eating ethics and table manners (it’s okay to eat with your hands).
18. National Crafts Museum & Hastkala Academy
Sometimes called India’s most inspiring museum, this little gem is often overlooked by visitors. The museum resembles a village as opposed to a formal gallery which makes it one of the best museums and things to do in Delhi with children.
Traditional crafts and art from across India are always displayed and artisans regularly give demonstrations of their craft.
Kids will enjoy the impressive outdoor village complex with replicas of village dwellings, courtyards and shrines from different parts of India, all built with regional materials.
The museum has a very good shop where you can buy traditional crafts at reasonable prices, and an excellent cafe.
19. Deer Park
Deer Park is part of the city’s green belt. It’s a huge green space and quiet oasis in a historic area of South Delhi. True to its name, deer and peacocks are kept in a large enclosure. There’s also a children’s play area.
There are many walking paths through the park. The one that goes around the reservoir is adjacent to Hauz Khas Fort and you can get some up close views from the path.
For the adults, there are several historic monuments in the park from the Tughlaq and Lodhi periods.
20. Take a Cycle Tour with Delhi By Cycle
Taking a cycle tour of Delhi is a great family activity. Not only will it get everyone active, you’ll see a side of Delhi you didn’t know existed. Tours depart at 6:45 am so traffic and heat are not a problem.
Tours are 4 hours long and include a stop for chai (Indian tea) and breakfast. I did the Raj tour through Lutyens’ Delhi and had so much fun it made me want to do all the tours.
Helmets and baby seats are provided and bikes are well maintained. The tour leaders are fabulous – full of stories about Delhi and very aware of guest safety.
For booking and tour information, check the Delhi By Cycle website.
21. See the Dhobi Walas in Action at Devi Prasad Sadan Dhobi Ghat
A dhobi ghat is an open air laundromat and Delhi has one, right in one of its most prominent neighbourhoods.
Kids will be fascinated by the huge outdoor tubs, spinning machines and the dhobis (washer men) stomping in huge sudsy buckets to wash the laundry. It’s like going back in an Indian time machine.
The street leading up the dhobi ghat is strewn with sheets drying on makeshift laundry lines, so you’ll have no problem finding the place. It’s on Hailey Lane, just down the street from the beautiful stepwell, Agrasen ki Baoli.
This is a friendly community, but please be respectful – it’s not a tourist site.
22. Laxminarayan Mandir
There are several temples in Delhi that combine spirituality with a bit of a theatric element, and this is one of them. While the temple itself may not be of interest to kids, the grounds and various statues will definitely be more pleasing.
Apart from the main temple, there are several small temples on the grounds, including a Lord Shiva temple with the gaping mouth of a monster as the entrance.
The gardens have carved fountains and statues of animals all representing aspects of Hinduism which kids will find interesting.
Avoid the temple during the festivals of Diwali and Janmashtami when it gets incredibly busy.
23. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir (in Karol Bagh)
This is another temple with a bit of a theatrical element that children enjoy. The temple is dedicated to Hanuman (aka the monkey god). Hanuman is one of the most beloved gods, revered for his loyalty to Lord Rama, bravery and strength.
The temple is an 108 foot high orange statue of Lord Hanuman, clearly visible from the several flyovers and the Delhi metro. It’s become an iconic symbol of Delhi.
To enter you must walk through the gaping mouth of a monster. Inside are several colourful temples dedicated to various Hindu deities (including a cave like temple). Each temple has an eager pandit willing to bless you for a small donation.
Shoes must be removed.
24. Rock Climbing at Boulder Box
Delhi’s premier climbing facility is one of the best things to get kids and adults moving. Boulder Box has walls to suit all abilities, including a ‘campus’ wall so beginners can learn the basics.
They offer one hour kids classes which focus on technical understanding and movement on a climbing wall while under constant supervision. Private coaching is also available.
Climbing shoes and chalk (for hands) are available to rent. There are change rooms and an onsite cafe. Boulder Box offers yoga and aerial arts skills classes as well.
25. Go Horseback Riding
Most kids love horses and horseback riding in Delhi is a great way to get kids outdoors in a non-urban environment.
The suburbs of Noida and Gurugram have several equestrian centres that offer trail rides and introductory lessons, but Aravali Equestrian Academy in Gurugram is one of the best.
Make sure to bring water and snacks.
26. Ice Skating at ISKATE
Most people don’t think of ice skating as something to do in Delhi, but ISKATE in Ambience Mall Gurugram is home to India’s largest indoor skating rink. In summer ice skating is one of the best things to do with kids in Delhi.
Public skating starts on the hour for 45 minute sessions. Skates are included in the fee but bring long socks. Skating aids are available for little ones.
ISKATE is located in Ambience Mall Gurugram which has a large movie theatre and many eating options – you can easily make a full day of your visit here.
27. Swimming at the Radisson Blu Hotel Paschim Vihar
Most kids love swimming in a pool, and visitors can buy a day pass for the pool at the Radisson Blu Hotel Paschim Vihar. You don’t need to be a hotel guest.
The Suryaa New Delhi swimming pool is another great option for kids (they have day passes at the same price).
Delhi has public pools, but sanitation is not always up to Western standards. Given that the water is already not safe to drink in Delhi, the Radisson Blu Hotel Paschim Vihar is a safer option.
The swimming pool is located on the roof top and has panoramic views of Delhi. Parents can relax on the loungers and there’s a poolside bar that serves light meals and drinks.
28. Okhla Bird Sanctuary
In the middle of the busy Delhi is the Okhla Bird Sanctuary, a quiet oasis on the Yamuna River. It hosts over 300 species of birds including endangered and migratory birds. It’s one of the best outdoor things to do with kids in Delhi.
The best time of year to visit Okhla Bird Sanctuary is November to March when the migratory birds come through. Wear neutral coloured clothing and bring binoculars, if you have them. The reed beds in the park are good spots to see birds.
Bring your own drinks and snacks – there were no food options the last time I was there.
29. Sound and Light Show at Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya
The sound and light show at Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya is an outdoor show about India’s space program. It’s displayed on the exterior of one of Delhi’s best museums, the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya (Prime Ministers Museum).
At first glance it seems like an unusual location for a show about India’s space program, but Nehru Planetarium is located on the same grounds. The sound and light show is approximately 30 minutes.
The museum itself is excellent, one of the top museums in Delhi, but entirely dedicated to the prime ministers of India and post-independence history. Younger children will probably find it boring, but anyone interested in recent Indian history will be fascinated.
30. Bowling at SMAAASH
SMAAASH has modern bowling alleys in its virtual gaming and sports hubs.
Your kids will love the state of the art bowling lanes, shiny pins and colourful bowling balls. Their twilight bowling alley with ultra violet lighting makes for really fun bowling.
There are two locations that are known for their bowling alleys, DLF Mall in Noida and the Rajouri Garden location in West Delhi.
31. Kidzania
Kidzania is an interactive indoor theme park that lets kids learn and get inspired through real life role playing activities.
Built like a city, it is complete with paved roads, battery operated cars, businesses and its own currency. Children can role play different jobs and learn about money management. There are no rides or video games. A parents lounge is onsite.
Tickets can be booked through the Kidzania website.
32. Snow World
It’s always winter at Snow World in DLF Mall of India, which can be a very welcome break from the Delhi heat. It’s almost a surreal thing to do in a city as hot as Delhi, and one of the best things to do with kids.
Kids can go ice skating, snowboarding, sledging and ice sliding. There’s snow fall in every session for snow play, snow angels and snow ball fights.
Snow World is located in one of the biggest malls of India, DLF Mall of India. After snow play you can catch a movie, shop or eat at one of the many restaurants in the mall.
Snow World tickets include coats, boots and gloves but make sure to bring long, warm socks.
33. Worlds of Wonder Amusement & Water Park
Don’t expect Delhi’s amusement parks to be at the Disney level, they’re not – but Worlds of Wonder is probably the best one in the city. As long as expectations are kept in check, there is plenty for kids to enjoy here.
There’s a number of rides, including ones for younger kids in the children’s section, an indoor games area, and a water park with wave pool and water slides.
Keep in mind tap water in India is not potable – you may not want young children in the water park in case they swallow water by accident.
34. Visit One of Delhi’s Beautiful Malls
If you have teenagers they might appreciate shopping in a familiar environment. Delhi has some excellent malls with many Western branded shops and restaurants.
The larger malls will have movie theatres, foods courts, plenty of restaurants, coffee shops, Indian and Western stores. They’re climate controlled and make a welcome break in summer from the Delhi heat.
Don’t be alarmed by the security to get into the mall, it’s standard practice in Delhi.
35. Waste to Wonder Dinosaur Park
Delhi now has its own version of Jurassic Park at the ingenious Waste To Wonder Park. This park has been around for a few years, but they just completed a terrific section on dinosaurs that is sure to please children.
Now the park has something for every member of the family. Adults will enjoy replicas of the 7 wonders of the world, and the kids can play on the dinosaurs (several are slides).
It’s a very family friendly park, with a mini train, play area and food court, making it the best new thing to do with kids in Delhi.
36. Have a Picnic
Delhi has many beautiful spots for a picnic. Visit any of Delhi’s large parks on the weekend and you will see lots of Indian families with blankets spread out on the lawns, picnicking.
It’s a great way to get kids outdoors and enjoy some family time. Lodhi Garden, Sunder Nursery and Nehru Park are popular picnic spots in the city.
Planning a picnic in Delhi is very easy. You can have groceries and ready-made food items delivered right to your door with online apps like Big Basket and Blinkit. Delhi has fruit and vegetable markets in every neighbourhood, and there are lots of little supermarkets you can visit.
For a very simple alternative, order food from a restaurant and have it packed to go.
37. See a Movie
India loves the movies, and Delhi has hundreds of excellent movie theatres.
Movie theatres are modern, air conditioned (it’s a great escape on a hot day) and have plenty of food options. The multiplexes always have the latest American block busters as well as domestic movies.
To check movie schedules and purchase tickets I use these two sites: PVR Cinemas and Book My Show.
38. Sulabh International Museum of Toilets
Kids love this quirky museum which is all about toilets. The museum chronicles the history of the toilet from 2500 BC through a bizarre and rare collection of objects, photos and information.
Although the museum sounds goofy, its mission is to highlight and tackle a very real health problem in India. It was founded by social reformer Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak who has endeavoured to change government policy about the right and need of sanitation for all.
39. Shankar’s International Dolls Museum
Often referred to as the United Nations of Dolls, this museum has one of the largest collections of dolls internationally. Currently it has over 7,000 dolls from more than 85 countries.
The museum is divided into sections: the Western section, the Asia/Africa/Middle East section and an extensive Indian section with dolls from all different regions in tribal costumes.
There’s even a doll workshop where dolls are crafted to sell to collectors and other museums.
40. Eureka! Bookstore
This is a fabulous children’s bookstore in Greater Kailash. It’s quiet and welcoming for young readers, and they host weekly reading and educational events for children and adults.
Outdoor signage is minimal, just look for the big CMYK Bookstore sign. Eureka shares space with them.
41. Swami Sivananda Memorial Institute
Kids (and adults) can take a 2 or 4 hour block printing workshop at this heritage arts institute.
Block printing is a traditional handicraft still widely popular today. This will be a fun, very hands on activity for your kids, and they’ll get to take home their hand printed tote bag (or whatever else they make) as a souvenir.
Private classes can be arranged for groups of 4 or more. You can book a workshop on the SSMI website.
Is it Safe to Travel to Delhi With Kids?
Delhi is as safe as any other megacity for kids, but there are some things to keep in mind. You’ll have to keep a very close eye on young children.
Safety standards are not the same as in the West. Railings may be low or non-existent in places, sidewalks (where they exist) can be full of potholes, amusement parks and water parks may not be as sanitary as those in Europe or North America.
I don’t find Delhi very stroller friendly (and most Indians don’t use them). Many places don’t have sidewalks, and when there are sidewalks they are full of huge cracks and potholes. Also, motorcycles occasionally use sidewalks when the road is blocked.
Where to Stay in Delhi with Kids
South or Central Delhi are the best parts of the city to stay in with children. These are nicer, greener areas of the city and close to many sites and monuments.
Some of the best hotels for families are:
- Maidens Hotel (luxury)
- Sheraton New Delhi (mid-range)
- Prakash Kutir Bed & Breakfast (budget)
For more hotels that are good for children, see my article on where to stay in Delhi with kids.
How to Get Around Delhi with Kids
Delhi has really good transportation options. If your kids are young and you’re staying in South or Central Delhi, I recommend taking auto rickshaws for shorter distances (less than 3 km), and Uber for anything longer. Both are widely used in Delhi and safe.
In Delhi you can reserve an Uber for multiple hours and make as many stops as you want – it’s a really good alternative to renting a private car and driver.
If your kids are older, or you are staying somewhere further from the centre, take the Delhi metro to get into the city.
It’s a surprisingly great system. Not only is it fast, clean, safe and cheap – it goes everywhere. The only reason I don’t recommend the metro for small children is that it can get very crowded during rush hours.
Where to Eat with Kids in Delhi
Indian cuisine is one of the most diverse in the world but the masala might not suit young palates. Luckily, there are plenty of places to eat if you don’t like Indian food.
Besides Western chains like McDonald’s, Taco Bell, KFC, Dominos and Subway there are great restaurants for children such as:
- Haldiram’s: Casual cafeteria style eatery known for quality food and high hygiene standards.
- Habitat Hub: American style diner in the India Habitat Centre.
- Chili’s Grill & Bar: American casual dining restaurant chain.
- The Big Chill Cafe: Local restaurant chain with enough variety to suit everyone.
- Hard Rock Cafe: Global restaurant chain.
- Leo’s Artisan Pizza: Great local pizza.
When is the Best Time to Visit Delhi With Kids?
The most pleasant months in terms of weather are February, March, October and November. Weather is warm but not overly hot during the day and nights are cooler.
It’s perfect weather for exploring and won’t be too taxing on little ones.
Delhi does experience extremes in weather, so if you are traveling to Delhi in summer or winter, make sure your accommodation has heat or AC.
Delhi has very poor air quality in winter (December and January). it’s best to avoid it with children at that time.
Last Words On Great Things to Do With Kids in Delhi
There are so many things to do with kids in Delhi. No matter what your child’s interests or the time of year, you’ll be able to find lots of things to keep them busy and entertained.
