As you have just one day, take a cab. Taxis are available in plenty and it’s the quickest way to see around Delhi. Fix the price in advance, or go by the meter. For budget travelers, there are day trips organised by Delhi Tourism. The buses are pretty comfortable, but the only disadvantage is that you cannot go at your own pace.

We have given you a tentative itinerary based on how you can maximise your Delhi experience. However, keep a guide book handy. You can refer to it when needed.

Delhi is steeped in history. The edifices are a testimony to its multi cultural /historic background. You need to rush through because there’s a lot to see, yet very less time in your hands, and don’t underestimate the peak-hour Delhi traffic.

If you are starting from the airport, make sure you have a good breakfast for it will take quite a while before lunch. Head off straight to the Qutab Minar in Mehrauli. (Airport to Mehrauli is 9.6 kms. It will take about 20 minutes, from the airport). Don’t miss the Asokan iron pillar right inside the Qutab Minar complex. It’s almost 7 m in height and weighs more than 6 tons. You will notice that the free standing iron pillar has not degenerated or rusted in so many years.

After pondering over our forefathers’ evolution in science, proceed to the Garden of Five senses. (1.5 kms. This is about 15 mins from Qutab Minar) A must see for a truly rejuvenating experience, which will keep you going for the next couple of hours.

Following the experience in the Garden, visit the Bahai Temple at East of Kailash, (At 6.4 kms and just over 15 mins from the Garden). Shaped like a lotus, this is one architectural marvel that looks amazing from all sides, (especially the aerial view, if you can spot it from the flight, when you are in it). Take a look around, relax and enjoy the peace and quiet inside the temple.

Next on the agenda, after the visit to the temple, is the Red Fort in old Delhi (11.6 kms, which is around 25 mins from the Bahai temple). The Fort is a massive structure in sandstone red. The aesthetics of the Red Fort represent Mughal creativity at its peak. Just bypass the local shopkeepers and don’t get too carried away by their wares. You really have no time to haggle with prices.

The memorial is next on the sight seeing list. Close to Red Fort is the memorial of the Father of the Nation - Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. (It is at a distance of 1.5 kms from the Fort). The memorial is set in the midst of deep green lawns. It is a square platform in black with the last words of the Mahatma inscribed on it.

By this time it should be a little late in the afternoon. Get in the cab and head off to Connaught place - the right place to be in to grab a bite. There are plenty of restaurants around. Booking in advance would be ideal as these places can get very crowded, especially on weekends. (Raj Ghat to Connaught Place is 4.2 kms)

If you would like to linger around for a bit of shopping, Connaught Place has plenty of attractions. Janpath is close by. It’s an arcade full of shops and definitely a shopper’s delight. Near by is the underground shopping centre, Palika Bazar where you could just browse around for a wee bit of shopping. These places are within walkable distance from Connaught Place. You could just stroll around and get back to the spot where your cab is parked.

The final visiting spots would be the Rashtrapathi Bhavan (the official residence of the president of India) and the India Gate (a memorial for the soldiers who fought in the WW1). Connaught Place to Rashtrapathi Bhavan is about 2.8 kms while Rashtrapthi Bhavan to India Gate is another 2.9 kms.
Reserve the visit to these two places towards the evening or night as the Rashtrapathi Bhavan presents a splendid view when lit up, while India Gate appears captivating with the eternal flame under the arch - the Amar Jawan Jyothi, burning steadily.
That was quite a hectic trip, but it’s not all over yet. There's plenty more. Put it on your agenda for next time.

Note

A good pair of foot wear is essential since there’s lot of walking to be done.
Avoid shoes with shoe lace as they may be a hindrance to remove and put on, while visiting places of worship.
Eateries are available at every corner; ensure you go to the reputed ones.