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New Delhi Travel Guide

Visiting India is a bucket-list trip for plenty of seasoned travelers, and you can't do better than starting your Indian vacation in New Delhi. From the essential attractions—like the Red Fort and Baháʼí Lotus Temple—to the incomparable North Indian cuisine on display at both high-end restaurants and street stalls in Old Delhi, the capital of India will set the tone for your travels. And not only can you easily drive or train to nearby, must-visit destinations like Agra and Jaipur, but you can take short-haul flights from Delhi to southern staples like Goa or Kerala.

To guide your travels though New Delhi, we've outlined the best hotels in the city (and just wait until you experience Indian hospitality to the fullest extent at these five-star properties). We've also covered where to shop in Delhi, must-try restaurants, and notable points of interest. Follow this guide to neighborhoods like Lodhi Colony (the first public arts district in India), bazaars brimming with stalls selling antiques and embroidered silk, and restaurants serving hot-off-the-grill seekh kebabs.

India Standard Time (Greenwich Mean Time +5:30)

Best Time to Go

It's best to avoid May through September in India, when the heat is sweltering. The downpours are also fairly intense in July, August, and September, during what's known as monsoon season. From a weather perspective, November to March are the best time to visit New Delhi, when it's coolest and driest—with temperatures in the 70s and 80s.

As for special events, Diwali happens in December, which lights up the city. In March, the city celebrates spring with vibrantly colored Holi celebrations, which is exciting to experience as a visitor. If visiting for the festival of light (Diwali) or color (Holi) isn't possible, New Delhi also celebrates Republic Day on January 26 with an impressive parade.

Things to Know

Hindi is the national language in India. " Namaste " is the word for "hello." When greeting people, say namaste while bringing your hands together at your heart and bowing just slightly. It's also common to say " namaskaar " as a greeting.

It is not safe to drink tap water in India. Only drink bottled water—many tourists even choose to brush their teeth with bottled water. When you're sold a bottle of water, check the seal to make sure it's a brand-new bottle, rather than one that's been refilled.

Some of the most important holidays in India are Diwali (October or November), Holi (March), and Navrati (September or October). Dates vary for each of the holidays.

You need to apply for a visa to visit India . It can be easily obtained from the Indian government .

Calling Code: +91

Currency: Indian Rupee (Check the current exchange rate )

How to Get Around

Trains : The Delhi Metro has improved significantly in recent years. The rapid transport cars bring locals and tourists seamlessly around the city, and the Airport Metro Express Line provides transportation from Delhi Airport. You can buy a tourist metro day pass for 150 rupees or a three-day pass for 300 rupees.

Buses : The metropolis is serviced by DTC (Delhi Transport Corporation) buses. The buses are not always air conditioned and get fairly crowded. Fares run from 5 to 25 rupees depending on the length of your trip.

Taxis and Rickshaws : For short trips around Delhi, it's easy to hop in a rickshaw on the street, which features a carriage and is pulled by a cyclist. For longer trips, you can also take an auto-rickshaw, which is essentially an open-air carriage with a typical car engine. Auto-rickshaws double as taxi cabs, though you can also call an on-demand taxi. Car service: Ola Cabs are very popular in Delhi, and the city is also serviced by Uber.

Best Hotels

The oberoi, new delhi.

Address: Dr Zakir Hussain Marg, Delhi Golf Club, Golf Links, New Delhi, Delhi 110003, India Phone: +91 11 2436 3030 Website

The Oberoi properties are known for their opulence, and when you combine that with Indian warmth and hospitality, the resulting experience is exceptional. The Oberoi, New Delhi looks out at Humayun's Tomb and is set next to a luxurious golf course. The 220-room hotel is also home to four acclaimed restaurants as well as a patisserie and a cigar bar.

The Leela Palace New Delhi

Address: Africa Ave, Diplomatic Enclave, Chanakyapuri New Delhi, Delhi 110023, India Phone: +91 11 3933 1234 Website

The Leela is an Indian luxury brand through and through, with other properties in Chennai, Jaipur, Goa, and Udaipur, among other locales. For a truly over-the-top hotel stay in New Delhi, look into one of The Leela Palace's 18 suites, which come with butler service and access to the Royal Club Lounge on property.

Taj Palace, New Delhi

Address: Taj Palace, 2, Sardar Patel Marg, Diplomatic Enclave Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, Delhi 110021, India Phone: +91 11 2611 0202 Website

The rooms at the Taj fuse Indian style with modern design. The hotel is set on six acres of gardens and a nine-hole mini golf course. Guests will also love the hotel's Jiva Spa and four on-site restaurants.

ITC Maurya, a Luxury Collection Hotel, New Delhi

Address: Sardar Patel Marg, Akhaura Block, Diplomatic Enclave Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, Delhi 110021, India Phone: +91 11 2611 2233 Website

A Luxury Collection property in the heart of New Delhi , ITC Maurya is home to one of the city's finest restaurants: Bukhara. While Bukhara serves upscale Indian fare, ITC Maurya also has a rooftop Italian restaurant overlooking the city. Beyond the hotel's dining options, the building that houses ITC Maurya is also significant—it makes the property a first-in-its-class LEED EB Platinum-rated hotel.

Address: Lodhi Rd, CGO Complex, Pragati Vihar New Delhi, Delhi 110003, India Phone: +91 11 4363 3333 Website

Near the Lodi Gardens, on seven acres of pristine land, The Lodhi is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. The contemporary design of the hotel will wow visitors as soon as they walk in.

Best Restaurants

Karim's.

Address: Shop No. 1, 2/5, Vikas Marg, Sagar Complex, New Rajdhani Enclave, Preet Vihar New Delhi, Delhi 110092, India Phone: +91 11 2250 6311

Head to Old Delhi, meander down alleyways, around corners, and through the crowds—and just when you think you're completely lost, you'll find you've arrived at Karim's. Home to some of the best seekh kebabs in India, this hole-in-the-wall is a Delhi institution and ideal for takeaway, because there are very few tables inside.

Address: ITC Maurya, Sardar Patel Marg, Akhaura Block, Diplomatic Enclave, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, Delhi 110021, India Website

Within the Luxury Collection hotel, ITC Maurya, Bukhara is known for its tandoori oven-baked delicacies. Drawing inspiration from northwest India, Bukhara regularly hosts celebrities and is known for World's 50 Best Restaurants -level acclaim.

Noora Nihari

Address: Barahindu Roa Road, Gali Umrao, Pahari Dhiraj, Sadar Bazaar New Delhi, Delhi 110006, India Phone: +91 99535 22481

In a historic neighborhood, Noora Nihari is known for exceptional Indian takeout. It's not a sit-down, reservations-in-advance kind of restaurant. They serve nihari , a North Indian stew with lamb or goat, alongside freshly made Indian breads called roti .

Bade Mian ki Kheer

Address: 2867, Bazar Sirkiwalan, Chawri Bazar, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi 110006, India Phone: +91 98116 21763

Kheer is a must-try Indian dessert—it's lightly spiced (read: cardamom-infused), creamy, fragrant rice pudding. Bade Mian ki Kheer makes some of the best rice pudding in the city. Rather than stopping in at a sweet shop and taking your kheer to go, Bade Mian ki Kheer offers a welcoming, sit-down dessert experience.

Al Jawahar Restaurant

Address: 8, Near, Matia Mahal Rd, Bazar Matia Mahal, Jama Masjid, Old Delhi New Delhi, Delhi 110006, India Website

Another hole-in-the-wall in Old Delhi that's stood the test of time thanks to exceptional flavors, Al Jawahar is also known for their seekh kebabs. You'll also want to sample this Chandni Chowk restaurant's thick curries—and save room for kheer .

Farmer's Basket at Pluck

Address: Asset No 02 GMR Hospitality District IGI Airport New Delhi, Aerocity, Delhi 110037- Pullman Lobby level, New Delhi, Delhi 110037, India Phone: +91 11 4608 0840 Website

Located within Accor's Pullman New Delhi Aerocity, Farmer's Basket at Pluck is perhaps the best meal you'll find at an airport hotel. Serving a seasonal menu with locally grown produce, their plates are artistic, well-curated, and vegetable forward.

Things to Do

Address: Netaji Subhash Marg, Lal Qila, Chandni Chowk New Delhi, Delhi 110006, India Phone: +91 11 2327 7705 Website

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, New Delhi's famous Red Fort is a celebration of Mughali architecture. The fort was completed in the mid-1600s when a Mughali emperor moved the capital from Agra to Delhi. Visit the Red Fort from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. any day except Monday.

Humayun's Tomb

Address: Mathura Road Opposite, Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah, Mathura Rd, Nizamuddin, Nizamuddin East, New Delhi, Delhi 110013, India Phone: +91 11 2435 5275 Website

Also a UNESCO World Heritage Centre, Humayun's Tomb is a stunning, clay-colored mausoleum erected in 1570. The must-see point of interest is open daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Lotus Temple

Address: Lotus Temple Rd, Bahapur, Shambhu Dayal Bagh, Kalkaji, New Delhi, Delhi 110019, India Phone: +91 11 2644 4029 Website

The Baháʼí are known for curating picturesque gardens and erecting beautiful places of worship. On 26 acres of land, the Lotus Temple welcomes visitors of any and all religions. The temple design fascinates whether you're photographing the lotus structure from the outside or experiencing the concrete, ribbed-dome interiors.

Lodhi Gardens

Address: Lodhi Rd, Lodhi Gardens, Lodhi Estate New Delhi, Delhi 110003, India Phone: +91 11 2464 0079

Covering 90 acres, the Lodhi Gardens are akin to New York's Central Park and London's Hyde Park. You'll find two mausoleums and more than 100 species of trees within these gardens.

National Museum

Address: Janpath Rd, Rajpath Area, Central Secretariat New Delhi, Delhi 110011, India Phone: +91 11 2379 2775 Website

The National Museum of New Delhi is home to more than 2 million ancient artifacts. From archaeological discovery to never-before-seen photography from past decades, the National Museum is a perfect way to experience Indian culture over the last century. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday.

Rashtrapati Bhavan

Address: Rashtrapati Bhawan, President's Estate New Delhi, Delhi 110004, India Phone: +91 11 2301 5321 Website

Called the President's Palace, Rashtrapati Bhavan is indeed the official residence of the Indian president. Originally completed in 1929, you can tour the main building, the on-site museum, and the scenic gardens on the 330-acre estate.

Best Shopping

Chandni chowk.

Address: 2573, Nai Sarak, Raghu Ganj, Roshanpura, Old Delhi New Delhi, Delhi 110006, India

A staple of Old Delhi, Chandni Chowk (which means Moonlight Square) is right by the Old Delhi Railway Station and not far from the Red Fort. It's one of the oldest bazaars in Delhi, and you'll find a little bit of everything here—from antiques to copper to jewelry to handmade clothing.

Khan Market

Address: 61A, Khan Market, Rabindra Nagar New Delhi, Delhi 110003, India Website

In an upscale Delhi neighborhood, Khan Market has extensive shopping and great restaurants. Grab a kebab at Mughali restaurant Khan Chacha or macarons at L'Opera. Find Ayurvedic remedies at Kama Ayurveda and browse jewelry shops where you might find some well-priced gems.

Address: INA Market, Dilli Haat, Kidwai Nagar West, Kidwai Nagar Delhi, 110023, India Phone: +91 11 2611 9055 Website

A confluence of art, fashion, and Indian culture, Dilli Haat is a lively market with beautiful textiles and local crafts. Make sure to take a lunch break while shopping here, at stalls like Bijoli Grill or Rajasthan.

Sarojini Nagar Market

Address: Sarojini Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 110023, India

Sarojini Nagar Market is a great place for clothes shopping. Indian markets like this sell handwoven fabrics that you can then have made into one-of-a-kind clothing—and Sarojini Nagar Market is a perfect place to try this tradition.

Connaught Place Market

Address: Hanuman Road Area, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, India

Commonly referred to as "CP," Connaught Place Market is one of the most upscale shopping areas in New Delhi. The structure that houses Connaught Place Market is divided into three circles: the inner circle, middle circle, and outer circle. The inner circle has global luxury brands in addition to well-known Indian shops.

Neighborhoods to Know

Old Delhi : While you're unlikely to stay in Old Delhi, visiting the neighborhood and the market, or stopping in for dinner, is one of the most crucial experiences you can have—not just in Delhi, but in India. You'll find dining institutions, and motorcycles weaving through bustling crowds of locals and tourists.

Lodhi Colony : A newer neighborhood in Delhi, close to the Lodi Gardens, Lodhi Colony is the first public arts district in India. The hip enclave is covered in street art and is right off the Delhi metro.

Hauz Khas Village : A vibrantly colored, trendy village in New Delhi, Hauz Khas is known for great shopping, intriguing art galleries, and Instagrammable restaurants. Find a new outfit at OGAAN boutique, then head upstairs to their gourmet Coast Cafe—or go out on the town at Hauz Khas Social.

Nizamuddin : Close to Humayun's Tomb and India Gate, Nizamuddin is a tangle of busy, narrow streets, where street carts serving some of the most authentic Delhi eats stay open to all hours of the night. While popular among tourists for its proximity to must-see attractions, Nizamuddin is—at its core—a long-standing locals' neighborhood.Paharganj: A more rundown Delhi neighborhood, Paharganj is busy and tends to attract budget travelers because it's inexpensive. However, Paharganj is not the safest neighborhood (crime is a very real concern), so if you're heading to this area, remember to stay with a larger group that makes you feel comfortable

Winter: Winter is perhaps the best time to visit New Delhi (weather-wise). You'll find highs in the 70s and minimal rain from December to March.

Spring: Spring significantly warms up New Delhi—you'll find highs in the 80s and 90s in March and April. Nonetheless, it's still preferable to visit in the spring compared to the summer months, because traveling to New Delhi in April means you'll be there before monsoon season. By May, the intense heat and rain comes in full force.

Summer: Welcome to monsoon season. In June, July, and August, you'll find temperatures in the 100s and as much as five inches of rain per month. Summer is not an ideal time to visit India.

Fall: You'll still find hot temperatures and hefty rainfall in September and October (with highs in the 90s). By November, temperatures dip and the rain dissipates, which makes it a good time to visit New Delhi.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month. Average annual precipitation is 22.42 inches.

January: 46°F to 69°F February: 52°F to77°F March: 61°F to 88°F April: 71°F to 99°F May: 78°F to 104°F June: 81°F to 103°F July: 81°F to 97°F August: 80°F to 95°F September: 77°F to 94°F October: 68°F to 92°F November: 56°F to 83°F December: 48 °F to 74°F

Apps to Download

Uber : Rideshare servicing New Delhi iOS | Android

Delhi Metro Rail : Public transportation schedules, routes, tickets, and updates iOS | Android

Swiggy : India's go-to food delivery app, servicing New Delhi iOS | Android

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Delhi Travel Tips: 21 Things to Keep in Mind While Visiting Delhi

by Drifter Planet | Sep 19, 2015 | India , Most Popular Blog Posts

If you’re visiting India, most likely your flight will land in Delhi. It is a massive city and can confuse anyone that’s not familiar with it. It is divided into 6 main zones – North, South, East, West, Central and Old Delhi. It has an interesting history – it was destroyed and rebuilt many times, a fact that’s evident in many landmarks all over the city.

I won’t talk about Delhi’s history or popular points of interest in this post. I have a detailed   travel guide to Delhi where you can find all that information and information about 30 amazing places to visit in this city of Djinns. Instead, this post contains some super important travel tips for Delhi and should be read before you visit the city.

Please don’t believe everything that you read on the internet .  I have lived in Delhi for many years and some so called “facts” about the city just make me laugh. This is the first post for Delhi Travel Tips in  Backpacker’s Guide to Delhi. Here’s a list of 21 things that you need to keep in mind while visiting Delhi:

Delhi Travel Tips

01 | when to visit delhi.

Visit Delhi in the months of February, March, October or November. Delhi has unbearable summers and foggy winters so please avoid those seasons. Although Delhi rains are unpredictable, but it usually rains around the months of July and August. Delhi does look beautiful when it rains but the city’s already slow traffic comes to a standstill. It is only in the months of February, March, October or November is when you won’t be uncomfortably hot or cold when you go out to see the city’s heritage sites, like Qutub Minar .

Delhi is at it’s best in February, March, October & November (Delhi Travel Tips)

02 | Language in Delhi

You will not face any language barrier in most of the parts of Delhi. Hindi is the most commonly spoken language in Delhi but most of the locals speak really good English. Even if you meet someone who doesn’t speak English, they will surely understand basic words like no, yes, please, excuse me, sorry, bye and thank you. Learning a few Hindi words and phrases will definitely be an added advantage. Here are some of the most commonly used words:

Bhaiyya – it means big brother and it is commonly used in Delhi to address older men in a friendly way. One can also use the Hindi word  Bhai as “Bro”.

Didi – it means sister, usually older. It is often used in Delhi when addressing an older woman.

Kitne ka hai? – This means “how much is it for” and learning this will help you in case you decide something from a local shop.

App kaise hain? – It is one of the politest ways to ask “how are you?”.

Main theek hoon? – It is a gender neutral way to say “I”m doing well”.

Dhanyaavaad or Shukriya – Both of them mean “thank you”. You don’t really need to remember this because “thank you” or “thanks” is used more commonly in Delhi as compared to the Hindi words.

Thanda – this means cold. This word will surely be useful when you have to buy cold water or drinks.

Garam – it means hot.

03 | Delhi is Very Crowded

Get used to the crowds because Delhi is one of the most populated cities in India. The people of Delhi are called Delhi-ites. It is a melting pot of many different cultures due to a heavy inflow of migrants from all over the country. You can experience many different cultures from all over India in this city.

04 | Nightlife in Delhi

Delhi has a culture of an “early nightlife” because most bars don’t have the permit to remain open post 12:30 am. If you’re planning on buying your own alcohol to drink in your room, ask your Hotel or Hostel staff to guide you to the nearest “Wine and Beer shop”. These shops shut at 10:00 pm.

If you want to experience Delhi nightlife, you can visit the bars around Hauz Khas Village, Khan Market, Connaught Place, DLF Cyber Hub and GK 1 M Block.

05 | Festivals in Delhi

Holi (February or March) and Diwali (October or November) are the most popular Indian festivals and you will surely enjoy celebrating them in Delhi.

Holi is a festival of colors and can be a lot of fun in Delhi but please try to find a local family or a friend who can invite you to celebrate with them. I wrote a detailed article with tips for enjoying Holi in India , do check it out.

Diwali is a festival of lights, fireworks and Puja and it’s one of the biggest festivals of India. The festivities actually last for a month and it is surely fun to be in Delhi around this time. I have so much to say about Diwali that I think I will have to write a separate blog post about it. But in short, you can expect good food, sweets, Diwali Mela (Fair), Dusshera, Diwali parties with card games, fireworks, beautifully decorated houses and more.

Delhi Travel Tips: Diwali in Delhi

06 | Food in Delhi

Delhi has the BEST food. Period. You can find some of the best Mughalai curries, chaat (vegetarian street food), international restaurants and cuisines from all over India.

Make some local friends and get them to take you to their favorite places. Vegetarians and vegans will LOVE Delhi food. I strongly recommends these restaurant chains that are all over Delhi –  Kebab Gali  for Indian curries, Haldiram’s for typical Delhi vegetarian food, Karim’s for Old Delhi style curries, Sagar Ratna for Dosas, Asian Haus for home delivery of Asian food, Sushi Haus for home delivery of sushi, Dee’s Biriyani for Biryanis and Chawla chick inn for Indian curries.

Delhi Travel Tips: Delhi’s Famous Tandoori Chicken in Biryani Inc. Restaurant

07 | Drinking Water in Delhi

ONLY drink bottled water , unless you’re invited to a local resident’s home where they have their own RO (reverse osmosis) filter system. This also applies to ice because tap water ice cubes can make you sick.

08 | Delhi Belly

Have you heard of Delhi Belly? If you’re not from India, most likely you WILL develop a case of “Delhi Belly” in the first week of your visit to Delhi so please carry your diarrhea medicine. It usually lasts for just a day but can last for 2 or 3 in total. Don’t eat melons or papaya if you develop a “Delhi Belly” but curd rice or bananas will help.

09 | Toilets in Delhi

Yes, you need to carry toilet paper in Delhi.  Although most of the hotels have them but some don’t.  Urban India’s method of sanitation is a “water gun” kind of a jet sprinkler that cleans bums efficiently – better than using just  toilet paper. This is called a toilet jet. Try it – you will feel so clean and you won’t ever go back to using only toilet paper after number two.

Delhi Travel Tips: Typical Toilet with a Jet of Urban India

10 | Cultural Shock

Prepare to be shocked. Some aspects of Delhi, such as poverty, beggars, will seriously shock you. It still shocks me and makes me sad whenever I go back to Delhi, even though I have lived there for many years.

You will also see a lot of people throwing trash literally everywhere, so expect to see some dirty sidewalks and streets. I wish there was a way to clean up Delhi because it needs some serious work. Don’t let these things destroy your Delhi experience, so keep your mind open to accept the differences.

11 | Public Display of Affection

Public Display of Affection is not the best idea in many parts of Delhi. However as per my personal experience, holding hands is totally cool. It also depends upon where in Delhi are you because many areas of South Delhi are a little more liberal than the rest of Delhi, so be mindful of where you are.

12 | Negotiating and Prices

Bargain everywhere. The simplest way is to cut the quoted price in half and then negotiate your way to a middle figure. Bargaining works even in big designer showrooms – I did this while buying my wedding attire.

Delhi Travel Tips: Sarojini Market in Delhi – ALWAYS Negotiate for a better price here

13 | Scams in Delhi

Be careful of touts – they’re everywhere!  If you land in Delhi’s international airport, please directly head to the pre-paid taxi booth. If you arrive by train, please be prepared of many touts that will harass you to go to the hotel or hostel that they recommend. Many of them will try to send you to a dingy hostel in Paharganj – don’t!

Delhi has a lot of affordable hostels in better areas that are easily connected via Delhi metro. I get to witness this on many occasions when I travel with San. He’s from Germany and it’s hilarious how the touts always surround him!

14 | Useful Apps for Traveling in Delhi

There is an app called Zomato (and website) that is the SINGLE most useful resource to eating out and to know about the night life in Delhi. You can find information about almost every restaurant, read their menus, check reviews, get an idea about the prices and location coordinates. This is a very useful app because you can get a sense of where to eat and what to order for your budget.

Delhi Travel Tips: Zomato App for Eating out in Delhi by Drifter Planet

Delhi people seriously love their food and enjoy sharing reviews on Zomato and social media along with food photos. If you ever look for Delhi’s popular hashtags on Instagram – #DelhiGram, #SoDelhi, #DelhiDiaries – you will mostly see food.

Another very useful app to survive in Delhi is Ola Cabs and at times it is cheaper than even tuk tuks. I often used to travel by tuk tuks but I now regularly use Ola Cabs whenever I go back to Delhi. It’s because it can be stressful to sometimes find a tuk tuk and negotiate to a decent price.

15 | Delhi Metro is the Best Way to Get Around

The best way to get around is Delhi Metro which connects most parts of Delhi really well.  It has a separate dedicated coach for female passengers, which is usually the first coach. Click here for more information. Additionally, Delhi has a massive fleet of tuk-tuks which are more commonly known as auto rickshaws or just autos for short. Don’t forget to negotiate if you decide to ride one.  For traveling at night, I recommend you avail an app-based taxi service by Ola   Cabs which is I mentioned in the previous post and is tracked by GPS.

Delhi Travel Tips: Delhi Metro, Image from Wikipedia

16 | Get Used to the Stares

People in North India tend to stare a lot.   Please don’t be offended because most of them do this out of curiosity. Get used to it and don’t let this make you uncomfortable. 

A massive chunk of Delhi’s population comprises of migrant labourers, who enter Delhi from the neighboring states every single day to find employment. Many of them come from extremely remote villages with a completely different kind of life as compared to Delhi. For them, seeing extremely modernized Indian women is a massive culture shock. It is even a bigger shock when they see people from other countries. This is why they stare. They don’t mean to be rude at all but they’re curious!

17 | Personal Space

The concept of personal space is almost nonexistent, not just in Delhi but all over India. Whether you’re standing in a queue or traveling in the metro, get used to moving shoulder-to-shoulder.

Delhi Travel Tips: No “personal space”. Image by Reddit

18 | Delhi for Solo Women Travelers

This has been said before many times but I think it is my duty to tell you – dress sensibly and don’t walk around alone at night .  As a thumb rule, try to blend in with the locals and wear what you see them wearing.

It’s completely okay to wear a pair of shorts and walk around in places that are popular among the youth such as Hauz Khas Village, Khan Market, etc. However, wearing the same thing in conservative areas such as old Delhi or train stations will attract unnecessary attention and is almost as good as inviting trouble.

19 | Transport from Delhi Airport

Transport to and from Delhi Airport – Delhi airport (Indira Gandhi International Airport) is around one hour away from the main city. If you are a woman traveler and   your flight lands in the middle of the night, it’s a good idea to stay in the airport till early morning (5 am) and then move on to your hostel or hotel. The airport is connected to the main city by Delhi Metro, and the station is right outside IGI Airport’s Gate 4. This metro line runs from 5 am to 11:30 pm.

Alternatively, for safe Delhi airport transfer, you can pre book your ride with Blacklane and have one of their professional drivers pick you up in a luxurious car.

20 | Bug Spray

Carry a bug spray or insect repellent. Although a lot of mosquito bites will only cause you irritation, but some may cause Dengue or Malaria. I have suffered from Dengue once and it was horrible.  If you end up catching any sickness like this – just write to me, I will do the best to help you.

Delhi Travel Tips: Apply Mosquito Repellent in Delhi to avoid diseases like Dengue, Malaria, etc.

21 | Delhi Weddings Are Awesome

Of course, you’ve heard that Indian weddings are big. But you must keep in mind that Delhi weddings are massive. Try to get yourself invited for one while you’re there. Indian weddings don’t really have a major restriction on the guest counts.

How to get yourself invited? Super simple. When you meet the locals, wait for them to mention that their “friend’s friend’s third cousin” is getting married. At that point make a dreamy face and say that you’ve always wanted to see an Indian wedding. That’s it. I bet they will try everything they can to make it possible for you. Psst – if you do end up going then don’t be cheap. Carry a wedding gift that’s useful.

I had a “small” wedding by Delhi standards and it had close to 300 people. Attending a Delhi wedding is a “must do” experience.

Delhi Travel Tips: Try to Attend a Typical Delhi Wedding

Emergency Numbers: 100 for police, 101 for the fire department and 102 for an ambulance.

Closing Thoughts

It is possible to love and hate Delhi at the same time. I recommend you carry your camera around – who knows, you may spot a lazy cow chilling on the road while the rest of the traffic comes to a standstill or a monkey enjoying a motorbike ride with his human friend. Delhi has a lot of interesting sights and it never fails to surprise me even after living here for many years. Stay tuned for more Delhi Travel Tips in the “Backpacker’s guide to Delhi” series for information about where to stay, what not to miss, what to eat and where to drink.

Recommended reading:

The Business Traveler’s Guide to Delhi

Offbeat Things to do in Delhi

Where to visit after Delhi:

Kasol and Parvati valley in the Himalayas

Dharamkot & Dharamshala – India’s little Tibet in Himachal and the residence of the current Dalai Lama

Old Manali – was a part of the original hippie train

Color themed places to visit in Rajasthan

Varanasi – the spiritual capital of India

Jaisalmer  in Rajasthan

Kheerganga  in the Himalayas

Or, you can get on a flight to Goa to enjoy beaches.

For more destinations, check out my India Travel page.

You may also like:

Why Holi is the Most Awesome Festival EVER

51 Reasons Why Life in India is too much fun!

11 Reasons Why I love Goa and Keep Going Back

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28 Comments

I LOVE THIS POST. I LOVED HOW YOU’VE WRITTEN IT TAKING IN ACCOUNT ALL THE POSSIBLE ASPECTS FROM FOOD, BARGAINING, BEGGARS, FESTIVALS TO SAFETY AND PDA.

AWESOME!! 😀

Hehe, thank you! It’s because I lived in Delhi for around 20 years 🙂 😉

Please tell us in which areawe should take hotel and tour delhi

Heading to Delhi this fall and your write up is the best I’ve come across. Thank you.

Thank you Ben. 🙂 Hope you enjoy your time there. Let me know if you need more info, I’ve lived in Delhi for many years.

I have been checking out some of your posts and it’s pretty nice stuff. I will surely bookmark your blog.

Hello…Thank you for the information. it gives me helpful information about Delhi. i will be there soon. i can manage my self based on your information. i will write what i will have seen in Delhi when i will have come back to home land.

Awesome Wende, hope you have fun in New Delhi. 🙂

Hello. I am planning to travel Delhi on October 8′ 2017 and will stay 3 day. Can u help me where can I go in these 3days. Which hotel will be best in budget amount? We are coming by air. We are Bangladeshi. Can u suggest me where can i get bengali foods?

Thank you for information. You provide a detailed information about Delhi. Delhi is the capital city of India. Generally travellers explore Delhi with Golden Triangle tour India which includes three most famous destinations of India i.e., Delhi, Jaipur & Agra.

Well written, you covered almost all the points, but don’t agree much on “Public Display of Affection” point, In comparison to most of the other places in India, I would considered Delhi to be more advanced and liberal. As i have visited several parts of India so i can say this. One also needs to take care from theft in Delhi, especially if you are exploring some less crowded place.

Hi Kundan, glad you think we have covered all the points. In the point about Public Display of Affection in Delhi, we are not comparing it to other parts of India but to other parts of the world. 🙂 We totally agree with you about watching out for thefts. It is sad but true.

Top class article about the capital of India Delhi. keep updating thanks

Good write up!!! I visited Delhi 4 times.It was beautiful. The best one was, my Experience in Delhi airport .I simply loved and memorable too

Yes! you are right Delhi is very crowded city. Delhi is India capital. I found much useful information on this blog. Thanks for sharing this so interesting post! I really want to be thankful for the way you have put it here.

Absolutely great article about Delhi, enjoyed reading it. Delhi is a lovely city, it has always inspired everyone to move ahead in life.

I am so glad I found your blog. A friend and I are travelling to India mainly because of a yoga instructor course in Dharamshala. We are planning on travelling 2 weeks prior. Initially we wanted to get in and out of Delhi right away but your articles has made me want to explore Delhi. Thanks again for that!!! I was wondering if you could give us your expert opinion about the 2 weeks travel route from Delhi to Dharamsala. We prefer to see less places but experience those we go to to the fullest with all the culture, food, nature and people. There is so many places to see but 2 weeks is just too short to see all of it. Could you please give us your recommendations? This is the route. Please let us know if you would add or change a location. Delhi, Agrar, Ranthabore, Haldwani, Rishikesh, Amritsar and Dharamshala.

Many thanks in advance. We appreciate it a lot!!!

Namaste, Angela

Hi Angela, wow I’m super happy that my website inspired you to spend a little time in Delhi too. Yes, two weeks are very short but I will help you make the best of your time. Which month are you visiting India in? My suggestions completely depend on the weather. If you’re visiting in summer, then spending time in Delhi / Agra and Rajasthan will be not so easy. 🙂

If possible, you should cut out one or two places off your list. You can skip Haldwani. From Delhi, you can easily reach Rishikesh on a bus but please book a decent bus – AC Volvo – anything below is going to be a journey from hell. Alternatively, you can also directly take an overnight bus (usually 6 pm to 6 am) from Delhi to Dharamshala (or the nearby backpacker destinations – McLeodganj or Dharamkot ). OR you can take an overnight train from Delhi to Pathankot (look for Dhauladhar Express) and from Pathankot you can take a local bus to Dharamshala / McLeodganj / Dharamkot. Sadly it is not so easy to travel from Rishikesh to Dharamshala. You may have to spend 12 hours in a bus or big money on a taxi.

About Agra and Ranthambore – Agra is in UP and Ranthambore is in Rajasthan state. Normally there is a golden triangle route which is Delhi – Agra – Jaipur (Rajasthan) for people who are visiting India for a very short time and this route is super touristy. My point is – Agra and Ranthambore are in different directions and if google maps say 5 hours, be prepared for even 6 -7 hours because of traffic. 🙂

I hope I have not confused you entirely. I’d highly recommend you remove one or two places from your itinerary so that you have time to enjoy a place without having to worry about your bus / train / taxi the next day. Trust me, when you reach the Himalayas (Rishikesh / Dharamkot, etc), you will not want to leave in just a day. 🙂 Please feel free to ask me more questions or just email me at [email protected]

I am travelling to Delhi on Tuesday, April 24th. I am adopting a little girl. I am so scared!!! Reading your blog has helped me understand Delhi more but I am still worried about so much happening. Can you please send me an email so we could chat. I would appreciate it very much!

Hi Sharla, all the best with the adoption process. So happy to know that our blog helped you a lot. Dropping you a quick email. 🙂 Cheers!

Hey…. just happy to read your blog… me and my friendz have planned to explore Delhi on Saturday June 23. Plz give me more information about rooms at a level budget …and give me more about shopping and wandering…

Thanks for the sharing informative blog. Delhi is a tourism capital of India. From this place, great emperors of the Mughal dynasty ruled this entire nation.

Mughals were murderers of this land, its culture and its people. Don’t try to fool people.

Hi..we re family of 4 will be travelling to delhi and rajasthan in feb. Now i am doing the research of what to expect. Your blog is the most un biased one. Gonna bookmarked yours.

I was searching for some best places in Delhi as I was planning to be there. I found you on google great stuff on you I found a lot of things related what a trip says.

Hello- I am so happy to read to get to know the info about traveling to Delhi- I have a plan to visit only for 5 days- as I have limited time to see the important places like India Gate- Red fort- also a short one day visit to Pink City / Rajas-tan- also not forgetting Taj Mahal- what is the best area out of 6 parts of Delhi you have mentioned to stay- and easy to visit the above . Can I stay in the same place / hotel and go to these places – pls advice thanks a lot

Thank you for the Good tips.

I am going in January for just one day. Hope I can manage the cold.

What would you suggest is the best place to visit in one day ?

Or is it best to keep indoors ?

Hey, Superb blog. Safdarjung Tomb is a great place to visit in Delhi.

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Hello Travelers!

Namaste, Guten Tag! I'm Sonal from India, living in Germany and exploring Europe. I've been writing about my travels since 2015. I often travel alone (and sometimes with family of 3).

I love European city breaks, nature, adventure, hiking to viewpoints, Yoga, and road trips. I have a think for creating the most amazing travel itineraries and in-depth destination guides which will help you make the most of your trip.

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Last Updated on September 4, 2019 by Drifter Planet

20 top things to do in Delhi to get the most of your trip

Oct 18, 2021 • 8 min read

The streets of Delhi burst with vibrant colors © Finn stock / Shutterstock

Delhi serves up an astounding cornucopia of history, culture, cuisine, commerce and street life, with countless sights and activities to keep visitors thoroughly engaged.

At first glance, the Indian capital can seem an overwhelming place to negotiate but give it time and you'll feel the chaos subside, revealing delicate vignettes of daily life and layer upon layer of ancient history, built up over 2000 years of settlement.

Here are 20 great things to do in India ’s fast-paced and frantic, but fun-filled capital.

1. Sample Delhi’s delectable street food

The street food in Delhi is legendary. Tangy delights such as chaat papdi (fried wafers loaded with potatoes, chickpeas, yogurt and chilli) or golgappas (fried hollow dough filled with chickpeas and spicy potatoes), are de rigueur in Old Delhi. Also seek out stuffed parathas (fried breads with vegetable fillings), sizzling kebabs and treacle-dripping jalebis (sweet swirls of fried dough).

2. Admire the grandeur of Humayun's Tomb

Humayun's Tomb combines Persian elegance with fine Indian craftsmanship, and its graceful lines are mirrored by the fiercely symmetrical Mughal Gardens that surround it. For the best photos, stroll here at dusk, or simply admire the architecture at any time of day. Believed to be the precursor of its more famous look-alike, the Taj Mahal , this Unesco-protected monument is well worth the relatively high entry fee.

3. Listen to qawwalis

The best place to hear qawwalis (devotional music) is at the dargah (tomb) of the Sufi saint Nizam-ud-din Auliya ; resounding professions of faith ring out around sunset at one of Sufism’s most revered sites. Buried close to his spiritual master is Amir Khusro, a celebrated Sufi poet from the 13th century. The qawwalis take on a special hue during Basant, the festival of Spring, when both dargah and devotees are adorned with yellow robes and blooms.

4. Explore the Red Fort

Explore the great sandstone carcass of the Red Fort , and you'll be whisked back to the last days of the Mughal empire. Though some areas are under restoration, the mixture of graceful Islamic structures and British-era additions still spins a tale of duelling empires. If possible, catch the Republic Day celebrations (January 26) here when the Prime Minister hoists the Tricolor from its resplendent ramparts, and browse the wares on sale in the Meena Bazar, once the exclusive domain of the ladies of the Mughal court.

5. Take the stress out of sight-seeing on a bus tour

You can catch an easy glimpse of Delhi on a Ho-Ho Bus tour for as little as Rs 500 a day. Except for Mondays, tourist buses run throughout the day at regular intervals, stopping at the biggest sights and giving visitors plenty of time to get familiar with the city's history and heritage. Choose from half-day, one-day or two-day tours depending on availability.

6. Go on a shopping spree

Some of the best shopping in the city can be found at Delhi's government emporiums, a string of temples to Indian craftsmanship lined up along Baba Kharak Singh Marg close to Connaught Place . For bargains, hit the flea market stalls nearby on Janpath and in Sarojini Nagar. For a one-stop shop for crafts from around India, look no further than Dilli Haat , near the INA metro stop, which also serves up great street food.

7. Lose yourself in Old Delhi

Get lost and confused in the narrow bazaars of Old Delhi, and feel like you've wandered into the medieval period. Every wrong turn springs a new surprise as you stumble upon such hidden delights as the home of the legendary Urdu poet, Mirza Ghalib, the towering Jama Masjid , India's largest mosque or Khari Baoli – Asia’s largest spice bazaar. On your explorations, keep an eye out for a series of well-preserved and colourfully painted Jain havelis (merchant's houses), built in the 18th century.

Explore Old Delhi effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

8. Explore the sprawling Sunder Nursery

To restore your inner equilibrium, step into the serenity of the 90-acre Sunder Nursery , a beautifully restored park dotted with Mughal monuments, water features and several hundred species of trees. Alive with birds and butterflies, the flowerbeds surround amphitheatres where you can see performances by talent from nearby Nizamuddin Basti.

9. People watch at Lodi Garden

To see Delhi at its most relaxed, wander around Lodi Garden on a Sunday afternoon, the perfect place for people watching. The gardens are dotted with ancient ruins from the Islamic Sayyid and Lodi dynasties so there's plenty to see; bring a picnic basket, relax with a book, or put its jogging tracks to good use.

10. Watch the Changing of the Guard

A relatively unknown Delhi attraction, the Changing of the Guard takes place on the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhavan every Saturday morning. The President’s Bodyguard, kitted out in their ceremonial regalia, put on an equestrian display for a gathering of no more than 200, against the backdrop of the imposing Presidential Palace.

11. Visit Indira Gandhi's former home

The ghosts of history swim through the former home of Indira Gandhi, Indira Gandhi Smriti , where she was shot dead by one of her bodyguards in 1984. There's a lot to learn about India's most powerful dynasty, and India's complex politics, as you wander through this period mansion.

12. Get acquainted with Indian art

Be flabbergasted by the wealth of Indian art at the National Museum , home to an astonishing collection of statues, woodcarvings, paintings and other treasures. Not far away, you can introduce yourself to India's avant-garde artists and their work, installations included, at the National Gallery of Modern Art .

13. Feast on fine Indian fare

Delhi is amply stocked with great places to eat. For a taste of the south, chow down on scrumptious masala dosas (rice and lentil flour pancakes) at the Janpath branch of Saravana Bhavan , and finish your meal with a deliciously nutty south Indian coffee. Alternatively, take things up a notch by booking a table at Indian Accent in the Lodhi Hotel to sample a tasting menu blending flavors from across the subcontinent, or try the cluster of Mughlai restaurants at Pandara Market ; Pindi and Gulati are standout options.

14. See the city from a different angle

There are dozens of great books that bring Delhi's history to life. Use the map from William Dalrymple's City of Djinns for a novel way to explore the city, or grab Madhulika Liddle’s The Eighth Guest and Other Muzaffar Jang Mysteries and traipse around Shahjahanabad (Old Delhi) in the footsteps of her intrepid Mughal-era detective.

15. Put on your dancing shoes

One great way to feel the rhythms of the subcontinent is through a dance lesson at the Delhi Dance Academy . Their two-hour Namaste India Dance Workshop is an entertaining introduction to the Bollywood, Bhangra, and Garba styles you've probably already seen on the big screen. The cost includes costume hire and a video of the choreographed performance.

  16. Take time out at the Qutab Minar

For a break from the centre, take a trip out to the historic Qutab Minar , with its towering minaret resembling an ornate factory chimney. This complex is studded with monuments straddling several centuries, and will be of immense interest to any history, architecture or calligraphy buffs. The ruins continue in the neighbouring Mehrauli Archaeological Park .

17. Go upmarket at Khan Market

Sample the refined lifestyle of middle-class Delhiites at laidback Khan Market . Browse the bookshops and homeware stores, then hang out for a chat at Café Turtle , fuelled by coffee and gooey cake. Alternatively, get the youthful vibe by ordering a shake at Big Chill or sushi at Yum Yum Cha , or mix coffee and carafes at Perch , the city’s first wine and coffee bar.

Explore Khan Market effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

18. Escape the crush at the Raj Ghat Gandhi Memorial

For respite from the chaos of the city streets, visit Gandhi's simple memorial  in its tranquil gardens at Raj Ghat, and consider the humble lifestyle of the great Independence leader and the tragedy of his departure – nowhere else in Delhi is as peaceful as this.

19. Feel the buzz of Hauz Khas

History meets BoHo in the district of Hauz Khas , with its crumbling Deli Sultanate-era tombs and enticing art, antique and fashion boutiques. Enjoy a quick bite or a long, leisurely meal in one of many hip eateries overlooking the lake, or stop in for coffee and conversation at Kunzum Travel Cafe .

20. Climb Jama Masjid's minaret

Wind up your explorations back in Old Delhi at the Jama Masjid, and climb the mosque's minaret in the late afternoon for epic views of stacked rooftops, soaring vultures and twirling kites, then reward yourself with a classic non-veg meal nearby at Karim's or Al-Jawahar , both famous for their rich, meaty kebabs.

You might also like:  History, art and toilets: the best museums in Delhi The Indian capital by night: the best bars and clubs in Delhi Meet the banker behind Delhi's favorite chocolate factory

This article was first published August 2019 and updated October 2021

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Home » Asia » India » Delhi

INSIDER DELHI ITINERARY for 2024

Delhi is an incredible, crazy city bursting with flavors, color, and beautiful chaos! Spend busy days exploring historic mosques and ancient temples. Make your way through vibrant markets – some of the oldest and largest in the world. Your days will be full to the brim!

We’ve put together a Delhi itinerary that takes you to all the best that this city has to offer. Learn about India’s rich history and the many fascinating religions that make up Delhi culture. Taste deliciously unique cuisines, and embrace the local traditions!

With tips on how to stay safe and enjoy the city to the utmost, you simply can’t go wrong. These are the best places to visit in Delhi.

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Best Time To Visit Delhi

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It’s easy to decide when to visit Delhi ! The city is the kind of holiday destination you definitely want to visit in the shoulder seasons, spring and fall. Spring (February – March) is sunny and pleasant without getting too hot. Fall (September – December) is similarly lovely!

Like most places you’ll encounter while backpacking India , Delhi doesn’t even really have a winter. It has a monsoon season (July – mid-September) and in this period, the weather is wet, humid and hot. Unless you’re used to this kind of weather, we recommend you avoid traveling during this time, as it can get very uncomfortable!

Still, most of the year is very hot and full of sunshine. Tourists travel to Delhi anytime between October and March, when all the heavy rains are gone, temperatures are milder, and the land is lush and beautiful.

Weekends in Delhi are little different to the rest of the week, and more attractions are closed on a Monday than over the weekend.

Deciding where to stay in Delhi can be tough as the city is so damned big. If you want to be right in the middle of the action, find accommodation in Lajpat Nagar. This colorful neighborhood is where you’ll find the sprawling, busy, brightly colored Central Market, one of Delhi’s greatest markets and one of the stops on our Delhi itinerary!

Situated in South Delhi, this is a great place to have as your home-base. It’s close to everything, and you’ll never be more than a few steps away from some great restaurants and bars, as well as family-run eateries and unique stores. It’s not for the faint-hearted, as it’s always busy! But if you’re looking to meet people and have loads of fun, you’re sure to do that here.

For something a little more secluded (a tough feat on any day in Delhi), the best place to stay in Delhi, is Lodhi Colony. This neighborhood is a little more upscale, as well as quieter! This was the last residential area built during the British reign and has a unique and special atmosphere. There’s a lot to see and enjoy here but in a more peaceful environment.

Other great neighborhoods are Old Delhi, where you can connect with the city’s history and enjoy quirky shops, beautiful architecture, and Hauz Khas Village. This neighborhood is where you can experience Delhi’s medieval history!

So, as you can see, there are a great many fantastic options for your vacation in Delhi. Just be sure to stay central if you only have 3 days in Delhi!

Best Hostel in Delhi – Hostel Smyle Inn

Located in the heart of Delhi, Hostel Smyle Inn is walking distance from many of our stops! It’s a simple, charming family-run hostel with a history of great value. Free breakfast and high-speed internet add to the comfortable rooms. If you’re looking for a more affordable option and terrific value for money, this is your best bet!

Best Airbnb in Delhi: Comfy condo with outside space

A cosy space with lots of natural light and a timeless view will help you feel situated in no time. Besides your room, you have access to a bathroom (with shower), living room and kitchen. There is also a small garden, shared with the neighbours, that you can use!

Is this amazing Delhi Airbnb booked for your dates? We’ve got your back with our Best Airbnbs in Delhi  guide!

Best Budget Hotel in Delhi – Hotel Sky

Hotel Sky is a great budget hotel with all the amenities and a terrific location. In addition to cozy rooms, you can enjoy the in-house restaurant, free parking, and a terrace! You can also take advantage of the room service and currency exchange. It’s a terrifically convenient accommodation choice, perfect for families and couples.

Best Luxury Hotel in Delhi –  The Imperial

Beautiful decor and luxurious facilities, The Imperial is one of Delhi’s top hotels. Relax in the pool or with the world-class spa facilities! The hotel has seven restaurants, yoga classes, a book shop, and babysitting services. It is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate while remaining close to all the action.

The best way to get around the city is with the Delhi Metro. It’s quicker than every other mode of transport, and cheaper too. The trains come every 5-10 minutes, and the first coach is always reserved for women. So if you’re a woman traveling Delhi alone, you can chill comfortably here.

Be prepared for crammed coaches during rush hours, which differ according to the day! If you want to avoid the coach at these times, Delhi also has that handy world-wide app, Uber. If you don’t want it to get too pricey, you can even get an Uber Pool.

Of course, one of our favorite ways to get around any city is by walking. Stroll between the stops that are close together, and experience much more of the city than you would any other way! You’ll see so many interesting and exciting things as you explore by foot.

You can grab a city map at your accommodation, and plot out your Delhi itinerary stops before you set off. And if your feet get tired at any point of the day, hail a rickshaw, and experience another of Delhi’s cultural icons as you head for your next stop!

Old Delhi | Spice Market | Tomb of Safdarjung | Qutub Minar | Rashtrapati Bhavan | India Gate

Wondering what to do in Delhi? We’ve got all the best for you. The majority of day 1 in Delhi is spent in the most historic part of the city, Old Delhi! Explore the structures which have formed Delhi, and enjoy the vibrancy of markets and mosques.

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Stroll through Old Delhi

• Why it’s awesome: It’s where you can enjoy the epitome of traditional Indian culture and liveliness!
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: One of the many great eateries where you can enjoy some local favorites is Jung Bahadur Kachori Wala

Founded in 1639 as a walled city, Old Delhi is a treasure trove of historic attractions and beautiful little details. It’s always bustling and colorful, the streets winding through gorgeous architecture and urban areas!

One of India’s best-known traditional urban environments, you’ll learn more about India, both contemporary and historic, right here. A number of our stops are in the area, but we suggest you start day 1 in Delhi strolling through and having a look around! It’s chaotic and jam-packed, loads of fun, as long as you’re ready for a crowd.

Once named Shahjahanabad and the capital of the Mughal empire, it was filled with mansions, mosques, and gardens. It remains Delhi’s symbolic heart, and there’s always something going on.

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Do some spice shopping at Khari Baoli

• Why it’s awesome: It’s one of the world’s biggest spice markets
• Food nearby: Grab something from the incredible street food stalls

After exploring the greater Old Delhi, head over to Asia’s best and biggest spice market! If you’re spending more than 2 days in Delhi, and you plan on doing your own cooking, you should definitely try a few spices! Many of these you will find nowhere else. You can also grab some dried fruit and unusual snacks to enjoy on the rest of your two days in Delhi.

It’s an immersive experience and a sensory overload, you’ll want to smell everything! You’ll want to taste everything too, but don’t try that. You can, however, take lots of photos, and barter with the tradespeople. Many of whom have run these stalls for generations.

This vast market has been operating since the 17th century, a historic part of Delhi culture. It may be just a market, but it’s an authentic Indian experience you won’t forget anytime soon!

Insider Tip: The market is closed on Sundays, and runs from 10 am to 8 pm. We’ve made it our second stop so that you’re here before the crowds and the heat of midday!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Visit the Tomb of Safdarjung

• Why it’s awesome: Peaceful, monumental and lovely, it’s the perfect stop after all that exciting busyness
• Cost: $2 USD
• Food nearby: If you don’t feel like street food, visit the nearby Sugar Blossoms for sweet treats and a boutique feel

Displaying the grandeur of the Mughal era, this iconic tomb was built in 1754 and houses Nawab Safdarjung. It was the last monumental tombs and garden from the Mughals, a sandstone and marble mausoleum!

One of the things we love about this tomb is how relatively small the crowds tend to be! It’s beautiful and historic, but it was only recently renovated, leaving it rather unknown to tourists. So you can stroll slowly through and admire the artistry without the crowds you’ll find at most Delhi attractions! This makes it the perfect stop after the bustling market.

The tomb itself is nestled in a square garden with a lovely garden, a library, and pavilions. Catch your breath here and relax on the grass before setting off to the next stop on your Delhi itinerary!

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Explore Qutub Minar

• Why it’s awesome: It’s one of the most famous Delhi points of interest, and for good reason!
• Cost: $7 USD
• Food nearby: For something a little different, enjoy a late lunch at the Armenian restaurant, Lavaash By Saby!

Built in the 13th century, this curious tower dominates the nearby skyline. 73-meters high, the tower is made up of alternatingly angular and rounded flutings. It’s surrounded by two historic mosques, one of which is the oldest in Northern India!

It was built as a victory tower and is made up of red sandstone recycled from various temples. It’s one of the most popular Delhi points of interest, and an absolute must-see.

A lot has happened with this unique tower. Three floors were added years after its construction, and at one point, lightning struck and broke off the top floor!

There is not even certainty about who it’s dedicated to – a Sufi saint, the father-in-law of the man who commissioned it, or the muezzins who used it for the call to prayer. But whatever it’s dedicated to, it’s a beautiful and impressive monument to India’s rich and colorful history!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – See the presidential palace, Rashtrapati Bhavan

• Why it’s awesome: It’s the presidential palace, with so much to see and famously beautiful gardens
• Cost: $1 USD per circuit
• Food nearby: Grab some Indian comfort food at the nearby MP Club & Canteen South Avenue

For something a little more modern but just as ornate and beautiful, visit the Rashtrapati Bhavan! Built for the Viceroy of India, this massive mansion is an experience of Indian stateliness and wealth – something you may see little of in contemporary Delhi.

The mansion has a full 340 floors! It also has 190 acres of curated garden you could get lost in. you can join tours in 3 circuits of the mansion – one of the main building, one of the museum, and one of the extensive gardens. You can choose what you’re most interested in and enjoy a tour of that, or join them all!

The gardens, in addition to curated spaces, include forest, parks, wilderness, and water bodies! You’ll see peacocks sauntering about, and other small animals and birds.

The museum includes invaluable artifacts of Indian heritage, art and culture! The mansion, of course, includes ornate halls, a massive library, and drawing rooms. There’s just so much to see!

If you’re spending the weekend in Delhi, you can even watch the changing of the guards, a tradition that remains from British rule. Timings for this change, so ask at the desk when you arrive or check for your dates!

Insider Tip: The three circuits are closed on Mondays, and with the exception of the museum circuit, on Wednesday too. Be sure to plan your Delhi itinerary around this!

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Marvel at India Gate

• Why it’s awesome: It’s an impressive monument in a lovely area
• Food nearby: Enjoy some fantastic Indian and Mughal cuisine at Gulati Restaurant

The perfect place to end off your first day in Delhi is India Gate! This war memorial is lit up at night – which is likely when you’ll see it, considering how full your day is! It stands as a memorial for the British Indian Army soldiers who died in WWI and the Second Anglo-Afghan War.

There are over 13,000 names inscribed on the gate. There is also a flame continuously burning as a memorial to the unknown soldier, all the men who died in battle, whose names are not marked down. It’s a beautiful memorial to a difficult time in human history, and one everyone will appreciate and respect.

Reflecting the styles of the Arc de Triomphe and older Greek memorial gates, the India Gate has put a unique twist on the style and is something all its own. Watch the sunset behind it and the lights go on to illuminate the structure!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Chhatarpur Temple | Akshardham Temple | Hauz Khas | Humayun’s Tomb | Lotus Temple | Red Fort | Chandni Chowk

On the second of your 2-day itinerary in Delhi, explore both modern and historic landmarks in the newer part of the city. End the day off with a visit to one of the world’s biggest market roads! Many of the stops can even be explored on a self-guided Delhi walking tour.

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Visit Chhatarpur Temple

• Why it’s awesome: It’s an icon of Delhi, massive, calming and impressive
• Food nearby: Get a casual, cozy breakfast at Dilip Momos

Dedicated to the Hindu goddess Katyayani, this magnificent temple is the perfect way to start day 2 in Delhi! It’s surrounded by trees and greenery, with a terrifically peaceful atmosphere – particularly, first thing in the morning!

There are many beautiful statues of the Hindu gods and goddesses in the temple. Walk through the temple grounds and enjoy the scenic calm.

The structure is very unusual, made almost entirely from marble. It is also one of the largest temples in the world! A full 60 acres with over 20 temples. You can spend hours here, but we recommend limiting yourself to 2-hours.

Be sure to explore the surrounding area a little! It’s an important biodiversity area, with lakes, exotic vegetation, and season waterfalls.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Walk through Akshardham Temple

• Why it’s awesome: This is the biggest and best temple complex in India
• Food nearby: You can find something yummy at the Akshardham Complex Food Court

Akshardham sits on the banks of the river, an extensive complex with much more than a temple. The name means ‘divine abode of god’, and that high title is certainly reflected in the temple’s perfection and massive expense.

Spend hours here, exploring the themed gardens, a boat ride that takes you through the cultural history of Delhi, and watching a water show.

The main attraction, of course, remains the temple. Incredibly decorated, the pink sandstone and marble are carved with dancers, deities, animals, and plants.

You’ll also find over 100 life-sized elephant statues on the temple grounds! It’s an experience totally unlike any other temple pilgrimage, unique and wondrous.

Visit the hall of values to see life-size robotic displays of the life of Swaminarayan (the temple’s main deity). Stroll along the lake and explore Bharat Upavan, a garden filled with bronze sculptures of deities and others.

Insider Tip: Like many of the stops on our Delhi itinerary, the dress code here requires covered legs till the knee, and arms to the elbow. But if you aren’t dressed appropriately, a free sarong is available, so you don’t have to miss it!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Enjoy the peace at Hauz Khas Complex

• Why it’s awesome: It’s an enchanting medieval village and mosque, completely different from the more contemporary stops
• Food nearby: Get some tea and cake at the quaint, kitsch Elma’s teashop and cafe

For a greater feel for historic India, visit the Hauz Khas Complex! This 13th-century village is the perfect place to see how people lived here during Medieval times. It’s relatively unknown, so you’re likely to spend your visit exploring with only a few others in a peaceful environment.

The complex includes a medieval seminary, a mosque, and a stone water tank. The lush wild garden compliments the historic structures, and makes you feel like you’re walking somewhere magical.

Insider Tip: The complex is closed to visitors every Monday, so if you’re here on this day, give this stop a skip. It’s better to visit over a weekend in Delhi.

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Stop at Humayun’s Tomb

• Why it’s awesome: It’s gorgeous, the inspiration behind the Taj Mahal!
• Cost: $9 USD
• Food nearby: Get some tasty late-afternoon kebabs at Yaseen kabab Corner

Built in 1570, this tomb has a great deal of cultural significance in India! It was the first garden-tomb in the country, and had a huge influence on architecture and style throughout the centuries.

The tomb is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and has undergone extensive restorations to ensure that we can still visit it and admire the historic splendor for generations!

This is such a great place to take photos, and at the time you’ll be visiting (late afternoon), it is relatively quiet. You can join a guided tour to learn more about the history and influence of Humayun’s Tomb. Or just explore the grounds on your own and admire the beauty!

If you later visit the Taj Mahal, a stop here is even more important. You’ll really be able to see how this mausoleum inspired the later one. It’s the beginning of the Mughal architectural style that culminated in that iconic place!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Pray at the Lotus Temple

• Why it’s awesome: A really unique design and joyful environment
• Food nearby: Enjoy a good meal and drinks at The Flying Saucer Cafe

This impressive and unique place is a wonder to visit! 27 marble flower petals make up the unusual structure, designed after the sacred lotus. It is a religious worshipping grounds for all faiths, so you can choose to pray there with people from all over the world and all religions!

If you do choose to go inside, you’ll get a quick brief on what to do – primarily, be quiet and respectful. You’ll also leave your shoes behind in a secure room. If you don’t, just take it in from the outside, and get a few shots!

Insider Tip: Like many of the stops, the Lotus Temple is closed on a Monday – when planning a trip to Delhi, we suggest you book your dates around this day. A weekend in Delhi is much better.

Day 2 / Stop 6 – Admire the Red Fort

• Why it’s awesome: It’s one of the top Delhi landmarks, massive and ornate
• Cost: $4 USD
• Food nearby: Enjoy a laid-back meal at Abdul Ghani Qureshi Kabab

Also called Lal Qal’ah, this Mughal fort complex is one of Delhi’s top attractions! It’s been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and should not be missed when touring Delhi!

Stroll through palaces and canals, baths, entertainment halls, ornate gardens and a beautifully decorated mosque – all in the Red Fort Complex! It’s a beautiful fusion of cultures and architectural traditions and is considered the peak of Mughal creativity.

It’s the perfect next stop, just a short walk away from the Tomb! You could spend the whole day here, exploring the different structures and gardens and admiring the little details. But since there’s so much to see in just 2 days in Delhi, we recommend a visit of 2-3 hours!

Day 2 / Stop 7 – Shop and eat at Chandni Chowk

• Why it’s awesome: It’s a massive, exciting market you could spend hours and hours exploring
• Food nearby: Get some traditional Indian ice cream at Kuremal Mohanlal Kulfiwale

End off day 2 in Delhi on the perfect note. It’s one of our favorite stops on the 2-day itinerary in Delhi! Right opposite Red Fort you’ll find this long busy street, one of the oldest and greatest markets in the city.

Chandi Chowk is a full-day market, but we love it in the evening when the atmosphere shifts and the bustling daytime visitors give way to the nighttime crowd.

This massive outdoor market has some of the best and most well-priced fabrics and Indian clothing you’ll find in Delhi! In fact, it has everything. It’s the perfect place to shop, eat, and enjoy the vibrant local culture.

It’s always crowded, so be prepared to nudge through some people when necessary. You’ll find huge bargains here, and some incredible food! Many of the stalls have been run by the same family in the same place for over 100 years. It’s an experience in tradition and changing culture.

Insider Tip: Keep cash on you! You’re not likely to find a card machine here, and you don’t want to miss out. Just make sure your bag is always closed and on the front of your body.

Hostel Smyle Inn

Located in the heart of Delhi, Hostel Smyle Inn is walking distance from many of our stops! It’s a simple, charming family-run hostel with a history of great value.

• Free Breakfast

Lodhi Gardens | Food Tasting Tour | Tuk-Tuk/Rickshaw Tour | National Museum | Sri Bangla Sahib Gurudwara

There’s still a lot to see in Delhi! So if you’re spending more than 2 days here, that’s wonderful. Our 3-day itinerary in Delhi has got you covered, to see everything possible!

Lodhi Gardens

• The gardens stretch for 90 acres!
• Historical monuments and ruins dot the extensive park
• The monuments are from the 14th-17th centuries, and everything is well-maintained

Developed by the British as a landscaped setting for the various monuments within it, Lodi Garden is gorgeous! It was once named Lady Willington Park but was renamed Lodhi Garden, after one of India’s great dynasties, when India gained its independence.

The garden is a lovely place to stroll and enjoy a picnic! Flowers line the walkways, and a great many trees stretch up to compete with the tall monuments.

The monuments in the garden are open to visitors, so you can explore them and admire the historic architecture and detail. You can even join a tour, and learn about the various structures from a local guide.

Be sure to bring your camera, and try to go early or late in the day! At these times, hardly anyone will be here. You can enjoy the monuments in silence, and get some exquisite photos with no one in sight!

The garden feels like an oasis in the middle of the city. It is located squarely in one of New Delhi’s busiest areas, but once you step in that green expanse, it feels immediately as if you are in the countryside. A countryside dotted with precious monuments and tombs!

Old Delhi Street Food Tasting Tour

• Experience the city in a unique way, tasting local street foods and snacks
• Travel by rickshaw and explore Delhi’s winding streets
• Enjoy a trip to the spice market and try new things

The best food tour in Delhi is definitely a street food tour! Indians enjoy many of their meals from street food stalls – they’re a huge part of the culture here. As such, it’s a great way to experience and learn about local life!

You can either tour the street food stalls yourself and give everything that looks exciting a go. Or you can join a guided tour and try what’s considered the best of the Delhi street food scene! Either option is great, and very different.

It’s a fully immersive experience, and you’ll move through the bustling market tasting sugary jalebis and famously good Dahi Vada ! Learn about the neighborhood’s history and traditions, both food-related and otherwise. India has such a unique and unusual cuisine history!

Thankfully, there’s just as much for vegetarians to enjoy as meat-eaters. However, if you do choose to tour the market yourself, consider avoiding meat, as food poisoning can occur. If you  join a tour, rest assured they choose their stops carefully with hygiene in mind.

Jump on a rickshaw and explore the area, traveling through the narrow streets with your enthusiastic local guide and a small group!

Or, if you go it alone, we still recommend you jump on a rickshaw! Just ask the rider to take you around the old walled city while you do a bit of digesting.

Old Delhi: 3-Hour Tuk-Tuk/Rickshaw Tour

• Explore all the main highlights of Old Delhi
• Ride past bazaars and temples in a tuk-tuk or bicycle rickshaw
• You’ll even participate in a community kitchen where you can get back and learn more about contemporary India

This is such a great way to see the city! Explore the historic Old Delhi on a rickshaw/tuk-tuk . The rickshaw has been a part of Indian transport for centuries and is one of the absolute best ways to experience Delhi.

Sit back and relax while your tour guide and rider shows you the sights and tells you a bit about their history and importance! Stop and find something beautiful at the market, and enjoy how your guide navigates the busy crowd to bring you comfortably through.

You’ll want your camera on this tour!

Visit Jama Masjid, Delhi’s largest mosque and a stop not yet on your itinerary for Delhi! This beautiful structure was built in 1650, and has remained one of India’s most massive mosques all these centuries. You’ll have time to tour the mosque a little before setting off to your next stop.

Ride through the largest spice market in Asia (and an earlier stop on your Delhi trip itinerary), Khari Baoli. You’ll even get to volunteer, if you choose to, at the langar, community kitchen service.

It’s a great way to experience India. Not only will you experience more of the local culture and way of life. You’ll also learn about Delhi’s history, and about the tenets of the various religions in this city, like Sikhism and the Jain religion!

National Museum of New Delhi

• Brilliant displays of historic artifacts, artworks, statues and sculptures
• The museum covers Indian history from ancient times until now
• Carefully curated, with great facilities and helpful staff

We’ve saved this incredible stop till now because you’d be best served by spending a full day here! The museum is a wonderful experience, with so many exhibitions, and all well-maintained.

India’s history is so vastly different to the more commonly known western societies. The art, cultures, religions and belief systems that have thrived here are unique, complex and beautiful. Celebrate and learn about them here, where you can find a wealth of knowledge in all fields!

Experience the artifacts at the museum’s Tactile Experience display! Created specially for the blind, the gallery has tactile replicas of some of the museum’s most interesting artifacts. So for once, you can touch what’s on display!

The jewelry display is exquisite, and the arms and armor gallery has so many artifacts, the like of which you’ll find nowhere else! The Central Asian Antiquities has over 12 000 objects from the 3rd to the 12th century AD – gathered from the Silk Roads.

India has such a rich history, with so many empires and dynasties holding power and influencing the culture and way of life. The opportunity to actually see the things used in war, and in everyday life back then, is truly wonderful. Especially after seeing the many incredible structures on your 3-day itinerary in Delhi!

Sri Bangla Sahib Gurudwara

• A beautifully peaceful place in the heart of Delhi
• Delhi’s most impressive and stunning Sikh religion temples
• Open 24/7, you can visit here at any time of day

Famous for its unique spirituality, hospitality, and gorgeous architecture, Sri Langa Sahib Gurudwara is a wonderful place to visit. Particularly for spiritual people. You can join the Sikhs in prayer at any time of day, or simply admire the beauty of it, and the friendliness you’re faced with.

The atmosphere here is incredibly warm and friendly. The people are always happy to help in any way. You can even enjoy some free halwa!

While Sikhism is a relatively unknown religion, it’s the fifth-largest religion in the world, with about 28 million followers! This means that this temple is often very busy, as it is a holy site of pilgrimage.

Sikhs believe in one God, but also in karma and reincarnation! It’s a fascinating religion, and one you can learn a lot about here. This stop isn’t for everyone, but anyone interested in spirituality and religion, as well as human kindness, will love it!

Of course, you can also simply admire the unique architecture, the marble facade, and the golden minarets! It’s a beautiful structure that emanates warmth and can always be relied on to bring a little peace.

Is Delhi Safe? Well, Delhi has a few safety issues to keep in mind so that you can be sure to enjoy your holiday to the fullest! Firstly, the very crowded areas are places where pickpockets thrive, like in every city. Delhi just has more crowded areas than many others.

So keep your bag closed and in front of you. Keep your wallet in your front pocket rather than the back. Don’t wear flashy jewelry or anything too expensive-looking that can easily be grabbed!

Another issue is the congestion on the roads. This is one of the reasons we recommend using the metro, as traffic is a serious problem! More than that though, you need to be very careful when crossing the street.

Unfortunately, Delhi is not an especially safe place for women traveling alone – rape and sexual assault is pretty common. If you do choose to travel alone, avoid empty streets even during the day. At night, take extra care. Make sure your transport home is safe and reputable. Also be sure to watch your drinks.

If you arrive in Delhi and your taxi driver says the hotel you ask to go to is dangerous or closed, get out or ask to be taken to the place you said. Known as touts , these men are almost always trying to take you to a hotel where they earn commission on your stay.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Delhi

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

The day trips from Delhi take you to some of the most beautiful places in India! Leave the bustling city behind and explore the more rural side of India. And of course, you have to see the Taj Mahal!

Akshardham: Exhibition, Light and Water Show with Transfers

Visit Akshardham Temple outside of Delhi city and experience the splendor of Delhi’s Hindu decor and decadence! You’ll learn about Hindu gods and goddesses, and the unique spirituality that still dominates Indian culture.

Explore the gorgeous gardens and see 20,000 gods and goddesses carved into the majestic temple. You can then watch the night-time light and water show, with the temple as the backdrop! This show depicts Hindu values like morality, perseverance and family harmony in a unique and beautiful way.

Board a boat and pass through a display of all of India’s greatest contributions to the world! It is a truly unique and immersive day trip from Delhi.

Private Taj Mahal & Agra Tour from Delhi by Car

Of course, no visit to Delhi and India is complete without seeing the Taj Mahal! This ivory-white marble mausoleum was built in 1632 to house the favorite wife of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan , and is now one of the new seven wonders of the world!

Explore this iconic monument in the early morning, before the crowds get too big. Then move onto the Taj Mahal’s sister-monument, the immense Agra Fort!

It’s an incredible way to spend the day, enjoying these historic monuments and relaxing outside of the city. See a bit of rural India, and have lunch in Agra.

Delhi and Agra 2-Day Tour with Taj Mahal Sunrise

This tour is for those who only have a few days to spend in India! You’ll spend day 1 stopping at the best sites in Old and New Delhi before leaving for Agra.

Agra is a smaller city near Delhi, famous for, you guessed it, the Taj Mahal. There are some hostels in Agra if you want to extend a day trip.

The best part of this tour is that you can see the Taj Mahal at sunrise. The white marble blushes pink, and the crowds are as small as they’ll ever be. You may even get a picture without anyone else in sight!

Spend the day much like in the last tour suggestion, exploring the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort and relaxing in expansive gardens.

Jaipur Private Day-Trip by Car or Train

Visit the ‘pink city’ on one of the best day trips from Delhi! Jaipur is enchanting, and distinctly different from Delhi, making it the perfect place to see next. You can catch a train and watch the countryside pass by, or enjoy private transfer.

Once you’re in the city, enjoy a guided tour of the city’s top attractions! These include the Palace of Winds, designed for royal ladies to look out and not be seen. They also include the enchanting Water Palace, the Amer Palace, and the City Palace, which make up the center of Jaipur !

It’s a full day of touring, and you’ll be dropped off at your hotel tired and happy.

Customized Private Day Tour of Delhi

If you’re traveling with anyone who only has one day in Delhi, then this is the perfect tour. You’ll set off on a full-day excursion, and pick all the stops in a personalized itinerary for Delhi.

Choose between museums and mosques, temples, markets and ancient complexes. You may not be able to fit our whole Delhi itinerary into a day, but you can certainly visit all your favorite stops!

Your local guide can either accompany you and tell you about your various stops, or simply transport you between places and allow you to enjoy your romantic day without stress or concern.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Delhi itinerary.

How many days are enough for Delhi?

3-5 days in Delhi are ideal if you want to see all of the top sights. Any extra days are a bonus – allowing you to take your time or head out on day trips.

What should you include on a 3 day Delhi itinerary?

Make sure to include these top attractions on your Delhi itinerary: – Old Delhi – Khari Baoli – Tomb of Safdarjung – Lotus Temple

Where should you stay in Delhi if you have a full itinerary?

Lajpat Nagar is the best place to base yourself if you’re only spending a short time in Delhi. Located in South Delhi, its central location means you’re only a short away from top attractions.

Is Delhi worth visiting?

Sure is! From vibrant markets to eccentric architecture and ancient temples, Delhi is a treat for all the senses.

Whether you’ve got just a weekend in Delhi, or weeks, you can use this Delhi itinerary to make sure you tick off all the best sights and attractions in the exciting capital city!

There is so much to enjoy about this city. The vibrant culture is phenomenal, and you’ll always hear laughter and singing – not to mention intense bargaining. The historic monuments are so unlike western attractions, unique and outrageously graceful.

You’ll learn much as you go along, and gain a new appreciation for India, its many struggles, and the people who persevere and make it beautiful.

Be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes! As well as a good camera – Delhi is a photographer’s dream. But really, with so much color, life, and free access to all the best monuments (can you believe?) it’s any backpackers dream!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Suzanne Borders

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Visiting Delhi Travel Guide for the First Timers

Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links to the products we earnestly love and recommend, meaning at no extra cost to you, we might make a teeny-weeny commission if you click on the link and decide to buy something. The money will be used to sustain this little cozy blog we call our virtual home.

Visiting Delhi for the first time? Here’s an absolute Delhi travel guide that answers all your questions about traveling to Delhi – how to get around, where to stay, what to eat, and the best places to visit in Delhi. If you read only one post about Delhi, read this one!

Editor’s Note: For those traveling from developed countries, it’s important to approach your visit to Delhi with an open mind and some preparation . As a city in a developing nation, Delhi presents a unique blend of progress and challenges. During your stay, you might encounter aspects that are vastly different from what you’re accustomed to, such as bustling crowds, diverse cultural practices, varying levels of infrastructure, visible poverty, and distinct way of life. Try to embrace the differences with less complaining and more curiosity . It’s important to be adaptable and empathetic. Understanding these aspects as part of Delhi’s complex fabric will allow you to fully appreciate and enjoy the rich diversity and vibrant experiences that this dynamic Indian metropolis has to offer.

Delhi has felt like home for ages, so much so that I could almost say I know it as well as I know my own reflections. Yet, I hesitate to make that claim; this city is full of surprises, continually unveiling new facets. Despite being residents for so long, we somehow never got around to exploring its many wonders.

Truth is that we never really explore our own city like we explore other cities or countries when we travel, no matter how hued and striking it may be. The day hubby announced the news of his transfer, I suddenly came to the realization that we are tourists in our own city. The traveler in me wanted to delve into Delhi’s beat, essence, and ethos.

I decided that If we are about to bid adieu to this big-hearted city that welcomes everyone with open arms and warm hearts then let’s first take a walk down the lanes of history and culture . So, the last few months were spent exploring Delhi. We soaked in the modernity of this ancient town and relived its past. We savored the city, one weekend at a time.

Amidst this exploration, it dawned on me that I had never shared about Delhi, my own hometown, on my blog. So, here I am, ready to unravel my experiences and insights about this fascinating city, bringing to you the essence of Delhi as seen through the eyes of a local.

Delhi – A World Unto Itself

Delhi , the capital of India remains the starting point of any trip to north India and an essential addition to any itinerary for India . Most tourists who are short on time cover the Golden Triangle . It’s a tourist circuit in India that connects the famous cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur .

Delhi, a city, where history, culture, and tradition are juxtaposed with modernity; has a myriad of secrets squeezed into her soul. It’s one of the best places for culture lovers in the world .

Delhi has a deep and long history. It has been invaded and looted by outsiders. The city’s strategic location inspired invaders to make it their capital.

Everyone built and rebuilt the capital in their own way. It rose from the ashes like a phoenix, every single time.

Dil ki basti bhi shehar dilli hai; Jo bhi guzra usee ne loota.

(Delhi alone is a city of love; all those that have passed through have looted it.)

Delhi, the capital of Independent India, has a great history as the capital of several empires. Yes, the story of Delhi is a tale of seven cities that faded in the sands of time and gave rise to our own Dilli.

Here’s how the famous Urdu Poet, Mir Taqi Mir sums up the beauty of Delhi in his words,

Dilli ke na the kuchey nahin, auraaq-e-musawwqr the Jo shakl nazar aayi, tasveer nazar aayi

(These were not the alleyways of Delhi but pages from a painter’s album. Every figure that I saw, seemed a work of art.)

Traversing through the ancient city of Indraprastha to the seven cities during Muslim rule to the Lutyens Delhi; somewhere along the way, I fell in love with the city!

Delhi as a city will never cease to enchant you.

Yeh shehar nahin mehfil hai

(This isn’t a city, it’s a party.)

Ghalib wonderfully encapsulated the spirit of Delhi in his words,

Ik roz apni rooh se poocha, ke dilli kya hai To yun jawab me keh gayi, Ye duniya maano jism hai aur dilli uski jaan.

(I asked my soul: What is Delhi? She replied: The world is the body and Delhi its life!)

Caught up in my love for poetry, I almost forgot to give you the practical details about Delhi . But it’s easy to get poetic about this city, as it has been a muse for many legendary poets in India. So, while I share useful tips and insights about Delhi , let’s also remember its rich poetic heritage that continues to inspire.

Things to Know Before You Plan a Trip to Delhi

Delhi is a huge, gushing conurbation. It literally overwhelms first-time travelers. Drawing from my personal experiences as a local, I hope my suggestions will get you started on the right track.

Best Time to Visit Delhi

The cooler months of October to March certainly make the best time to visit Delhi. Delhi has really really hot and long summers!

If you’re planning an India itinerary that includes Delhi during this period, it’s worth noting the varied weather patterns across different regions. Delhi, along with much of North India including Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, enjoys cool and pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing. However, it can get quite cold in December and January, especially in the mornings and evenings.

In contrast, South India, encompassing states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, enjoys a tropical climate. The weather is warmer and more humid than in the north, but still comfortable for travel. This is a great time to explore the beaches, backwaters, and hill stations in the south.

If your itinerary extends to the mountainous regions of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, expect cold winters with possible snowfall in higher altitudes. This period is perfect for winter sports in places like Manali and Auli, or for enjoying the serene snow-clad landscapes in Shimla or Nainital.

Overall, October to March offers a diverse range of places and experiences across India, from the cool, cultural richness of the north and the warm, scenic beauty of the south, to the winter wonderlands of the Himalayas.

How to Reach Delhi

Delhi is well-connected by air to all the major domestic and international cities. Indira Gandhi International Airport is huge and almost all the key airline carriers have their flights operating from IGI, New Delhi.

Delhi International Airport offers direct international flights to prominent cities across continents like Europe, Asia, North America, and the Middle East.

The airport has three terminals; Terminal 1 , Terminal 2 , and Terminal 3 . Terminal 1 and 2 are used for domestic operations. Terminal 1 is majorly used by low-cost carriers like SpiceJet, Indigo, and GoAir. Terminal 1-C is for domestic arrivals and Terminal 1-D is for domestic departures.

All International flights and premium domestic flights operate from Terminal 3 (T3).

Talking about inter-terminal connectivity , a free shuttle service is available between the terminals every 15 to 20 minutes. Also, two metro lines, the Magenta Line and the Orange Line, serve the airport, operating at 15-minute intervals. Delhi Airport houses three metro stations: Terminal 1 (Airport Metro Station), Aerocity Metro Station, and Terminal 3 (Metro Station).

Check the live flight information here.

Delhi is conveniently connected by bus, train, and roads to other cities and states in India.

The three major bus stands – Inter State Bus Terminal (ISBT) at Kashmiri Gate, Anand Vihar Bus Terminus , and Sarai Kale Khan Bus Terminus plus private bus stations at Mandi House , The Bikaner House cater to other small and big Indian cities.

Delhi has five major railway stations – The New Delhi Railway Station , Old Delhi Railway Station , Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station , Sarai Rohilla Railway Station , and Anand Vihar Railway Station . The New Delhi Railway Station, Paharganj is the largest of all. Click here to check the train schedules.

Rajdhani , Shatabdi , and Duronto trains provide swift and luxurious travel, linking Delhi with major Indian cities for an enhanced travel experience.

Delhi offers a strong network of roads and national highways to other cities in India. The drive from Delhi to Agra by NH2 and Jaipur by NH8 makes the Golden Triangle Tour fun and easy.

We recommend using Skyscanner for booking flights because it helps find the cheapest options across many airlines easily. For ground transport, 12Go is our choice as it lets you compare and book buses, trains, and other land travel options conveniently, all in one place. Both are user-friendly and great for planning trips efficiently.

Delhi Airport Transfers

Indira Gandhi International Airport is 22 km away from the city.

The Delhi Metro Airport Express is the best way to travel to Delhi city from the Delhi airport and vice versa. The Airport Express Line aka Orange Line takes just 25 minutes to and from the airport. The cost is INR 60 (0.72 cents) for a single journey.

The train runs from New Delhi Metro Station to Dwarka Sector 21. The nearest stations to the Delhi Airport are Delhi Aerocity and International Terminal 3 . Check the official website of DMRC for more details.

The Delhi Metro Magenta Line gives easy access to travelers who intend to reach Domestic Terminal 1. The train runs from Jakapuri West to Botanical Graden in Noida. Check the route schedule here .

DTC (Delhi Transport Service) buses operate from the airport to the city center, ISBT, and the New Delhi Railway Station at regular intervals.

Good to Know: DTC has the world’s largest eco-friendly buses.

You can also hire a Pre-paid taxi, Uber, or Ola. If you are a foreigner visiting India, I’d recommend avoiding a pre-paid taxi option as you are likely to get scammed (sad but true).

Plus a taxi will take around an hour (way more than a metro) to get you to the city center depending on the traffic.

If comfort and ease are your priorities, consider booking a private airport transfer from Delhi Airport for a hassle-free and direct ride to your destination.

Getting Around Delhi

The Metro is everywhere in Delhi!

It has made traveling in and around the city much easier without burning a hole in your pocket.

Download the Delhi Metro Map Here.

Tip: Invest in a Travel Card or Tourist Card if you plan to use Delhi Metro a lot to explore Delhi/NCR.

A travel card is a stored-value card with a minimum of INR 100 (USD 1.20) and a maximum of INR 1000 (USD 11.99) recharge value. The card can be recharged in multiples of 50 as and when required. The amount is refunded on the return of the card. Its validity is a year from the date of purchase or the date of recharge whichever is applicable.

A tourist card is helpful if you need unlimited travel for a short time period. It’s issued for a day (24 hours) and 3 days (72 hours) costs INR 100 (USD 1.20) and INR 250 (USD 3) respectively.

The DTC buses (green and red colored buses) are reasonably priced but don’t guarantee a comfortable journey.

Click Here to Check DTC Buses Routes and Timings.

Another comfortable way to get around the city is by hiring an auto-rickshaw or a cab like Uber or Ola .

Ask a local about the rough cost to your destination to avoid being scammed by an auto-rickshaw driver. Ideally, auto-wallah should turn on his fare meter before the drive but unfortunately, rules aren’t being followed. Beware of swindlers who try to earn a quick buck from tourists.

Pro-Tip: Switch to autorickshaw mode on Google Maps to get an idea about the estimated price of the trip and route.

Hiring a car with a driver comes out cheaper and certainly far more convenient than hailing cabs all day long.

Cycle-rickshaws are recommended for traversing Old Delhi and the suburbs. Old Delhi is best explored on foot.

E-rickshaws or auto-cycles are useful for small distances like if you want to reach your accommodation from the nearest metro station or bus station. INR 10 to 50 will get you anywhere.

Car rental services in Delhi may not be as effective or popular due to the city’s heavy traffic and complex navigation. Additionally, traveling by your own car is onerous because of the dearth of availability and quality of parking space in Delhi.

If you are a woman solo traveler , a women-exclusive cab service is the best bet for you. There are quite a few options in Delhi.

Sakha Cabs , in association with Azad Foundation , provides a livelihood to poor women in India by training them as professional drivers as part of their Women on Wheels (WOW) Program .

You Might Like: A Complete Guide to a Road Trip from Delhi to Leh Ladakh

How Many Days in Delhi

For an authentic experience of Delhi, consider allocating around 3 to 5 days for your visit.

3 days in Delhi allows for a comprehensive exploration of the city’s highlights. You’ll have the opportunity to visit renowned historical landmarks such as the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Humayun’s Tomb, delve into the lively shopping scenes, savor the diverse local cuisine including the infamous yet irrestible Indian street food (don’t worry, we’ve got tips to avoid Delhi belly so you can fully enjoy it), and unwind in the serene parks scattered around the city.

With 4 or 5 days in Delhi, you’ll have enough time to discover offbeat, hidden gems in the city along with its famous landmarks, or maybe even take a day trip or a weekend trip to nearby attractions.

How to Explore Delhi

Delhi is way too big to handle all at once.

If you are new to Delhi, you might feel lost in the hustle and bustle of the city. It can seem chaotic and intimidating to the first-time visitor. Delhi is not easy to get to grasp or navigate.

Here’s an easy way to navigate Delhi!

We always divide cities into smaller neighborhoods or regions to make exploration easy. You can do it as well.

Divide Delhi into smaller units and subunits according to districts or geographical locations like Old Delhi , New Delhi , South Delhi , West Delhi , East Delhi , and so on.

Then list out the places of your interest according to the particular region like Red Fort in Old Delhi, Purana Quila (Old Fort) in New Delhi, Dilli Haat in South Delhi, and so on.

Each day or weekend, pick an area and explore it with ease. This lessens that overwhelming feeling and gives a sense of direction.

Delhi Guided Tours

If you still find it hard to get around the city, just relax and take a tour that fits you the best.

In fact, If it’s your first trip to Delhi, going with a tour operator who really knows the city can be a great idea. Make sure to do your research and choose someone who specializes in Delhi. Make sure to check the legitimacy of any proposal and stick to official channels for tours and information.

They can show you hidden spots and provide in-depth insights, making your trip both safe and comfortable. This is especially helpful for newcomers, as it takes the stress out of navigating this lively but complex city.

Or, if you prefer not to have a tour operator for your entire Delhi stay, you have the option of booking shorter guided tours. For instance, you could do a 3-hour tour of Old Delhi to delve into its historical lanes or a 3-hour tour of New Delhi to see its modern architecture.

These shorter tours are perfect for getting an in-depth understanding of specific areas without committing your whole day. You could also consider specialized tours like a culinary walk , a heritage walk , cultural tour , street art tour , or even a photography tour , which offer unique perspectives and experiences in the city. This way, you get the best of both worlds – guided insights and personal exploration time.

Alternatively, you can opt for a half-day tour that covers both Old and New Delhi , offering a comprehensive overview if you’re short on time but still want to experience the full flavor of the city. This option is perfect for those who want to get a taste of Delhi’s rich history and vibrant contemporary culture in a single day.

Listed below are a few options for guided tours to give you a glimpse into the past and present of Delhi.

• Delhi Heritage Walks
• Delhi By Cycle
• Food Tour In Delhi
• Delhi Food Walks
• Urban Adventures: Delhi
• Delhi By Foot
• Salaam Balak Trust City Walk
• Delhi Shopping Tour
• Delhi Magic
• Masterji Ki Haveli
• Delhi By Locals
• Delhi Karavan
• Delhi City Segway Tour
• HOHO City Bus Tour
• St+Art India Foundation
• Delhi Photo Tour
• Get Your Guide

Where to Stay in Delhi

I got a chance to stay in several hotels, hostels, and homestays during my past visits to Delhi. Now I have my own home in Delhi. Some of the recommendations have come from my friends, friends of friends, and fellow bloggers.

Whether you are a backpacker or a budget traveler, a solo traveler, a family traveler, or a luxury traveler – Delhi has ample options for each and every kind of traveler when it comes to accommodation.

There are certain areas popular among travelers for stay options; Paharganj, Karol Bagh, Connaught Place, South Delhi, Dwarka, Mahipalpur, and Aerocity . You can choose the area depending on your budget, transportation access, and yes, your style of travel.

Connaught Place is hands down one of the best places to stay in New Delhi. Its central location, wide-open streets lined with trees, posh experience, endless cafes and restaurants, and effortless public transportation access make it desirable among travelers.

Most of the time, Paharganj is suggested to backpackers or tourists traveling on a tight budget. I’d certainly not recommend the area if you are traveling as a family or with kids. It’s absolutely chaotic, dusty, and full of touts like vultures swarming over a corpse. Moreover, Delhi offers a good number of budget options in posh and open areas.

Karol Bagh is a decent option with quite a few comfortable budget hotels.

South Delhi is one of the most affluent areas in Delhi. Neighborhoods like Chanakyapuri, Saket, Greater Kailash, and Hauz Khas in South Delhi have come up with amazing hostels, hotels, homestays, BnBs, and guesthouses to cater to diverse kinds of travelers.

Aerocity, Mahipalpur, and Dwarka are the best areas to stay for travelers who want to stay near the airport. Aerocity has upscale hotels while Mahipalpur and Dwarka offer mid-range and budget hotels.

Here’s our pick of the best places to stay in Delhi !

Luxury Hotels: The Imperial , The Leela Palace , Haveli Dharampura , The Lodhi , and Taj Palace

Mid-Range Hotels: Maidens Hotel

Budget Hotels: Bloomrooms@Janpath and Wood Castle

Guest Houses: Indiyah Inn and Bed & Chai

Hostels: Jugaad and goStops

Bed & Breakfast: Maya’s Nest, Haveli Hauz Khas , Diya Bed and Breakfast , Tree of Life , and Arman the green BnB

Homestays: Thikana and Villa 33

Airport Hotels: Andaz Delhi and Roseate House

Find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say about hotels in Delhi at TripAdvisor

Airbnb is an excellent option if you are traveling in a group or on a budget. It provides you with a chance to cook on your own rather than eating out in expensive restaurants. Kids get more space to play and run around. You can choose from many cheap yet lovely options to stay on Airbnb.

Not your style? Fret not! There’s something for everyone in Dilwalon ki Dilli. Discover the places to stay in Delhi that match your style here.

What & Where to Eat in Delhi

Delhi isn’t just India’s national capital; it’s also its food capital. With its diverse and rich culinary landscape, a visit here demands indulging in the myriad flavors that tell the story of India’s cultural and gastronomic heritage.

Here are some must-visit places to eat in Delhi:

Old Delhi : Famous for its street food, Old Delhi is a haven for foodies. The best way to experience Old Delhi’s culinary scene is by hopping from one street vendor to another, each offering a unique taste of the city’s rich food culture . Try the legendary Paranthe Wali Gali for a variety of stuffed paranthas, and Old Famous Jalebi Wala for crispy, syrupy jalebis. Savor the unique flavors of almond chai at Kailash Chandra Jain Chai Wallah , and indulge in traditional treats like kulle ki chaat at Hira Lal Chaat Wala or the airy, sweet daulat ki chaat. For a heartier meal, head to Shyaam Sweets for their delectable aloo puri, and Karim’s for authentic Mughlai cuisine. Don’t forget to try Natraj’s renowned Dahi Bhalle and Jung Bahadur Kachori Wala’s Delhi-style kachoris, topped with tangy coriander chutney.

Khan Market : Known for its upscale restaurants and cafes, Khan Market is a great place to enjoy both Indian and international cuisines. Places like Town Hall and Cafe Lota are popular among locals and tourists.

Connaught Place : This area offers a mix of historical and modern eateries. From the classic south Indian dishes at Saravana Bhavan and Andhra Bhavan to the contemporary settings of Farzi Café , there’s something for everyone.

Pandara Road: This area is a hub for late-night eaters, offering a variety of North Indian dishes. It’s known for its upscale restaurants serving rich and creamy curries, breads, and kebabs. Some of the famous names include Gulati , Havemore , and Chor Bizzare .

Bengali Market: A go-to place for traditional Indian snacks and sweets. Don’t miss out on the chaat, samosas, and the famous Bengali sweets here.

Gole Market: This historic market area is known for its quaint eateries and local food stalls. It’s a great place to sample a variety of Indian street foods and quick bites.

Hauz Khas Village : For a more eclectic dining experience, head to Hauz Khas Village. It’s filled with quirky cafes & bars like Mia Bella , Coast Cafe , Kunzum Travel Cafe , and Lord of the Drinks , offering stunning views along with delicious food.

Karol Bagh : Home to many traditional Indian restaurants, Karol Bagh is ideal for those wanting to try authentic North Indian cuisine. Head to Suruchi or Roshan Di Kulfi for some local flavors.

South Delhi : Areas like Defence Colony , Greater Kailash , Nehru Place , Lodhi Colony , and Saket are dotted with a range of dining options, from fine dining like Indian Accent to casual eateries like Juggernaut to cafes, catering to diverse palates.

Dilli Haat : For a taste of regional Indian cuisines from different states, visit Dilli Haat. It’s a food and craft bazaar offering an array of choices in a vibrant, open-air setting.

Best Places to Visit in Delhi

Delhi is a city full of wonders, blending history, culture, and modernity. It’s home to three UNESCO World Heritage sites as well as a variety of museums, beautiful parks, and bustling bazaars. The city’s diverse religious sites, including temples, gurudwaras, churches, and mosques, add to its rich diversity.

Among the numerous attractions in Delhi, here are the top picks that stand out:

A historic fort and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Red Fort always leaves me in awe, no matter how many times I visit. Built by Shah Jahan, this 17th-century fortress, with its striking red sandstone walls, is a piece of living history.

I remember walking through its vast premises, feeling the echoes of the past where Mughal emperors once lived. Inside, a mix of museums, lush gardens, and the impressive Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas offer a journey back in time.

It’s also a place of modern significance, where the Prime Minister’s Independence Day speech unites the nation.

Jama Masjid

With its towering minarets and vast courtyards, you are sure to captivate by the grand size, architectural grandeur, and the serene ambiance that surround Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India.

You can ascend the narrow staircase to the top of minaret to reach the vantage point to enjoy the panoramic view, showcasing a stunning contrast between the old and new parts of the city.

To visit Jama Masjid, non-Muslims should be mindful of prayer times, as entry is restricted during these periods. Muslims offer prayers five times a day, so the mosque frequently closes to visitors.

Chandani Chowk

Chandni Chowk, the heart of Old Delhi, is a place where history and culture come alive. Each street here seems to whisper tales from the past, and the old mansions with their colorful doors add to the charm of this historic area.

Navigating through the bustling crowds can be a bit overwhelming, but it’s all part of the unique, vibrant experience that Chandni Chowk offers.

Tourists flock to Chandni Chowk for not only the delicious street food and the incredible aromas from Khari Baoli , Asia’s largest spice market, but also for historical encounters and architectural wonders, and ancient religious places like Gauri Shankar , Shri Digambar Lal Mandir , and Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib . A hidden gem like Ghalib ki Haveli adds to the charm, offering a peek into the poetic past of Delhi.

A war memorial and iconic landmark, India Gate is a symbol of pride and honor and holds a special place in the hearts of Indians.

Standing tall and majestic, this war memorial evokes a deep sense of respect and patriotism. As an Indian, each time I walk along the lush lawns surrounding it, I feel a connection to the history of India.

The names of soldiers inscribed on its surface are a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for the country’s freedom.

Early morning here brings fitness enthusiastics ….In the evenings, when the monument is beautifully lit up, and families gather around, it transforms into a place of joy and togetherness.

Rashtrapati Bhavan

Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India, is an impressive architectural marvel in Delhi.

With its grand design and sprawling gardens called Amrit Udyan (previously called Mughal Gardens), it stands as a symbol of India’s political heart and historical richness.

Kartavya Path

Kartavya Path, formerly known as Rajpath, in New Delhi, is a grand boulevard that forms the ceremonial heart of the city.

Stretching from Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gat e, this wide avenue is lined with lush green lawns and is the site of the Republic Day Parade , a prestigious and colorful event showcasing India’s cultural diversity and military strength.

Walking along Kartavya Path offers a splendid view of important government buildings such as Parliament House , North and South Block (house key government offices, including the Prime Minister’s Office and ministries such as Defence, Finance, Home Affairs, and External Affairs), National Archives of India , and many more and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to experience the grandeur of the capital.

Raj Ghat is a simple yet powerful black marble platform that marks the spot of Mahatma Gandhi’s cremation.

Surrounded by peaceful gardens, it serves as a place of quiet reflection and respect, attracting visitors from around the world who come to pay homage to Gandhi’s legacy of peace and non-violence.

Connaught Place

Well-known for its circular market, white colonial buildings, and wide range of shops and eateries, Connaught Place aka CP is synonymous with New Delhi. Delhites as well as tourists come here to soak in the lively vibe of the city.

Nearby, Janpath Market offers a variety of traditional Indian clothes, handicrafts, and souvenirs, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.

Agrasen ki Baoli

Located in the heart of Delhi, it’s an ancient stepwell steeped in history and mystery. With its 108 steps leading down to a once-water-filled reservoir, this historical structure a fine example of the architectural prowess of ancient India.

Surrounded by urban buildings, it stands as a quiet, somewhat eerie reminder of the past amidst the modern cityscape.

National Museum

The National Museum offers a deep dive into Indian history, culture, and art with an extensive collection of over 200,000 artifacts and artworks spanning over 5,000 years.

Humayun’s Tomb

Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi , with its stunning architecture and picturesque gardens, is not only a piece of history but also an Instagram-worthy spot. Its beauty and grandeur make it a perfect backdrop for memorable photos.

This UNESCO World Heritage site, with its lovely gardens and detailed designs, is an important part of India’s past.

Safdarjung Tomb

Safdarjung’s Tomb , the last grand tomb garden of the Mughals, is a quiet, dignified 18th-century mausoleum built for a prominent prime minister, Safdarjung.

Surrounded by lush gardens, it features detailed designs and elegant domes. This peaceful spot, still less known to tourists, offers a serene and less crowded experience of Delhi’s rich history.Champa Gali, a hidden gem in the heart of Delhi, is a must-visit for anyone seeking a bohemian and artistic ambiance. This narrow lane, tucked away in Saket, is a hub of quirky, independently owned cafes and boutiques, each with its own unique charm.

Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple in Delhi, shaped like a lotus flower, is known for its unique design and peaceful atmosphere. This Bahai House of Worship is a special place where everyone is welcome, regardless of religion or any other distinction.

It’s surrounded by beautiful gardens and pools, reflecting the unity and purity its design signifies.

Khan Market

Khan Market in Delhi is a lively spot known for its fancy shops, great bookstores, and a wide range of restaurants and cafes.

It’s a popular place for both shopping and dining, offering a mix of traditional and modern experiences right in the city center.

Champa Gali

Champa Gali in Saket, a secret spot in Delhi, feels like stepping into a bohemian dream. This small lane is full of unique cafes and little shops, all with a creative twist.

Walking here, with colorful murals and twinkling fairy lights around, always gives me a sense of wonder. The cafes aren’t just for food and drinks; they’re places where art and culture come alive, often hosting events like poetry and music.

I love stopping by Blue Tokai for their amazing coffee, or Jugmug Thela for a relaxing tea break . And for a sweet treat, Morellos’ milkshakes are a must-try.

With its charming boutiques and craft stores, Champa Gali is a delightful escape from the city’s rush, especially in the evenings when it lights up and feels like a different world.

Qutub Minar

Another UNESCO World Heritage site in Delhi, Qutub Minar is known for its towering minaret, intricate carvings, and historical significance.

Built in the 12th century, it’s a fine example of early Indo-Islamic architecture.

Hauz Khas Complex

A unique mix of ancient history and modern culture, the Hauz Khas Complex is known for the Hauz Khas Fort and a medieval water tank, dating back to the 13th century, set amidst the urban backdrop of Hauz Khas Village, a trendy area filled with boutiques, cafes, and art galleries.

The complex offers a much-needed escape from the chaotic city life with its well-maintained gardens and views of a serene lake, making it a popular spot for both history buffs and those looking to enjoy contemporary Delhi’s vibrant social scene.

Akshardham Temple

A beautiful temple complex showcasing traditional Hindu and Indian culture, spirituality, and architecture.

A unique aspect of the temple is its intricately carved stone and marble structures, which were put together without the use of any steel or concrete.

Additionally, the temple’s captivating musical fountain show, which combines water, light, and sound, adds to its uniqueness, drawing visitors into a mesmerizing cultural experience.

Lodhi Gardens

Lodhi Gardens is a beautiful urban space that doubles as a historical complex. Yes, this serene and lush oasis amidst the bustling city is home to well-preserved monuments from the 15th and 16th centuries.

You can plan to visit the gardens early in the morning when it’s brimming with fitness enthusiasts while explring the ancient structures.

Lodhi Art District

The Lodhi Art District in Delhi , India’s first open-air public art gallery, has been brought to life by the St+Art India Foundation . This initiative has transformed the walls of Lodhi Colony into a vibrant canvas, showcasing stunning murals and street art by artists from India and around the world.

Tughlaqabad Fort

Tughlaqabad Fort , built by the founder of the Tughlaq dynasty in the 14th century, stands as a grand but now rugged reminder of Delhi’s storied past.

Exploring this massive fortress, with its towering walls and ancient ruins, you’ll get a real sense of the city’s historical depth and the tales of power and ambition from centuries ago.

Some Important Links to Help You Plan Your Visit to Delhi

• Incredible India
• Delhi Tourism
• Delhi Tourism Curated Tours
• The Delhi Walla
• Little Black Book Delhi
• TripAdvisor

Delhi Travel Tips

• Plan, but don’t over-plan.
• Over-plan, then go with the flow.
• Everything is bargain-able here. Hone your haggling skills before you set foot in Delhi.
• How safe is Delhi? Delhi is as safe as any other city in the world. Taking precautions is imperative everywhere. Be cautious and alert at all times. Try not to venture out late at night. If you are a woman, solo traveler, I’d recommend downloading any one of the best safety apps for women in Delhi.
• Delhi is known for its heavy traffic and bustling streets. Account for traffic delays when planning your day.
• Delhi’s metro system is efficient and covers most of the city. It’s a good way to avoid traffic and explore different areas.
• Keep your belongings like a handbag, mobile phone, and important documents secured. It’s best to use a zipper scarf .
• A scarf is mandatory to carry in India as it helps to avoid heat and can be used to cover the head in religious places. So, Invest in one.
• Understanding and respecting local customs, such as removing shoes before entering temples, enhances your experience.
• With the city’s pollution and dust, it may be wise to carry masks and hand sanitizer.
• While digital payments are common, carry cash in Indian Rupees, especially in smaller denominations and know the conversion rate.
• Tap Water isn’t safe in Delhi or in India for that matter. Always use bottled water. I’d recommend carrying an eco-friendly water bottle . Refill it as and when required and keep yourself hydrated without damaging the environment. Water Purifier Bottle is also a good option.
• Learn some Hindi words and phrases.
• Tipping isn’t mandatory in India. It’s a common practice, though. I used to tip 10% of the bill to the service staff at restaurants, however, most of them already add a 10% service charge in addition to the tax to the bill these days.
• Download local apps for navigation, food delivery, and transportation as they can be extremely helpful.
• I personally never hire a rickshaw puller. If you do, please don’t bargain with them. In fact, pay them generously. No one would appreciate the tip as much as they do.
• Don’t forget to pick your copy of our trusted and insightful Lonely Planet Delhi Travel Guide to travel to Delhi with ease!

Words of Wisdom for the First Timers in Delhi

The culture, tradition, and religious diversity you would experience in Delhi is going to be completely different than anything you have experienced in your life.

Obviously, you are going to love some places and hate others and that’s okay! You do not have to love everywhere you visit! Isn’t it?

Anything and everything that happens during travel, good or bad, is a learning experience and it certainly teaches you about yourself and about life; so try to keep calm in situations that seem to go out of control and deal with them peacefully.

Don’t sweat the small stuff. Go with the flow. Experience everything with an open heart and mind.

Delhi is no different in terms of touts, scams, and other hassles. It can be a headache for first-time visitors. But then, you can never be completely safe from petty thieves in any country, so keep your wits about yourself and take some essential precautions.

Be wary of things that sound too good to be true. Rather than getting stressed about losing some money or being scammed, take a deep breath, and enjoy the magic of the wildly colorful city you are in.

To get the best out of your travel, concentrate on a few places rather than trying to tick off as many as possible. Seeing one place slowly can be much more rewarding than seeing lots of places, but not having time to cherish any of them.

Make a rough draft of the places you want to visit based on your likes and dislikes so that you can choose the wise plan for your trip.

A smart traveler never sets out without travel insurance! Don’t forget to buy travel Insurance.  Heymondo  is our favorite when comes to comprehensive protection while traveling. Purchase a Heymondo policy with a 5% discount.

Words of Wisdom for Dilliwallahs

There are many worlds existing within Delhi. Do you think that you know your city completely? Well, see and experience Delhi beyond your knowledge…the real Delhi.

It feels like a timeless place where things have changed, yet they have remained the same. Truly, the city you live in has more than what you think. So, get the most out of your wanderlust and celebrate the city you live in!

For me, It’s time to leave behind the familiar for the unfamiliar, to take some of the peculiarities of the city we belonged to, and to prepare myself to immerse in the quirks of another.

Humne maana ki dakkan mein hai bahut qadre sukhan; Kaun jaaye Zauq par Dilli ki galiyan chhod kar

(We hear that poetry is greatly valued in Deccan these days but, Zauq, who could bear to leave behind the alleyways of Delhi).

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Delhi Travel Guide: Things to do in Delhi

Table of Contents

UPDATED APRIL 2019: New Delhi, India is a huge, sprawling metropolis. An ancient city with a storied past, Delhi is one of the most historical cities on earth. It also has a very vibrant present as the capital of the world’s largest democracy. There are so many things to do in Delhi it’s hard to even know how to begin a Delhi city guide, and what Delhi travel tips to offer, to visitors and tourists who want to explore and experience the best sights, hotels, attractions, landmarks and fun, cool things to do. Note: New Delhi is also called just Delhi, or in Hindi, Dilli.

So here goes, my tips for the best things to do in Delhi – based on many years of living in Delhi on-and-off. There are truly a lot of things to do in Delhi, from a street food tour of Old Delhi, to watching the sunrise at India Gate, to exploring the city’s three UNESCO World Heritage sites (Red Fort, Qutb Minar , Humayun’s Tomb) – these are things you must do in Delhi. And don’t forget shopping in Delhi , one of my favourite pastimes. Or you can visit the famous temples of Delhi . But first …

Why visit Delhi?

Most visitors to India land either in Delhi or Mumbai (Bombay). And it is from these cities that they glean their first impressions. Unfortunately, Delhi does not always make a good first impression. I was lucky, from my very first day in India, I stayed with an Indian family in South Delhi. True Dilli-wallahs, they helped me see the beauty and essential charm of the city and provided the keys to discover hidden treasures that most tourists miss. I grew to love the city and I hope you will give it a chance, too.

Personally, I think Delhi is a glorious city. As well as being my home-away-from-home, I also find it inspiring and endlessly fascinating. Like Rome, Delhi is an eternal city. Not only is it the capital of modern India, it has been the capital of at least seven previous civilizations, and each have left behind a trail of monuments. It’s also a very green city, criss-crossed by wide, leafy boulevards; and it’s the country’s cultural heart and political centre. Plus, Delhi is known as a gastronome’s pleasure garden and a shopper’s paradise. In other words, there’s lots of things to do in Delhi, and many reasons to love the city. Check out this 3 day Delhi itinerary for ideas on where to go and how to organize your visit.

If you are planning to travel in India, let us help you! We offer itinerary planning, India for Beginners custom tours , and much more to make sure your trip to India is filled with more magic … and less madness. 

• Where to stay in Delhi

Low-built Delhi sprawls, and encompasses many fascinating areas from Raj-era Connaught Place, the commercial centre, to the crammed markets of Old Delhi; and from funky enclave Hauz Khas to the elegant bungalows of central New Delhi. There are many places to stay, and many neighbourhoods to explore, but somehow most tourists end up in Pahar Ganj (near New Delhi Train Station), Karol Bagh, or Connaught Place (known locally as CP), the commercial centre of Delhi. There are a lot of cheap hotels here, and the night life can be fun and exciting, but there are also a lot of touts, conmen, hustlers, scam artists and worse. For foreigners, and especially those new to India, it can feel like a shark feeding frenzy to walk down the street. 

Personally, I prefer to stay where I am treated as something more than a walking wallet. My top Delhi tip is to stay away from the hustle and bustle, and avoid the sharks. Stay instead in the leafy, upscale neighbourhoods of central New Delhi, South Delhi, or Mehrauli. In South Delhi, I rarely get ripped off, because this is not a tourist area: when I get in an auto, I get charged the same price as my neighbours, the locals. Look for accommodation in home stays, guest houses, hostels, small boutique hotels. There are lots to choose from and more coming up every day. Read about why you should choose a homestay in India here. And click here for the best luxury getaways near Delhi . 

Look for hotels on the map of Delhi below, or click the name of the recommended hotels below the map.

• My top hotel recommendations in Delhi

Over the years, I’ve visited and stayed in many hotels and guest houses in Delhi. These are my favourites, based on a combination of location, historical significance, comfort, and value for money. Some are luxury hotels and some are cheap and affordable — there’s a recommendation for every price range. 

Luxury hotel $$$$$: The Imperial Hotel is a grand hotel that dates from the 1920s, was completely refurbished, and is now extremely posh. It’s also historically significant. You can read 8 reasons to love The Imperial Hotel here .

• Click to read a TripAdvisor review of The Imperial Hotel … and book.

Luxury hotel $$$$$: ITC Maurya is one of the top hotels in Delhi. Heads of state stay here, and the restaurants, especially Bukhara and Dum Pukt, are not only the best in the city, they are the best in India. Here’s my report on the ITC Maurya, 24 hours in hotel heaven . 

• Click to read a TripAdvisor review of ITC Maurya Hotel … and book.

Midrange hotel $$$$: Claridges is somewhat like The Imperial — a white, art-deco inspired hotel dating from the period when the British Raj was building New Delhi. It has a wonderful location among all the greenery of the Lodhi area of Delhi.

• Click to read a TripAdvisor review of The Claridges Hotel … and book.

Homestay $$: Thikana is a small and stylish guest house with a fabulous rooftop in a prestigious location in South Delhi, Gulmohar Park. 

• Click to read a TripAdvisor review of Thikana luxury homestay … and book.

B&B $: Prakash Kutir B&B is my home-away-from home. It’s where I typically stay in Delhi and you can find out why by reading Homestays are the best option in India 

• Click to read a TripAdvisor review of Prakash Kutir B&B … and book.

Hostel $: Everyone’s favourite luxury hostel in South Delhi is Madpackers.

• Click to read a TripAdvisor review of Madpackers Hostel , South Delhi … and book.

Airport hotel $$$$: Andaz Aerocity. In fact, I like a lot of the Aerocity hotels, which you can read about in my guide to Aerocity Delhi. Ibis and Pullman are also favourites, but Andaz has a little something special — it’s themed for the city of Delhi, has a gin bar, and fun, open concept spaces.

• Click to read a TripAdvisor review of Andaz Delhi hotel … and book.

I’ve had great success with Airbnb in Delhi. My top tips are to read the reviews very carefully, try and choose Super Hosts, and pick good neighbourhoods. My favourites are almost all in central or south Delhi: Lodhi, Jorbagh, Green Park, Hauz Khas, Panchsheel Park, Greater Kailash.

Why am I qualified to write a travel guide to Delhi

Before you consider my recommendations for a visit to Delhi, you may want to know my expertise and qualifications. When I first travelled to India in December 2005, I landed in Delhi and stayed at the home of a friend-of-a-friend, a Punjabi family in South Delhi. In time, that family basically adopted me, and I ended up spending many months over several trips living with them. I spent many long days exploring the city, and listening to this old-time Delhi family tell me about its history and evolution, its secrets and traditions.

More recently, I have spent months altogether living in Hauz Khas , another neighbourhood of South Delhi. I consider Delhi to be my home-away-from-home. Not only did I do sightseeing and shopping, but I went to doctors and dentists, watched movies and plays, celebrated festivals and weddings, attended business meetings and conferences … in other words, lived in Delhi and experienced it in just about every way possible over the past 13  17 years.

Questions about what to do in Delhi

What can i do in delhi, where should i go in delhi, how to get around delhi, where to go shopping in delhi, is delhi safe, how to stay healthy in delhi.

• Where to find Yoga, massage, and Ayurveda in Delhi

When is the best time to go to Delhi

What clothes should you wear in delhi, what are the best tours to take in delhi, how to deal with scams, conmen and getting ripped off in delhi, 36 hours in new delhi itinerary.

Exploring Delhi is like the Dance of the Seven Veils. The city is built up of layers and layers of history, landmarks , monuments, UNESCO World Heritage sights , markets, temples, and on and on. Because Delhi is one of the most historical cities on earth – it has been the capital city of at least seven major civilizations – it can take time to get to know it. I’ve tried to download all of my best Delhi travel tips in this post.

Many people wonder how many days they need to experience Delhi. I personally feel you can explore Delhi for weeks, months and even years. In fact, I myself have done just that! But for most people, I recommend a three day itinerary in Delhi.

The top things to do in Delhi – in other words the must see things to do – are listed below. But please note, there are many, many more things to do and see. I’m only scratching the surface and this blog post is thousands of words long!

What to do in Delhi and what are the best places to see in Delhi? These are common questions of course, but the answer is far from simple. Delhi is way too big to tackle all at once. Each day, pick an area, such as Old, New or South Delhi, and go exploring. Delhi needs at least three full days, just to get a sense of the city. There is no end to the historical sites, markets, restaurants, parks and lively street scenes you will find. Here are a few of my favourites — this is my must see list for Delhi.

• Markets of Chandni Chowk
• Jama Masjid

New Delhi (Central Delhi)

• Humayun’s Tomb
• Connaught Place
• Janpath market
• Imperial Hotel
• Khan Market
• Gandhi Smirti (Gandhi Museum)
• Sarojini Market
• Purana Qila

South Delhi

• Hauz Khas Village
• Lotus Temple
• Shahpur Jat
• GK 1 N-block market (shopping for women’s clothes)
• Dastkar Nature Bazaar (better than Dilli Haat)

Getting around Delhi can be time-consuming because of traffic, so planning your sightseeing is key. Taxi apps like Ola and Uber are the best way to arrange a cab – and they are more affordable than taxi stands. You can read more about taking taxis in India here. There’s also a women-only taxi service called Women on Wheels from Azad Foundation .

The Delhi metro makes it easy for getting around Delhi in air-conditioned comfort, so you no longer have to stay in the centre of town. Don’t be afraid to use it, especially during the day, even if you’re a woman travelling alone in Delhi or it’s your first time in the city. There’s a Ladies Car at one end of every train, clearly marked with pink signage so you’ll know where to stand. I’ve taken the metro too many times to count and have never had a problem or bad experience (except that it’s VERY busy at rush hour).

If you’re not going too far, you can always take an autorickshaw, also known as a tuk-tuks. Delhi autos are notorious for over-charging foreign visitors to Delhi, so find out the “real” price and negotiate.

Another smart choice is to hire a car-and-driver for the day, a surprisingly affordable way to see a lot of the city without expending too much energy.

Delhi (and India) is a shopper’s paradise, a city full of markets, stores, shopping centres, and street stalls. I often advise people to wait until the end of their trip and spend two days shopping in Delhi. There are even shopping tours you can take. You can read a lot more about shopping in India and what to buy here.

For upscale shopping, Khan Market is a one-stop shopping centre in central Delhi that is popular with expats and the diplomatic community. More traditional markets make for a more intense and exciting experience – try Sarojini Market for clothes, Janpath Market for souvenirs, and Lajpat Market for housewares. Dilli Haat is a popular place with tourists for fixed-price souvenir shopping. But I much prefer Dastkar Nature Bazaar, near Chhaturpur Metro Station in South Delhi (Mehrauli). They have melas every month (check the Dastkar Nature Bazaar website for dates) and the stalls fill up with beautiful crafts, textiles, jewelry and more – and a lot of it is fair trade.

What are the best travel guide books for Delhi?

Unfortunately, Delhi has a reputation for being the most unsafe city in India. It is massive, with a population of 20 million or more. There are a lot of rural migrants to the city who are sometimes desperate, and disoriented by city life. So, naturally crime does occur. However, as a tourist staying in a safer area, you are unlikely to experience any problems if you practise a reasonable degree of caution.

I can tell you that I have spent a total of at least a year in Delhi, maybe longer, and I have only had a few negative experiences: a man grabbed my breast when I was on a cycle rickshaw in Old Delhi, an Uber driver drove me around for 30 minutes to increase the fare, a man dropped some shit on my shoe in Connaught Place. These were not pleasant, but I never felt threatened or unsafe. And I’ve had worse happen to me elsewhere (USA and Canada, in fact). Here’s my Top tips for women travelling in India — one of the most popular posts I have ever written.

My tops safety travel tips are to stay in central Delhi where the big hotels are, or in South Delhi, the most upscale residential area; be very careful about travel at night, take only a reputable taxi; be alert to conmen, especially in Connaught Place; don’t go alone to Old Delhi. If you are a woman, be aware that men will try and talk to you, take a selfie with you – be very cautious. It’s okay to ignore them or walk away if you don’t feel comfortable. They are the ones being rude. Read my Girls Guide to Being Rude for encouragement. 

Delhi-belly is practically unavoidable. But you can reduce your chances of feeling unwell by drinking only filtered water, eating freshly cooked food, avoiding raw foods like salads (which may have been washed in unclean water), foregoing ice cubes, and using hand sanitizer.

When I arrived in Delhi in 2005, there was almost no “health food” to be had. Vegetarian food, of course is plentiful and always has been in India. But “health food” as we know it in the west was still a foreign concept. Now, however, there are many organic food stores, restaurants that serve healthy food, and hip co-working spaces and cafes.  Even if you are gluten-free or vegan, you will find lots of choices in trendy places like Khan Market, Hauz Khas, and South Delhi generally.

Central and South Delhi is blessed with many wide-open green spaces and parks, like my favourites Lodhi Garden and Hauz Khas Deer Park. There are lots of places to walk – though you might want to check the air pollution reading first. It fluctuates throughout the year.

You can find places to do Yoga and get massage and Ayurvedic treatment all over Delhi. Sivananda has a Yoga centre in Kailash Colony, South Delhi.

Many people are concerned about getting sick in India and looking for ways to stay healthy and prevent travelers diarrhea aka Delhi Belly. Check out my top tips and comprehensive guide on How to avoid getting sick in India .

Delhi’s climate fluctuates from lows of about 0 Celsius in late December and early January to close to 50 Celsius in May and June. The most pleasant months are September – November, and February – March. July and August is monsoon, when it cools a bit but becomes sticky and humid.

Delhi also has two unique seasons: smog and fog. October and November especially are very smoggy. This is when the farmer’s burn stubble off the fields in the regions surrounding NCR (the National Capital Region). Plus, Diwali fireworks add to the pollution. In December and January, Delhi becomes naturally very foggy. Some people find “Dilli ki sardi” (Delhi in winter) to be a very romantic time. But it gets really cold when the sun can’t peek through, and most houses are not heated. I’m Canadian, and the coldest I have ever been is in Delhi in the winter. Also, there are a lot of flight and train delays and cancellations due to the fog, mostly in the morning. Read more here in How to travel by plane, train and automobile in India .

Delhi — along with Goa, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Rishikesh — is one of the most “modern and westernized” parts of India and you can get away with wearing western clothes a lot of the time. But it’s still India so that means you are both taking a risk and not showing cultural respect if you wear skimpy, tight, or see-through clothes. Attending formal functions and going to temples and other religious events means covering up. Read my What to wear in India post for more details.

For women it is important to cover up shoulders and legs as a sign of respect – especially if you visit a mosque or temple. Wearing loose, cotton Indian-style clothing is a good idea because these outfits keep you cool, are suitably modest and can help you fit in better — thereby increasing respect and reducing stares. This means kurta pajama (loose fitting long shirt and pajama bottoms) for men and salwar kameez (long tunic, pants and scarf) for women. Some of my fave spots for buying Indian clothes in Delhi are:

• Khadi Gramogyog (which sells clothes made and spun at village level according to Gandhian principles)
• FabIndia stores
• Anokhi stores

Most new visitors to Delhi need help to learn how to successfully navigate travel in India. This is very hard to do if you just land in Delhi, on your own, and start travelling without any orientation. It can be done — but you will use up a lot of time and energy feeling lost, overwhelmed and frustrated that could be used for better things. Like enjoying yourself, having fun, and discovering fun things to do in the city.

Give yourself a break and take a tour or two. Delhi is replete with walking tours. I highly recommend a tour for getting to know the city, and also for helping you to acclimatize to the culture shock if you are a first time visitor to Delhi. These tours below are some of my favourites. When I personally show friends around Delhi, these are the places I take them to, and the experiences I share with them — to make sure they see the best Delhi has to offer.

• New Delhi full day private tour
• Old Delhi street food tour by rickshaw
• Temples and spiritual side of Old Delhi private tour
• Gandhi’s journey in Delhi

Many tourists worry about getting ripped off in India — and it does happen. You will buy something and see it for half the price two stalls away. But most of the time you are being conned or scammed in India, it is over 10, 50, or 100 rupees — and the difference amounts to no more than 25 cents, $1 or $5. There’s even a name for it: “foreigner tax.” To a middle-class westerner, this is not a lot of money. To a working class person in India, it is significant. If you find yourself in the middle of a heated argument over a few rupees, ask yourself if it’s worth it … or if it’s just better to relax, pay the “foreigner tax” and think about how it might go towards much-needed school books or health care.

However, there are some far more serious, costly, and insidious scams going on in India, and many of them happen in Delhi. There are scams at the airport where people will try and direct you away from the hotel you booked — sometimes with crazy excuses. It burned down! There are scams at the railway station where people will direct you away from the authentic ticket booking office and send you to a private office, where you will be overcharged. And there’s the scam in Connaught Place where people will direct you away from the official India Tourism office at 88 Janpath to a private office where you will be overcharged. Check out this video from Karl Rock about some of these scams to know what to look out for.

I haven’t heard of a lot of pickpockets in India, but you can never be entirely safe from pick-pockets in any country. Here are some precautions you can take. Keep your money and credit cards in a secure pouch or money-belt, which you can hang around your neck and tuck under your shirt. At the same time, keep a small amount of cash in your wallet: if it gets pinched or lost, you won’t lose very much.

With this 36 hour itinerary of New Delhi, you will walk experience the living history of modern India. Delhi is a city steeped in history, some of it going back thousands of years, but the 20th century was arguably the most dynamic period. Declared the capital of the British Raj in 1911, the century opened with a mammoth building project: under the guidance of visionary architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, New Delhi took about 20 years to build. But the age-old prophesy “whoever founds a new city at Delhi will lose it” came true with a vengeance when the British lost their capital in 1947. Many events around the founding of independent India, partition and the new state took place in Delhi, of course, and much of this history is on display.

8 pm Stay at the heritage Maidens Hotel in the Civil Lines area of Delhi, where the British were quartered. Built in the early 1900s, it’s classical lines, wide lawns and spacious rooms evoke the Raj era. Have dinner at The Curzon, named after Lord Curzon, and check out the 70 archival photographs that adorn the walls.

10 pm Have a drink at the intimate Cavalry Bar in the hotel.

8 am Take the metro to Connaught Place. This area, known as “CP,” is the commercial centre of New Delhi. The inner circle, Rajiv Chowk, is a stunning example of colonial architecture, recently restored for the Commonwealth Games. Have breakfast at Saravana Bhavan on Janpath. Fill up on dosas, idlis and other South Indian specialties.

10 am Meander back up Janpath, shopping in the stalls and the Central Cottage Emporium, on your way to Rajiv Chowk. Visit one of the dozen or more bookstores in CP, some dating back to the 1930s.

11 am Stop by the Khadi Gramodyog Bhavan for handmade handicrafts, toiletries and homespun fabrics and clothing. M.K. Gandhi was an ardent proponent of khadi and the website proclaims: “it is not a mere marketing outlet for Khadi and Village Industries products, but a landmark of the city radiating the message of Mahatma.” A great place to buy authentic souvenirs.

12 pm Have coffee and lunch at the United Coffee House, established in 1942. Walking into the United Coffee House is like walking into the past; it has a very special old-world ambience, and the coffee is good too. Try the traditional menu, especially the kebabs.

2 pm Hire a car and driver for the rest of the day (make sure you negotiate a half-day price). Drive to Laxmi Narayan Temple, also known as Birla Mandir, a large Hindu temple inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi on the condition that “people of all castes will be allowed to enter the temple.” Take off your shoes and explore this peaceful and well-maintained site.

3 pm From Birla Mandir drive to Rashtrapati Bhavan and along Raj Path to India Gate. This is heart of New Delhi and the political nerve centre of the country. Take note of the inscriptions on India Gate, which commemorates Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during the World War I, and the empty cupola that sported a statue of George V before independence. Make sure you also drive past the Dandi (Salt) March statue.

4 pm Drive around Lutyens’ Delhi, taking in the harmonious design of the leafy area and famous white bungalows. British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens was hired to help design and build New Delhi in 1912. It was finished in 1931 and occupied by the British for only 16 years until India won independence in 1947. This pleasant area of tree-lined boulevards is a designated Heritage Zone.

5 pm End your day at Khan Market, where all the expats shop. Have your driver drop you here; there are plenty of options for hiring an autorickshaw, taxi or taking the metro back to your hotel. This lively, upscale market features a plethora of shopping and dining options, from American diner style food at The Big Chill to street food, such as kebabs cooked in the back lane, to chic bites at Latitude 28 above Good Earth. You may want to commemorate your day by buying a book about Delhi at the Full Circle Bookstore.

9 am Have breakfast at the elegant Imperial Hotel, where partition talks took place. The restaurant, 1911, is filled with antiquities from that era — 1911 was the year that Delhi became the capital of British India. The Verandah Lounge overlooks the hotel’s graceful lawns.

11 am Visit Gandhi Smriti, where the Mahatma lived and died in Delhi. Formerly known as Birla House, it is now a museum dedicated to the life and teachings of the Mahatma. There is a very moving memorial at the place where he was assassinated: raised footsteps trace his last walk, from the house to the garden. You will want to take your time here.

Final words of wisdom

If you want a vacation, go to Belize. If you want to be transformed, go to India. You don’t visit India — you experience it. And the best way to experience India is with the right attitude — an attitude of openness, trust, surrender. If you view everything that happens as a learning experience, as something meant to teach you about yourself and about life, you will fare much better than if you try and control your travel experience. Tattoo the words “go with the flow” on your brain and your arm if you have to!

Blog posts about Delhi on Breathedreamgo

• Aerocity: Best hotels near Delhi airport
• Hotels in Delhi: My top choices
• The best Indian food in Delhi
• Guide to India’s top landmarks
• ITC Maurya: Hotel heaven
• Photo essay: Janpath Bazaar, Delhi
• The magicians of Delhi

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My seventh trip to India begins

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About Mariellen Ward

Professional travel writer Mariellen Ward is the founder of award-winning Breathedreamgo. Mariellen has a BA in Journalism and has been travel writing and blogging since 2005. She has won many awards, including a National Tourism Award from Incredible India Tourism, and writes for some of the world’s leading publications including BBC Travel and NatGeo Traveller India.

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Delhi Travel Guide: Things to do in Delhi

Last Updated on January 25, 2023 by admin

This Delhi travel guide covers Old Delhi’s history and charm and New Delhi’s modernity and vibrancy. It showcases all the best things to do in Delhi.

The first time I visited Delhi was for work back in 2014. I was super nervous and did not know what to expect while visiting Delhi. After many one-day trips to Delhi over the last decade, it was only recently that I visited all the tourist places in Delhi. Based on my visit, here is a Delhi Travel Guide for the best things to do in Delhi. It covers offbeat gems like Waste to Wonder park , Delhi to UNESCO Heritage sites like Qutub Minar Complex .

But before I dive into best places to visit in Delhi , let me cover some basics.

Table of Contents

TRAVEL ESSENTIALS FOR DELHI | DELHI TRAVEL GUIDE

How many days to spend in delhi.

It totally depends upon the time one has! It is possible to have a good experience by spending 24 hours in Delhi, 36 hours in Delhi, 2 days in Delhi, 3 days in Delhi, one week in Delhi and even 10 days in Delhi. Depending upon the slow and fast travel one prefers, one can try various combinations. 

Why visit Delhi? Is Delhi worth visiting?

There are always questions like what to do in Delhi, and what are the Delhi travel places. Being the capital of India, Delhi is sought after for a visit. Since it has good connectivity with international destinations, most tourists land here. It is only obvious to spend some time here before heading anyplace else. Delhi also forms the famous tourist circuit – The golden triangle of India that includes Jaipur, Agra and Delhi.

Delhi is the capital of modern India and has been the capital of at least seven previous civilizations. Each civilization has left behind a trail of monuments that still exist here. Delhi’s historical charm includes three UNESCO World Heritage sites – Red Fort, Qutb Minar and Humayun’s Tomb.

So let’s get to the next question –

How to get around Delhi

Delhi has an excellent transportation system. Metro and public buses are conveniently available. The Metro train system, just like most big cities in the world, exists, but getting to the visitor places from the metro train station could be a hassle while on a short trip. Auto rickshaws are available right outside the metro stations.

If visitors are on a short trip to Delhi then it is best to simply hire a car and driver for the duration of your stay to get around. Another option is the travel-based apps – Uber and Ola which are a blessing to move from one place to another.

Keep in mind the heavy traffic timings and avoid them if possible. Heavy traffic timings are 9 am to 11 am, and 5.30 pm to 7 pm.

THINGS TO DO IN DELHI

It is obvious to get overwhelmed by the capital of India whether you are a first-time visitor in Delhi or a regular one. Right from deciding the safest mode to reach the city from the airport to deciding places to visit in Delhi, from deciding what to eat in Delhi to deciding where to shop in Delhi, the questions are unending.

There are so many things to do in Delhi, it is hard to even know how to begin a Delhi city guide, and what Delhi travel tips to offer to visitors who want to explore and experience the best sights in Delhi, the best nightlife of Delhi, best attractions of Delhi and must-visit landmarks of Delhi. 

What to do in Delhi and what are the best places to see in Delhi? These are common questions. Delhi is a big city so in order to cover the maximum number of places one has to carefully plan the day and places that are near to each other. Following is a must-see list for Delhi.

Jama Masjid

The highlight of Old Delhi is Jama Masjid. Also known as Masjid-i-jahan-Numa, Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India constructed by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan . While Jama Masjid exists in many Indian cities, Jama Masjid Delhi is able to contain over 25,000 people who pray together on the occasion of Eid. Jama Masjid is also a must-visit while in Ahmedabad .

Jama Masjid and its courtyard took the efforts of over 5000 workers to construct the monument. The mosque comprises three highly decorated gates, two 40-meter-high minarets and four towers. The mosque is constructed of white marble and red sandstone. Above the prayer hall’s entrances are calligraphic inscriptions in Persian. Three large marble domes rise from the prayer hall’s roof.

Timings of Jama Masjid: 7 am to Noon,1:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Note: Tourists are not allowed during prayer hours.

Entry fees for Jama Masjid: Free (Photography charges are extra INR 300).

Red Fort – must visit place in Delhi

Also known as Lal Qila, Red Fort is of historical as well as present-day importance. Red Fort is the place from which India’s Prime Minister addresses the nation on Independence Day. Red Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the must-visit tourist places in Delhi. Red Fort, Delhi was also built by Shah Jahan in the 17th Century and served as his residence.

Constructed in red sandstone, the Red Fort is spread over an area of 250 acres. The fort is a complex that encloses palaces, entertainment halls, projecting balconies, baths, indoor canals, gardens, and a mosque. Among the most famous structures of the complex are the Hall of Public Audience (Diwan-i-ʿAm), which has 60 red sandstone pillars supporting a flat roof, and the Hall of Private Audience (Diwan-i-Khas), which has a pavilion of white marble.

Timings of Red Fort, Delhi: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. 

Entry fees of Red Fort: INR 35 for Indian nationals and INR 500 for foreigners. Light and Sound Show, Red Fort tickets charge is extra. (Note: Light and Sound show, Red Fort has been closed since COVID-19).

Jantar Mantar | Delhi Observatory

Jantar Mantar, also called the Delhi Observatory, is one of the most prominent astronomical observatories in the country. The Jantar Mantar observatory in Delhi comprises 14 astronomical instruments of which four are primary devices. These are Samrat Yantra, the Jayaprakash Yantra, the Rama Yantra, and the Misra Yantra. The sundial is one of the most popular here and is based on the ancient Egyptian Ptolemaic structure. It is one of the largest in the world and is used to tell time accurately to half a second. Most of these instruments were designed by Maharaja Jai Singh II .

Jantar Mantar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a similar but smaller version exists in Jaipur .

Timings for Jantar Mantar Delhi: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Entry fees for Jantar Mantar Delhi: INR 25 for Indian nationals and INR 300 for foreigners.

Qutub Minar Complex

Qutub Minar or Qutb Minar is one of the top things to do in Delhi. Built in the 12th century by Qutub-ud-Din Aibak, Qutub Minar is India’s highest tower. It is another UNESCO Heritage Site in Delhi and also the tallest brick minaret in the world. The total height of the minaret is 240 meters which is almost 5-storeys high. The first 3 storeys of the Qutub Minar are made using red sandstone whereas the top 2 storeys are made up of marble. It is hard not to miss that all structures in the complex have carvings of Hindu motifs or gods on them. 

The complex has several other related historical monuments, including a collection of tombs and gardens. The most significant of these is the Quwwat-ul-Islam (the Might of Islam) mosque. The 

Iron Pillar at Qutub Minar, was built in honour of Chandragupta II during Gupta reign in the 4th century. It is a fine example of ancient Indian metallurgy, because of its baffling property of not rusting in spite of being open for 2000 years.

Timings of Qutub Minar, Delhi: 7:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Entry fees for Qutub Minar: INR 35 for Indian nationals and INR 550 for foreigners. Light and Sound Show tickets charge extra.

Humayun’s Tomb

Another important Delhi highlight among the places to visit in Delhi includes Humayun’s Tomb. It is a mausoleum constructed in red sandstone and white marble and spread over 52 acres. Humayun’s Tomb was constructed in the 16th century after the death of the Mughal emperor Humayun. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1933.

The entire complex is divided into four large squares by means of causeways and water channels. Each of the four squares is further subdivided in like manner so that the whole is subdivided into 36 smaller squares. The tomb structure occupies the four central squares and is surrounded by gardens all around.

The structure inspired several other significant architectural achievements, including the Taj Mahal.

Timings of Humayun’s Tomb: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Entry fees for Humayun’s Tomb: INR 35 for Indian nationals and INR 550 for foreigners.

Purana Qila | Old Fort Delhi

Purana Qila, or Old Fort is a 16th-century stone fort near the eastern edge of the city. History runs deep in Purana Qila as excavations in the fort show the area was inhabited reportedly back to 300 BC. The fort is said to be built at the site of Indraprastha , which according to the Mahabharata , was the capital of the kingdom of the Pandavas .

The fort has three gateways – Bara Darwaza facing west, the Humayun Gate facing south, and the Talaqqi Gate, which is often referred to as the forbidden gate. All of the gates are double-storeyed and consist of huge semi-circular bastions flanking either of their sides.

The complex is spread across a huge area some that have gardens and some areas that have wild trees. Some other noteworthy structures inside the Purana Qila complex include a mosque – Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque, a stepwell, a squat tower used as a library-cum-observatory called Sher Mandal and an Archeological Museum.

Talking about forts, read about the second longest wall in the world – Kumbhalgarh or trek at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Lohagarh Fort . 

Timings for Purana Qila, Delhi: 7:00 am to 5:00 pm

Entry fee for Purana Qila, Delhi: INR 15 for Indian nationals and INR 300 for foreigners. Boating charges are extra.

Agrasen ki Baoli

Lately, I have been obsessed with stepwells and I leave no chance to visit a stepwell that exists in the city. Having visited stepwells like Panna Meena Kund, Jaipur, Sevasi Vav, Vadodara , Rani-ki-vav, Patan, I wanted to tick off Agrasen ki Baoli, Delhi . 

The stepwell measures 60 meters north-south and is 15 meters wide at ground level. The steps are flanked on both sides by thick walls with a series of arched corridors.

Timings for Agrasen ki Baoli: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm

Entry fee for Agrasen ki Baoli: Free

Delhi Travel Guide – Visit Lodhi Gardens

Delhi is a green city with ample gardens. Lodhi garden is one of the Delhi Tourist places that should be ticked off. Lodhi Gardens is a public park situated in the upscale locality of New Delhi. Apart from the garden, the 90 acres of area houses a lake and architecturally beautiful complexes from the 14 th and 15 th Century such as Mohammed Shah’s Tomb, Sikandar Lodi’s Tomb, Shisha Gumbad and Bara Gumbad.

Visitors include not only joggers and picnic lovers but architectural enthusiasts and heritage lovers. Many heritage walks are conducted here.

Timings: 5:00 am to 8:00 pm

Entry fees: Free

India Gate and National War Memorial

India Gate is the largest war memorial in India and is very similar to the Arc de Triomphe of Paris in its architecture. The memorial is a monumental sandstone arch dedicated to 70 thousand soldiers of the British Indian Army who lost their lives between 1914 and 1921 during the Anglo-Afghan War and the First World War and has names of over 13 thousand soldiers inscribed in the structure.

The National War Memorial symbolizes the nation’s gratitude for the personnel of the Indian Armed Forces who made the sacrifice in the defence of the country since independence. It is possible to pay homage to the martyrs by clicking on the many screens in the complex or even in online mode .

Timings: 9:00 am to 6:30 pm

Connaught Place

Connaught Place, commonly called CP is an upscale business and commercial hub, centred on a ring of collonaded Georgian-style buildings. It houses global chain stores, theatres, bakeries, bars and Indian restaurants. There also exists the newly opened Museum of Illusions.

It is said that Delhi nightlife happens in CP. Whether one visits during the day or night, spending some time here is worth it.

Connaught Place Timings: 10:00 am to 8:30 pm. The restaurants are open till 11:00 pm.

National Museum

The National Museum is one of the largest museums in India with over 210,000 art objects, paintings, wood carvings, sculptures and murals on display, some of which date back to prehistoric times (4 th and 5 th Century). This 3 storeys premier museum of India, houses galleries that have an impressive collection of artefacts from across the country and the world. 

Timings of National Museum: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (Closed on Mondays and National Holidays)

Entry fees of National Museum: INR 20 for Indian nationals and INR 650 for foreigners

National Railway Museum

Indian Railways has been special for travellers. The National Rail Museum comprises India’s railway heritage, exclusive exhibits, antique locomotives, train rides, a showcase of technical enhancements done in railways, and a lot more. It showcases both indoor and outdoor exhibits. 

There is a toy ride inside the museum, in which the visitors can take a round of the entire outdoor museum and get a glimpse of all the exhibits in one go. The National Rail Museum is spread over an area of 11 acres and offers a treat for not just kids but a learning experience for adults too.

Timings of National Rail Museum: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (Closed on Mondays and National Holidays).

Entry fees of National Rail Museum: INR 50 on weekdays, INR 100 on weekends. Kids entry fees are INR 10 on weekdays and INR 20 on weekends. Toy train charges are INR 50 per adult and INR 20 for a child. and INR 650 for foreigners.

Lotus Temple

Constructed in the shape of a blooming lotus flower, Lotus temples houses a big prayer hall and has manicured gardens and nine pools bordered by red sandstone walkways, all around giving the feeling of a white lotus blooming in a green pond. 

Also known as Bahá’í House of Worship, this magnificent structure stands for the principle of the oneness of humankind. People of all racial, religious, and national backgrounds, are welcome to pray and meditate within its precincts.

Timings: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm

Akshardham Temple  

Akshardham Temple is a spiritual complex in New Delhi. The term Akshardham is the combination of two words ‘Akshar’ means ‘eternal’ and ‘Dham’ means ‘abode’. Akshardham displays numerous traditional aspects, beautiful architecture, Indian culture and spirituality. In the centre the main complex is built on the principles of Vastu Shastra and Pancharatra Shashtra which is called Akshardham Mandir. 

The temple is constructed using Italian Carrara marble and pink sandstone. It has more than 234 beautifully carved pillars, 9 elaborate domes, 20 quadrangle spires and 20,000 sculptures of spiritual personalities from India. While this one is spread over 100 acres, a smaller version of Akshardham temple is present in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

Timings: 9:30 am to 6:30 pm

Entry fees: While the temple entry is free, the exhibition costs INR 170.

Hauz Khas Village

Known as ‘The National Capital of Ethnic Chic’, the hip and trendy Hauz Khas Village is a beautiful urban village nestled in a corner among the ruins of Hauz Khas Fort. Hauz Khas village is a popular place amongst the locals for the best nightlife in Delhi as it offers retro clubs, pubs and fine dining restaurants. 

Adjacent Deer Park has picnic huts, Hauz Khas lake facing tombs and religious monuments dating back to the 14th century. There are many hostels for tourists who want to enjoy a slow urban life.

Timings for Hauz Khas: 10:30 am to 8:30 pm. Restaurants are open till 1 am.

Entry fees for Hauz Khas: Free to the village. INR 25 for Hauz Khas fort.

SHOPPING IN DELHI

Shopping in Delhi needs a dedicated blog post as Delhi is a shopaholic paradise. Whether you are looking for affordable streetwear or upscale designer wear, there are markets for one and all. There are specific markets for buying wedding wear, street shopping, antiques, home furnishing and crockery. The city is full of markets, stores, shopping centres, and street stalls.

Shopping markets in Delhi

Khan Market, Delhi: For upscale shopping, Khan Market is a one-stop shopping centre in central Delhi. 

Sarojini Market and Kamala Nagar market: They are traditional markets that make their presence felt with affordable clothes. 

Janpath Market: Is popular for souvenirs and jewellery, especially for international travellers.

Lajpat Market: It is a home-maker’s favourite with a variety of housewares. 

Dilli Haat: It is also a popular place with tourists for fixed-price souvenir shopping.

FOOD IN DELHI

Food is a big part of Delhi life so I have to include it in this Delhi Travel Guide. Food in Delhi is a representation of all states in India. There are hotels, roadside cafes and dhabas serving Punjabi chole-kulche and lassi, Bombay Pav-bhaji, Samosa, Chaats, Masala-Dosa, and contemporary dishes such as pasta, Maggi, pizza and others. Each area in Delhi has a special restaurant and cafe. However, some of the must-visit places in Delhi for popular food in Delhi is

Chandni Chowk

Paranthe wali Galli is famous for vegetarian food in Chandni Chowk. Some of the legendary places in Chandni chowk include Babu Ram Devi Dayal Paranthe Wale, Kake Di Hatti, Lotan Chole Wala, Jung Bahadur Kachori Wala, Padam Chaat Corner, Hazari Lal Khurchan Wale, Khan Omelet Corner and Old Famous Jalebi Wala.

The alley just outside near Jama Masjid is a haven for non-vegetarian items. The area is lined with stalls and carts selling everything from kababs to biryanis to curries, made from chicken and mutton. The most popular outlets here are Aslam Chicken and Karim’s. A popular dessert here is Shahi Tukda .

INA Market 

INA Market is home to many small South-Indian eateries. Completely different from their North Indian counterparts, these places serve authentic meals and snacks.

Chawri Bazar

Chawri Bazaar has a fan following of breakfast lovers. The must-try items include nagori halwa and puri at Shyam Sweets and Bedmi kachori . Ashok Chaat Bhandar for a variety of chaats is a must, followed by kulfi at Kuremal.

WHERE TO STAY IN DELHI

Since all touristy things are spread across Delhi, it may be difficult to decide the area of accommodation in Delhi. Pahar Ganj, Karol Bagh, and Connaught Place are some of the popular choices for hotels in Delhi. South Delhi and Mehrauli offer a few upscale spaces but are safer. Most places have good connectivity with auto-rickshaws, app-based taxis and metro.

There are great options for hotels, resorts, homestays and hostels in Delhi. Some of the options are:

Luxury hotel: ITC Maurya , The Imperial Hotel , The Lodhi

Mid Range hotel: The Claridges, New Delhi , Radisson Blu, CP , Radisson Blu, Dwarka

Homestay: Prakash Kutir B&B , Thikana Delhi

Hostel: The Hosteller , Madpackers Delhi , Zostel Delhi

BEST TIME TO VISIT DELHI

Delhi’s climate fluctuates from lows of about 3 Celsius in early January to close to 46 Celsius in May and June. The most pleasant months are October, February and March when it is not too cold, hot or humid to travel around. However, if you want to enjoy Dilli ki sardi (Delhi cold weather), with delicious food and unlimited cups of chai , then the winter months are the best.

HOW TO REACH DELHI

Being the capital of India, Delhi is well-connected through air, rail, and roads.

Delhi is connected to all international destinations with direct flights as well as domestic destinations. The airport is also connected through a special section of the Delhi Metro – Airport Express which will take visitors directly to the centre of the city.

Delhi is a major junction for covering Northern India and it has more than 6 railway stations. Out of these the New Delhi Railway station and Old Delhi railway station are the most used.

Delhi has 2 major bus terminals – Kashmere Gate and Anand Vihar. Comfortable Volvo buses are available for nearby states. Delhi to Manali , Delhi to Dharamshala/ Mcleodganj , Delhi to Rishikesh Volvo buses, leave from here.

FAQs on DELHI TRAVEL GUIDE

Is delhi safe.

Delhi has a bad reputation for being the most unsafe city in India. But that goes for any big city in the world. With that being said, tourists staying in a safer area, are unlikely to experience any problems if you practise a reasonable degree of caution. It is also best to retire to hotels sooner (9 pm). 

What is Delhi weather like?

Delhi remains hot during the summers ( March to June). Heatwaves also take place in June in Delhi. Delhi winters set in around December, peaking in January and February when the temperature reaches 3 degrees celsius.

Sustainable tips for Delhi Travel Guide: Things to do in Delhi

• Do not use single-use or disposable plastic. Even if you do, do not litter it in any tourist area or any museums or archaeological sites.
• Respect the ancient structures of step wells, temples and mosques by not sitting on them. Use the garden space instead.
• Respect the places which prohibit photography. 
• Do not write on the pillars and walls of archaeological sites.

I hope this Delhi Travel Guide helps to plan a trip to Delhi. Have you already visited Delhi? What were the places you liked, loved or hated? Tell me the comments below!

Disclaimer – This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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Ketki Gadre

Ketki is an environmental consultant and a sustainable travel blogger, who loves nature, wildlife and heritage. She enjoys bringing places to life through her informative blogs to inspire readers to travel sustainably and become responsible travellers.

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Waste to wonder park, delhi, you may also like, jungle safari in satpura tiger reserve, madhya pradesh, 15 things to do in chiang rai, snake whiskey of vietnam: have you tried, goa in monsoon: best things to do, 11 amazing tourist places to visit in indore..., places to visit in manali (for 2023), ahmedabad heritage walk, diveagar beach- the konkan paradise, gucchu pani (robber’s cave): offbeat place in dehradun, the luang say residence, luang prabang: hotel review.

To pen down Delhi in one writeup/ blog is impossible is what I thought before I read this one. It is just because of the vastness of the city and its history that it beholds. The legacy of Delhi is great. Beautifully done work by you….comprehensive and precise information. Awesome job done👍

I have lived in Delhi for around 2 years, and I still have a soft corner for the city’s vibe and food. And the momos, well, I have still not found such good momos in the other cities where I have lived.

Woah, the architecture there is mindblowing. I have never seen anything like it before! I agree, the Stepwell is particularly cool. I would love to experience all that in person. How wonderful that it has been the capital for 7 civilizations! The

I have been to Kerala but haven’t gotten to explore any other areas of India yet. I want to visit Delhi so badly and your beautiful and informed post has only convinced me more.

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DELHI TRAVEL GUIDE | How to Survive (& Love) India’s Crazy Capital

There’s no escaping the fact that Delhi can be a little overwhelming. That said, it’s also one of the most incredible cities in India! Our Delhi travel guide helps you get the best out of the city while avoiding some of the “nuisances” that may present yourselves. We’ve had our fair share of Delhi learnings ourselves – as a multi-time foreign visitor and Indian couple, we’ve experienced all sides of Delhi – read this Delhi blog for how to get ahead in this mighty capital. 

Delhi Travel Guide – Learning to Love New Delhi

Delhi is the first taste of India for so many travellers, and it was mine, too in October 2015.

Feeling unprepared for my trip, I turned to my guidebooks in a flurry of last minute reading, but they didn’t exactly set my heart at rest – filled, mostly, with instructions for avoiding Delhi’s infamous scams and tricksters (who it seemed from my reading would all be poised at the doors of Delhi airport to welcome me).

Directions from my tour company to absolutely not leave the airport terminal until I had been met by the ground rep did not exactly help.

Like many, I was nervous visiting New Delhi for the first time.

On my first trip to India I spent only two days in India’s capital, and did not have to plan my own things to do in Delhi. Along with the others in my group, I was guided through the winding lanes of Old Delhi to the fragrant and colourful spice market, towards the stunning Jameh Masjid mosque. My eyes gawking at the mass of dangling power cables and narrow streets as cycle rickshaws hurried past, threatening to keel over at any time in my jet-lagged brain.

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But I also noticed the cold and prying eyes of Old Delhi – the cold, incessant stares that did not seem like the friendly stares one finds in other places in India. Was I not welcome here?

From that first visit, as part of a tour, to many subsequent visits to Delhi (often solo), it has taken me some time to appreciate – and even learn to love – Delhi.

Much of that learning has been with the help of tips from friends – both local Delhiites and international friends who know the city. So here is why Delhi is a firm favourite on my India itinerary, and some top tips for things to do in Delhi that will hopefully give you – too – that feeling of appreciation for this crazy city of contrasts.

Why Should you Visit Delhi?

Despite its less than wonderful reputation as a travel destination, to miss out on visiting Delhi during a trip to India would be a bit of a sin. There are plenty of reasons to given India’s capital a chance, from its food, to its lush parks in the south of the city, to its mish-mash of cultures and languages that represent the varied tapestry that the sub-continent of India covers.

Delhi is a summary of all that India is – from its super modern metro to its crumbling havelis (historic stately homes), from its dusty spice markets to its gleaming and luxurious shopping malls.

But if there’s one reason that stands out most to us as a reason to visit, it’s Delhi’s history. Delhi is one of the longest-serving capitals in the world, and has witnessed the rise and fall of empires. A walk through Delhi can take you past monuments from the late 1100s to the present day, in a city heavily influenced by the Mughals, the British and many others.

Is Delhi Safe?

The best answer to this question is that most visitors to Delhi are unlikely to encounter any serious problems in Delhi. You’re most likely to experience some staring and possibly getting short changed or approached by touts – that’s all.

The high profile rape cases from Delhi were isolated incidents, but Delhi is still not the easiest place in India for female travellers. Dressing conservatively is advised, and I do not recommend solo women to go out alone at night in Delhi (which may be on the more cautious side but this has served me well) – see more in our tips for women below.

It also makes a huge difference where you stay as to how you’re likely to feel about Delhi: Check out our where to stay in Delhi tips below!

READ MORE: A guide to Solo Female Travel in India – with tips from local women .

Air Pollution in Delhi

As I update this article in October 2019, Delhi is suffering yet another bout of toxic smog, as pleas to stop Diwali firecrackers fall on deaf ears, farmers in nearby regions burn their crops, and the government does little to work on the issue of environmental pollution.

Over the last few years, this has happened every year immediately after Diwali. The air in Delhi (and some other cities notably Agra and Varanasi) is a serious problem, although it causes a lot less harm to visitors than those who have to deal with it on a daily basis.

For that reason we don’t advise going to Delhi just after Diwali. Try to go earlier or later in winter if you can.

We also highly recommend packing an anti-pollution mask – you’ll need one that is effective at filtering out particulate (PM2.5) such as an N95 respirator .

Essential New Delhi Travel Tips – Know Before you Go

Delhi is the entry point to India for so many visitors, and yet despite its charms, it is not the easiest place to arrive in India. Touts and con-artists are used to tourists who’ve just arrived in the city – it’s not something to be nervous about, but more a reason to do your research and use common sense.

Here are some of our tried and tested Delhi travel tips for newcomers.

• If you’re staying in a mid-range or upscale hotel (which is a good idea), arrange an airport pickup directly with them for a smooth landing (more tips on airport transportation below).
• If you’re flying long-haul, build in some time to rest and take it easy – Delhi can be overwhelming, especially when you’re tired.
• Organise a tour for your first day in Delhi – Helps you to get your bearings and ease in to the pace of Delhi with the comfort of someone showing you around. (Book tours via reputable companies with good reviews, we don’t recommend using the guides loitering outside famous monuments in Delhi). See our recommendations below.
• Ignore offers of “free” tuk-tuk rides or shopping tours. Anything that is “free” will invariably lead to you being taken to a number of shops, where the driver will earn a commission for taking you there and on any of your purchases.
• Just after Diwali is not the ideal time to visit Delhi. Every year, the city gets covered in toxic smog. It’s better to visit later in the winter if you can.
• If you have a few minutes at the airport,  get an Airtel or Vodafone Simcard  for your mobile phone – as this will make travel and communication in India much easier! The booths are located inside the arrivals hall.
• Generally ignore people who come up to you at railway stations asking to see your ticket or at monuments – they are usually touts although their sales pitch may not come immediately.
• The key with Delhi is to be cautious but not paranoid – hold your head up high, walk like you know where you’re going, and you’ll likely find people leave you alone!

Arriving in Delhi

Many of us arrive in India’s capital under cover of darkness – that is to say that many inter-continental flights arrive in the small hours of the morning. Fortunately the immigration process seems to be much quicker than it used to be – if you have an E-visa, head straight to the far end for quicker processing. In the arrivals hall is where the fun begins.

Tips for Avoiding the Airport Scams

For travel from the airport, I do not recommend taking a regular pre-paid taxi (and definitely ignore anyone that approaches you offering a taxi or ride).

The “your hotel has burnt down / is closed / Delhi is closed due to smog” (yes, really) scam is still going as strong as ever, and revolves around taking unwitting travellers to a remote location in the middle of the night, claiming not being able to find your hotel, and instead taking you to one that pays commission. Or worse.

Safe Transport Options from Delhi Airport

One of the best options for a safe transfer from the airport is to have your hotel arrange a transfer . Make sure they’ll be inside the terminal with a sign with the hotel’s name, or with a “password” and check their identity carefully before leaving with your driver or ask them for your names to be sure they’re the real deal and not just a random person with a sign.

Sakha Cabs ,  powered by  Women on Wheels  offer transfers and taxi services for women travellers, by women drivers. The Azad Foundation behind the Women on Wheels initiative started it in Delhi in 2008 to bring economic empowerment to women by enabling them to become professional drivers. Do your bit to support them by arranging an airport transfer with them!

If that fails, I have used Meru cabs from New Delhi Airport while travelling alone in Delhi – there’s a separate desk for them when exiting arrivals. They’re a little more expensive than regular cabs but I have found them to be reliable and safe.

Culture Shock in New Delhi

New Delhi is a city of 20 million.

It’s sprawling, big, dusty, noisy, dirty, charming, beautiful and chaotic all at once. You might find yourself gazing at a beautiful building with scenes of shocking poverty right next to it.

You might encounter cows chomping on plastic waste right outside a gleaming 5* hotel.

As India’s capital city, Delhi is home to a tapestry of cultures and attracts migrants from around India and beyond. It’s a melting pot where you can find influences from around the world. But it can also be a bit overwhelming for the first time visitor. Our best advice is to take things slow, stay in a good part of town, join group tours and activities for added comfort when you feel like it, and if it all gets too much retire to a nice cafe to read a book for a bit.

The Best Way to Get Around Delhi.

Prepare to jump a few hundred years as you step from bustling Old Delhi into the New Delhi Metro – our recommended way to travel around Delhi during daytime.

At night, its better to travel around Taxi / Uber / Ola for mixed groups.

The super fast and efficient Delhi Metro is a great (and cheap) way to get around the city and there’s a ladies carriage at the front of each train (solo ladies – use it!).

For short hops (auto)rickshaws / “tuktuks” are useful – in Delhi Rickshaw Wallahs seem to have  universally forgotten what the meter is so you’ll have to negotiate . Expect to pay 50 Rupees for a short hop, and more for longer rides. I love to open up the Uber app to get an idea of the going rate for an Uber and then use that price to negotiate with the rickshaw guys. I do not recommend taking a rickshaw for solo ladies at night (see more below).

Uber itself has been involved in some scandals in Delhi, and personally I try to avoid Uber due to their (un)ethical policies – an Indian alternative is the OLA app , which is a good way to pre-book rickshaws and arrange taxis for the evening.

If a rickshaw driver offers you a free ride or offers to take you to a friend’s shop then the trip will certainly involve stop offs at stores that pay commission to the driver. Best avoided, unless you are up for some uncompetitively priced shopping..

Travel in Delhi as a (Solo) Female Traveller

Some extra precautions are required here, although it depends which area of Delhi you are in somewhat – with South Delhi being more relaxed and “safer”.

After dark, it’s generally advisable to avoid travelling alone if you can.

I recommend travelling with friends if you can, or getting a recommended driver from your hotel. f you do need to go out alone then avoid walking and rickshaws, and take an OLA or driver that you know. Make sure you have a working local SIM card so you can check google maps, etc. Phoning someone (even if the person you’re calling is imaginary) and making a show of reading out the licence plate in front of the driver is often helpful. Just make sure your phone doesn’t ring while you’re on the call 😉

If you don’t like the sound of travelling in Delhi as a woman, you can try Mumbai instead – which is much more female friendly!

What to Wear in Delhi

Ladies need to dress more conservatively in Delhi, even by Indian standards. That means covering your legs, shoulders and everything in between, and avoid tight clothes. Carry a loose cotton scarf to drape around your chest. You can buy an Indian “kurta” or tunic (I love Fab India stores) and pair it with jeans or leggings

Men usually wear loose, light pants or jeans and a t-shirt.

For men and women we recommend a pair of shoes that are covered, easy to walk in, and easy to slip on/off to go in and out of temples.

Delhi gets cold during the evenings during winter so carry a sweater / light jacket.

What to Pack for Delhi

Your time in Delhi will be easier with the right preparation! Here are some of our must – haves for going to Delhi:

Clothing for Women – sorry guys, you can pretty much wear what you want – see more on the what to wear in Delhi section below.

• Loose fitting, sleeved shirts or tunics – We love these ones for women.  Avoid solid white as the dust will spoil it easily – patterns disguise dirt better! Cotton or linen shirts/t-shirts are fine.
• 2-3 Light Scarves – useful for draping over your head / chest – go as colourful as you like! And don’t take too many as you’re sure to buy some there!
• Loose fitting linen/cotton pants for women
• Closed slip on/off shoes similar to VANS / TOMS (that you don’t mind getting dirty!) are ideal as you’ll likely want to protect your feet while travelling & walking around cities, and a pair of flip-flips for hanging out in, too. If you’re planning on trekking, bring good trekking shoes.

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• Ladies – Tampons are available in the big cities, but not beyond and are expensive. It’s better to avoid use of sanitary napkins due to inadequate waste disposal and the plastic waste they create. We recommend using non-polluting protection such as a menstrual cup , washable pads , or period underwear .
• Try to bring plastic-free, organic/chemical free soap and shampoo bars , as often waste goes straight into the water.

Electronics

• India’s power sockets are a fun mix – including 2 round pin european style, 3 round pin and 3 square pin. So a multi way travel adaptor (or 3) is a must!
• Make sure to bring a power bank for long bus and train journeys

Staying Healthy in India

• First off – not everyone gets sick in India, but some charcoal tablets can work wonders for an upset stomach.
• A first aid kit is highly recommended for India – bring disinfectant liquid, cream, plasters, broad spectrum antibiotics, mosquito repellant, sunscreen and meds for stomach upsets. In case you do need medical help, the major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Bangalore have world-class medical facilities.
• Travel Insurance! A must for India – don’t leave home without it. We use & recommend World Nomads – get a quote here .
• Water filtration / purification equipment & water bottle as tap water is not safe to drink in India (but commonly available filtered (RO) water is fine – I have drunk it for many months) – Check out our Steripen and favourite water bottle for travel in India here.

READ MORE: Guide to Safe Drinking Water in India

Where to Stay in Delhi

Like my overall experience with Delhi, understanding where to stay in Delhi has been something of a learning curve.

If you’re in a hurry, these are some of our recommended accommodation options for Delhi:

• Bloomrooms @Janpath (Connaught Place). We love the colourful, clean and great value rooms here, right in the heart of Delhi! Check rates and book here .
• The Imperial, New Delhi (Connaught Place). If you want the best luxury in Delhi, stay here. A Delhi institution, this hotel may just spoil you forever – it’s one of the most beautiful hotels I’ve been in and the cocktails are amazing! Worth a splurge. Check rates and book here .
• Prakash Kutir B&B, (Hauz Khas, south Delhi) – see my full write up below. Situated in leafy south Delhi, this family run, clean and comfortable B&B is great for those staying a little longer in Delhi. We love this part of Delhi for its parks, markets and trendy eateries. Check rates and book here .

Which Area to Stay in Delhi

Unfortunately Delhi’s best known areas to stay aren’t always the best choice! Here’s our breakdown of where we do and don’t recommend staying in the city.

While I have not experienced staying in the backpacker ghetto of Paharganj first hand, frankly I would not recommend it unless you have a very short overnight before taking the train elsewhere (Paharganj is located just opposite New Delhi / NDLS Railway Station).

Paharganj is ground zero for Delhi’s tourist scams and hustle, and is home to possibly the grottiest of accommodation. Proceed with caution and check reviews carefully.

My first experience of staying in Delhi was in Karol Bagh , which is where many tour groups stay. While it undoubtedly has more going for it than Paharganj (It has a local market, is close to the huge Hanuman temple, as well as being close to the Metro) I also don’t really recommend Karol Bagh.

The hotels here are cheap but they attract a very mixed crowd, and during my stay I did not feel particularly relaxed (or very safe) in this part of town. I would not recommend walking around alone at night. There have also been issues with hotel fires in Karol Bagh. Stay elsewhere if you can.

Connaught Place “CP”

Connaught Place is in central Delhi, has lots of restaurants and shopping close-by and is a central place to explore from. It’s also home to some beautiful high end hotels such as The Imperial and the Shangri La . It’s also home to some dodgy places though, so check reviews carefully before booking!

CP is convenient for a night or two, but touts tend to hang around here so I don’t recommend CP for longer stays unless you’re in a high end hotel.

South Delhi

It was on my third trip to Delhi that I was pointed in the direction of South Delhi – perhaps the most beautiful and leafy green part of Delhi – and recommended Prakash Kutir B&B which has since become one of my favourite places to stay in Delhi.

Prakash Kutir is located just off Hauz Khas market which is perfect for getting to grips with Delhi local life, enjoying a good espresso, and is handily connected to the city by Metro – there’s currently a new line under construction to the airport too. I loved the experience of staying with an Indian family in their home, waking up to the musical calls of the local vegetable wallahs outside, and getting to know the family better over breakfast each morning. It’s also a very safe part of the city. The Gupta family offer a truly comfortable and charming home from home in Delhi. Check rates and availability for Prakash Kutir here.

My favourite budget/hostel accommodation in south Delhi is Madpackers Hostel in Panscheel Park, which is comfortable, clean, and comes with great chai included.

If you’re prepared to base yourself outside of Delhi itself but want to be nearby, then Casa Delhi in nearby Noida (and connected by metro) is an eco retreat and farm stay is a truly unique opportunity to experience life on an organic farm – with a focus on yoga, meditation and community living. This place is on my list for my next trip to the capital!

Things to do in Delhi

There are plenty of things to do in Delhi to make you want to extend your stay – from exploring the city’s tombs and Mughal architecture, to the bungalows of Lutyens, to exploring bazaars, to sipping world class cocktails in trendy bars.

My Delhi “Must Sees”

Old Delhi . You can’t visit Delhi without seeing it’s historic heart, winding lanes and the Jameh Masjid (Mosque). We recommend taking a guided walking tour of this area to take in Chandni Chowk, the Spice Market, Mosque and Red Fort. If it’s your first day or two in India, you might want to go easy on the street food in this area of Delhi – it can be delicious, but doesn’t always go down the best with un-acclimatised stomachs!

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Red Fort. In our opinion, well worth a visit although it is a mirror of the Fort at Agra, and the Delhi version receives fewer visitors. There are some great views over to the Fort from the Jameh Masjid. The Red Fort is included in many Old Delhi walking/tuk-tuk tours.

Humayan’s Tomb. Tomb to the Mughal Emperor of Delhi, Humayun, this tomb is a beautiful UNESCO heritage sight, and one of the best examples of Persian influenced architecture in Delhi. Spend an hour or two here wandering the grounds and enjoying the structure – for fewer crowds & better photos come early in the morning.

India Gate & Rajpath. For Lutyens Delhi at its finest and a sense of history, visit the India Gate (not to be confused with the Gateway of India in Mumbai!) and gaze down the Rajpath towards the government of India. The India Gate is illuminated in the evenings between around 7pm and 9pm.

Qutub Minar . Dating from 1197, Qutub Minar is one of Delhi’s oldest monuments, with a beautiful red sandstone tower that is 73m high.

Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple. Located on the East Bank of the Yamuna river, this is the largest Hindu temple in the world and can’t fail to leave an impression. Try to visit during the week if you can as it gets very crowded at weekends, especially Sundays.

If you have a little more time in Delhi, we suggest exploring the lovely Lodhi gardens – filled with tombs – and nearby Khan market for some shopping.

Responsible Tourism Activities in Delhi

Delhi is, after all, a perfect mirror image of India where contrasts are visible and the city’s poorest sleep on streets or under a tin roof, meters away from the city’s wealthiest villas and fanciest members clubs.

If you feel compelled to leave a footprint for good and help some of the less fortunate in Delhi, there are some great options for responsible tourism in Delhi that give back. These are some of my most memorable experiences from exploring the capital.

Go on a Street Walk of Delhi – with Delhi Street Kids.

My first taste of Paharganj was not by staying there, but by going on a walk lead by former street kids of the area that I found on responsible tourism website I-likelocal.com . It is this area – adjacent to the main railway station of Delhi that many kids – usually in search of a better life in the big city – that is the first image of Delhi that most street kids see. Many kids who have run away from abuse, hardship and appalling conditions find themselves sleeping rough, in the train station and soon get prayed upon by gangs.

NGO Salaam Baalak Trust has set up help centres around the station and in nearby paharganj. Adolescent street kids who have been through the recovery programme are trained as tourist guides, and you can support the work by booking a walk around Delhi  (it takes about two hours).

Find more information about I-like Local and the walk with street kids here .

Visit Sanjay Colony with Reality Travel & Tours.

Award-winning Reality Travel and Tours started their work in the slums of Dharavi, Mumbai  and expanded to Delhi in 2014 and began working in Sanjay Colony in South Eastern Delhi. This is one of the city’s largest garment manufacturing areas, and while visiting Reality Travel’s operations in the colony you can see many of the garments made by slum-dwellers for sale, as well as some of the processes for recycling waste fabric.

80% of revenue from Reality Tours & Travel activities goes directly to Reality Gives, which funds projects in Sanjay Colony such as their computer program which allows access for IT learning for residents. The tour in Sanjay Colony – like Dharavi – comes with a strict no photography policy out of respect for all residents. We saw some of the harsh reality of a slum just next door being demolished, where its residents had become homeless literally overnight. This kind of activity serves as a harsh reminder of the struggles that many of India’s city-dwellers face on a day to day basis. If you’d rather not go to a slum area, then you can still support Reality Tours in their work by going on one of their Old Delhi tours or tours to nearby areas including India’s golden triangle.

Find more information about Reality Tours & Travel activities here . 

Open Eyes run a number of Delhi day tours that support local communities, and are actively involved in training more women to become tour guides in India. More information on their website here .

Enjoy a Home-Cooked meal in an Indian Home.

Delhi is well known for its rich, spicy and oily food. Delicious to many, but not the easiest food to digest for a stomach that has just arrived in India. I recommend going easy on the street food in Old Delhi (few seem to escape unscathed from personal experience 😉 ) and instead head to a home for a sampling of culture through food.

One of the best ways to go deeper into Indian culture (and get a load of local travel tips!) is to visit an Indian home – and even better – to share home cooked food. Last summer I had the chance to do just that through platform Authenticook, who offer the chance to visit an Indian home to travellers, make new friends through your fellow diners – and perhaps most importantly, enjoy lots of delicious home cooked food. Visiting a home in Delhi was a great way to arrive in the city, re-aclimatise, and get my bearings. Two hours later I was too full to move!

For those with fears about “Delhi-belly” or getting sick during their travels, this is also a great way to get familiar with the local cuisine in a way that is safe and friendly on your stomach!

Find more information about Authenticook dining experience here.

Delhi has an array of organic eateries and ethical shopping options perfect for souvenirs. For a completely different dining experience, Tihar Jail has opened a restaurant – Tihar Food Court  – which is run by inmates and is part of the jail’s rehabilitation efforts, preparing prisoners for life in the outside world.

For shopping, Dastkar Bazaar / Market is the perfect place to shop for responsibly sourced handicrafts and eco friendly products. Anokhi is the place to go for hand block-printed fabrics, and Organic India is the perfect place to pick up healthy, environmentally friendly teas, herbs and foods.

Enjoying the Best of Delhi

Despite some of the tourist scams and hustle, Delhi is one of the best places for experiencing all that India has to offer. For best results, get up early to see Delhi’s sites in the magical morning light, complete with plenty of birds. Delhi gets uncomfortably hot outside of winter months (and surprisingly cold during winter!) so be sure to check the weather and pack accordingly.

Last but not least, relax and enjoy the scene.

Have you been to Delhi? What are your tips for getting the most of your visit, or do you have eco-friendly / responsible options to add? Let us know in the comments below! 

  Recommended for you on Soul Travel: 

A Complete Guide to Travel in India for First-Timers

Solo Female Travel in India – Essential Tips from Local Women

Ultimate Guide to Train Travel in India

Rajasthan Travel Guide

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10 Delhi Travel Tips For Tourists to See & Enjoy Delhi in 2024!

Categories Asia , India

Delhi is a chaotic city. It’s huge, it’s busy, it’s loud, it’s often very polluted. Yet most backpackers, travellers and visitors to India will start their India itinerary in Delhi.

And that makes sense because Delhi it’s centrally located to Rajasthan – a popular area of India for tourists to explore, Agra which is home to the Taj Mahal and just an overnight train or short flight away from one of the oldest cities in the world-  Varanasi .

I don’t think that starting a trip to India in Delhi is a bad thing but to really enjoy Delhi and to leave not feeling scammed, overwhelmed and with the opinion that you’ll never go back (as some tourists to Delhi do!) there are certain Delhi Travel Tips that you need to know and that’s what I’m going to share with you in this Delhi Travel Blog and Delhi Travel Guide . Here are 10 Delhi Travel Tips for Foreigners !

Delhi Travel Tips

Best time to visit Delhi

Before we get into some top Delhi travel tips , it’s worth thinking about the best time to visit Delhi or any city of India, as the country get’s very hot and wet in the middle of the year. November to March are the best times to visit both North & South India . As Delhi is in north-central India , consider the colder months of the year to visit here so you don’t have to deal with the scorching sun.

South India will be warmer than North India in the winter months of December and January, Delhi and further North actually get cold in these months but are still enjoyable to visit with the right clothing.

Outside these months, you can still visit but you’ll find that the heat and humidity will be much higher, especially as you go further South.

SIM CARD FOR INDIA

I really recommend having a sim card in India as it makes travel in India so much easier! You may have heard that it’s hard to get a sim card in India but you can get a sim card in Delhi Airport, read this post to see how to buy a sim card in Delhi Airport or if you fly in elsewhere 3 ways to buy a sim card in India and you’ll be connected in just a few hours!

WHAT TO WEAR IN INDIA

If you are a woman, here’s what I recommend you pack and wear in India . Technically you can wear what you like in India in most places but to get fewer stares and feel more comfortable, read my post!

DON’T GET SCAMMED IN DELHI

Most people arrive for the first time into Delhi and get scammed within a few hours! Read my Delhi Travel Tips to help you enjoy Delhi, and the best places to stay in Delhi which is so important!

1 – Go with an Open Mind

I’m sure you’ve been told horror stories about Delhi and I’m sure you’ve read horror stories about Delhi!

My top Delhi travel tip is to forget all of that! Firstly because you’re going to arrive in Delhi with a bad and negative mindset whereas arriving with an open mind will enable you to enjoy Delhi much more.

Secondly, Delhi and India in general, has changed so much in the last few years , if you know someone who had a bad experience in Delhi 10 years ago, chances are, if they went back now they wouldn’t even recognise the city.

The city has modernised and the generations of India have modernised too making Delhi tourism that bit easier. Read this post if you’re questioning, is Delhi Safe? ?

2 – Stay in a Good Area of Delhi

It took me 3 visits to Delhi to realise this important Delhi travel tip so I’m going to tell you now, so you don’t make the same mistake.

There’s an area in Delhi called ‘ Paharganj ‘ which is located close to New Delhi Train Station. This may seem like a popular area of Delhi to stay in because it’s well located to the train station and it has a huge concentration of accommodation on the likes of Booking.com , in fact, it’s known as the backpacker area of Delhi . However,  Paharganj isn’t a nice area .

Paharganj has a busy main bazaar with many shops aimed at tourists but it is too overwhelming. It has budget accommodation and from my experience, the hotels are budget quality and will leave you disappointed. Therefore, I really do not recommend you stay in this area of Delhi.

Old Delhi is another popular area of Delhi to visit (more on that below) but staying here is a big mistake too.

So where is the best place to stay in Delhi in a safe hotel in Delhi? Well, either Central or in South Delhi.

Central Delhi is a good area of Delhi to stay in for tourists  because it’s well located to Delhi monuments like the India Gate and the Jantar Mantar but it’s also close to Connaught Place (CP as it’s known to the locals) which is pretty much the very centre of Delhi.

Lots of metro stations meet here meaning it’s easy for everyone in Delhi to get to, Connaught Place itself has a nice park to sit in, and there are higher-end shops and restaurants here too.

I have stayed at Bloom Rooms Hotel Janpath  in Central Delhi  which I love and really recommend to you. It’s in the area of Janpath which has its own metro station, Janpath Market is close by which is a nice place to shop, it’s two stops from Khan Market (more on that below) and a short walk from Connaught Place.

Not only that but the hotel is beautifully designed, the staff are welcoming, it has a great cafe on-site and generally, it’s a nice place to recuperate in after sightseeing in Delhi whilst still staying in Central Delhi.

It’s also located next to the Shangri-La Hotel and Le Meridein Hotel in Delhi so it has the same fantastic location as these five-star hotels in Delhi but it’s a lot more affordable.

If you’d prefer staying in South Delhi, this is possible too. I also stayed at Prakash Kutir B&B in South Delhi in Hauz Khas . Staying here means it takes a bit longer to get into Central and Old Delhi however there are Delhi monuments to visit such as the Lotus Temple and Qutub Minar nearby and from staying here you get a much more residential and local look at Delhi. Prakash Kutir B&B is more like a homestay to be honest as the building is part family home, part hotel.

Being in local areas is another one of my top Delhi travel tips for tourists to Delhi!

You can also book this private sightseeing tour regardless of where you stay in Delhi, this tour will take you to the famous spots in Old Delhi and Central Delhi.

Look for the best flights to India here!

I use Skyscanner to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different dates and routes to help me find the best flight at the best price! 

Open Skyscanner by clicking here and search for the best flights as you read this post.

3 – Know that Delhi is NOT JUST Old Delhi

What do you know about the best areas in Delhi to visit and what to see in Delhi?

Old Delhi is probably what comes to mind first and that’s understandable, as a tourist this part of the city is what we are drawn to and told so much about in Delhi travel guides etc, but Delhi is so much more than just Old Delhi!

By all means, go there, there are things to do in Old Delhi such as the Red Fort, Chandni Chowk street and Jama Masjid- the biggest mosque in India but do not think that this is Delhi . Old Delhi is also an intense area to see alone as a tourist to Delhi, which leads me onto the next point of my Delhi travel tips…

Book this comprehensive tour of Old Delhi to experience the real culture of India by visiting historic and majestic spots and bazaars.

4 – Make Use of Delhi Tours

There are so many tours in Delhi on offer like full city tours, street food tours, slum tours, cycling tours and free walking tours .

These tours will help you explore the city and live in Delhi like a local – Book now!

Going on a tour of Delhi not only helps you learn more about the area, and ensures you see the key places to visit in Delhi but having a guide to follow is priceless , especially in Old Delhi.

Old Delhi is chaotic, it’s everything you probably had in mind of India and of Delhi, it’s also very old with pavements missing, potholes, wires everywhere, dust everywhere and a whole lot of people!

I went on two tours around Old Delhi that I’d recommend to you to help you enjoy Delhi and therefore this is one of my biggest Delhi travel tips !

Old Delhi Street Food Tour

Last year when I was in Mumbai I went on a slum tour in Mumbai with Reality Tours, they are a company that has been designed with an incredible mission and values to give back to local communities. I left their Mumbai Tour thinking highly of them so I was happy to see they offer a Street Food Tour in Old Delhi .

I met my guide Sagar in Connaught Place before getting the metro together to Old Delhi, we had 5 delicious food stops , visited the Sikh Temple on Chandni Chowk, the Spice Market- Asia’s largest Spice Market and we also took multiple rickshaws throughout Old Delhi from place to place so I could soak up the pure craziness of this area!

Not only did I eat a lot of nice foods but I learnt so much about the area, about life in India and even picked up a few Hindi words. It was so amazing being able to see Delhi like this as well as certain tourist places in Delhi, but not feel overwhelmed about trying to navigate Old Delhi’s little streets and the traffic on my own.

I 100% recommend this Delhi Street Food Tour to you and it’s 2000Rs / £23.00 / $28.00 which is a reasonable price for the quality and to give back to a community through the tour.

BOOKING TRAINS IN INDIA

India is best travelled by train because its the quickest, cheapest and best way of getting to know the country. For an EASY option of booking trains in India use 12GO to search and book trains really easily. If you’ll be in India for awhile, you can use the local booking system, it’s a bit tricker but possible, here’s my post on how to book trains in India as a tourist .

BEST ACCOMMODATION IN INDIA

I always use Booking.com to book my hotels in India and Hostelworld to book my hostels . India has a great range of accommodation with brilliant hostel chains like Moustache, Zostel and Backpacker Panda as well as homestays to luxury hotels.

GUIDED TOURS IN INDIA

Many cities in India are best seen with a guide , even if it’s just a half day tour on your first day . Cities in India are chaotic and complex and what better way to taste the food and get to know the city than with a local. I recommend Get Your Guide & Viator for the best tours in India!

Old Delhi Cycling Tour

I also love this Cycling Tour of Old Delhi with Spin Monkey , we do it on my India group tours and the guests love it!

You start very early in the morning in Old Delhi while the traffic is quiet, visit some hidden local parts of the area that you would never find alone. Cycle through the maze of small lanes that you would get totally lost in alone, go to the spice market for chai on the rooftop, learn a lot and end by eating a delicious breakfast just as Old Delhi is fully awake!

Old Delhi Free Walking Tour

I also wanted to check out a free walking tour in Delhi, there are a few on offer but I ended up going with Yo Tours Free Walking Tour around Old Delhi , it was just 90 minutes but I considering it’s free with a recommended tip of 400Rs you can’t expect much more.

The guide was lovely, I learnt more about the history and again it was so nice seeing the windy streets of Old Delhi but not on my own and not worrying about where to go.

Plus, being with a guide in Old Delhi really reduces the amount of hassle you get from shop owners etc as they can see you won’t stop as you’re on a tour.

Here are some more Delhi Tours from Get Your Guide which all have good reviews, sometimes I find it reassuring to book tours like this in advance if I have limited time in a city:

5 – Don’t Be Afraid to Sightsee Alone

With the above being said, don’t be afraid to see Delhi alone either. You can get the Metro, Uber and Rickshaws around the city perfectly fine on your own and very cheaply. Central and South Delhi are good areas to explore alone and you can get to many of Delhi’s most popular monuments by metro.

I’d say a good mix of seeing Old Delhi with a guide and other areas on your own is a good way to do your Delhi sightseeing and one of my top Delhi travel tips .

6 – Use the Metro like a Local

The traffic in Delhi can be crazy and although you can walk around parts of Delhi I don’t suggest you try to walk all day because of the noise, heat and pollution. The best way to get around Delhi is by using the metro!

This may surprise you, it may not, but the Delhi Metro is ultra-modern ! They have a number of lines connecting the city and places to visit near Delhi. The lines are colour-coded, the signs are in Hindi and English and best of all, the platforms and the carriages are air-conditioned which is bliss when it’s hot in Delhi!

As a solo female in Delhi one of my Delhi travel tips is that I felt very safe on the metro in all carriages but just so you know, the first carriage in the direction the train is going is always a female-only carriage !

7 – Keep Your Wits About you at the Airport

Talking of the airport, this is where you may well experience your first scam in Delhi . Delhi Airport is notorious for this, even these days so note these below Delhi travel tips!

Sim Card in Delhi Airport Scam

For example, Delhi Airport now has an Airtel store which you can buy a sim card  and it’s much easier buying a sim card here than in the city (so I’d 100% recommend getting a sim here), however, the staff there are known for not giving the correct change, by a lot!

I’ve had it attempted on me twice and many people have told me it happened, or nearly happened to them too! That’s the worse way to be scammed within 1 hour of landing in Delhi!

Here’s my full post on how to buy a sim card in Delhi Airport . I really recommend you have a sim card or a data device to stay connected in India. If you don’t want to get a sim card, or your phone is locked and you can’t get a local sim, then get a portable device like this instead:

Airport Taxi Scam

Getting a taxi from Delhi Airport into the city is another way people may catch you out by charging you way more than the correct fare.

The best thing to do is to  prebook a taxi from Delhi Airport to your hotel which is a reasonable price, or to go to the mini-cab office outside of the airport, they will give you a set price which is the best rate, you pay the guy then and then get the taxi.

I did this and it was the cheapest option. Just make sure you have the address and phone number of your Delhi Hotel on hand so the driver can call them if they can’t find it.

The other option is Uber but your sim card won’t be activated until 2-3 hours after buying it in the airport and the mini-cabs are not much more expensive.

Tourist Office Scam

Either way, I know it’s hard because you’re tired from the flight and the heat when you step outside will probably hit you but a top Delhi travel tip to avoid scams in Delhi is to try and keep your wits about you and keep a level head at the airport.

Don’t stand for the men trying to confuse you, tell them to leave you alone or walk off never listen to them wanting to take you to a ‘tourist office’ because it’s all a scam . There’s a Costa Coffee in Delhi Airport arrivals so you could grab a coffee, think things through and then start your journey into Delhi.

8 – Be Aware of Scams in Delhi

Let’s touch on more scams in Delhi as knowing these are the top Delhi travel tips! 

Other scams in Delhi to be careful of are around the Delhi tourist monuments , not all the men (and I say men as India is male-heavy and you will come in contact with way more men than women in India) will be trying to scam you, some will just ask if you want a guide, a rickshaw/tuk-tuk or if you want photos taken in front of monuments.

But others may try to get you into their friends or uncles shop if you’re on a tour and others will mention a  government official tourist office   which is a famous Delhi scam , or they’ll talk about government shops.  They’re all in it on commission and you will get charged way more for whatever you purchase. Plus, Indian people can be very convincing so you probably won’t even want what you are purchasing!

I really urge you to speak to the locals in Delhi, after all, part of being in India is to talk to Indian’s as many people are very friendly but don’t let any Indian person pressure you into going somewhere and don’t go until you think about it properly and with a level head so you can avoid scams in Delhi.

With that said I have always felt safe in Delhi and felt like my belongings are safe . Of course, you need to keep an eye on your bag like in every big city in the world but in all of India, I have never felt like I may be mugged or robbed and be part of a scam this way, so don’t let this worry you. Be sensible but don’t be over paranoid.

HELP WITH YOUR INDIA ITINERARY

I’ve spent many months travelling India in the last few years visiting over 50 places around the country, here are my recommended itinerary posts for India to help you plan your trip!

2 WEEK INDIA ITINERARY, PERFECT FOR YOUR FIRST TRIP!

2 WEEK SOUTH INDIA ITINERARY – GOA & KERELA

1 MONTH NORTH INDIA ITINERARY IDEAS!

1 MONTH SOUTH INDIA ITINERARY IDEAS!

2 MONTH INDIA ITINERARY IN THE NORTH & SOUTH

MY 4 MONTH INDIA ITINERARY!

24 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN INDIA!

9 – Dress Appropriately

This Delhi travel tip is aimed at women and what to wear as a woman in Delhi .

Even though Delhi is a modern and cosmopolitan city in some areas you still need to be careful with what you wear in Delhi. For example, as a woman, I have always, and will always, wear long or 3/4 trousers or a skirt past my knees , I’ll never wear shorts in Delhi, even though you’ll see some local younger girls wearing them.

I have worn a tank top in Delhi with a shawl around me but in all honesty, if I compare the experience to that of wearing a t-shirt, I feel much more comfortable in a t-shirt in Delhi .

Have you booked your flight to India yet??

I use Skyscanner to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different dates and routes to help me find the best flight at the best price!  Open Skyscanner by clicking here and search for the best flights as you read this post.

10 – Visit Local Places in Delhi, Not Just Tourist Places

Finally, that last of my Delhi travel tips, remember there is so much more to Delhi than it’s tourist monuments!

Yess the Red Fort, the Tombs, the Temples are good to see, especially if this is your first stop in India and you want to soak in the culture, but remember you’ll see plenty more during your India trip whether you’re in India for 2 weeks or 2 months , so be sure to head to some local places in Delhi too.

My main suggestion would be to go to Khan Market during the day or in the evening. During the day Khan Market is full of shops and cafes for lunch and come evening it comes alive with restaurants and bars. Sure the shops like MAC, Starbucks and Hamleys may not seem appealing but this is where locals go on a weekend evening so it’s good to see!

Hauz Khas Village  is another great place to visit, again full of restaurants and boutique shops and this is especially good to visit if you are staying in South Delhi.

If you want to get some peace and quiet in Delhi, and you probably will, head to Lodhi Garden which locals visit but it’s also home to some tombs so you can see sights and relax in one go.

•  Here are some other blog posts to help you out for the rest of India:
• The Best Way To See Jaipur aka The Pink City of India!
• Is It Worth Visiting The Taj Mahal? And My Top Tips for Visiting!
• 2 Day Itinerary for Varanasi – Will You Love it or Hate it??
• How to get a Sim Card in Delhi Airport.
• How to get the E-Visa for India online, step by step guide.
• ALL INDIA POSTS  

Note – I worked with Bloom Hotels on a complimentary stay in return for content but I do truly recommend them as a fantastic hotel to stay at in Delhi.

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Discountler

Tuesday 20th of June 2023

Breathtaking! Going to India is a challenge for those who want to get a boost of emotions. Thanks for the article and helpful tips.

Sunday 15th of September 2019

all great advice!

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Located in the north of India, on the banks of the Yamuna River, the capital Delhi is the country’s second largest city after Mumbai and the first destination on almost every visitor’s journey to India.

Coming to Delhi, tourists are often overwhelmed by the excitement and bustle, by the unique arts and crafts, and by magnificent works and monuments. Delhi also attracts a large number of tourists thanks to the intersection of many cultures, festivals, rituals of each religion and many delicious dishes from all regions of the country converge.

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New Delhi is the capital of India, located in Northern India, built on the right bank of the Yamuna River, near the foot of the Aravali Range, at an altitude of 216m. New Delhi is the first destination of most tourists who want to travel to India because Indira Gandhi International Airport is one of the gateway airports of India.

Delhi is recognized as the National Capital Territory of Delhi (NCT), a city and union territory (administrative division) of India. It includes New Delhi, which is not a city, but an inner-city district within Delhi. Although it is not considered a city, New Delhi is considered the capital of India and is the seat of all three branches of government.

Delhi India consists of two main parts, Old Delhi (with the center is Red Fort) and New Delhi (center is Connaught Place). Separating these two areas is the ancient Yamuna River, one of the most sacred rivers in Hinduism.

This city does not attract tourists by its natural landscape like many other cities in India, but coming here, visitors will be able to visit a lot of cultural and historical sites because this is a city with long history. There are many hundreds of years old relics, ruins, historic sites that are still left to this day.

Historically, Delhi is one of the most important cities in India, serving as an important political, commercial and cultural center throughout its long history. It is one of the oldest cities in the world and is believed to have been continuously inhabited since the 6th century BC.

Apart from being the capital of the nation, it is also the second most populous city in India today and the second richest after Mumbai. It has an urban population of over 33 (Metro Area Population) million with an estimated 18 billionaires and 23,000 millionaires.

When to come? (#new delhi travel blog)

Delhi has a strong monsoon climate with sweltering hot and rainy summers and quite cold and dry winters. The average temperature in July is 31 degrees Celsius, January is 14.2 degrees Celsius. So the most suitable time to travel to Delhi is in October to November. This is the autumn time of New Delhi, so the weather is cool and comfortable, suitable for outdoor trips. However, you can also choose to visit New Delhi at your favorite time.

October-March: Autumn and spring are the best times to visit Delhi. Winter is also good, although it can be cold in the mornings and evenings, remember to bring warm clothes. If you like festivals, then October-November is a great time to go. Diwali festival is held around late October to mid-November and is one of the biggest and most famous festivals in Delhi.

From April to June: Summer is hot with hot sun and hot dry winds blowing from the desert. Temperatures can soar as high as 43 degrees Celsius, and is probably not the best time to go.

July – September: This is the monsoon season in Delhi with August being the rainiest month. At the end of September, the weather is quite pleasant, Delhi in the rainy season is quite beautiful. People definitely prefer it over the sweltering heat of summer.

From October to November: Most tourists often choose to come to the city during this period due to the cool, pleasant autumn weather, which is very suitable for excursions.

From December to February: The weather turns to winter. Low temperature drop, about 7 degrees Celsius to 23 degrees Celsius.

How to get to New Delhi? (#delhi travel blog)

In New Delhi, there is Indira Gandhi International Airport which is one of the main international and domestic gateway airports of India. So the most convenient and fastest means of transportation to Delhi is definitely by airplane. Especially when Vietnam has 2 big airlines, Vietjet and Vietnam Airlines, operating direct flights to New Delhi from 2 big airports, Noi Bai Airport and Tan Son Nhat Airport with the price of more than $150/way.

Getting from the airport to the city center (#new delhi travel blog)

Indira Gandhi International Airport is about 23 km southwest of central Delhi. Usually, there are three ways to getting to the city center that you can refer to:

• Taxi: You can book a prepaid taxi at the counter located outside the arrivals hall of the international terminal at Indira Gandhi. This is a taxi counter operated by the Delhi traffic police, so you can be assured of the service. Just pay for the specified destination at the counter, then you will receive a ticket. Give this ticket to the driver.
• Subway: You take the Airport Express line to get into the city center.
• Bus: The bus will stop at most major hotels on the main road with the last stop being Ajmeri Gate, near New Delhi railway station. The fare is 50 rupees, plus 10 rupees if you bring large luggage.

Transportation in New Delhi (#delhi blog)

To get around the city of New Delhi, you will have many options such as subway, bus, auto rickshaw, or taxi and self-driving car.

The Delhi metro has improved significantly in recent years. The rapid transit cars bring locals and tourists around the city seamlessly, and the Airport Metro line operating a route from Delhi airport. You can buy a single ticket or a metro day pass for 150 rupees or a three day pass for 300 rupees.

It is the most convenient means of transportation in New Delhi and it is one of the largest metro systems in the world. The Delhi Metro system has completed phase 2, consisting of 9 lines with a total length of 193.2 km and 208 trains.. So to get around Delhi, the subway is the first choice.

• Travel Card: You can buy a travel card for 150 rupees.
• Tourist Card: You can also use this card because this card does not limit train lines except Airport Express. The one-day pass costs 200 rupees, and the three-day pass costs 500 rupees.
• Token:  Single ticket for each trip, in the shape of a plastic coin. Tickets are only valid for the day, priced from 10-60 rupees.

Bus (#delhi blog)

The city is served by DTC (Delhi Transport Corporation) buses. Buses are not always air conditioned and are quite crowded. Fares range from 5 to 25 rupees depending on the length of the trip. There are around 700 routes and 3,000 public buses in Delhi to choose from. This is a cheap means of transport used by Indians.

Auto rickshaw

Also a popular means of transportation in Delhi, an auto rickshaw is a three-wheeled vehicle with an engine similar to a tuk tuk in Thailand.

You can see auto rickshaw everywhere and it can take you to any corner of the city. With a travel distance of less than 30 km, you should choose this vehicle. The price is about 50 rupees for 5-6 km.

You can also choose a taxi as a means of transportation, you can order a taxi through the taxi station or through the hotel. Although the car has a meter, do not forget to negotiate the price of the car in advance with the driver. In addition, if you travel between 11pm and 5am, you will have to pay an additional 5% surcharge.

Self-driving car

Self-driving cars in New Delhi have a duration of 8 hours / day and are calculated according to the kilometer limit per day. To use a self-driving car here, you need a driver’s license and a certificate of group 3 insurance. Most major hotels provide car rental services upon request. However, the streets in Delhi India are quite crowded and the way to go is also different, so visitors should not choose this way of traveling if they are not familiar with the roads and traffic here.

However, we do not recommend this option because the traffic in New Delhi at rush hour is quite chaotic and if you are not used to moving to the left, it will be difficult to control the car here.

Tips: When I went, I found Grab and Ola to be the most convenient, not afraid of get ripoff and fast – but the price is a bit more expensive. If you want to save money, you can take the train, which will be very cheap but crowded and takes time to learn and transfer. Especially if you are a woman, you should avoid this vehicle.

Where to go and what to do in Dehli? (#new delhi travel guide)

The old capital, just like in Hanoi, we have the old town – this is the center of the capital since the old days before expanding to new areas like today, which are re-planned, wider and more beautiful. The big difference between Old Delhi and the old town in Hanoi is that the Old Town in New Delhi is not ancient, rich in ancient culture, but dusty, messy and dirty.

Red Fort (Lal Quila) (#new delhi travel guide)

Built by emperor Shah Jahan in 1638, this is a massive fortress with an area of ​​about half a square kilometer with a wall extending over 2 km and 18 m high. This complex includes items such as Diwan-i-Am (the royal palace, where the king’s throne stone is placed), Diwan-i-Khas (the secret palace, where the king receives special guests), Khas Mahal ( the emperor’s main residence), Rang Mahal (the residence of the emperor’s queen consort), Mumtaz Mahal (6 rooms for the emperor’s harem)…

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Delhi’s famous Red Fort is a celebration of Mughal architecture. The fort was completed in the mid-1600s when Shah Jahan emperor moved the capital from Agra to Delhi.

• Address: Netaji Subhash Marg, Lal Qila, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi 110006, India
• Hours: Visit Red Fort from 9:30am to 4:30pm any day except Monday. Note: At 6pm there is a light and sound show, ticket price is 80 rupees/adult, 30 rupees/child.

Friday Mosque (Jama Masjid)

Jama Masjid is the largest mosque in India and one of the masterpieces of Emperor Shah Jahan, the great builder of the Mughal Empire. Built in the style of Persia and India, Jama Masjid stands out with its 54 m high Buland Darwaza (Victory Gate). Inside the premises is the tomb of the cleric Saikh Salim Chishti with detailed marble curtains famous for its sophistication.

A very large courtyard, surrounded by a series of scrolls and with three gates located at the front of the prayer hall, provides the viewer with a sense of magical calm thanks to the harmony of arches and spaces. The yard can accommodate 25,000 people to worship with the 70m high red and white striped sandstone towers. Those who have the energy and passion to climb the 122 steps to the top will be rewarded with amazing views of Delhi from above.

• Address: Meena Bazaar, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi 110006.
• Nearest station: Opposite Red Fort, next to Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi. Entrance fee: Free admission but must pay a camera fee of 300 rupees.
• Opening hours: From 7am to 12pm and from 1:30pm to 6:30pm.
• Note: Not allowed to take pictures during prayer time. Remember to cover your shoulders and bare feet and do not wear shoes. Tourists enter through the main gate number 3.

Humayun’s Tomb

The building was built between 1572 and 1576 under the direction of Queen Hamida Baba Begum to honor her husband, Emperor Humayun. The building has a blend of Persian and Mughal features, creating a template for subsequent Mughal architecture, culminating in the Taj Mahal in Agra.

The large garden is divided into four areas, separated by surrounding moats. The main mausoleum is 47 m high, consisting of 2 floors, the 8 m high top dome is paved with white marble while the rest is built of red sandstone. The mausoleum was calculated according to strict rules of Islamic geometry with an emphasis on the number 8. However, the garden required a large sum of money to maintain, plus the relocation of the Mughal capital from Delhi to Agra resulted in the tomb being abandoned and turned into ruins.

The turning point came to Humayun’s Tomb when UNESCO recognized this place as a World Cultural Heritage site in 1993. The mausoleum was also restored to its original state through funding from the Aga Khan Trust for Culture. In September 2013, after two centuries of neglect, Humayun’s Tomb was opened to visitors and once again entered the list of “The most beautiful structures in the world”.

• Address: Mathura Rd, New Delhi, Delhi 110013.
• Nearest station: About 1.5 km from Jangpura station. Or you can also take a bus about 20 minutes to Dargah Hazrat Nizamuddin. It is only a 10-minute walk from the mausoleum.
• Entrance fee: The entrance fee is 500 rupees, if you bring a camera, you will be charged an additional 25 rupees.
• Opening hours: Daily, from 6am to 6pm
• Note: You can also visit Isa Khan’s Tomb, located right next to the entrance of Humayun’s Tomb. The entrance fee is included in the ticket price of Humayun’s Tomb.

Swaminarayan Akshardham

The temple was designed by architect Vivendva Sompura based on sketches by Hindu cleric Pramukh Swani Mahajaj. After 5 years of construction, the temple was inaugurated by Indian President APJ Abdul Kalam on November 6, 2005. It can be said that this is the most massive stone sculpture of India in this day and age, expressing the ultimate splendor of civilization.

The main temple (main hall) is a masterpiece of pink stone and white marble 141 feet high, 316 feet wide, 30 feet long, with 234 ornately decorated pillars, 20,000 sculptures and figures of gods and deities, and 11 huge tall domes. Inside is an 11-foot tall golden statue of the Hindu Bhagwan Swaminarayan. In addition, there are many other stone shrines illustrating the life of the Hindu leader (including an exhibition hall, a 2000-inch screen cinema and a gallery).

• Address: Noida Mor, Pandav Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 110092.
• Nearest station: 5 min walk from Akshardham station.
• Entrance fee: Free. Tickets to see the light and sound show are 80 rupees for adults (from 12 years old and above), 50 rupees for children from 4 to 11 years old, free for children under 4 years old.
• Opening hours: From 9:30 am to 6:30 pm from Tuesday to Sunday. Closed on Monday.
• There is a light and sound concert in the temple after sunset. You should arrive before 5pm because there is still a queue.
• You should dress modestly, politely, covering your shoulders, chest, navel, biceps and knees. The temple also offers sarong rental (deposit 100 rupees).
• You will have to go through a security check before entering the temple. Do not bring any items inside, except wallets, bags, shoes, belts, passports, money, jewelry, baby food, drinking water, coats. Photography is also not allowed. In the temple, there is a photography service of 100 rupees / photo.

Qutub Minar Complex

The complex includes the following works:

• Qutub Minar: The most famous structure. The tower is 72.5 m high, once the tallest tower in the world at the time it was built (1199 – 1230) by order of King Qutb-ud-din Aybak. The tower is intricately carved and still retains its beauty to this day.
• Iron Pillar: Located in the middle of the mosque, the 7 m high iron pillar was erected by Chandragupta II Vikramaditya in 400 AD. After 1,600 years, the iron column is still intact with time.
• Ala-i-Minar: Ala-ud-din-Khilji planned to build a second tower as tall as Qutub Minar, but when the tower was 24.5 m high, he passed away so this tower is still unfinished.
• Ala-i-Darwaza: The square domed building that was once the entrance to the mosque is now stuck behind the tower.
• Tomb of Imam Zamin: Located outside the complex, next to Ala-i-Darzawa, the octagonal mausoleum of a Turk.

• Address: Mehrauli, New Delhi, Delhi 110030.
• Nearest station: A 5-minute rickshaw ride from Qutub Minar station.
• Entrance fee: 500 rupees.
• Opening hours: From 10 am to 6 pm on weekdays.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

The temple solemnly commemorates Guru Har Krishan Ji, the 8th guru of Sikhism. Originating from Guru Nanak Dev Ji in the early 16th century, Sikhism is considered a relatively young religion in India. Sikhs practice a simple, genuine lifestyle, which includes pure vegetarianism, prayer, and service to others. From morning until nightfall, the Gurudwara, the Sikh temple, are open for devotees to come to worship the Almighty as well as to serve and help others.

In addition, this place is also famous for providing more than 2,000 meals a day for the poor. You should also visit the kitchen to observe the process of preparing meals, very interesting.

At first, I was mesmerized by the picture and then decided to check out this place. Thought it would shimmer like a palace, like Arksadam. But when I got there, it was a bit… normal. Actually the temple is not special but the experience inside the temple is very special, anyone who enters can get a piece of toffee or something sweet at the gate, wash their hands and feet before entering, ah, also have to wear a hat.

Then when you enter the temple you will be impressed by the big hall, people do worship there all the time, reading the Koran and praying to Allah. I also tried going to the 2nd and 3rd floor of the temple and found that it was almost built for people to sit there to pray, nothing more. The same goes for the corridors on both sides.

• Address: Ashoka Road, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001.
• Nearest station: 400m from Shivaji Stadium station.
• Entrance fee: Free.
• Opening hours: Every day.

Lotus Temple (Baháʼí House of Worship)

The temple is also known as Lotus temple due to its shape like a blooming lotus. This is the place to celebrate the rituals of Bahai, a modern religion that was just introduced to India in the 19th century. This architectural masterpiece was designed by architect Fariborz Sahba, an Iranian-Canadian, design and construct for 10 years. The temple is 35m high, has an area of about 105,000 m2, can accommodate 2,500 people. As the name suggests, here, lotus flowers are shown in a variety of ways, lotus petals are stylized as corridor arches, patterns on the doors. The nine reflecting pools on the outside of the building also simulate lotus leaves. Only one year after its appearance, in 1987, Bahai Temple was ranked third among the largest and unique structures in the world.

The Baháʼí are known for managing picturesque gardens and building beautiful places of worship. On a 26-acre site, Lotus Temple welcomes visitors of any and all religions. The design of the temple is fascinating whether you are photographing the lotus structure from the outside or experiencing the interior of the concrete dome.

• Address: Lotus Temple Rd, Bahapur, Shambhu Dayal Bagh, Kalkaji, New Delhi, Delhi 110019.
• Nearest station: 500 meters from Kalkaji Mandir station.
• Opening hours: From 9am to 5:30pm from Tuesday to Sunday. Closed on Monday.
• Note: Photography is not allowed in the temple.

Impressive with its 42-meter-high arch, India Gate was built in 1921 to honor Indian soldiers who died in World War I and the Afghan war. India Gate is also the gate that opens the Rajpath road leading directly to the official residence of the President of India. At certain times of the year, visitors can visit the Mughal garden located on the grounds of the mansion.

• Address: Rajpath, India Gate, New Delhi, Delhi 110001.
• Nearest station: Central Secretariat.
• Opening hours: Closes at 9pm.

Lodhi Gardens

When I first learned about this garden, I thought it was just a park like many other parks, there was not much to see, but when I went inside, I was really impressed because there are many architectural works mixed with trees looks very beautiful, and it turns out that this is a relic of a very old dynasty, from the 15th century – Lodhi.

The attraction here in my opinion is the small attractions right in the Lodhi garden complex. Mainly the tombs and shrines of the Lodhi dynasty. The characteristic of these works is the domes that look from afar like the domes of churches in the Mediterranean region, reminding me of the churches in Santorini with the blue color while here is brown yellow.

• Entrance fee: Free. So it’s worth the trip!
• Best time to come: I went in the morning and to be honest, the photo was too bright, because it was a bit against the sun. However, the morning is not crowded at all, and you are ready to exercise.
• My rating: 4.5 stars. It is very beautiful indeed, and even more beautiful if you wear an Indian dress and take pictures with these sites, like the friend who accompanied me.

National Museum

The National Museum in New Delhi is home to more than 2 million ancient artifacts. From archaeological discoveries to photography never seen from decades ago, the National Museum is the perfect way to experience Indian culture of the past century.

• Address: Janpath Road, Rajpath Area, Central Secretariat, New Delhi, Delhi 110011, India
• Hours: The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 6am – 10pm. Closed on Mondays

Rashtrapati Bhavan

Also known as the Presidential Palace, Rashtrapati Bhavan is actually the official residence of the president of India. First completed in 1929, you can tour the main building, the museum on site, and the beautiful gardens on the 330-acre property.

• Address: Rashtrapati Bhawan, President’s Estate, New Delhi, Delhi 110004, India
• Hours: 9:30 AM–5:30 PM/Saturday, Sunday: Closed

Purana Qila

It is also an ancient fortress in the Old Delhi, so if you have been to the Red fort, you should visit here. The impression to me is that it is not the ruined fortress but the smooth green lawn that is cool to the eyes, proving the high level of horticulture of the Indians. And the ruined fortress looks like a good background for you to take pictures. But my friends and I have seen many of these fortresses, so we are not interested anymore.

I am especially interested in the hexagonal building that looks a lot like a mausoleum in the middle of this smooth green lawn. However, when I and my friend arrived, we couldn’t take a picture in the front, but had to go around the back because of a pair of young men and women standing in front of us.

• Address: Mathura Rd, Near Delhi Zoo, New Delhi, Delhi 110003, India Hours: 7 AM–5 PM
• Admission: 200 Rupees for foreigners. 20 Rupees for Indians (the same price as everywhere else)
• Mt rating: 4.0. Because beyond of the lawn and the hexagonal house, everything else is pretty normal.

Agrasen ki Baoli

Since I went to Jodhpur and saw a beautiful well there, I dreamed with my friend to visit the well known as one of the top 10 most beautiful wells in India, which is Agrasen ki Baoli. If you have ever seen photos of terraced wells in India, you will be impressed by the extremely sophisticated architecture of these wells. When I didn’t come, I looked at the picture and said why it was so beautiful, still full of poetry when there were birds flying by. But when I got there, I was… a bit disappointed. Actually it is much smaller than the well in Jodhpur.

After all, the most beautiful terraced well in my mind right now is still the well in Jodhpur.

• Address: J6GG+C2F, Hailey Road, KG Marg, near Diwanchand Imaging Centre, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, India
• Hours: 9 AM–5:30 PM
• Entrance fee: 5 rupees, is a tip for the housekeepers there, but it is free on the website of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Safdarjung Tomb

To tell the truth, sometimes I don’t distinguish between Humayun and Safdarjung because both are mausoleums, both built from red sandstone, both have the symmetrical architecture of the Muslim and the dome, are square shape. Also, both have gardens and fountains. Bravo! like twins, only the older Humayun was born a century before the younger brother. For Safdarjung, this is the mausoleum of a prime minister, not a king, but it’s so majestic!

• Address: Airforce Golf Course, Delhi Race Club, New Delhi, Delhi 110021, India
• Hours: 7 AM–5 PM Admission: 100 Rupees, very cheap price.
• Rating: 4.0. Pretty but no different from Humayun Tomb.

ISKCON Temple

Seems to be the only temple I’ve been to in New Delhi that isn’t a mosque. I went to this temple with me just to admire the tower that looks like a beautiful bamboo shoot. That’s all. But the temple is not crowded and there are many reliefs and statues about Krishna, so you can stop by to see. In general, going to New Delhi is quite a long time because there are many things to explore. You try to arrange at least 3 days to see it to the fullest.

• Ticket price: Free.
• Rating 3.5.

Yamuna Ghat

Yamuna is the name of a very famous river in India: the Ganges River, people come here early in the morning to rent a boat out in the middle of the Ganges to feed the birds.

But when I arrived, I probably got lost, so I got lost in the place where people cremated the dead along the river.

For those who do not know, cremating the dead and scattering ashes into the sacred Ganges River is a cultural feature of the Hindus, who believe that after death they will reach Nirvana to escape reincarnation.

What to eat?

If you ignore the colorful, flavorful dishes, you miss a very important part of Delhi’s cultural identity. From the kitchens of upmarket hotels in South Delhi to the sidewalk eateries, called aloo chaat, in the Connaught Place area, the cuisine here is enough to “beat” even the most demanding diners. Here are the most typical dishes that you cannot miss in Delhi:

Dahi bhalla

Dahi bhalla (also known as dahi vada), consists of yoghurt (dahi) and fried golden lentil cakes (vada), served with pomegranate seeds, raisins, and a typical Indian mango chutney. Dahi bhalla has a special aroma, slightly spicy and sweet, very suitable for hot summer days. Recommended place to try: Natural Store is located near the station on Chandni Chowk Road.

Rabri faluda

This dessert is made from noodles (called faluda) and traditional monosodium glutamate (called rabri, which is a mixture of milk, cream, sugar and cardamom). Usually, rabri is drizzled over the faluda along with whipped cream. When eating, you mix the ingredients well, the taste is cool and fragrant. If you come here in the right season, rabri faluda is also served with a special mango wine. Recommended place to try: Hiani di Hatti store near Fatehpuri Masjid.

This is a doughnut made from flour, with a mixture of local vegetables, served with mango chutney, sabri and some raw vegetables. Paratha feels soft and crispy when first eaten, while the filling is pleasantly chewy. If you like the novelty, you can order paratha with khurchan ice cream, Old Delhi’s specialty made from fresh milk. Place to visit: Pandit Babu Ram Devi Dayal shop on Parathewali Gali small street.

A beautiful orange pastry made from a fermented dough, fried golden in butter, before drizzled with sugar syrup. Jalebi cakes are shaped like noodles that stick together. Place to visit: If you have tasted jalebi before, you should still try this dish at Chandni Chowk. Here, people always sell fresh, crispy, chewy and hot cakes.

Papri chaat

The best junk food in India. Crispy waffles (papri) are used as the base, topped with tomatoes, peas, chaat masala, yogurt, tamarind, mango chutney, pomegranate seeds and sev, or fried flour. Papri chaat is a great combination of spicy, sweet, fatty, aromatic and crispy. Places to visit: Famous shops for papri chaat are Askok Chaat Bhandar in Sitaram Bazar, near Chawri Bazar, or Haldiram on Chandni Chowk.

Bedmi-aloo and nagori-halwa

The familiar breakfast of Delhi people is bedmi-aloo and nagori-halwa, two dishes that always go hand in hand. Bedmi-aloo is a type of bread made from fried wheat flour resembling puri, often served with very spicy condiments, aloo sabzi or potato curry. Meanwhile, nagori is a sweet dish, suitable when eaten with suji halwa, a kind of sweet porridge. Place to visit: You can find these two famous breakfast dishes pass down to the five-generation Shyam Sweets shop, located on Chawri Bazar Road.

Mutton burra kebab

This is a charcoal-grilled lamb dish, usually restaurants grill mutton bura right in front of the shop. Roast lamb has a very strange taste, a little aromatic, a little pungent and a little smoky. Served with mutton bura is tandoori roti sauce. Where to find: Karim Hotel, near Jama Masjid, is the perfect place to enjoy mutton bura kebab, prepared according to the Indian Mughal royal method.

Kebab (Skewered meat)

Also considered as one of the delicious and attractive dishes in New Delhi you must definitely enjoy. The dish is like grilled skewers, using easy-to-find ingredients such as lamb, pork or chicken marinated in spices and then grilled to create a delicious, extremely attractive flavor.

Samosas is a delicious street food in Delhi that is loved by many people. With delicious taste, eye-catching yellow color creates attractiveness and attractiveness to diners. To create a more attractive taste, when eating many people also enjoy Samosas along with drinking very delicious Chai tea.

Besides delicious and famous food in New Delhi, Kulfi special ice cream is also street food, delicious and attractive snack in New Delhi  which is loved by many people. Kulfi ice cream is also divided into many types of ice cream with diverse flavors, of which the most famous is still the faluda-covered kulfi ice cream which is still the most popular ice cream dish.

I have to swear and promise that just going to an Indian market in New Delhi, you will be full of eyes and immersed in a non-stop shopping passion because it has so many items at unbelievable cheap prices. In fact, like buying an Indian shirt or T-shirt, it seems that the material is very cool and also durable. As for the pattern, if you like boho, colorful, you will like alibaba bags, shirts, pants …. in this place. Very bright and lively.

North Delhi

• Chandni Chowk: Chandni Chowk means “Moonlight Square”. Built in the 17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan, this is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Delhi. Open from 10am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday.
• Main Bazaar: From Connaught Place, go through Chelmesford Road, you will see the market located on the street of the same name. Open from 10am to 9pm, Tuesday to Sunday.
• Karol Bagh: The market sells spices and kitchen utensils. Open from 10am to 7pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

Downtown Delhi

• Janpath: The market attracts tourists by woolen textiles, bronzes, clothes, Indian belts… Open from 10:30 am to 7 pm on weekdays.
• Khadi Gramodyog Bhawan: The market specializes in selling Indian-style clothes, spices, soaps, henna ink, handmade leather goods, etc. Open from 10:30 am to 7 pm on weekdays.
• Palika Bazaar: The market mainly deals in electronics. Open from 11am to 7pm weekdays.

Where to stay?

Delhi is full of accommodation, from budget guesthouses to lavish international hotels. Reservations for luxury hotels can be made at travel desks in airports and train stations. Self-sufficient tourists who want to save will have to hunt around the city on their own. There are many websites/apps to help you book rooms with a variety of prices and locations, visitors should book in advance on the web.

If you are planning to stay in New Delhi, hotels in the Paharganj area are a good choice. In Old Delhi, most tourists choose hotels near Red Fort.

If you want to go to New Delhi and then find a room, don’t believe offers, taxi drivers or people who say there are no rooms available at the hotel you intend to book and avoid the recommended places in the area called Karol Bagh.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• ibis New Delhi Aerocity – An Accor Brand ( Agoda , Booking )
• Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi Airport ( Agoda , Booking )
• The Lalit New Delhi ( Agoda , Booking )
• Roseate House ( Agoda , Booking )
• The Park New Delhi ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel Novotel New Delhi Aerocity ( Agoda , Booking )
• Taj Palace, New Delhi ( Agoda , Booking )
• Radisson Blu Marina Connaught Place ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hyatt Regency Delhi ( Agoda , Booking )

Check out more top and best hotels in Delhi on Agoda.com or Booking.com

Travel cost

This is always difficult because everyone’s commuting habits are different, especially in a city like Delhi where there is so much to see and do. Assuming you stay in Delhi for three days, then a daily budget of about INR 2,500-3,000/person should be enough. This takes into account your accommodation, transportation, entrance fees, meals, drinks, and pocket wifi rental.

Some tips before you go

• In India, mainly rupees and dollars are used. You should change money in Vietnam in dollars first, then you will use USD to exchange directly into Rupees in this country, it will be more beneficial because the rate of rupees in Vietnam is not high.
• Because India is a predominantly Hindu and Buddhist country with quite strict dogmas, so you need to be very careful when traveling here such as not wearing too revealing clothes, anything that needs to be used with a hand (such as giving a gift, a cup of tea or important documents) must be used with the right hand, the left hand is mainly used for hygiene by the Indians.
• If you are a woman, you should not travel to Delhi alone
• Don’t show excessive affection in public
• Always have a tissue ready when traveling because people here often use water to clean
• If you are a guest at a meal, do not ask for more food and should leave some on the plate
• Rent a pocket wifi transmitter: Having a strong and stable wifi connection is very important when traveling these days. It allows you to do research, navigate, convert currencies, and google good restaurants near you, too.
• Beware of street food: Have you heard of the phenomenon known as “Delhi belly”? It’s traveler’s diarrhea while traveling in India. It’s a very real thing and something you should take care of, especially if you enjoy eating street food. Maybe the culprit is hand-made street ice cream. The “Delhi belly” can be the thing that ruins your trip, so here are the most important things to remember:
• Find popular stalls. The more famous the stall, the cleaner and safer the food.
• Avoid foods and drinks with water. Water is the leading cause of “Delhi belly,” so it’s best to avoid dishes made with water or sauces. Ice is always inevitable, and any fruit or vegetable washed with unfiltered water should be handled with care. If possible, go to stalls that prepare foods with distilled water.
• Safer fried or baked or grilled foods. Heat kills bacteria, so fried or baked foods are generally safer to eat. This also applies to beverages. Hot drinks like chai tea are safer because the water used to make them has been boiled.
• Rent a car or take a guided tour: The attractions in Delhi are spread out and not all are located right next to the metro station. The Delhi metro is very convenient but if you don’t have a lot of time in the city, then you might consider renting a private car, even if it’s just for a day.
• Bring the right adapter: India has a Type C, Type D or Type M power outlet, so be sure to bring the right adapter for your device. The voltage is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to New Delhi you can refer to

• Taj Mahal and Agra Fort Day Tour from Delhi
• Taj Mahal and Agra Private Day Tour by Express Train from Delhi
• 3D2N Golden Triangle Tour from Delhi
• Private Sunrise Tour Of Taj Mahal and Agra Fort from Delhi
• New & Old Delhi Day Tour
• [Klook Exclusive] Taj Mahal Private Day Tour from Delhi with One Way Airport Transfer
• Delhi Private Car Charter
• Private Tour Of Taj Mahal + Agra Fort From Agra
• 4D3N Delhi, Agra, Jaipur Private Tour with Ranthambhore Tiger Safari from Delhi
• Delhi Best of Monuments Half Day Tour
• Jaipur Day Tour from Delhi By Express Train
• Agra, Mathura, and Vrindavan Day Tour from Delhi via Luxury Bus
• 2D1N Golden Triangle Tour from Delhi
• Jaipur Private Day Tour from Delhi
• 2D Delhi and Agra Combo Private Tour
• Private City Transfers between Delhi and Himachal Pradesh/Punjab
• Old Delhi Bazaar Walking Tour
• Masterji Kee Haveli Half Day Tour
• Old Delhi (Shahjahanabad) Morning Cycling Tour

Read more India guide here .

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Places To Visit In Delhi

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Must Visit Places in Delhi

Qutub Minar

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1. India Gate

7 km from city center 1 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Located in : New Delhi

India Gate is a war memorial located in New Delhi, along the Rajpath. It is dedicated to the 82,000 soldiers, both Indian and British, who died during the First World War and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. India Gate looks stunning at night with the fountain displaying colourful lights. The surrounding lush green lawns are a popular picnic spot. The Amar Jawan Jyoti is also located here.

2. Qutub Minar

16 km from city center 2 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Located in : Saket (South Delhi)

Qutub Minar is a minaret or a victory tower located in the Qutub complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Delhi's Mehrauli area. With a height of 72.5 metres (238 ft), Qutub Minar is the second tallest monument of Delhi. The surrounding Qutub complex has lush green lawns which are popular picnic spot.

3. Akshardham Temple Delhi

8 km from city center 3 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

The Akshardham Temple, also known as Swaminarayan Akshardham is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan. It is known for its stunning architecture. Akshardham complex is home to India's largest step well which is a host to the mesmerising water show each evening.

4. Humayun's Tomb

9 km from city center 4 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Humayun's tomb is the final resting place of the Mughal Emperor Humayun. Located in the Nizamuddin East area of Delhi, it is the first garden-tomb in India. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for the stunning typical Mughal architecture with Persian influences.

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3 nights 4 days manali package - paragliding, skiing, zorbing, spirited kasol and manali trip, 4 night 5 days shimla manali package, dharamshala dalhousie honeymoon package, splendid delhi agra jaipur package, 5. hauz khas village.

13 km from city center 5 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Located in : South Delhi

An affluent neighbourhood in South Delhi, Hauz Khas Village or 'HKV' is known for its electric nightlife with countless cafes, bars and pubs along with art galleries, and boutiques and is amongst the top hip places to visit in Delhi other than a heritage site. The area is also dotted with domed structures which are tombs of royalties during the 14th to 16th century.

6. Museum of Illusions

4 km from city center 6 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

The Museum of Illusions in Connaught Place, New Delhi is India's first optical illusion museum. It is a fun place to challenge the senses by exploring exhibits which include holograms, a supposedly rotating cylinder, a room with no gravity, rooms with mirrors that distort reality and much more.

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7. National Gallery Of Modern Art, Delhi

7 km from city center 7 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Following its motto of delivering an excellent world of art to its visitors, National Gallery of Modern Art, Delhi, preserves paintings and other artistic pieces dating back to 1850s. It houses a collection of more than 14,000 artworks which includes work that is as old as a hundred and fifty years.

8. Lotus Temple

13 km from city center 8 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

The Lotus Temple is one of the seven Baha'i House of Worship present around the world. Known for its stunning white petal lotus architecture, iy is one of the most visited establishments in the world.

9. Red Fort

3 km from city center 9 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Located in : Old Delhi

The Red Fort is a historical fort in the old Delhi area, on the banks of Yamuna. Shah Jahan constructed it in 1639 as a result of a capital shift from Agra to Delhi. Built from red sandstone, it is home to several museums. Every year, the Indian Prime Minister unfurls the national flag here on the Independence Day.

10. Agrasen ki Baoli

5 km from city center 10 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

A protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India, Agrasen ki Baoli is a 60 meter long and 15 meter wide historical step well on Halley Road, New Delhi. It is an ancient water reservoir having 103 stone steps. It is one of the most visited places in Delhi having a serene atmosphere.

11. Sunder Nursery

8 km from city center 11 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Sunder Nursery (also known as Central Park) is a park complex situated adjacent to Humayun's Tomb, Built in the 16th century, the park was originally known as Azim Bagh. Sprawling over a whopping 90 acres of land, the park is home to 300 types of trees.

12. Garden of Five Senses

17 km from city center 12 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Located in the poised Said-ul-Ajaib, the Garden of Five Senses is designed to stimulate your senses of touch, sight, smell, sound and taste and is a paradise for nature’s lovers. It is spread across 20 acres and has various themed parks, Mughal baghs, pools of water lilies, solar energy park, themed decor and many other attractions.

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13. Lodhi Garden

8 km from city center 13 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Lodhi Gardens is a city park placed in New Delhi, spanning over 90 acres. It is a luscious garden that houses the tombs of Sayyid ruler Mohammed Shah and Lodhi King Sikandar Lodhi. It is situated between Khan Market and Safdarjung's Tomb on Lodhi Road and is a favorite spot for morning walks for the Delhiites.

14. Waste to Wonder Park

9 km from city center 14 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Waste to Wonder Park is one of its kind theme park in the world. It features the replicas of seven wonders of the world, created from industrial and other waste. Wind and solar energy have been harnessed to light up the park rendering a breathtaking sight during sunset and night.

15. Chandni Chowk

2 km from city center 15 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

One of the oldest markets in Old Delhi, Chandni Chowk is still an important historical site renowned for the availability of every kind of goods as well as food. It was Constructed in the 17th century by mughal ruler of India Shah Jahan. It is situated opposite the Red Fort and provides a view of the Fatehpuri Mosque.

16. Dilli Haat

10 km from city center 16 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Designed to invoke the ambience of a traditional village fair, Dilli Haat is every shopper’s paradise, a foodie’s haven and the cultural magnet of the metro city. A flamboyant mix of vibrant colours and varied cultures, the bazaar is located in the commercial centre of South Delhi, bang opposite to the INA Market.

17. Bharat Darshan Park

8 km from city center 17 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

The Bharat Darshan Park in Punjabi Bagh, Delhi has replicas of popular Indian monuments made out of waste material. It is quite similar to the Waste to Wonders park. Some of the monument replicas include the Gateway of India, Mysore Palace, Hampi, Victoria Memorial Hall and Charminar, amongst others made from about 350 tonnes of scrap material.

18. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

5 km from city center 18 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is one of the most important Sikh gurdwara, aka Sikh house of worship, in Delhi, India and known for its association with the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Har Krishan, as well as the pool inside its complex, known as the 'Sarovar.' It was first built as a small temple by Sikh General Sardar Bhagel Singh in 1783, who supervised the construction of nine Sikh shrines in Delhi in the same year, during the reign of Mughal Emperor, Shah Alam II.

19. Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya

8 km from city center 19 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

The Prime Ministers’ Museum or the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 14th April 2022. Located next to the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library (NMML) on Teen Murti Marg, the museum pays tribute to all the Prime Ministers of India since Independence. Besides memorabilia, there is an audio and visual tour of speeches from the Red Fort and a virtual helicopter ride.

20. Rail Museum, Delhi

10 km from city center 20 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Located in the vicinity of Chanakyapuri, the Rail Museum aims to preserve the 163 years old railway heritage of India. Popularly known as the National Railway Museum, the museum is spread over 10 acres of land and houses some fantabulous railway memorabilia.

21. Nizamuddin Dargah

9 km from city center 21 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

This is the holy shrine of Muslim Sufi Saint Nizamuddin Chisti. The tombs of many other people from the Mughal era are present in the same area, which surround a tank. Known to be one of the top-visited places in Delhi, a vibe of spirituality and serenity seems to be omnipresent at the Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah, where you can find throngs of devotees even in the later hours of the evening.

22. Jantar Mantar, Delhi

4 km from city center 22 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Located in New Delhi, the Jantar Mantar was one of the five sites built by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur. The site consists of 13 architectural astronomy instruments. The main purpose of the observatory was to compile the astronomical tables and to predict the movement and timings of the sun, moon and planets.

23. Delhi Zoo

8 km from city center 23 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Also known as Chidiya Ghar, Delhi Zoo is a favourite weekend spot among adults and children. From biggest cats to the tiniest birds, the zoo has all kinds of animals and birds. It has canteens inside for the visitors and battery-operated vehicles.

24. Mehrauli Archaeological Park

16 km from city center 24 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

The Mehrauli Archaeological Park is a 200-acre archaeological site home to more than 100 magnificent monuments, and tombs from the 10th century to the British era. Some prominent monuments here are tombs of Balban and Quli Khan, Jamali Kamali mosque, and Rajon ki Baoli among others.

25. Kingdom of Dreams

26 km from city center 25 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

The Kingdom of Dreams, also known as KOD sits majestically in Gurugram (Previously Gurgaon) and is India's first live entertainment, leisure and theatre destination. It is a magnificent structure and glitters merrily in sector 29. It offers visitors a taste of contemporary and modern India through the means of interactive tableaus, galleys, and arts. It is currently becoming one of the best places in Delhi for tourists and locals alike.

26. Mughal Gardens, Delhi

6 km from city center 26 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Popularly known as the “soul” of the Presidential Palace, the Mughal Gardens are located inside the Rashtrapati Bhawan Complex. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens in the year 1917 for Lady Harding, the gardens cover a vast area of 13 acres and are a wonderful incorporation of Mughal architecture with that of British style. The gardens are also open for a certain time in the year and hence make amongst the most-sought places to visit in Delhi.

27. Rashtrapati Bhavan

6 km from city center 27 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Rashtrapati Bhawan is a famous monument of the British Empire which was said to be the palace of the Viceroy of India. It is now the home of the President of India. It is considered to be the best-known monument in India next to Taj Mahal and Qutub Minar.

28. Jama Masjid Delhi

2 km from city center 28 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Jama Masjid is the largest mosque in India built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. The mosque hosts thousands of pilgrims each year on the holy occasion of Eid to offer special Namaz in the morning. Non-Muslims are not allowed inside the Masjid during Namaz offerings. One of the top attractions and best places to visit in Delhi, Jama Masjid gets a lot of tourist crowd other than the religious crowd.

29. Sarojini Market

10 km from city center 29 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Vibrantly coloured clothes strewn all over, tiny food stalls cramped in every nook, deafening cacophony of the salesboys and a pandemic compact environment- welcome to Sarojini Nagar, the most hep and trendy market of Delhi.

30. Connaught Place

4 km from city center 30 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Officially named Rajiv Chowk, Connaught Place is better known as CP amongst the locals. It is one of the largest commercial and business centers in Delhi, and has been designed in two concentric circles namely Connaught's Inner Circle and Connaught's Outer Circle. Known since British era, this market has its own elegance. Known to be the most iconic structure from Lutyens Delhi, this is also among one the top places to visit in Delhi.

31. Shopping Markets

2 km from city center 31 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Delhi is known to be shoppers' paradise. For almost everything, you will find a great market for the best price.

32. ISKCON Temple Delhi

13 km from city center 32 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

This temple was opened back in 1998; it is located at Hare Krishna Hills, in the East of Kailash area of New Delhi, India. A very well-known Lord Krishna temple for inner peace. Its followers believe in Srila Prabhupada. As one of the biggest temple complexes in India. It has numerous rooms for priests and service renders. Many halls are used for its administration purposes. It is divided into four broad units.

33. Khan Market

7 km from city center 33 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Khan Market is one of the hot spot and posh market in Delhi which serves as a perfect place for friends and family to hangout. Known to be one of the top places to visit in Delhi, the market has successfully held the essence of its original structure even in the times of rapid modernization. If you need to hang out late at night, Khan Market is the place for you as remains open till 12:00 AM.

34. Paharganj

2 km from city center 34 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Replete with travellers, both Indians and foreign, Paharganj is the most chaotic, noisy, dirty and yet the most vibrant market of Delhi. Dotted with umpteen hotels, brothels, cheap bars, and ultra cheap restaurants; the labyrinthian alleys of Paharganj have a lot more to offer than visible to the naked eye.

35. Birla Mandir Delhi

4 km from city center 35 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

The Birla Mandir or Birla Temple popularly known as the Laxminarayan Temple is a temple dedicated to Laxminarayan. It is located at Connaught Place, New Delhi, and was built by the Birla family, which is why it is known as the Birla temple. Built-in the early 1900s and spread over a whopping 7.5 acres, the temple houses many shrines, fountains, and gardens along with sculptures and carvings.  

36. Lajpat Nagar

11 km from city center 36 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Lajpat Nagar is a bustling and colourful neighbourhood in South Delhi which is best known for the Lajpat Nagar Central Market where many come to experience the thrill of the genuine Delhi life. One visit and you'll know how lively the place is and this can be seen by the flamboyant goods on sale, the brilliant evening lights, the rushing inhabitants and the sounds of the ever so busy streets.

37. Safdarjung Tomb

9 km from city center 37 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Built in 1754, during the reign of Mughal Emperor- Ahmad Shah Bahadur, the namesake tomb is dedicated to the Prime Minister of the court- Safdarjung. Located in the heart of the city, at the junction of Safdarjung Road and Aurobindo Marg, the monument is a low-key tourist attraction of the city.

38. Purana Qila

7 km from city center 38 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Stoically standing in the placid vicinity of Indraprastha, Purana Qila or the Old Fort is a masterpiece of the ancient glory and sterling architecture of the bygone Mughal Empire, and is one of the oldest forts in Delhi. Built on the banks of river Yamuna and spread over a vast 1.5 kms of area, the monument has tons of myths and legends of the medieval era attached to it.

39. Adventure Island

12 km from city center 39 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Located in : North Delhi

Probably the most famous of all adventure parks in Delhi NCR, Adventure Island is a one-stop haunt for all the dose of thrill and enjoyment. It is a super-hit with kids and adults alike, and couples find it a refreshing change to head to for spending an exciting date! It has a vast array of adult rides, rides for kids, water rides as well as special events that are organised from time to time. Feel the adrenaline pumping as you head for a ride on 'Butterfly Feeling' or 'Twister' meant for adults; alternatively, you could let your inner child have fun on less scary rides such as Wild Wheels, Sky Riders or Splash Down. Wave Rocker, It's a Ringa Ringa Thing, Bush Buggies, Splash Dunk and Bumper Cars are loved by families and large friends' groups. In addition to the adventure park, you could dabble in some window-shopping experience at the Metro Walk, which is dotted with all the latest brands, and finally, head towards a satisfying lunch or dinner at plenty of culinary options available. The best part about this place is its super convenient connectivity by metro as it is located bang opposite to Rithala station on the red line.

40. Pragati Maidan

7 km from city center 40 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Pragati Maidan, situated at Mathura Road, is a vast exhibition center of Delhi. With an exhibit area of 150 acres, it serves as an important attraction of Delhi.

41. Rajghat

5 km from city center 41 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Rajghat is a place where Mahatma Gandhi, Father of the Nation was cremated followed by his assassination in year 1948. Visitors from all around the world come here to pay their homage.

42. National Museum, Delhi

6 km from city center 42 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Also known as the National Museum of India, the National Museum in New Delhi is one the largest museums in India, situated on the corner of the Janpath and Maulana Azad Road. Established in 1949, the blueprints of the majestic repository were prepared by the Gwyer Committee set up by the Government of India in 1946.

43. Kuchesar

69 km from city center 43 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Located in : Noida

Kuchesar is a tiny village in Bulandshahr district of Uttar Pradesh, at a distance of 80 km from Delhi and is popular for its Mud Fort, now restored as a heritage resort.

44. Crafts Museum

6 km from city center 44 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Popularly known as the Crafts Museum, the National Handicrafts Museum is a colorful amalgamation of the diverse culture and rich traditions of our country. Located in the far corner of the magnanimous Pragati Maidan in Delhi, the museum is a centre to exhibit varied specimens in handicrafts, textile and local decor.

45. Tughlaqabad Fort

17 km from city center 45 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Tughlaqabad Fort is one of the finest specimens of pure Islamic architecture and has the touch of Sultanate sturdiness about its fortifications. Popular as one of the best-visited places in Delhi, the entire premise takes around an hour or two to look around and offer great opportunities for history enthusiasts and shutterbugs.

46. Teen Murti Bhavan

7 km from city center 46 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Once served as the home of Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru for 16 years, today, the Teen Murti Bhavan houses various institutions like the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library and the office of Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund. One of the four Nehru Planetariums is also located within the grounds of the house.

47. Rajpath

6 km from city center 47 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Running from Rashtrapati Bhavan on Raisina Hill, all the way through Vijay Chowk and India Gate to the National Stadium, Rajpath is a long ceremonial boulevard in New Delhi. Considered to be one of the most important roads in India, it is where the annual Republic Day parade takes place on 26 January. While Rajpath stands for the King's Road, Janpath, which stands for People's Road, also crosses the road. Running in the east-west direction, the avenue is lined on both sides by huge lawns, canals and many rows of trees.

48. Sulabh International Museum of Toilets

15 km from city center 48 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Sulabh International Museum of Toilets was built in 1992 by Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak (a social activist) and titled as one of the weirdest museum in the world by Time magazine. Established with the objective to address the global history of sanitation and toilets, the museum is anything but mundane and is a source of amusement to many.

49. Nicholson Cemetery

1 km from city center 49 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Situated in the heart of the city in Kashmere Gate area of New Delhi, Nicholson Cemetery (also known as Lothian Cemetery) is an ancient Christian cemetery named after the Brigadier-General John Nicholson, a Victorian era military officer who played a crucial role during the Indian Rebellion of 1857.

50. Iron Pillar

16 km from city center 50 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Iron Pillar is one of the many mysterious monuments of wonder present in Delhi- the capital of India. Located within the Qutub Minar complex in Mehrauli area of New Delhi, the Iron Pillar has been posing as one of the foremost metallurgical curiosities of the world due to its prowess to not exhibit a speck of rust despite being thousands of years old.

51. Nehru Memorial Museum and Library

7 km from city center 51 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Housed within the premises of the grand Teen Murti Bhavan in Delhi, Nehru Memorial Museum and Library is an autonomous institution established in the memory of the first Prime Minister of India- Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.

52. Chhatarpur Mandir

19 km from city center 52 out of 112 Places To Visit in Delhi

Situated in the posh locality of South Delhi, i.e. Chhatarpur, Chhatarpur Temple is dedicated to Goddess Katyayani, a part of Navadurga. Founded by Baba Sant Nagpal Ji in 1974, the temple is the second largest in all of India after Akshardham Temple (which is also in Delhi).

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• Destinations

Delhi City Travel Guide: Places to Visit, Things to do & Other Delhi City Travel Essentials

Visitors from around the world mostly land in Delhi when on a tour to India and the capital city creates an amusing and fascinating experience for most of them. Delhi is not just the capital of India but the cultural and political epicenter of the country as well. The city has two sides, as said the two sides of the coin – Old Delhi and New Delhi. Old Delhi reflects the crumbling crowd, narrow streets and several historical monuments while the latter showcases the well-organized, orderly life and modern buildings. The coexistence of these two totally opposite sides of Delhi, its culture, unique street food, and vibrant nightlife make it one of the most traveled cities in the country. So, if you are planning a trip to Delhi, this city guide of Delhi will surely help you.

Delhi Travel Guide

Delhi – history   .

Besides being the capital of modern India, it has been the epicenter of seven civilizations. The place was not always named Delhi but was recognized by almost eight different names. The first was Indraprastha which was during the time of the popular Hindu epic Mahabharata. From various archaeological evidence, it has been found that Indraprastha was located in the area where the Red Fort stands today in Old Delhi. Delhi has got a vast and rich history, having seen several rulers in the past 3 centuries which also included the Mughals. The last to rule this land was the British, they planned to build New Delhi in the year 1911 and name it India’s capital replacing Kolkata. Explore and unleash the layers of the capital city of India. Get your cheap flights to Delhi booked right away!

Delhi – Climate and Weather

Delhi has always experienced extreme weather conditions. Talking about summers in the city, the temperature exceeds 40 degrees celsius from April to June. Delhi monsoons bring it down a lot cooler between July and October. However, during times of no rain, the temperature still gets to a level of 35 degrees Celsius.

Winter in Delhi is the best time to travel as the temperature starts falling to around 20 degrees celsius in the month of November and continues to reach the lowest at 5-6 degrees celsius in the following months until January end or Mid-February. Going to Delhi in winter? Get all your woolen packed to enjoy the cool breeze in and around the city.

Delhi – To and from the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport

IGI Airport is situated in Palam, almost 14 miles or 23km south of the city. The airport has undergone some major changes in the last few years like the inauguration of Terminal 3 in the year 2010. It has altered the functionality of the airport as both domestic and international flights are now brought under one roof (excluding the lost-cost flights).

However, transportation to and from the Delhi International Airport is still smooth. One can easily find the city buses connecting the airport and the main city well. There are shuttles and prepaid taxis to take you to the city. The best mode of transportation from the airport is the Delhi Metro Express Train Service.

Also Read: Everything you need to know about Indira Gandhi Airport (DEL)

Delhi – Getting around the city

Traveling within the city has become quite convenient in recent years. Tourists can easily get connected to places with comfortable air-conditioned metro trains, buses and even the dial-a-cab service has turned out to be popular (especially Ola and Uber).

Also Read: The Remarkable New Delhi Culture and Tradition

For short distances, one can get  regular auto-rickshaws and taxis. However, knowing the art of haggling is important as the rickshaw drivers put up an unreasonable price at first and if you don’t have much knowledge of the correct fare, there could be a chance of being looted. For sightseeing, a city bus service is a great option.

Delhi – Things to Do

You will find plenty of top attractions in the city while you roll your eyes at the Delhi travel guide map (Yes, you should have one handy). The beautiful city features some awe-strikingly amazing forts, spellbinding mosques and huge monuments built by the Mughals centuries ago. Most forts and monuments are settled amid lush green gardens allowing one to relax while alluring the architectural beauty of the place. Get to know the city and its people better. How about planning a New Year in Delhi with your friends? Book your last minute flights now!

Suggested Read: 7 Outstanding Places to Visit near Delhi in Winter

Starting from Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, move on to exploring the famous Sacred Heart Cathedral and other historic Hindu temples in the area. Only 4 kilometers away is the most-visited and popular Jama Masjid , the terracotta-colored mosque standing for centuries now. It is  heaven for  travelers in search of peace in the chaotic Old Delhi. The huge Red Fort, a monument of the 178 th century is also close by.

Moving in the southeastern direction of the city is the mighty Humayun’s Tomb, one of the many World Heritage Sites in the city. The tomb was constructed in the year 1570 for emperor Humayun and is the first garden-tomb in the country. The surrounding gardens are well-manicured and huge hulking trees are lined up around the great mausoleum.

Do not forget to visit the ancient piece of architecture built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak – Qutub Minar. Another architectural spotlight in the old city is the Safdarjung Tomb, a breathtaking view of the Mughal style 18 th century mausoleum that will make you day. The sandstone and marble tomb is one of the top attractions in Delhi. There are various other sites of attractions in the city which you can easily spot in a helpful Delhi guidebook.

Delhi – Places to Eat

Food in Delhi is the next best thing you will find in the city after the exciting sightseeing. From American, Lebanese, Japanese to Indian, Italian and Mediterranean, One can find anything and everything in the world-class restaurants in Delhi. Not just the expensive yet succulent gourmet dishes, there are several eateries and food joints in both the old and new city where you can find mouth-watering street food without burning a hole in your pocket. Some of the well-known eateries and restaurants in the city include Indian Accent and Bukhara in Nizamuddin & Lodi Colony, Mughlai at Karim’s and Indian cuisine at Sita Ram Diwan Chand in Shahjahanabad (Old Delhi), Café Lota, Sana-Di-Ge in New Delhi and many more. Even if you have booked business class flights with your colleagues for a meeting in the capital, spare some time to eat at these amazing places.

Delhi – Nightlife

Apart from its delicious food, magnificent sites, and extreme weather conditions, Delhi is also known for its nightlife. Nightlife in Delhi is vibrant, fun, and full of entertainment. From bars, pubs, and discos to street food, late night movies, the city offers everything required for a perfect night out. The liveliness of the country’s capital will make you ditch your sleep and spend some electrifying nights with your friends and loved ones. One of the best ways to enjoy the nightlife in Delhi are:

• Dance Night Away at Delhi’s Pubs
• Stay at Delhi’s Extravagant Lounges
• Try Some Luscious Street Food at Mid-Night
• Enjoy Late Night Movies
• Night Walks in City’s Dark
• Enjoy a Musical Night at Music Venues

Also Read: 10 Finger-licking Dishes You Must Try in Delhi

Delhi – Places to stay

When on a New Delhi Tour , one can find a long list of accommodation options suiting every kind of traveler. If you are a budget traveler or a backpacker, the hotels and lodges in the Paharganj district near the railway station could be a nice choice. In recent times, various hostels for backpackers are also available in other areas of the city. Karol Bagh and Connaught Place (CP) are also suitable for tourists willing to stay in Central Delhi. Talking about the peaceful and sophisticated areas in the city, South Delhi has some  popular luxury hotels, satisfactory bed & breakfasts and fantastic boutique hotels.

Delhi – Shopping hubs

Shopping in Delhi is a learning experience in itself. You will find various local markets in the city, especially the most famous Sarojini Nagar Market and CP market. However, foreigners traveling on flights from USA to India need to learn the art of bargaining in these areas. We, Indians, are masters now and know pretty much about dealing with the vendors. For a straightforward experience while shopping, stop by the Central Cottage Industries Emporium, a government-based market selling traditional artisans a fixed price. Don’t worry about the quality – it is one of the best you will find all around the city.

Delhi – Safety Concerns

Safety in India is a common issue for travelers, especially the one coming from places abroad. Starting with protecting your money from pickpockets, try keeping all the cash, credit cards, and debit cards in a money belt or secure pouch that can be kept close to  hanging around your neck or tied under your shirt. Have only a little cash in your wallet so even if you lose it, your valuables are safe.

Coming to health safety, the notion of “Delhi-Belly” is quite true and unavoidable. To reduce the chances of falling ill, try drinking bottled water, eating well-cooked food and avoiding raw foods, Also keep a hand sanitizer handy.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How many days are enough for Delhi?

You need at least 2 to 4 days to explore Delhi and its surroundings. If you want to cover the nearby places like Agra, Rishikesh, or Nainital, you are recommended to plan at least a week for the trip. 

• Is 2 days enough for Delhi?

Delhi is a metropolis city. If you want to explore the city thoroughly, 2 days will not be sufficient. However, you can cover some historic and modern parts of the city within 2 days.

• What do I need to know before traveling to Delhi?

If you are planning a trip to Delhi, these are some factors that you should know before heading:

• Choose your dates to fly carefully
• Pre Book the hotel
• Buy a local sim card for roaming free communication
• Always carry some cash with you
• Know everything about local markers
• Sharpen your bargaining skills
• Buy a Delhi map
• Understand the metro-route
• Do not forget to wear a mask
• How can I plan a day trip to Delhi?

The best way to travel to Delhi in one is to book a bus tour of the city. The bus will pick you up from your desired location and take you through the entire city. The places that the bus tour covers: 

• Birla Mandir
• Jantar Mantar
• Connaught Place
• Jama Masjid
• Parliament House
• Rashtrapati Bhawan 
• Akshardham Temple

– Travel Diary

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15 Incredible Tourist Places to Visit in Delhi

If there’s one word that can be used to define Delhi, it is ‘Experience’. Yes, such is the aura of the city. Delhi is inviting, enticing, challenging, enjoyable, enriching, all at the same time. Residing in the heart of the country, Delhi is aptly termed as “Bharat ka dil”. It's a city that gives you what you may not get anywhere. It's a career maker, Its a kingmaker. It's the government maker. It is business maker… and what not. Delhi is all about life, and the way life should be.

A unique blend of history and modernity, traditions and culture, commerce and fashion and beyond all of these, a place where all religions prevail with equality. Delhi is unique in its culture and lifestyle. While in areas like Chandni Chowk and old Delhi, you will find the traditional ways of living, places like Vasant Kunj and South Extension will give you a sense of modern-day Delhi.

The latest and greatest fashion in the country is seen first on Delhi’s streets. If you are a foodie, there’s no better place to go for than the heart of the country. On the one hand, you can get lip-smacking street food which is very cost-friendly too, and on the other side, you get to eat some of the most expensive international dishes in city restaurants.

In a nutshell, if you want to witness crazy yet sophisticated part of life, do visit Delhi at least once in a lifetime.

… And while you are in Delhi to experience the true fervor of the city, here’s a list of must visit places that you must explore. Check it out.

1. India Gate

This 42 meter high "Arc-de-Triomphe" like archway situated in the heart of Delhi city is much taller in the hearts of India. Formerly known as All India War Memorial, India Gate was built to commemorate the death of 70,000 British Indian soldiers who died during First World War between 1914-21.

Even though the India Gate was constructed as a war memorial, the architectural style of the monument makes it appear like an epitome of triumph. Much similar to Arch of Constantine, outside the Colosseum in Rome, India gate was designed by Sir Edward Lutyens.

India Gate got an additional structure in the form of a black marble plinth, with a reversed rifle capped by a soldier’s helmet after the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971. This structure is situated beneath the memorial archway and is bounded by flames on four eternal sides. This is called Amar Jawan Jyoti. India Gate is counted amongst the most significant war memorials in the country.

What we all know is that India Gate has an essential place in the Indian history, but what many of us may not know is that the memorial has an important spot in the heart of Delhiites. Whenever there is a moment of distress or an occasion to celebrate, India Gate is the perfect spot for that.

People visit the place with families to spend some quality time with each other. Food vendors around the area add to the pleasure of hanging out with family and friends.

2. Red Fort

Red Fort, popularly known as Lal Quila, is the pride of the nation. It is a historic fort, situated in the older part of the city. Lal Quila served as the primary residence for Mughal Emperors who ruled the city, for about 200 years. It was until 1856 that the Mughals had resided in Lal Quila. Besides, the historical monument also served as the political center of the Mughals.

Red Fort was built under the reign of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the year 1639. It was made on the lines of Shah Jahan's palace in his fortified capital Shahanabad. It was called Red Fort because of its massive closed walls built in red stone. The palace not only showcases the architectural brilliance of Shah Jahan but also gives a reasonably good picture of Islamic architecture of those times.

Located at the center of Delhi, Lal Quila houses many museums and pavilions. Each pavilion of Lal Quila speaks volumes about the valor and pomp of Mughal empire.

The architectural elements of Lal Quila reflect a typical Mughal building and showcase a fusion of Timurid and Persian traditions. However, the fort saw enough destruction during the invasion of Mughal Emperor Nadir Shah in 1747, followed by the intrusion of British in the Revolt of 1857.

However, the Red Fort has not lost its sheen. It still stands magnanimous in the cultural and political scene of the country. Each year, on the Independence Day (15th August), India’s Prime Minister hoists the Indian Flag and delivers his speech to the nation. The Red Fort was honored to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

Red Fort is a major attraction for tourists visiting the city all around the year. Chatta Chowk, its vaulted arcade is a local market that sells tourists trinkets. One can reach the main compound of Lal Quila after passing through the Chatta Chowk.

This fascinating building comprises of Drum House, the Hall of Public Audiences, the white marble Hall of Private Audiences, the Pearl Mosque, Royal Baths and Palace of Color. One of the major attractions of Lal Quila is the evening Light and Sound show. India’s glorious history is recreated every evening during the show.

3. Chandni Chowk

Chandni Chowk or “Moonlight Square” is one of the memorable gifts of the Mughal Era that Delhi cherishes till date. Being one of the oldest and busiest markets of the country, Chandni Chowk is a center of attraction for traders as well, besides the tourists who come to visit the city. Chandni Chowk was designed and built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan’s favorite daughter Jahan Ara Begum in 1650 CE. The marketplace was 40 yards wide and 1520 yards long.

There’s an exciting story behind the naming of the place. Chandni Chowk was built in a square shape and had a pool at the center. The pool radiated moonlight at nights, giving a mesmerizing experience. This is possibly the reason why the marketplace is named as Chandni Chowk.

Chandni Chowk is famous for a whole lot of reasons besides being one of the biggest and oldest markets of the country. This part of Old Delhi houses many religious and historical monuments. Red Fort, the pride of India, is situated next to Chandni Chowk.

Besides, Chandni Chowk houses a whole lot of religious places too. People from various faiths visit the place. Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir, Gauri Shankar Temple, Shri Shiv Navgrah Mandir Dham, Central Baptist Church, Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, Sunehri Masjid, and Fatehpuri Masjid are some of the religious sites situated in Chandni Chowk. Each of these places is not just religious but also have historical backgrounds.

Chandni Chowk continues to be one of the biggest markets of the country. In fact, it is the biggest wholesale market in the country. One can find shops in the narrow bylanes of Chandni Chowk and can get some of the most amazing deals there.

Apart from hundreds of shops of traditional Indian dresses for both men and women, the wholesale market of hardware, hotel kitchen equipment, industrial chemicals, silver and gold jewelry, spices, dried fruits and nuts, and herbs is a unique attraction amongst the visitors.

Your visit to Chandni Chowk is incomplete if you do not try the eateries in the marketplace. This place is famous across the globe for its mouth-watering delicacies. The Parathe Wali Gali at Chandni Chowk is famous for its variety of parathas. From the regular Aloo ka paratha to the extraordinary bhindi paratha, the variety of parathas available here will leave your taste buds wanting for more. Besides, places like the Ghantewala halwai, Natraj’s Dahi Bhalle, Chaatwallah, the jalebiwala, Gole hatti, et al, will enhance the experience of the place for you.

Chandni Chowk has found a place in films as well. Movies like Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Delhi 6, Black and White, Chandni Chowk to China, etc. have featured the beauty of this part of Delhi beautifully.

4. Humayun’s Tomb

The tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun, called Humayun’s Tomb, was built in Delhi in 1569-70. The construction of Humayun’s Tomb was commissioned by his first wife and chief consort Empress Bega Begum.

It was designed by Mirak Mirza Ghiyas and his son, Sayyid Muhammad along with some Persian architects, who were chosen by the Begum. Located in Nizamuddin East, Humayun’s Tomb is the first garden tomb of Indian sub-continent. It was declared UNESCO World Heritage SIte in 1993.

The complex of Humayun’s Tomb not just houses the tomb of Emperor Humayun, but also the graves of Bega Begum, Hamida Begum and also Dara Shikoh, grandson of Emperor Humayun and son of Emperor Shah Jahan. The building of tomb is a perfect showcase of Mughal architecture and the way it has evolved.

Besides, the main building, the Charbagh gardens of Humayun’s Tomb are also a significant attraction. Built in typical Persian style, these gardens serve as a rest area for the visitors.

Humayun’s Tomb is constructed in Nizamuddin area of Delhi. This site was chosen keeping in mind the proximity of the place to Nizamuddin Dargah , the mausoleum of Sufi Saint Hazrat Nizamuddin.

The architecture of Humayun’s Tomb is rather impressive. This mesmerizing architecture is given true showcase Persian styles of Islamic architecture. The tomb is about 47 meters high and 91 meters wide. The exterior of the monument is simple and symmetrical. The dome of Humayun’s Tomb is a special attraction. So do ensure that you tick the place in your list while you visit Delhi.

5. Connaught Place

Connaught Place is one of the largest commercial and financial centers of the country and the world. Popularly known as CP, the place houses the headquarters of some of the biggest Corporates. Besides, it is a fashion destination too. Some of the biggest brands in the world have their showrooms in Connaught Place.

It is worth mentioning here that Connaught Place is one of the most expensive real estate in the world. CP was termed as the showpiece of Lutyens’ Delhi. Courtesy its fantastic structure and architecture, Connaught Place is considered to be one of the top heritage sites of the city and pride of the country. The place is named after Prince Arthur, 1st Duke of Connaught and Strathearn. The marketplace was built between 1929 - 1933 and is still a masterpiece in its own right.

The Georgian architecture of Connaught Place is borrowed from Royal Crescent in Bath. Connaught Place is built in a circle and has two floors. The idea was to provide commercial space on the ground floor and residential area on the top level.

CP is divided into two concentric circles, bifurcating the place into the inner circle, middle circle, and outer circle. The three circles are joined by the seven roads emerging from the inner central park.

The government wanted to build New Delhi Railway Station in CP, but the plan couldn’t materialize due to the scarcity of space. Hence, the station was built in Paharganj area, next to Connaught Place. Connaught Place is famous not just for its architecture and heritage, but also for its cinemas and eateries.

Earlier, traders from Kashmere gate area used to travel to this marketplace. But later, it became the entertainment hub of the elite. Regal Cinema, the first cinema of Connaught Place used to host favorite concerts, ballet performances, and theatre groups. Odean and Rivoli cinemas came up later.

Connaught Place is also known for Wenger’s, the first pastry shop in the city, set up by a Swiss Couple. The pastry shop exists to date.

Post independence, Connaught Place got its first underground market, called Palika Bazaar. It was set up in the empty block under the inner circle. The Bazaar has expanded its wings towards the outer circle now.

6. Qutub Minar

Qutab Minar, Qutb Minar or Qutub Mina spell it as it suits you. Spelling could defer from historian to historian, but the charm of the building remained the same throughout the history. This 73-meter tall minaret has five stories. Interestingly, the base diameter of the structure is 14.3 meters, while it slims down to 2.7 meters as it approaches the top.

Qutub Minar draws inspiration from Minaret of jam, built in Afghanistan. It is believed that Qutab Ud-din Aibak, the founder of Delhi Sultanate, started building the minaret around 1192. He is credited to have built the first floor of the five-storeyed minaret. However, the task was taken up by Aibak’s son-in-law and successor, Iltutmish, who has added three more stories to the minaret in the year 1220.

The Qutab Minar that you see today was, however, completed by Firoz Shah Tughlaq. There was a lightning strike in 1369 that had destroyed the top floor built by Iltutmish. Tughlaq not just repaired the damaged floor, but also constructed another deck on top of the building to complete it. Sher Shah Suri made another addition to the building while Humayun was in exile. He created an entrance to the minaret as well.

Qutub Minar is not the only place to visit in the minar complex. It is surrounded by a lot of places with historical significance. The Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque is in the same premises and is as old as the minaret itself. There is an iron pillar, which is very old and popular.

Let’s talk about the architecture of the minaret. As mentioned earlier, the makers have drawn inspiration from Afghanistan Minaret of Jam. The incorporation of looped bells, lotus borders, and garlands in its carving give it the local effect. Qutub Minar has stood the tests of time and rulers. The place is definitely worth a visit.

7. Lajpat Nagar Market

Delhi is a shopper’s delight because of places like Lajpat Nagar market. It's a residential and commercial place in the southern part of Delhi. Named after Lala Lajpat Rai, the Lion of India, the place is extremely popular amongst markets across the nation.

The area is divided into four parts: Lajpat Nagar I, Lajpat Nagar II, Lajpat Nagar III and Lajpat Nagar IV. Popular residential areas like Amar Colony, Dayanand Colony, Double Storey, Vikram Vihar, etc., fall into the domain of Lajpat Nagar. However, the place is known to be a shoppers’ delight.

The ladies salwar suit market of Lajpat Nagar is famous worldwide. The kind of variety you get there is unmatchable. Besides, the garments and textiles shops in Central Market are a delight. You get the latest and unique fabrics at the most reasonable costs.

Lajpat Nagar was developed after the refugees from new Pakistan came to this part of the country. There were Sikhs and Hindus, who were provided shelter by the government and were allotted lands to construct houses for themselves. Nowadays, it is a preferred location for travelers from places like Middle East, Afghanistan, Africa, who travel to India for medical aid or education.

8. Lotus Temple

Lotus Temple is one of the most prominent attractions of Delhi. Known for its Lotus flower-like shape, the place is a Baha’i House of Worship. Opened for the public in December 1986, construction of The Lotus Temple cost around $10 million. The temple is not just known for its scenic value. It is the serenity and calm of Lotus Temple that attracts people from across the globe.

The best part of this temple is that people from any religion, caste or creed can visit it, without any inhibition or boundation. However, it remains a significant attraction amongst the tourists purely from the architectural point of view.

It has, in fact, won many awards. According to the statistics from the Government of India, the Baha’i House of Worship had 100 million visitors by April 2014. It is one of the most visited buildings of the world. A significant chunk of its visitors is architectural enthusiasts from across the globe, who fly down to see this architectural marvel and appreciate its beauty.

9. Purana Quila

Amidst the glitz and glamour of Delhi city, stands an old yet attractive monument called Purana Quila or Old Fort. Purana Quila is spread in the area of almost two kilometers and is rectangular. History states that the monument was built under the reign of Humayun and Afghan Sher Shah Suri.

The fort is made up of walls that rise to 18 meters and has three arched gateways. The Bada Darwaza (Big gate) faces west and is used till date. The Humayun Gate, situated towards the south of the monument is known by the name as Humayun himself built it. Humayun’s tomb is visible from that gate. The third gate is the Talaqi Gate or the forbidden gate. All the gates are decorated with white and colored-marble inlays and blue tiles.

The gates give a good glimpse of Rajasthani architecture with their ornate overhanging balconies or jharokhas and pillared pavilions or chattris. While the grandeur of the architecture is sure to impress you, the interior architectures are also equally captivating.

Qila-i-Kuhna mosque and the Shermandal, created by Sher Shah, are the two noticeable architectures within the Purana Quila, that are worth a mention here.

Qila-i-Kuhna mosque is a single domed mosque built in pre-Mughal style in the year 1541. The mosque has five gateways in horse-shoe architecture and is an example of pointed arch architecture, that was followed later by a lot of Mughal buildings.

On the other hand, the Sher Mandal, that is named after Share Shah, is a double-storeyed octagonal tower of red sandstone. Sher Shah began the construction of the building, but Humayun completed it after he recaptured the fort.

Purana Quila is now being used as a picnic cum tourist spot and is quite popular amongst the localites and the tourists traveling to Delhi.

10. Akshardham Temple

Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, also known as Akshardham, is one of the most important social, religious and cultural places of Delhi. BAPS has constructed the temple. It is inspired by Yogiji Maharaj and is created by Pramukh Swami Maharaj.

Officially opened on 6th November 2005, by Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam, the Akshardham Temple attracts at least 70 percent of the tourists coming to the city. Akshardham Temple, Delhi, is the successor of Akshardham Temple, Gandhinagar, Gujarat and is built according to Vastu Shastra and Panchatantra Shastra.

The main shrine of the temple is the central point and is the main attraction of the temple. There are various exhibition halls created in the complex that displays an excellent sense of design and technology.

Some of the noticeable features of the Akshardham temple complex include Sahaj Anand water show, an Abhisheka Mandap, a thematic garden and three exhibitions namely Sahajanand Darshan (Hall of Values), Neelkanth Darshan (an IMAX film on the early life of Swaminarayan as the teenage yogi, Neelkanth), and Sanskruti Darshan (a cultural boat ride).

The beauty of Akshardham Temple is its architecture. It presents a mix of architectural styles from across the country. It is built of 234 ornately carved pillars, 20,000 murtis of sadhus, acharyas, and devotees and has nine beautifully crafted domes. The temple houses murtis of Swami Narayana, Shiv Parvati, Radha Krishna, Sita Ram and Lakshmi Narayan.

11. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

No matter what religious belief you follow, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib in Delhi is a must-visit place for you. It is one of the most famous Sikh Gurdwaras in the city as well as in the country. It is known for its association with eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Har Krishan Singh.

Built as a small shrine by Sikh General Sardar Baghel Singh in 1783, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is situated on Baba Kharak Singh Marg in Connaught Place, New Delhi. Its golden dome and a large flagpole called Nishan Sahib make you recognize the place from a distance too.

It is interesting to note that Gurudwara Bangla Sahib was originally a bungalow, that belonged to Raja Jai Singh and was known as Jaisingh Pura palace. It is believed that Guru Har Krishan Singh used to reside in the bungalow during his stay in Delhi in 1664.

There was smallpox and cholera epidemic that was spread in the city. He served a lot of sufferers with aid and water from a small well within the house. Later, he caught the diseases himself and died on 30th March 1664. Raja Jai Singh constructed a small tank on that well, which exists even today.

It is believed that the water of that tank has healing properties and people carry it with them all over the world. The gurdwara campus also houses a hospital, a library and a higher secondary school and Baba Baghel Singh Museum.

12. Lakshmi Narayan Temple

Better known as Birla Temple, the Lakshmi Narayan Temple is dedicated to Lord Lakshmi Narayan. Lakshmi Narayan refers to Lord Vishnu, also known as Narayan when he is with his consort Lakshmi. Although a Hindu temple, it is open to people of all religions and castes.

Built by industrialist Baldeo Das Birla and his sons, the temple was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi on the condition that it will be open for people of all religions. It was built from 1933 to 1939 and was the first large Hindu temple in Delhi.

The Birla temple is spread over 7.5 acres of land and has a large garden, shrine, fountains, and a hall called Geeta Bhawan for discourses. The temple is a significant attraction for tourists and localites on special occasions like Janmashtami and Diwali.

The temple’s architecture gives a sense of modern Indian architecture. It was designed by Sris Chandra Chatterjee, a leading proponent of the "Modern Indian Architecture Movement. Over hundred skilled artisans from Benaras were put to the task of making the idols for the temple, which was inspired by Nagara style of temple architecture.

The artisans crafted the idols of Hindu lords with marble stone sourced from places like Jaipur. The architects had used Kota stone from Makrana, Agra, Kota, and Jaisalmer for the construction of the temple premises. A whole lot of artificial landscapes and greenery in the campus is inviting and soothing. So the next time you are in Delhi, don’t miss out of ticking it in your list.

13. Hauz Khas Complex

Amidst the fascinating youth junction of Delhi city, Hauz Khas, is an old time charmer called Hauz Khas Complex. Situated in the southern part of the city, Hauz Khas complex comprises of a few exciting elements including a water tank, a tomb, a mosque, Islamic seminary and some pavilions. The Hauz Khas Complex gives a fair sense of 13th century Delhi Sultanate reign.

Although Hauz Khas adds to the list of some of the most excellent commercial and residential places of the city, the Hauz Khas Complex holds the old world charm. The water tank, for instance, was built during Alauddin Khilji's reign to meet the water supply needs of newly built fort at Siri.

The size of the tank has now shrunk substantially due to encroachment and siltation. However, in its present state, it is quite well maintained. In fact, Delhi Development Authority makes constant efforts to preserve the tank.

Another attraction in Hauz Khas Complex is the tomb of Firoz Shah. Firoz Shah Tughlaq is known to have made significant contributions to the history of Delhi. He died at the age of ninety years after his continuous illness between 1385 and 1388. Interestingly, Firoz Shah had built a domed tomb for himself within the precincts of Hauz Khas.

Hauz Khas village was also known for being a large congregation of Islamic Scholars and students who came to the Madrasa for their Islamic Education. It was also termed as the Medieval Centre of Learning in India by some renowned historians.

14. Dilli Haat

For all those who want to enjoy the true spirit of Delhi in a few hours, a visit to Dilli Haat is a must. Food and shopping are in the air of Dilli Haat. It is an open aircraft bazaar and food plaza located in the southern part of the city. Dilli Haat has a paid entrance system and is run by Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation.

Dilli Haat is a permanent market and is unlike a traditional weekly market. However, some sellers do rotate in the marketplace on a fortnightly basis. You will find unique products including rosewood and sandalwood carvings, embellished camel hide footwear, sophisticated fabric and drapery, gems, beads, brassware, metal crafts, and silk & wool fabrics. Exhibitions are being hosted in the exhibition hall of the haat, for promoting handicrafts and handlooms.

Being centrally located, Dilli Haat is pretty accessible from all modes of transport. While you visit Dilli Haat and wish to buy something from there, do not miss out on bargaining for the price. Dilli Haat is as much a family picnic spot as it is a shopping destination. Local families come to the place for fun and frolic and spending some quality time with each other. It is also a meet-up area for college students, especially girls.

There are some fantastic food vendors, who put up their stalls in Dilli Haat. While you get to taste some local delicacies, you also get a flavor of some state oriented dishes. Like the handicrafts, the food served in Dilli Haat also gives a fair sense of the culture of the country.

Do ensure that you have some time in hand to visit nearby places as well, including Sarojini Nagar market. Sarojini market is another local, ultra cheap and fantastic market of Delhi, like Lajpat Nagar. Pretty close to Dilli Haat, Sarojini market attracts a lot of young crowd for providing some cool fashion clothes and accessories at unbelievable prices.

15. Raj Ghat

In the older part of Delhi, lies a cool and calm place called the Raj Ghat. Raj Ghat is a memorial dedicated to the Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi. It is a black marble platform, built on the spot of Mahatma Gandhi’s cremation. It was built on 30th January 1948, a day after his assassination. The memorial is left open under the sky, and an eternal flame burns on end.

Located on the banks of River Yamuna, Raj Ghat is situated on Mahatma Gandhi Road. The place is high on the list of politicians, state guests, and historians. One must remove his shoes before entering the walls of the Raj Ghat. Outside the walled architecture, is a lawn with some natural greenery.

While you visit the Raj Ghat to pay tribute to Gandhiji, do not miss out on Shantivan , which is the Samadhi of India’s first prime minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Shantivan is located towards the north of Raj Ghat. Adjacent to Shantivan is Ekta Sthal, where K R Narayana, the tenth president of the country was cremated in 2005.

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Delhi, India

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A buzzing international metropolis home to seventeen million people (and counting), sprawling Delhi is the capital of India , and also functions as the prime hub of wider South Asia . While this may conjure visions of urban chaos, and while those visions may be almost precisely accurate in teeming Paharganj and other older districts, much of the city is low-lying and surprisingly green, as best witnessed from the elevated sections of the excellent metro system. Delhi boasts a rich and varied history, and you’ll come across tombs, temples and ruins dating back centuries;

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On the flip side of the coin, a burgeoning youth scene is exemplified by designer bars, chic cafés and decent clubs. The result is a city full of fascinating nooks and crannies that you could happily spend weeks exploring.

From a tourist’s perspective, Delhi is divided into two main parts. Old Delhi is the city of the Mughals and dates back to the seventeenth century. It’s the capital’s most frenetic quarter, and its most Islamic, a reminder that for more than seven hundred years Delhi was a Muslim-ruled city.

Old Delhi’s greatest monuments are the magnificent constructions of the Mughals, most notably the mighty Red Fort, and the Jama Masjid, India’s largest and most impressive mosque.

To the south, encompassing the modern city centre, is New Delhi, built by the British to be the capital of their empire’s key possession.

A spacious city of tree-lined boulevards, New Delhi is also impressive in its own way. The Rajpath, stretching from India Gate to the Presidential Palace, is at least as mighty a statement of imperial power as the Red Fort, and it’s among the broad avenues of New Delhi that you’ll find most of the city’s museums and its prime shopping area

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Red fort, Delhi © Pixabay

From the imposing spendour of the Red Fort to the country’s finest museum, exhibiting more than five thousand years of Indian culture, here are the best things to do in Delhi.

#1 Visit the Red Fort

The largest of Old Delhi’s monuments is Lal Qila, known in English as the Red Fort because of the red sandstone from which it was built. It was commissioned by Shah Jahan to be his residence and modelled on the fort at Agra.

Work started in 1638, and the emperor moved in ten years later. The fort contains all the trappings you’d expect at the centre of Mughal government: halls of public and private audience, domed and arched marble palaces, plush private apartments, a mosque and elaborately designed gardens.

The ramparts, which stretch for more than 2km, are interrupted by two gates – Lahori Gate to the west, through which you enter, and Delhi Gate to the south. Shah Jahan’s son, Aurangzeb, added barbicans to both gates.

In those days, the Yamuna River ran along the eastern wall, feeding both the moat and a “stream of paradise” which ran through every pavilion. As the Mughal Empire declined, the fort fell into disrepair. It was attacked and plundered by the Persian emperor Nadir Shah in 1739, and by the British in 1857.

Nevertheless, it remains an impressive testimony to Mughal grandeur. Keep your ticket stub, as you may have to show it several times.

#2 Wander Rajpath, the centrepiece of Lutyens’ imperial New Delhi

Vijay Chowk, immediately in front of Rashtrapati Bhavan, leads into the wide, straight Rajpath, flanked with gardens and fountains that are floodlit at night, and the scene of annual Republic Day celebrations (Jan 26).

The Rajpath runs east to India Gate; designed by Lutyens in 1921, the high arch – reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris – commemorates ninety thousand Indian soldiers killed fighting for the British in World War I, and bears the names of more than three thousand British and Indian soldiers who died on the North-West Frontier and in the Afghan War of 1919.

The extra memorial beneath the arch honours the lives lost in the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971.

#3 Explore more than five thousand years of Indian culture at the National Museum

The National Museum provides a good overview of Indian culture and history. At a trot you can see the museum in a couple of hours, but to get the best out of your visit you should set aside at least half a day.

Guided tours are available, though they cover a rather random selection of exhibits. The most important displays are on the ground floor, kicking off in room 4 with the Harappan civilization.

The Gandhara sculptures in room 6 betray some very obvious Greco-Roman influence, while room 9 around the corner has some very fine bronzes, most especially those of the Chola period (from south India, between the ninth and the thirteenth centuries), and a fifteenth-century statue of Devi from Vijayanagar in south India.

Among the late mediaeval sculptures in room 10 is a fearsome, vampirelike, late Chola dvarapala, also from south India, and a couple of performing musicians from Mysore. Room 12 is devoted to the Mughals, and in particular their miniature paintings – look out for two depicting the nativity of Jesus, a subject you might not expect.

#4 Escape the heat at Humayun’s Tomb

Close to the centre of Nizamuddin stands Humayun’s Tomb, best photographed in late afternoon. Delhi’s first Mughal mausoleum, it was constructed to house the remains of the second Mughal emperor, Humayun, and was built under the watchful eye of Haji Begum, his senior widow (and mother of Akbar), who camped here for the duration, and is now buried alongside her husband.

The grounds were later used to inter several prominent Mughals, and served as a refuge for the last emperor, Bahadur Shah II, before his capture by the British in 1857. The tomb’s sombre, Persian-style elegance marks this as one of Delhi’s finest historic sites.

Constructed of red sandstone, inlaid with black and white marble, and set on a commanding podium looking towards the Yamuna River, it stands in the centre of the formal charbagh, or quartered garden. The octagonal structure is crowned with a double dome that soars to a height of 38m.

Though it was the very first Mughal garden tomb – to be followed by Akbar’s at Sikandra and, of course, the Taj Mahal at Agra, for which it can be seen as a prototype – Humayun’s mausoleum has antecedents in Delhi in the form of Ghiyas-ud-din Tughluq’s tomb at Tughluqabad, and that of Sikandar Lodi in Lodi Gardens.

Humayun's Tomb in Delhi © Shutterstock

#5 See Sufi shrine, Hazrat Nizamuddin

The marble dargah is the tomb of Sheikh Nizam-ud-din Aulia (1236–1325), fourth saint of the Chishtiya Sufi order founded by Khwaja Muin-ud-din Chishti of Ajmer, and was built the year the sheikh died, but has been through several renovations, and the present mausoleum dates from 1562.

Lattice screens and arches in the inner sanctum surround the actual tomb (closed to women), which is surrounded by a marble rail and a canopy of mother-of-pearl.

Sheikh Nizam-ud-din’s disciple, the poet and chronicler Amir Khusrau – considered to be the first Urdu poet and the founder of khyal, the most common form of north Indian classical music – lies in a contrasting red-sandstone tomb in front of his master’s mausoleum.

In the evenings qawwali music is performed here, in the form of chanting accompanied by a harmonium, dholak (barrel drum) and tabla (hand-drum). Its hypnotic rhythm is designed to lull its audience into a state of mast (spiritual intoxication), which is believed to bring the devotee closer to God. Spectators are welcome but should dress respectfully.

#6 Head to trendy Khan Market and Hauz Khas

Set amid parks and woodland, the wealthy suburban development of Hauz Khas is typical of South Delhi in being a thoroughly modern area dotted with remnants of antiquity. The modern part takes the form of Hauz Khas Village, a shopping area packed with chic boutiques and smart restaurants.

There’s also a very pleasant deer park and a rose garden, but of most interest to visitors, apart from the upmarket drinking and shopping possibilities, are the ruins of a fourteenth-century reservoir at the western end of the village.

Sultan Ala-ud-din Khalji had the reservoir (or “tank”) built in 1304 to supply water to his citadel at Siri, Delhi’s “second city”, and it became known as Hauz-iAlai. Half a century later, it was expanded by Firoz Shah, who added a two-storey seminary and a mosque at its northern end.

Among the anonymous tombs scattered throughout the area is that of Firoz Shah himself, directly overlooking the southern corner of the tank. Its high walls, lofty dome, and doorway spanned by a lintel with a stone railing outside are fine examples of Hindu Indian traditions effectively blended with Islamic architecture.

#7 See the ruins of Delhi’s first incarnation at Qutb Minar Complex

Above the foundations of Lal Kot, the “first city of Delhi '' founded in the eleventh century by the Tomar Rajputs, stand the first monuments of Muslim India, known as the Qutb Minar Complex, 13 km south of Connaught Place.

Pride of place goes to the fluted red-sandstone tower of the Qutb Minar itself, which has become one of Delhi’s most famous landmarks. Covered with intricate carvings and deeply inscribed verses from the Koran, the Qutb Minar tapers upwards from ruins to a height of just over 72m.

In times past it was considered one of the “Wonders of the East”, second only to the Taj Mahal, but historian John Keay was perhaps more representative of the modern eye when he claimed that the tower had “an unfortunate hint of the factory chimney and the brick kiln; a wisp of white smoke trailing from its summit would not seem out of place”.

Work on the Qutb Minar started in 1202; it was Qutb-ud-din Aibak’s victory tower, celebrating the advent of the Muslim dominance of Delhi (and much of the Subcontinent) that was to endure until 1857.

Qutub Minar tower in Old Delhi, India © Shutterstock

#8 Explore Parathe Wali Gali, the hugely atmospheric little alley

Teeming with people, this hugely atmospheric little Old Delhi alley features several small outlets making parathas to order – a cheap meal and a rich experience, all in one.

Not a restaurant, but an alleyway – super-crowded though it may be, don’t leave Delhi without eating here. Signed off Chandni Chowk, it’s famed for parathas filled with anything from paneer and gobi to mutter and mooli, all cooked to order and served with a small selection of curries for ₹60–70.

There are several basic, generations-old paratha-walas in the alley; Pandit Gaya Prasad at #34 has the best selection of fillings, including bitter gourd, cashew and even lemon.

#9 Browse the shops of Chatta Chowk

The main entrance to the fort from Lahori Gate opens onto Chatta Chowk, a covered street flanked with arched cells that used to house Delhi’s most talented jewellers, carpet-makers, goldsmiths and silk-weavers, but is now given over to souvenir-sellers.

At the end, a path to the left leads to the Museum of the Struggle for Independence, depicting resistance to British rule. Diwan-i-Am The Naubhat Khana (“Musicians’ Gallery”) marked the entrance into the royal quarters. Beyond it, a path leads ahead through wide lawns to the Diwan-i-Am, or “Hall of Public Audience”, where the emperor used to meet commoners and hold court.

In those days it was strewn with silk carpets and partitioned with hanging tapestries. Its centrepiece is a marble dais on which sat the emperor’s throne, backed by twelve panels inlaid with precious stones, mostly depicting birds and flowers. The most famous of them, in the middle at the top (and not easy to see), shows the mythological Greek Orpheus with his lute. The panels were made by a Florentine jeweller and imported from Italy, but the surrounding inlay work was done locally.

#10 See where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated at Raj Ghat

When Shah Jahan established his city in 1638, its eastern edges bordered the Yamuna River, and a line of ghats – steps leading to the water – were installed along the riverbanks. Ghats have been used in India for centuries, for mundane things like washing clothes and bathing, but also for worship and funeral cremation.

Raj Ghat, east of Delhi Gate – really more a park than a ghat, since the river is now some way to the east – is the place where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated, on the day after his assassination in 1948.

The Mahatma’s samadhi (cremation memorial), a low black plinth inscribed with his reputed last words – “Hai Ram”, meaning “Oh God” – receives a steady stream of visitors, and he is remembered through prayers here every Friday evening at 5pm, and on the anniversaries of his birth and death (Oct 2 & Jan 30).

North of Raj Ghat, within the same park, memorials also mark the places where Jawaharlal Nehru (at Shanti Vana), his daughter Indira Gandhi (at Shakti Sthal), and his grandson Rajiv Gandhi (at Vir Bhumi) were cremated.

Raj Ghat - memorial to Mahatma Gandhi © Shutterstock

#11 Find out more about the Indian hero Gandhi at the National Gandhi Museum

The National Gandhi Museum houses some of the Mahatma’s writings, as well as hundreds of photographs from his life and funeral, some of his old spinning wheels and leather sandals, and the blood-stained dhoti he was wearing when he was assassinated, together with one of the three bullets that killed him.

At the top of the staircase you’ll see four old telephones, and through their receivers you’ll hear Gandhi’s voice, which is quite entertaining in its own way. A half-hour film biography is shown alternatively in Hindi and English, and at weekends a longer film on Gandhi’s political and personal life.

Delhi has a vast range of accommodation, from dirt-cheap lodges to extravagant international hotels. It’s easy to book rooms online , even for cheaper places. Independent budget travellers are advised to book at least the first night in advance, since hauling a backpack from place to place around Paharganj is not only stressful but will see you treated as a target by touts.

Rough Guides tip: make sure to read about the best areas to stay in Delhi

Old Delhi and Paharganj

Chandni Chowk and Paharganj combine to create the hectic and historic heart of Old Delhi. Inside the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk are plenty of budget guesthouses and cheap digs as well as the odd boutique hotel.

Connaught Place

Located in New Delhi, Connaught Place is a bustling commercial and shopping district that exudes colonial charm. Its circular layout, elegant colonnades, and iconic white buildings make it a popular choice for visitors. From luxury hotels to budget accommodations, Connaught Place offers a range of options but you do tend to pay a premium to stay here.

South Delhi

The pleasant residential neighbourhoods of South Delhi can be a good alternative to Connaught Place and Old Delhi. Most places to stay are mid-range or luxury, but there are some boutique hotels, guesthouses, and serviced apartments for a comfortable stay. peaceful lodgings in pleasant, upmarket, residential neighbourhoods. There are one or two hostels, but most accommodation is midrange and top-end.

Situated near the Delhi airport, Aerocity is a modern and convenient district that caters to business travellers and those with layovers. It offers a range of luxury hotels and business-friendly accommodations. Good for early morning flights.

Browse the best hotels in Delhi.

Most restaurants close around 11pm, but those with bars usually stay open until midnight. If you’re looking for a late-night meal, you could eat in one of the restaurants in a top hotel.

With an ever-increasing number of pubs and clubs, Delhi’s nightlife scene is in full swing. During the week, lounge and dance bars are your best bet, but come the weekend the clubs really take off.

India Gate and Rajpath attract nightly "people’s parties" where large crowds mill about, snacking and eating ice cream; these are not advisable for women on their own, as you’re likely to get hassled.

Old Delhi is a culinary paradise, with its narrow streets adorned with snack stalls and small eateries. It is renowned for its street food culture, offering a variety of delectable options.

Additionally, it is home to some of the city's best Muslim cuisine, including the famous Karim's restaurant. Paharganj, located in Old Delhi, serves as the primary hub for backpackers and features no-frills restaurants that serve a diverse range of global cuisines, from pizza to burgers.

New Delhi offers an extensive range of dining options that cater to various budgets. For affordable eateries, Connaught Place is dotted with street food joints and cafes that provide a nostalgic experience, such as Indian Coffee House and Coffee Home.

Moving further south, in the government bungalow area surrounding Rajpath, visitors can find excellent-value state bhavans that open their staff canteens to hungry guests. Connaught Place is also home to numerous exceptional midrange restaurants, perfect for a dining break during shopping sprees.

South Delhi hides some hidden culinary gems, with fantastic independent restaurants and cafes nestled in the southern suburbs of Hauz Khas and Shahpur Jat Village. The upscale shopping areas of Greater Kailash, such as M-Block and Kailash Colony Market, also feature excellent eateries.

It's worth exploring the food halls as well, as some of the metro-station complexes house popular ones, including the Epicuria food hall at Nehru Place metro station.

Rajpath in Delhi © Shutterstock

Even with the addition of a very decent metro system, public transport in Delhi is still inadequate for the city’s population and size, and increased car ownership is adding to the general chaos. Cows have been banned from much of central Delhi, but not the more traditional districts.

Delhi’s metro system is still expanding, with eight colour-coded lines so far – the choice of colours is curious to say the least, and it’s easy to get confused between the Violet, Pink and Magenta lines (stay confusing, Delhi!).

With auto- and cycle rickshaws so cheap and plentiful, few tourists use Delhi’s crowded buses, but they do prove useful from time to time, and some are even a/c.

By auto-rickshaw

Auto-rickshaws are often the most effective form of transport around Delhi. South of Connaught Place, where Janpath begins, as well as at stations and bus terminals, there are prepaid auto-rickshaw kiosks, charging certified official fares.

Otherwise you’ll need to negotiate a price before getting in; prices for foreigners vary according to your haggling skills.

By cycle rickshaw

Cycle rickshaws are not allowed in Connaught Place and parts of New Delhi, but are handy for short journeys to outlying areas and around Paharganj.

At the northwestern end of the Gangetic Plain, with the Himalayas to the north and the Thar Desert to its west, Delhi can get very hot in summer (April through June) and surprisingly cold in winter (December and January), when heavy fog can disrupt train timetables quite severely.

July to September is the wet season, making February, March, October and November the best times to visit Delhi, climate-wise.

Find out more about the best time to visit India .

Meena Bazaar in the Red Fort in New Delhi, India. Mukarmat Khan built this first covered bazaar in the 17th century © Shutterstock

Delhi is a city with a rich history, diverse culture, and numerous attractions, so ideally, spending at least 2-3 days would allow you to explore and experience the essence of the city. Some will fly in a move on just as quickly, but it's worth trying to get at least four days out of the city.

Within this timeframe, you can visit popular landmarks such as the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar, and India Gate. You can also explore the bustling markets of Old Delhi, indulge in the street food scene, and visit museums like the National Museum and the Gandhi Smriti.

Additionally, if you have an interest in spirituality, you may want to visit temples such as the Akshardham Temple or the Lotus Temple. But in truth, you could spend weeks here and still only scratch the surface.

Delhi’s international airport is India’s main point of arrival for overseas visitors, and the city also functions as north India’s major transport hub, with four long-distance railway stations and three intercity bus terminals.

Scores of travel agents sell bus and train tickets, while many hotels – budget or otherwise – will book them for you too. There’s an ever-expanding network of internal flights, but it’s still best to book these (for price reasons) and train tickets (for reasons of capacity) as far ahead as possible; at peak times such as Diwali, demand is very high.

Indira Gandhi International Airport 20 km southwest of the centre, IGI currently has three separate terminals (another three are planned). T1 and T2 are domestic terminals, while T3 is the main hub for international flights, plus Air India and Vistara domestic services.

By metro The quickest and easiest option is the Airport Express Link metro line, which takes travellers between the airport (T2 & T3) and New Delhi railway station or Shivaji Stadium (for Connaught Place). railway station (the opposite side to Paharganj). T1 is on the Magenta Line, which is useful for South Delhi; for the centre you can change to the Yellow Line at Hauz Khas. T1 is also connected by shuttle bus to Aerocity station on the Airport Express line.

Taking a taxi is particularly advisable if you leave or arrive late at night. There are official prepaid taxi kiosks.

Delhi can be a headache for the first-time visitor because of scams to entrap the unwary – even down to dumping dung onto visitors’ shoes and, then charging them to clean it off. The most common wheeze, though, is for taxi drivers or touts to convince you that the hotel you’ve chosen is full, closed or has just burned to the ground so as to take you to one that pays them a commission.

They may even pretend to phone your hotel to check, or will take you to a travel agent (often claiming to be a “tourist office”) who will do it, dialling for you (a different number); the “receptionist” on the line will corroborate the story, or deny all knowledge of your reservation.

The driver or tout will then take you to a “very good hotel” – usually in Karol Bagh – where you’ll be charged well over the odds for a night’s accommodation. To reduce the risk of being caught out, write down your taxi’s registration number (make sure the driver sees you doing it), insist on going to your hotel with no stops en route, and don’t hand over your payment slip until you’ve reached your destination.

Heading for Paharganj, your driver may try to take you to a hotel of his choice rather than yours. To avoid this, you could ask to be dropped at New Delhi railway station and walk from there. You may even encounter fake “doormen” outside hotels who’ll tell you the place is full; check at reception first, and even if the claim is true, never follow the tout to anywhere they recommend.

These problems can be avoided by reserving in advance; many hotels will arrange for a car and driver to meet you at your point of arrival.

Railway station trouble

New Delhi railway station is the worst place for touts; assume that anyone who approaches you here – even in uniform – with offers of help, or to direct you to the foreigners’ booking hall, is up to no good. Most are trying to lure travellers to the fake “official” tourist offices opposite the Paharganj entrance, where you’ll end up paying way over the odds, often for unconfirmed tickets. And don’t believe stories that the foreigners’ booking hall has closed.

On Connaught Place and along Janpath, steer clear of phoney “tourist information offices” (which touts may try to divert you to – a typical CP tout chat-up line is to inform you which block you are on, so be suspicious of anyone who comes up and tells you that unasked), and never do business with any travel agency that tries to disguise itself as a tourist information office.

Finally, be aware that taxi, auto and rental-car drivers get a hefty commission for taking you to certain shops, which will be added to your bill should you buy anything. You can assume that auto-wallahs who accost you on the street do so with the intention of overcharging you, or of taking you to shops which pay them commission rather than straight to where you want to go.

Always hail a taxi or auto-rickshaw yourself, rather than taking one whose driver approaches you, and don’t let them take you to places where you haven’t asked to go.

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Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Delhi & Places to Go in Each Month

The best times to visit Delhi are from October to March when the weather is cool and dry. It is also the peak season for India travel. Crowds and higher prices are usual.

April to June is the hot season in Delhi. Monsoon rains occur from late June to September. It is still possible to tour Delhi in these months, but get ready for the heat or (heavy) showers. Lower prices and less-crowded attractions are rewards.

Best Times to Visit Delhi for Weather, Festivals, and Prices

The worst times to visit delhi, weather in delhi.

• Travel Guide by Month

As mentioned above the most popular times to visit Delhi are from October to March. However, this can depend on your Delhi holiday purposes, budget, and weather preferences.

• For the perfect weather conditions, March, October, and November are the best times to travel to Delhi — rainless, clear, and warm. It is also the best time for a honeymoon in India for good weather, good vibes, and nice views.
• Festivals are the highlights of Indian life. If you want to experience Delhi's festival atmosphere, you should consider traveling during Holi (usually in March) or Diwali (in late October or November), which are the two grandest festivals in Delhi and also in India.
• April to June (the hot season) is the best time for low prices in general, when you should find the biggest discounts and more promotions on accommodation, flights, and tours.

Get more tips in our article: How to Plan a Perfect Delhi Itinerary in 2024 (First Timers' Guide)

Or t ell us your interests , and we'd be glad to work out the perfect timings and activities for you.

July and August see the heaviest rainfall. If you don't like the rain, you should avoid this period. If you cannot stand the scorching heat, you'd better avoid May and June.

However, some travelers choose to visit during these times, because there are fewer tourists and great discounts.

Visiting temples/forts are the main activities in Delhi. The effects of the rain/heat might be ameliorated by organizing your schedule wisely.

>>> Best (and Worst) Times to Visit India

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Delhi has three seasons: hot season from April to June, rainy season from July to September, and cool season from October to March.

See more on Delhi Weather — Delhi's Temperatures, Festivals, and Outdoor Activities

Delhi Travel Guide by Month

Click the sign of each month to check the travel guide information.

Delhi in January — Coolest

• Average low–high temperature: 8–20°C (47–68°F)
• Key festivals: New Year's Day, Lohri (a harvest festival)

Although Delhi is located in the tropics, Delhi's winter can be chilly (due to its continental location). Bring winter clothes especially in the evenings.

Although January can be a little cool, it is a good time to travel to Delhi compared with its scorching hot summer.

On New Year's Day, you can celebrate together with local people. They dress colorfully, sing, play games, dance, and attend parties.

January is good for outdoor sightseeing like visiting Delhi's Chandni Chowk Market and Qutub Minar complex. Temple visiting is also a good choice, like Gurudwara Bangla Sahib for Sikh culture and Laxminarayan Temple for Hindu culture.

Delhi in February — Sunny and Cool

• Average low–high temperature: 11–24°C (53–74°F)

It can still be a little chilly in February. But the sunny and clear weather is suitable for all kinds of activities like visiting historical sites, going to the parks, and taking part in special activities like an Indian cooking class .

With no holidays to boost numbers in this high season month, there is less crowding, so February is a good high-season time if you want to enjoy the weather and relatively quieter attractions.

Delhi in March — Nice Warm Weather

• Average low–high temperature: 17–29°C (62–85°F)
• Key Festivals: Holi (March 27, 2024), Ramadan (April 2 – May 1, 2024)

It is comfortable to travel in Delhi in March. The weather is great, and you can experience one of the grandest festivals in India — Holi . People seemingly have color flights in every street.

Traveling during Ramadan may cause some inconveniences, such as many restaurants and shops being closed. But you could have a different cultural experience.

Popular attractions such as the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Jama Masjid are also great to visit in March.

Delhi in April — Hot and Dry

• Average low–high temperature: 22–36°C (72–96°F)
• Key festival: Eid al-Fitr (May 2, 2024)

The temperature in April starts to rise rapidly. Visiting indoor buildings and water parks are a good way to avoid the heat, like Jama Masjid Mosque and Adventure Island.

Eid al-Fitr is one of the big festivals in India for Muslim. It falls on the day after the end of Ramadan.

Related read: Top Festivals of India in 2024/2025, A Full List Is Here!

Delhi in May — Hottest Month

• Average low–high temperature: 26–39°C (80–102°F)

May is the hottest month in Delhi. The scorching heat deters many tourists. You can enjoy quieter temples in May.

Remember to prepare sun protection for daytime sightseeing. Evening sightseeing could be a good option. The sunset view at the Red Fort and the night view of Indian Gate are beautiful in May.

Places with air-conditioners like museums and shopping malls are also good places to visit.

Delhi in June — Still Hot

• Average low–high temperature: 28–38°C (83–101°F)

The temperature in June is still hot. Try to arrange outdoor visits as early as possible.

The monsoon rain begins to fall in June, but usually not very much.

June afternoons are more suitable for indoor tours, like at India National Museum and Sulabh International Museum of Toilets.

A sunset visit could be also fantastic. Some temples hold religious rituals at dusk, like Laxmi Narayan Mandir.

Delhi in July — Rains Increase

• Average low–high temperature: 28–35°C (82–95°F)

In July, the monsoon brings high rainfall and the temperature drops (briefly). Compared with southern cities in India like Mumbai, Delhi gets less rain: 200 mm (8 inches) in Delhi vs 800 mm (30 inches) in Mumbai. >>> Delhi vs Mumbai: a Complete Travelers' City Comparison

Most sightseeing in Delhi involves visiting temples, tombs, or forts, which are less affected by rain. Taking a cooking class, visiting some interesting museums like Sulabh International Museum of Toilets, and going to the landmarks of Delhi like the Red Fort are still good options on rainy days.

Delhi in August — Rainiest

• Average low–high temperature: 27–33°C (81–92°F)

August is the rainiest month in Delhi. Delhi's rainy season is characterized by short thunderstorms several times a day.

You will meet less crowding if you travel in the monsoon months as India's summer vacation ends earlier than many other northern hemisphere countries' (usually mid-April to mid-June). You will also find many promotions from hotels and airlines.

Like in July, it is still good to visit the popular (indoor) attractions like Humayun's Tomb and Jama Masjid. Our consultant and guide will also plan and adjust on the day to find the best itinerary for you to cope with the changing weather. We'll make sure you have the best possible travel experience.

>>> Monsoon Season in India: When It Is, 5 Best Places to Go

Delhi in September — Rainy Season Ends

• Average low–high temperature: 25–33°C (77–92°F)

The rain eases up in September. Late September could be an ideal time to travel, when the rainy season is (mostly) over, the temperature starts to cool, and it's not yet crowded.

All three of Delhi's World Heritage sites are great places to visit, the Red Fort, Humayun's Tomb, and Qutub Minar.

Delhi in October — Dry and Warm

• Average low–high temperature: 20–32°C (67–89°F)

The cool and dry weather in Delhi in October is suitable for visiting all kinds of attractions.

If you are interested in Indian religions culture, you can visit Qutub Minar, Jama Masjid, and Lotus Temple. If you like Indian history, the Red Fort and Humayun's Tomb are good to visit. If you want to learn about Delhi's local life, Chandni Chowk Market or a home visit is a good idea.

See more on The 29 Ultimate Things to Do in Delhi

Delhi in November — Nice Weather

• Average low–high temperature: 13–27°C (56–81°F)
• Key festival: Diwali (in late October or early November)

November is the peak season, not only because of the cool weather, but also due to India's most important festival — Diwali (Festival of Light). It is the best time to experience an Indian festival and learn about Indian culture. As many fireworks are set off during Diwali, hazy weather may occur in the days following Diwali.

Besides the festival events, any sightseeing is very pleasant in the mild/warm and dry weather: historical sites, local markets, food hunting, gardens, amusement parks, and more.

Delhi in December — Cool

• Average low–high temperature: 9–22°C (48–71°F)
• Key festivals: Christmas Day, New Year's Eve

Delhi has a big day/night temperature difference in winter. It can get a little cold at night. Bring some warm clothes when traveling in December. December is also one of the peak months in Delhi. Some Westerners go to India for their Christmas holidays.

Christmas is celebrated locally and traditionally in Delhi as there are some Christian churches there. December is also a good time for shopping. There are big discounts in many shopping malls around Christmas.

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Tales of Djinns: The alleged haunting of Feroz Shah Kotla Fort in Delhi

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL TRENDS , DELHI / Created : Apr 7, 2024, 17:55 IST

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Despite its illustrious history, Feroz Shah Kotla Fort is often overshadowed by stories of paranormal encounters and inexplicable phenomena. One of the most famous tales revolves around the presence of djinns, supernatural beings … Read more

Despite its illustrious history, Feroz Shah Kotla Fort is often overshadowed by stories of paranormal encounters and inexplicable phenomena. One of the most famous tales revolves around the presence of djinns, supernatural beings in Islamic mythology. It is said that the djinns inhabit the dark corners and hidden passages of the fort, occasionally making their presence known to unsuspecting visitors. Read less

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Despite its illustrious history, Feroz Shah Kotla Fort is often overshadowed by stories of paranormal encounters and inexplicable phenomena. One of the most famous tales revolves around the presence o...