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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!

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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.

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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.

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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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Fotografie Daniel Osterkamp / Stocksy United

Steeped in history yet overflowing with modern life, colorful, cacophonous Delhi pulsates with the relentless rhythms of humanity like few other cities on Earth.

Best Things to Do

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

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Jama Masjid

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Qutb Minar Complex

If you only have time to visit one of Delhi's ancient ruins, make it this. The first monuments here were erected by the sultans of Mehrauli, and…

Purana Qila

Shh, whisper it quietly: this place is better than the Red Fort. Delhi's 'Old Fort' isn't as magnificent in size and grandeur, but it's far more pleasant…

Tughlaqabad

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Spice Market

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Lodi Garden

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Although overshadowed by its famous neighbour, Karim's, Al-Jawahar is also fantastic, serving up tasty Mughlai cuisine at Formica tables in an orderly…

National Gallery of Modern Art

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Khan Market

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Yum Yum Cha

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South Delhi

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Popular, film-poster-lined cafe at Khan Market, packed with chattering Delhiites. The menu is a telephone directory of Continental and Indian dishes (₹290…

Right beside INA metro station, this popular, but somewhat stage-managed, open-air food-and-crafts market is a cavalcade of colour and sells regional…

Rashtrapati Bhavan

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Connaught Place

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Ho-Ho Bus Tours

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Indian Accent

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Hotel Saravana Bhavan

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National Museum

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Delhi and beyond

How to Spend Three Perfect Days in Delhi: An In-Depth Itinerary

A lot of people despise Delhi.

Let’s face it: this city doesn’t have the best of reputations.

Delhi is polluted, congested, dirty, smelly, loud, and scams are rampant. The air is toxic to breathe, there’s non-stop hassle to deal with, and the sheer number of people can leave you feeling overwhelmed. It’s maddening at times. 

Am I selling this city to you yet?

Because there’s just as much to love about it. In fact, Delhi is one of my favourite cities on the planet, and I fell for it from the moment I stepped foot on its busy streets.

You’ve got its fantastic food scene, the lush parks, the incredible architecture, the blend of cultures, the city’s long and fascinating history, and the fact that it’s unlike anywhere else on earth. And there’s so much beauty in amongst the challenges.

Plenty of first-time visitors to India’s capital hear about Delhi’s reputation and decide to duck in and out of the city as quickly as possible. 

I think they’re making a big mistake by doing so.

Even if it’s your first time in India and you’re feeling intimidated, don’t skip over Delhi . This city has so much to offer its visitors, and I’d suggest allocating at least three days to exploring.

Today’s post is going to be an itinerary for how to spend three days in Delhi, a list of the best places to see in Delhi, a photo essay, and a love letter to this frenetic yet wonderful city. 

Let’s get started.

How Many Days Should You Spend in Delhi?

Three days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Delhi.

Well, there are three main areas in the city.

You’ve got crumbling, chaotic Old Delhi, once the magnificent walled city of Shahjahanabad in the 17th century. This area is all about the culture shock, with so many sights and sounds and smells to absorb at once.

There’s New Delhi, which was created by the British when they decided to build a new capital in India — this part is all about the gleaming buildings, government structures, and a sense of a little more order.

And to the south, you’ll find South Delhi — an upmarket residential neighbourhood that’s calmer, quieter, and leafier than the rest of the city.

All three areas have so much to offer up to visitors.

It therefore makes sense to devote at least one day to each of these three distinct areas. I recommend spending your first day in town wandering through Old Delhi, your second day marvelling at New Delhi, and your third day unwinding in South Delhi. 

It’s going to make for the perfect introduction to the city. 

Day One: The Best Time to Explore Old Delhi!

When you picture the commotion and cacophony of Delhi, you’re most likely thinking of Old Delhi.

I recommend spending a full day in this area, allowing your senses to be attacked as you dodge rickshaws and motorbikes and thousands of people, avoiding cows and goats and dogs as you wander down narrow alleyways, smelling incense and street food and, um, things that are a little less pleasant. 

There’s nowhere on earth quite like Old Delhi.  

Start your day, though, by heading to the Red Fort when it opens. Without the crowds of tourists, it’ll bring about a peaceful start to a day that’s likely to be anything but.   

Built from sandstone in the 1600s and originally used as a residence for Mughal emperors, the inner structures have since been plundered and destroyed, yet it’s still worth visiting.

Despite being right in the heart of Delhi, it’s surprisingly calming to wander through this large area of green space, and it makes for a tranquil introduction to the city’s architecture. 

Jama Masjid is just a 15-minute walk away from the Red Fort, so it’s the next logical stop on a tour of Old Delhi. 

This mosque is one of the largest in Delhi, able to hold a whopping 25,000 people at a time, and is one of the most impressive structures in the city.

One highlight is climbing to the top of one of the minarets for a wonderful view over Old Delhi. It’s so worth doing, even though the staircase is cramped, dark, and daunting to walk up/down.

Watch out for scammers here! There’s plenty of people looking to take advantage of tourists in this area. You’ll have to pay to hire robes, no matter how covered up you are, pay for a camera permit, and somebody will undoubtedly take your shoes off you and ask for a tip for keeping them safe when you return. 

Venture next to Raj Ghat, a memorial to Gandhi that’s worth visiting, despite looking understated compared to everything you’ll have seen so far. Of course, its simplicity is the point. 

Raj Ghat is a 30-minute walk from Jama Masjid, but the walk itself isn’t particularly exciting, so feel free to grab a rickshaw or an Uber to get there.

The memorial comprises a small black marble platform with an eternal flame at one end, marking the exact spot where Gandhi’s body was cremated.

Around the memorial, there’s plenty of manicured green space that’s filled with people picnicking and relaxing, and it’s a calming area for meditating, paying your respects, and taking a break from the chaos. 

And believe me, you’re going to want to take that break because your next stop is going to be Chandni Chowk. 

You’ve never been anywhere like Chandni Chowk.

This unbelievable district and market is the heart of Old Delhi and it’s unlike anywhere you’ll have ever been before. The chaos! The traffic! The confusion! The smells! The sounds! 

I couldn’t get enough of it. 

Most of the time, you’ll have no idea where to even walk, as there’s zero opportunity to just stand and soak it all in. Instead, everybody will be swarming around you, moving, moving, moving, and sounding their horns to get you moving, too.

There was always something fascinating to see, as the video below illustrates.

As you walk the alleys of Old Delhi, you’ll be overcome by an odd, dizzying sensation, where you feel as though you don’t belong and you have no idea what’s happening. You’ll wonder if you’ve stepped foot on another planet.

If you’re anything like me, it’s going to make you feel so alive. 

Yes, this is somewhere that’s certain to leave you feeling overwhelmed, but it’s somewhere you have to see. It’s somewhere where you’ll want to have your camera to hand, knowing that there’s so much going on but that it’s impossible to capture it in a single frame. 

Still, you’ll have fun trying. 

One of best ways to learn more about Delhi’s food scene is to jump on a street food tour . I recommend the offering from UrbanAdventures .

Diving mouthfirst into a city’s food scene is the best way to get to know a place, and in India, I quickly found I was clueless.

As I’d wandered the streets of Old Delhi earlier that afternoon, I’d quickly realised I had no idea what any of the dishes were. I didn’t recognise a thing! 

That was intimidating.

With fears of Delhi Belly reverberating through my head, I’d been too nervous to go anywhere near the street food through worry that I’d get sick.

When you couple that with not even being able to identify the dishes that were for sale, I was mostly skirting past the stalls with a nervous expression on my face.

That was exactly why I recommend jumping on this tour.

Guided by a charismatic university student who has lived in Delhi her entire life, she’s the perfect person to introduce you to the Delhi food scene. This guide lives for food and she raves over getting to be a street food tour guide and how much she enjoyed eating 10 items a night.

On the tour, you’ll get to sample Indian-style shawarma,  golgappas  (my favourite!), and  bhelpuri . Next, comes the  pao bhajji  and  kulfi-falooda,  and you’ll rounded off our tour with  gulab jamun  (another favourite!) and  jalebi .

In short, this is a phenomenal activity for your first day in the city. You’ll get to explore the markets and stalls with a local, build up your confidence when it comes to eating on the streets, and — of course — sample some of the best food of your life. I’d honestly take this exact tour again because I want to re-eat all of the delicious snacks!

Day Two: It’s All About New Delhi

Hopefully, exploring Old Delhi left you feeling enthralled, but it’s heading to New Delhi that will have you falling for this city. My second day in town was my favourite — I loved everything I saw on this day. 

Up first: Agrasen ki Baoli.

If you’re planning for an extended trip of India, you’ll likely end up coming across stepwells every now and then. They’re exactly what they sound like — wells with steps leading all the way to the bottom, so that you can collect water no matter how far down it is. These days, most of them go unused, and they make for very Instagrammable scenes. Agrasen ki Baoli is right in the centre of Delhi and is supposedly one of the most haunted spots in the city. 

This is a place to grab a few seconds of respite — it’s a spot where locals come to chill out with their friends and chat, and it’s a good destination to spend twenty minutes taking photos and enjoying the ambience. 

Next, head on over to India Gate — it’s a 25-minute walk from the stepwell.

Prepare yourself in advance for a huge number of crowds and selfie-requests here, but it’s totally worth the crush to see such a majestic structure with your own eyes.

India Gate is a war memorial, dedicated to the 70,000 soldiers in the British Indian Army who died fighting in the First World War. It’s full of tourists, schoolkids, and families having picnics, as well as tons of street vendors, but it’s an impressive structure nonetheless. 

You’re going to want to grab an Uber to take you to the next stop, and you should spend the drive preparing yourself to be wowed.

Humayun’s Tomb will likely be one of your biggest highlights of New Delhi. I know it was for me. If you have time to see just one thing in this city, it should be this.

The red sandstone tomb was built in 1570 and was actually the inspiration behind the Taj Mahal. It’s such a large complex that you could easily spend several hours there, depending on how keen you are to linger and soak up the atmosphere.

Within walking distance, you’ll find Safdarjung Tomb, a sandstone and marble mausoleum that was constructed in the 1700s. It has a similar vibe to the complex surrounding Humayun’s Tomb, but attracts far fewer people. It’s really worth visiting.

Lodhi Garden is a 10-minute walk away, and don’t you dare think about skipping it.

For a city park, it’s so impressive. I mean, just look at all of those structures! I’ve never seen a park have so many cool buildings dropped right in the middle of it.

By the time you reach the Lodhi Garden, the sun will be setting, which will make the experience all the more magical. You could easily spend a couple of hours walking around the old historic monuments, watching families play cricket, fly kites, and picnic on the grass. 

Now, when you think of great street art, Delhi probably isn’t one of the cities that first comes to mind, but there’s plenty of excellent examples if you know where to look.

I suggest rounding off your day in New Delhi with a stroll through nearby Lodhi Colony: an area of the city that’s been turned into a public art district. There are dozens of enormous colourful murals blanketing the buildings around here, and they’re so much fun to hunt down. 

This area isn’t often visited by tourists, as it’s not very well-known, but it’s more than worth visiting.

Day Three: Explore South Delhi

Round off your time in the city with a relaxing day in South Delhi. It’s undoubtedly been an action-packed trip to the city so far, so if you’re craving a more low-key day, South Delhi is the neighbourhood for you!

This area of Delhi is a chilled-out, green, and peaceful neighbourhood, with little hassle or noise to contend with. It’s a great spot to simply head out for a walk, wander around one of the parks, people-watch on the streets, and check out one of the local cafes. 

There’s also some pretty cool attractions to check out. 

Kick off your explorations of this neighbourhood with an amble around the Lotus Temple, a Sydney Opera House-esque Baháʼí Place of Worship that’s open to anyone, regardless of their religious beliefs. There are just seven Bahai temples found in the world, and the white marble Lotus Temple is the only one in Asia. It’s a soothing spot, with nine turquoise pools and lush gardens to wander around. 

Next, take an Uber over to Qutub Minar. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this towering minaret reaches a height of 73 metres and is surrounded by so many interesting ruins and structures.

Don’t skip this attraction! It’s far away from everywhere else in the city, but so worth venturing over to see it.

In the afternoon, if you’re not yet exhausted, head to the PVR Directors Cut cinema to watch a Bollywood movie. This is a luxury cinema in South Delhi, with comfortable chairs that recline, blankets, pillows, air purifiers, and waiters to bring meals to your seat.    

Where to Stay in Delhi

Delhi is a sprawling city and there are so many options for where to stay.

I recommend opting for accommodation in South Delhi. As I’ve mentioned a couple of times already, it’s the calmer, cleaner area of the city, and you’ll be staying in a leafy suburb with less noise and a safer vibe. 

I stayed in  this incredible guesthouse , which absolutely made my stay in Delhi so much better. The welcoming owner did so much for us, from showing us around the local night market to driving us to tourist attractions, introducing us to his favourite breakfast spot, and even making a dozen phone calls when my SIM card wouldn’t activate. It’s one of the best guesthouses I’ve ever stayed in.

How to Get Around Delhi

It’s so easy and so inexpensive. 

You’ll likely arrive in the city just before sunrise, as that’s when most international flights seem to land, so you might be put off by tackling the public transport system. Don’t be! 

I took the metro from Delhi Airport to our guesthouse in South Delhi and it couldn’t have been easier. In the early morning, it’s clean, quiet, calm, and uncrowded. There’s even a women’s-only carriage on all of the trains for all of my solo women out there. 

For getting around the city, I recommend using a mix of Uber and rickshaws. Both are so easy to use and everywhere, so you’ll never have to wait long. I recommend always checking the price on Uber first, so that you have a maximum price for your journey with which to negotiate with the rickshaw drivers. It’s super-inexpensive! I paid just $7 for an hour-long Uber ride across Delhi. When it’s that affordable, there’s no reason not to use it. 

When’s the Best Time to Visit Delhi?

For the majority of my India posts, you’re going to notice that I recommend visiting in winter, but for Delhi, I think early-or-late-winter would be the best time to visit. 

At this time of year, you’re going to avoid the dense fog that rolls in every morning, there won’t be as much smog and pollution in the air, and the temperatures will still be manageable. I’d aim for October/November or February/March. Definitely avoid visiting immediately after Diwali, when the air pollution is always horrendous.

I’d also recommend double-checking when all of the attractions are open. The Lotus Temple is closed, for example, every Monday.

What About Delhi Belly, Tho?

Delhi Belly: my biggest fear. I was absolutely  convinced  I would get food poisoning in India, because doesn’t it happen to everyone?

And yet, it didn’t. Despite eating pretty much anywhere that was serving up delicious-looking food, neither I nor my boyfriend suffered from food poisoning. I believe three things helped keep us safe:

Going vegetarian!  Most of the locals in India are vegetarian — the country has the lowest amount of meat consumption in the world — so we switched over to a meat-free lifestyle, too. Note that I didn’t say plant-based, because you’re also going to want to avoid most fruits and vegetables while you’re in the country, too — especially if they’re uncooked or peeled. 

Hand sanitiser!  Much of what gets written off as food poisoning in India is general contamination from touching surfaces with bacteria on it, and then not washing your hands and touching your mouth. I used hand sanitiser on an hourly basis and took extra care not to touch my face. I also used the hand sanitiser to sterilise any utensils at restaurants, as they could have been washed with dirty tap water.

Pudin Hara!  I’m a total convert to  Pudin Hara  — peppermint oil capsules from India — and take them every time my stomach feels a little unsettled. You can buy them from any pharmacy when you get to India, but you can also pick them up  from Amazon . I took like, a hundred tablets with me, as I took a capsule with every single meal. I fully plan on keeping a large supply of these with me whenever I travel, as they were so life-changingly great at settling my stomach. An added bonus was the deliciously minty burps that overpowered the scent of curry that was emanating from my body. 

And that was Delhi!

I hope my passion for this city came across in this article because I was simply spellbound by Delhi. 

I arrived full of apprehension, expecting to hate it, but left naming it one of my favourite cities in the world. 

I highly recommend giving it a chance.

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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40 comments.

I loved this post so much! I always enjoy your write-ups of different cities around the world, especially when they’re places I’ve always wanted to visit. Did you feel safe in Delhi as a woman btw? Did you get any harassment or anything?

Hey, thanks so much, Justine! I was surprised to feel really safe actually. I even rode in the mixed gender carriage on the metro because I just didn’t experience any harassment at all. There was no groping, no touching, no staring, no unexpected peen reveals, haha. There was harassment from touts and scammers and tuktuk drivers, but nothing that was directed at me solely because I was a woman. Of course I made sure to cover up in order to not draw attention to myself, so that may have helped. But overall, I felt very safe! Would happily spend weeks alone in Delhi, just wandering around.

I confess I’m one of those people who skipped Delhi to go elsewhere, but you’re convincing me I should give it a shot next time. The photos of all of the architecture are so beautiful. Definitely worth a little bit of hassle in order to see it I think.

I absolutely agree. I very nearly skipped Delhi, but I’m so glad I didn’t. Hopefully you’ll get to see it if you return to India :-)

Well I’m sold! Looks absolutely incredible Lauren! I’ve always pictured Delhi as being busy and dirty and stressful, so I had no idea that it had so many beautiful buildings. I’d love to see them for myself one day x

Yes! I was exactly the same. It really is worth pushing through all the hassle to get to see so many of its gems. And, well, I found the hassle to be pretty fun to experience :-)

Lovely post! I haven’t been to India yet, but Delhi sounds like somewhere I’d like to visit, just for a few days as you recommend! It looks amazing.

Yay! I’m so happy to hear that! I hope you do get to visit at some point :-)

Great explanation of your time in Delhi. It reminded me of all the wonderful food we ate while we were there. I never thought I would want to go back, but perhaps your article has inspired me to think about it. Thanks!

Yesss! The food! Well, the food is excellent everywhere in India, but I especially loved it in Delhi.

Beautiful pics indeed. I’m from India and I agree that Delhi is really a mesmerizing place. You just can’t get enough of Delhi. Not only is it historically important but also it holds a lot of architectural wonders.

Yes, exactly! I knew all about the chaos and the pollution before I arrived, but had no idea how architecturally impressive the city would be!

Amazing post! I didn’t think anything or anyone could make me want to visit New Delhi, but here we are! This looks absolutely amazing.

Delhi doesn’t appeal at all, even though you made a convincing case for it. I’d love to see all the buildings but don’t think I could handle the noise and pollution. I think I’d be desperate to leave!

This looks like such a fun three days and the perfect introduction to Delhi. Do you have any more restaurant recommendations for the city to share?

You sell Delhi well Lauren – one of the few people in the world who has successfully managed to make me want to visit. Would you consider spending as much as a week in the city? Maybe even a month? Would it be a good spot for digital nomads? Would love to hear your thoughts.

Great article with detailed research. This is really a great cultural city full of beautiful monuments, You should also visit Akshardham one of the biggest temples in the world.

Really been enjoying your India articles, Lauren. Are you planning on returning to explore some more regions of the country soon?

Any suggestions for how to spend an extra day in Delhi? I’ll have four days and I’m not sure how to fill the extra one in my itinerary. Your post has been very useful, though – thank you!

Great post. unlike the others here you convinced me *not* to travel to Delhi! It looks like too much and I prefer my vacations to be relaxing

THIS is why you’re my favorite travel blogger! You took a destination I had no interest in visiting, wrote a great article, and convinced me to add Delhi to my bucket list. I’m almost eager to embrace the madness of Chandni Chowk!

What a compliment! Thank you so much, Kenny!

Thanks for the great write up Lauren! Delhi has actually never really been on my list of destinations to visit, but now being an expat in Jakarta, I’ve learnt that the hustle and bustle is part of the charm of Asia and one gets used to it. I can only imagine how amazing the food must’ve been. I think 3 days would be enough for me though before I head for refuge in tranquility. Thanks again for the great insights!

Great post. Delhi is a truly awesome city and has so much to see and do. I love visiting India’s capital and one of my favourite spots is Humayan’s Tomb. It’s a great place to visit first thing in the morning.

Amazing blog. I am in Delhi for the past 2-3 months. I am stuck here due to corona. Now, when some things are open. I am looking to travel somewhere else. Well, Nice blog. Thanks for sharing this article :)

I gotta say Delhi was not even on my radar before I read this post, and now I am seriously intrigued. Your experience in Delhi is quite different from what my expectation of the city was. Would you say this is a good place for a family trip with children (around age 10 to 12)?

This phrase that you wrote resonated with me so much: That dizzying feeling when you feel as though you don’t belong and you have no idea what’s happening and you wonder if you’ve stepped foot on another planet?

I do love that feeling and I can only imagine how amazing it would feel to step foot in New Delhi. I can’t wait until we can start travelling again as India is high on my list of places to visit. Thanks for such an in-depth post!

Amazing! Very informative and detailed. India is my dream trip. I feel like it’s calling me but I’m yet to answer it. Hopefully I’ll manage to go once the situation relaxes a bit more. Thank you for this guide as it gave me lots of tips and insights

Lauren, what a post! I am speechless, totally speechless. I am trying to pull words out of my brain and begging them to make it to my fingertips quickly enough so that I don’t forget what I want to type. Let me just say again, it’s a bloody amazing post. I almost feel like I was there too. It’s hard for a post to accomplish that, yet, yours did. Lauren, all your photos and descriptions are mesmerising to say the least, Every word shouts from the screen at me as if saying: ‘Come, come here!’ You seriously inspired me. I have never been to India but now feel like I need to go, badly need to go. I am sorry to kill to the enthusiasm now with a purely practical question, or actually two questions but I really would like to know: 1 What vaccination did you need/have done before travelling? and 2 Did you travel on your own? If so, how did that feel? I have been following you blog for quite some time. Being a travel blogger myself (though just a complete newbie) I absolutely admire and respect your ability to draw the reader into your story and this Delhi post particularly is an exceptionally amazing piece. I will probably go back to it again and again, just to soak up the atmosphere and possibly mentally prepare for that journey myself. Thanks a lot Lauren. Can’t wait for more. And quite honestly, I believe you could have broken it into more posts. I mean Shartaram is a 1000-page book, isn’t it? I certainly wouldn’t get bored if your posts were like this one.

Oh Lauren and one more thing, I am soooo sharing this post. Can’t wait for your next one. Love, Sonia

Fantastic post, Lauren, you have put a great summary of things to do in Delhi!

I have been to Delhi several times and want to go again! Nothing is more rewarding to me than going to the food street near Jama Masjid and try different kind of foods. The Kebab of Kareems or chicken fries of Haji Mohd. Hussain are just heavenly!

Thank you for the post! I’m inspired to visit India the next time around – it’s definitely on my bucket list. I just wished it were dog-friendly since I love traveling with my dog. :(

So happy to know that you loved Delhi. I have been living on and off, in and around Delhi for almost a decade and I just love this city. I am glad that you enjoyed the desserts and street foods as well.

Delhi is exceptional! Thank you for sharing these moments with us

Of course! It’s such a fantastic city :-)

This is awesome! I’m excited to try those street foods out there. That place has a lot of historic events, great views, scenery, and of course watching your video makes me comfortable now to go there since people are so nice. Thank you for sharing this awesome article.

Hi, I love your article. I am from Delhi, and to be honest after reading your post feeling too happy. You have provided a virtual tour of Delhi. Amazing. Keep wandering and keep rocking.

Hi Lauren! Thanks for sharing your experience! I have a quick question. The link for the street food tour doesn’t work. Do you have the contact details of the person to take the tour? I couldn’t find anything similar to it on the internet, and I really want to take it! I’m travelling next week and so excited to live this experience. Thank you for your help!

Hi Natalia! Yes, I noticed that UrbanAdvertures doesn’t seem to be running that tour anymore, which makes me so sad! I hope they’ll bring it back one day. I had a look on GetYourGuide, and there are some similar tours, for example, this tour looks like a good approximation of the one we took, and it has excellent reviews!

I have followed and read about my country from perspectives of a lot of bloggers belonging from different countries and parts. It is funny to find out that our normal Pudhin Hara tablet plays a major HERO role in each of their India Itinerary.

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Meet Lauren Juliff

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!

Search Old Delhi tours here on Get Your Guide !

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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New Delhi Travel Guide: Expert Tips for Surviving India’s Capital City

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Before travelling to Delhi, finding the right travel guide to Delhi is crucial. This city, the heart of India, is always awake, has a mishmash of people, cultures and has so much to offer! It's easy to get overwhelmed on your first visit to Delhi. therefore, this Delhi travel guide will help you plan out your travel, step by step, covering every aspect of the city.

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Table of Contents

New Delhi Travel Guide: Expertly Navigating Through India’s Crazy Capital City!

I'd be lying if I said travelling to Delhi will be a piece of cake and that you won't encounter hurdles along the way - because you will. While India's chaotic capital city is endearing, it can be quite trying at times. The traffic, pollution, stares and the sheer stress of navigating through New Delhi can get on the nerves of even the most seasoned travellers. Therefore, I've put together this Delhi travel guide to take some of that stress off of you.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Why Should You Visit New Delhi?

When to visit delhi.

• How to Reach Delhi
• Arriving in Delhi

Getting Around Delhi

New delhi safety tips, general safety tips, safety tips for foreigners in delhi, safety tips for solo female travellers in delhi, what to wear in delhi, new delhi food guide, how to avoid delhi belly.

• What to Eat in Delhi
• Where to Eat in Delhi - Best Restaurants and Cafes

Where to Stay in Delhi

Best places to visit in delhi.

• Shopping to Visit in Delhi

Weekend Getaways from Delhi

Granted that Delhi is messy, chaotic and difficult (at times), the city does give a person many reasons to fall in love with it. With bucket-loads of history, historical monuments and architectural marvels, there's SO much to see in Delhi. Additionally, if you're a foodie, you'll have a gala in Delhi. With lip smacking street food and lots of regional specialities, Delhi is any gastronomer's paradise. For those with an artistic bend of mind, Delhi offers a whole art district, a National Gallery of Modern Art, and plenty of other galleries and museums.

• Spring (March-April) : These months bring a pleasant weather to Delhi with the temperature being neither too hot nor too cold. It's definitely a good time to visit Delhi.
• Summer (May-June) : The summer months in Delhi are the hottest time of the year with the heat getting overbearing.
• Monsoon (July-September) : The rainy months in Delhi bring add humidity to the already existing heat. It's best to avoid travelling to Delhi during the monsoon.
• Autumn (October-November) : This is the shoulder season for visiting New Delhi. This is the time of the year when the weather is perfect and the crowds aren't as bad as any other month. undoubtedly it's the best time of the year to visit Delhi.
• Winter (December-February) : Winters in Delhi can get really cold as compared to other parts of India. The winters also bring fog which delays flights and excessive air pollution. It's best to avoid a Delhi trip during winters.

How to Reach New Delhi

New Delhi, being the capital of India, is well-connected to other Indian cities as well as lots of international destinations. Here are some of the best ways to reach Delhi, described in detail below.

Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport is one of the finest airports in the world. Well designed, spacious, decorated tastefully and containing lots of amenities, Delhi airport is a sight in itself! There are lots of direct flights between Delhi and other Indian cities such as Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Goa, Srinagar, Dharamshala, Jaipur and many more cities. Furthermore, there are many flights between Delhi and international destinations.

Train travel in India is a popular and affordable option. Delhi has two major railway stations - Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station and New Delhi Railway Station . There are countless trains plying between Delhi and almost every other place in India. Book your train tickets by visiting the IRCTC  website or go to the reservation office at the nearest railway station to buy a train ticket.

Bus travel is another common way to travel to New Delhi, India. You'll find a variety of buses ranging from volvo, sleeper, semi-sleeper, air conditioned with amenities like live tracking etc using the website redbus . Book buses to Agra, Jaipur, Manali and other nearby places using this website.

Arriving in New Delhi

There are two things to do the moment you arrive in New Delhi - find the best, cheapest way to reach your place of stay and avoid falling prey to scams or traps. The best and the most cost effective way to go from either the Delhi airport or railway station to the city is taking a ride in Uber or Ola (the Indian equivalent of Uber). The moment you step out of the airport or station in Delhi, you'll be swarmed by taxi drivers offering to take you to a nearby nice hotel. It's usually a scam where they're working for commission. They'll tell you that your hotel is too far or that it closed down or something else happened but don't fall prey to this scam . Be firm, say no and keep walking away from them.

Must Read: Spiti Valley Itinerary - A Detailed Guide to Spiti, Himachal Pradesh

I found the best way to get around Delhi was by using the Delhi metro . The metro is dirt cheap, super fast, clean and efficient. Besides, anyone can figure out how to navigate using the metro quite easily. Just download a free Delhi metro map and you'll see that the metro is connected to all major sights and important points of interest in Delhi. Another way to get around Delhi is by hailing a cab using Uber or Ola. Rates for using the cab services and fair and minimal.

There are a few basic but important safety tips that need to be following during a Delhi trip. Firstly, try to avoid taking a tuk-tuk or auto rickshaw in the night and definitely steer clear of the shady parts of the city. Chances are high that the driver may take you through an isolated place where his accomplice will be waiting to mug you. Secondly, take a hotel in the nicer parts of the city and only use cab services (again, stay alert) and the metro at night.

It's important to address the safety aspect for foreign tourists in this Delhi travel guide.. There's a big difference between the way domestic and international tourists are treated in India. While foreigners will get attention and special treatment from shop owners, hotels and the likes, a lot of locals will be filled with curiosity. White skin, blonde hair and blue or green eyes are a subject of utmost curiosity. This is why you'll see many locals come up to foreigners for a picture. While this is okay, especially since the ones who ask for a picture haven't gotten a lot of exposure and are doing this out of sheer curiosity, touching or persisting to take a picture even after declining the request is not acceptable. If you find someone following you or trying to touch you or repeatedly insisting to take a picture, say no to them firmly and loudly.

No Delhi travel guide would be complete without addressing the giant in the room. Delhi is known for the many incidents of sexual violence against women. Thus women solo travellers need to be especially vigilant and alert while travelling to Delhi. Firstly, book a stay in a safe neighbourhood even if it means paying a little more. Secondly, try not to wander alone at night. I've been to Delhi many times and I've made a personal rule for myself to be back inside my place of stay (if I'm alone) before sundown. It may seem unnecessary but I've never had an incident in Delhi to date because I prioritise my safety. Thirdly, dress modestly in Delhi. There are parts of India where women can dress however they want without getting unwanted stares but Delhi is no such place. Fourth and most important, while getting into a cab, share the details with a close friend or family member. Make sure the driver is following the correct route and that he doesn't make a phone call to share his location details with anyone else.

Must Read: Top 8 Instagrammable Spots in Delhi, India

Like I mentioned earlier, it's best to dress modestly in Delhi. I found, from personal experience, that clothes that reveal anything other than arms and ankles attract unwanted attention from men. Clothes that are completely okay to wear in Goa did not go down well in Delhi. Thus, loose fitting garments that cover the knees and chest area are to be preferred. Jeans, trousers, loose t-shirts, maxi skirts, maxi dresses will work very well.

Stomach upsets aka Delhi belly are a common problem faced by both first-time as well as seasoned visitors to Delhi. It's important for foreign tourists to note that tap water in India is not meant for drinking purposes. That being said, keep hygiene in mind when choosing a restaurant to eat at in Delhi. If you have a sensitive stomach then avoid eating at street food stalls while visiting New Delhi.

What to Eat in Delhi - Food You MUST Try!

No Delhi travel guide would be complete without mentioning the galore of street food in Delhi and all the other food to try in Delhi, India. When it comes to the must-try food in Delhi, chole bhature , momos and various chaat items like tikki chaat , pani puri etc top the list. Moreover, there are lots of delicious and popular Indian dishes like chicken gravy and paneer gravy items that are well-made in Delhi.

Where to Eat in Delhi - Restaurants and Cafes

Delhi is home to some of the finest restaurants and cafes in India. You'll find all sorts of places serving a variety of cuisines in Delhi. Take a look at some places in Delhi that made an impression on me:

1. Sitaram Diwan Chand: Chole Bhature

No travel to Delhi is complete if you haven't tasted chole bhature at one of the finest restaurants in Delhi that serves this dish. Sitaram Diwan Chand located in Paharganj near the New Delhi railway station specialises in chole bhature and damn do they know what they're doing. For dirt cheap price, you'll get the tastiest chole bhature you'll ever eat in your life. Whats more, it comes with extra servings of chole and side accompaniments like onions, carrots and masala chili.

2. Imly: Thali

If you're a solo traveller in Delhi and you want to try a variety of Indian dishes but have no one to share it with, thali is the answer. A thali is a big plate that comes with an assortment of Indian gravy dishes, a roti bread, rice, desert and other accompaniments like raita and salad. While I've had a lot of thalis, the one at Imly restaurant in Rajendra Place, Delhi was by-far the best I've ever had. The thali consisted of 2 starters, 3 gravy items, 1 dry item, 2 types of naan, 1 papad, rice, 1 gulab jamun in deserts, raita and salad. All of this came at a very minimal price. I highly recommend this restaurant to eat a thali dish in Delhi!

Must Read: Top 13 Varanasi Street Food Items You MUST Try!

3. The All American Diner: Breakfast

The All American Diner located on Lodhi Road in New Delhi is the city's take on an American diner. This restaurant has an impressive menu consisting of all sorts of breakfast combos, steaks, hot dogs and burgers. The attentive staff, groovy music and retro ambience are just what's needed to enjoy a nice meal at a nice restaurant in Delhi.

When deciding where to stay in Delhi, it's crucial to choose a safe neighbourhood. South Delhi is one of the nicest areas in Delhi whereas East Delhi is known to be unsafe. On the other hand, while there are lots of places to stay in Paharganj, an area near the New Delhi railway station, I did not feel safe in that neighbourhood at all. It's best to avoid staying there.

During my second visit to Delhi, I stayed at Zostel, South Delhi which was located in such a nice housing complex! The hostel was spacious, the staff was warm and welcoming and I met so many fellow backpackers while staying at the hostel.

• Hostels in Delhi - Zostel South Delhi , Madpackers , The Hosteller
• Budget & Mid-Range Hotels in Delhi - Ginger New Delhi , Palace Heights
• Luxury Hotels in Delhi - Taj Palace , The Leela Palace

Search for hotels in Delhi on Booking.com

Delhi has been the capital of many kingdoms since aeons. Because the city has seen many-a-rulers call this city home, there are numerous monuments scattered across the city. Humayun's tomb , Safdarjung tomb and Qutub Minar are three of the most impressive monuments in Delhi.

If you head towards Old Delhi, Khari Baori (spice market), Red Fort and Jama Masjid are worth checking out.

Coming to modern marvels, Lodhi art district is a well-known art district famous for the art work that's been painted on the walls of buildings there. The Lotus temple is a very impressive structure that can't be missed. Speaking of temples, the Akshardham temple  is one of the most striking temples you'll ever see in India.

Ofcourse, India Gate is a must-visit place to see in Delhi. While you're there, also checkout Rashtrapati Bhavan , home of the president of India that was built during the British rule in India.

Must Read: Where to Find the Best Views of the Taj Mahal

Shopping in Delhi

New Delhi is a haven for shopping enthusiasts. You'll find all sorts of clothing and handicraft items in Delhi. If you wish to shop for local specialities from each state in India, visit Dilli Haat at INA. This open air complex contains shopping stalls set up by representatives from every state in India. Here you'll find regional weaves and handicraft items. Moreover there are food stalls selling cuisines from different parts of India at Dilli Haat.

Apart from this, there are many more markets in Delhi. Sarojini Nagar , Janpath and Khan Market are other markets in Delhi where you can shop for clothing as well as accessories like bags, belts, footwear and jewellery.

Chandni Chowk is one of the biggest markets in Delhi. There are a range of markets within Chandni Chowk specilising in different things such as wedding items, electronics and silver jewellery. Furthermore, Khari Baori in Chandni Chowk is Asia's largest spice market.

While you're in Delhi, it's worth checking out some of the incredible places that are merely a few hours away from Delhi. So take a look at the best weekend getaways from Delhi:

1. Taj Mahal, Agra

Taking a day trip to the Taj Mahal from Delhi is one of the most popular things to do in Delhi. To take a day trip to Agra, you can book a one-day tour through any reputable travel agency. Alternatively, do a self-guided tour by taking either a bus or train early and in morning, seeing the Taj Mahal and a few nearby attractions and returning back to Delhi in the evening. Read my post on the top tips to visit the Taj Mahal to help plan your trip to this wonder of the world.

2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Whether you're looking for a nice family vacation, a quick escape to the mountains or craving to indulge in the hippie lifestyle, Manali has something for everyone. Apart from the temples, stunning landscape, lot of adventure activities, Manali even has a popular hippie culture. Read this article on the complete Manali travel guide  to find something that suits you!

3. Jaipur, Rajasthan

The "golden triangle" of India is made up of three places - Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. For anyone visiting India for a quick short trip, covering these 3 places is a must. Jaipur or the pink city is famous for the many forts, the delightful Rajasthani food, the beautiful culture and all the many places to visit in the city.

4. Varanasi, U.P.

Varanasi, in the state of Uttar Pradesh is an ancient holy city located on the banks of the river Ganga. Varanasi is famous for it's ghats - with the evening aarti at Dashashwamedha ghat being the highlight of the many things to do in Varanasi. Apart from that, the city is known for the numerous temples and various delicious street food items! Read this guide to Varanasi city to help plan your trip.

Did you enjoy this Delhi Travel Guide?

If you liked reading this article and found it helpful, follow me on my social media handles: Instagram , Facebook , Pinterest to receive quick updates and be the first one to know when I release a new blog post!

Omg, so much to eat and so little time! Also, super helpful info about what to wear and how to dress. I dunno why but I also had no idea that you could visit the Taj Mahal as part of a day trip from Delhi. Lol. Clearly I’ve been living under a rock!

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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

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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.

Not sure where to start? Start with some of my most popular posts .

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Last Updated on September 4, 2019 by Drifter Planet

The Primal Desire

India Travel Journal – part 1 – Delhi Travel Stories

Filed Under: India , Wellness , Virtual Coffee Dates , Travel , Tips, Tricks, and Life-hacks , Lifestyle February 6, 2020 By Raj

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India Travel Journal – Delhi Travel Stories

Our trip to India started in New Delhi.   We had planned to sleep for the day but instead, it turned into an action-packed day!  We didn't know how we would feel after a 14-hour flight, but were so glad that we started our trip like this!

Our flight took us over the north pole!  We were kept in the dark, arriving in India in the early hours of the morning.  As the sun came up, we started our day and avoided the crowds. 

Jumping into Our India Trip

The Red Fort in Delhi was a great way to start off our exploring.  We strongly recommend the Red Fort audio tour and the museum within.

Imagine the splendor of the Indian Empire, opulent jewels, silks, and amazing rugs.  People adorned in the most beautiful outfits, fountains trickling. The rich smell of flowers and incense drifting on a warm breeze.  After that, imagine it all taking place in the Red Fort.  

Additionally, you should pop across the street when you are done wandering through time.  Don't hesitate, just go.  Tell the people hassling you outside the fort to “Stop” (“bas”, pronounced “bus” means “enough”.  Remember that for vendors and food).  You'll find a maze of shops, food vendors and throngs of people.

You could spend hours wandering around, so drop a pin on your phone so you can make it back and get your bearings!  

Check out our YouTube channel to hear about the rest of our trip, including a run-in with an elephant , our trip to the Taj Mahal, and the best and worst food experiences!

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

We (Raj & Holley plus our friend Pam) traveled to India for a month!

Let's be clear: India is huge and each area is quite unique, so a month in India can only cover so many places. It was an action-packed tour of North India, and we'd love to spend another few months there to see the south at a calmer pace.

We were extremely lucky to have the experiences that we did. Our experiences, or at least our India travel impressions, were unique to us and we thought an India travel vlog would be a great way to share them.

If you enjoyed our New Delhi Travel Stories, read more of our India Travel Stories.

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12 India Travel Stories From The Crazy To The Inspiring

Looking for India travel stories ?

Then you’re in the right place!

The following captivating short travel stories about India range from the crazy to the inspiring, leaving you at times with sweaty palms and others with a warm heart.

But no matter what feelings each powerful story instills in you, one thing is for sure: you’ll be transported to incredible India.

And you may even pick up some travel tips and discover some new experiences along the way!

Keep reading to take a trip to India through storytelling.

Table of Contents

Free Travel Planning Resources

But first, before we enjoy some of the best travel stories about India…

Click here to get my free travel planning printables !

You’ll snag access to 37+ printables, cheat sheets, guides, Google Maps, and even fun travel personality quizzes — all meant to help you plan a meaningful trip that takes you beyond the guidebook.

Grabbed the resources?

Then let’s dive into the short travel stories from India .

Crazy India Travel Stories

1. getting high in varanasi.

I love sharing short travel stories and this is one of my craziest of all times.

And I’ll be sharing it with you through video:

While many stories of India talk about the Taj Mahal and the amazing sites recommended by Lonely Planet , this one is about an experience in Varanasi that was both wild and funny:

Trying bhang lassi — a cannabis-laced yogurt drink — and then attempting to go out for the night.

Before trying it for myself I knew that I’d feel something.

I just didn’t know how intense and crazy that something would be. Spoiler: This night is now one of my wildest adventure travel stories to share with others.

Watch the video to hear about my travel experience in India trying bhang lassi, then continue reading for more India travel stories.

By the way, for my fellow solo travelers, Varanasi is one of the top places for a solo trip near Delhi !

-Jessie Festa of Jessie on a Journey

2. An Eventful Trip To Varanasi

I landed in Varanasi after 24 hours of traveling from Pachmarhi in Madhya Pradesh.

It was the second leg of my trip, and after four days during which I had been attending a conference and taken care of 24/7, I’d finally be visiting India by myself.

The trip had been eventful:

Eight hours on a shuttle bus to cover a distance I had later learned to be just 200 kilometers (~124 miles), with the driver hitting the horn at regular intervals of five seconds or so, followed by a flight to Delhi and another one to Varanasi.

By the time I landed in Varanasi I had a splitting headache. I had arranged for a driver to pick me up and take me to my guesthouse, but after waiting for him for a while and looking around the arrivals terminal, it became clear he would not show up -– so I walked to the taxi stand.

I didn’t understand the value of Indian Rupees at that point, so in order to save what must have been 10 cents I hopped on a taxi that was not air conditioned.

As soon as we pulled out of the airport, it was chaos. Dust, cows, dogs, people, and cars; an India I had yet to get to know. I was terrified and kept wondering why I was doing this to myself.

Moments later, I resolved to book my flight back the minute I got to my room -– whenever that would be.

Indeed, the taxi dropped me off outside the old city and I had to make my way to the guest house. Thankfully, a friend I had met at the conference in Madhya Pradesh gave me his SIM card so I could use Google maps to find my guesthouse.

The moment I walked inside the old city the atmosphere changed.

A Belgian guy outside a bakery invited me in to have breakfast, a huge smile on his face. I even resolved to return the following day, and that’s when I’d meet a few other people traveling solo who’d roam the city with me.

Once I made it to the guest house, the sweet smile of the owner convinced me to postpone buying the flight back after a much-needed nap.

I ended up staying.

Varanasi was the highlight of my trip to India and to date I still wish to go back.

-Claudia from My Adventures Across The World

3. A Bus Ride Into The Himalayas

File this under India travel horror stories , at least the beginning of it.

The time had come for my two-month visa in India to end, when a series of small disasters struck, forcing my carefully laid plans to change.

My love of traveling standby and living in the exhilaration of the moment backfired, and I had to backtrack from the magnificent banks of the Ganges in the holy city of Haridwar, back down to Delhi to try and find a new route out of India.

Arriving into Delhi in the afternoon, I scrambled around to find a bite to eat before sundown. I found a small restaurant near my hostel, but after a few bites of putrid, rotten flavored chicken I had a bad feeling and left, meal unfinished, to try get an early night.

But it was already too late. All it took was a few bites.

The next morning I was up early and headed to the bus stop before sunrise, thankful to have found a last-minute ticket on a long distance bus to Kathmandu.

The dirty, rickety old bus left from a dusty underpass — not a bus stop or station in site. It was full of upright seats with nowhere to recline and rest for the massive 26-hour journey ahead.

I was eight hours into a long windy journey through lush jungle when the food poisoning took hold. Without warning, I began violently vomiting — mostly into a bag I had, but also all over myself and my seat.

Despite this being one of my more embarrassing travel stories , it wasn’t long before most of the other passengers were mad at me because the air conditioning wouldn’t work with the windows up.

But I had nowhere else to be sick; there were no buckets, trash cans, or bags that could hold my relentless evacuation of what felt like everything I’d ever eaten.

There were only two other foreigners on the bus; women who offered me sips of water and medicine.

I was sick, sticky, and drifting in and out of feverish dreams for the next 18 hours until I was able to get to a hospital in Nepal . We passed through magnificent valleys through the Himalayas, I saw fireflies for the first time, we passed picturesque towns and tiger sanctuaries.

Despite being the sickest I’ve ever felt, in the most inconvenient of locations, I was constantly amazed by the beauty of India, and the kindness of the strangers I met along the way.

-Anna from Meander

4. Locked Down Abroad: A COVID Crisis

I had been head-first in a toilet for the past three days and had just mustered up the strength to drag myself to the nearby hospital for a drip when all hell broke loose.

The coronavirus had been on my radar for months now as I traveled across Asia , but when I arrived in India in early March they were still reporting no cases.

Naively, I thought this would be a great time to explore India since many travelers back in the United States and elsewhere were grounded.

Famous, last words.

I went from food-poisoning to panic as the entire country shut down around me.

Hooked up to my IV, I couldn’t exactly just head to the nearest airport. And with only 14 hours to leave the country, the 10-hour drive to Delhi from Udaipur seemed impossible.

The decision to stay was made for me.

For the next month, I was a captive prisoner in my lovely guesthouse. Thankfully, I had splurged on a decent place when I got ill.

The streets of India were silent.

This wasn’t a USA-style lockdown. You couldn’t just leave to get groceries or take-out.

Instead, you were to remain in your home — which was enforced by police wielding wooden batons — aside from the allotted hour every few days when the local market would open.

As all hope began to fade that COVID-19 would have a quick and simple conclusion, I contacted the embassy.

I spent my evenings sitting on our rooftop, recovering, laying in the warm Indian sun, watching some of the most spectacular sunsets I’d ever seen. Udaipur is known for them.

Every evening at 6pm locals all took to their roofs and banged pots, pans, anything they could get their hands on. A sign of solidarity, that we were all in this together.  

When the US finally secured repatriation flights, I had to find a way to get from Udaipur to Delhi. Fortunately, finding a driver was not difficult. Most had been unable to work for the past six weeks.

After talking to countless government officials, the paperwork sent to us was taped to the windshield of our taxi and we set off in the dead of night.

We were stopped 26 times by police barricades enforcing curfew laws. Arguments ensued. But in the end, they finally let us pass to the airport.

India’s infamous 10-lane highways were empty aside from long-eared cows and roaming wild pigs.

My lockdown in India was not the way I wanted to see the country but I’ll always savor those moments spent on my rooftop in India dancing in the rain and watching sunsets amidst the chaos.

-Geena from Beyond the Bucketlist

5. How My iPhone Flashlight Saved My Life

A couple of years ago, my family of six went to India.

One of our destinations was Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan, Northern India .

It was a dream of mine to do a tiger safari and Ranthambore is one of the few places left in the world where Bengal tigers roam free.

While there, we glamped in gorgeous tents just outside the park. On our first night, our hosts prepared a beautiful dinner next to a campfire. It was pitch dark beyond the fire.

After dinner, I was tired and decided to walk back alone along dark paths to our tents using my iPhone which barely lit up the path a few feet beyond me.

As I approached my tent, I saw a large lumpy creature outside. I could not see anything else, so I thought it was a cow or one of the deer from the park. I was almost upon it when it startled and bolted away.

I couldn’t see where it went, but it didn’t matter as I was tired and only wanted to go to bed.

As I started to unzip my tent, I felt something behind me. The hairs on the back of my neck stood up as I turned and tried to find what it was.

Sensing movement above me and casting my iPhone flashlight upwards, there, to my horror, was a Bengal Tiger staring down at me.

I screamed for help, but nobody came. Turning back to the tiger with my flashlight I noticed it blinked and looked away.

Then I turned back to the tent and tried desperately to unzip the door, but only managed a bit. I then turned back to the tiger with my flashlight. Back and forth, and back and forth, until I slowly unzipped the tent door.

Each time, I pointed my flashlight at the tiger, it blinked and looked away, but did not move.

Eventually, I realized that I was blinding it each time with my flashlight and knew that I had a chance to survive.

Finally, the tent door was fully open and I jumped inside.

-Nicole from Go Far Grow Close

6. A Night To Remember…Or Forget

One of the scariest, indelible, and craziest travel stories I’ll ever tell has to be this one.

My family was off to one of our dream destinations:

Ladakh, India.

Rather than taking an easy flight from New Delhi to Leh, we decided to take on a road trip that’s counted among the best road trips in India.

YES, THE BEST!

The road journey follows one of the most dangerous — and exciting — highways in the world, Leh Manali Highway.

The twisty 490-kilometer (~305-mile) long highway is all things risky and beautiful, with challenging and unpaved snow-carpeted passes, deep gorges, high altitude plains, and never-ending streams.

The oxygen levels drop drastically as you gain height. That’s another challenge!

We made several pitstops on this road journey to get acclimatized to low oxygen levels.

One of the pitstops was Sarchu. Unfortunately, staying at Sarchu camps was a mistake, though we realized that quite late.

Sarchu is infamous for low oxygen levels, which we didn’t know. Lack of research, I guess.

Unforgiving chilly winds, horribly low-temperature levels, and the oxygen shortage made us feel sick. The situation was quickly becoming one of our worst travel stories .

We were shivering even under three blankets and were gasping for air. The situation worsened and the kids started vomiting due to lack of oxygen. The camp officials were unable to help.

We had no option but to leave the camp. It was 2am by this point and our driver warned us that it would be stupid to drive on treacherous roads in the pitch dark.

But we had no choice but to leave the dreadful situation.

We took a risk and left Sarchu in the middle of the night. It truly felt like the longest night of our lives.

As if that wasn’t enough, our car got punctured near Lachung La Pass   — one of the most perilous passes of all — and there was not a single soul in sight.

By this point, the events of the night were adding up to become one of the scariest travel stories I could ever tell. And if this all wasn’t terrifying enough, my husband then had to hike a few kilometers — when the oxygen levels were already low — to get help.

We finally got help (God Bless that man who fixed our car!) and survived, or rather thrived, the riskiest highway in the world.

Each travel experience, good or bad, becomes a part of you, helps you grow, and redefines the meaning of life.

That night taught me that challenges make life meaningful and worth living.

-Anjali from Travel Melodies

7. A Crazy Border Crossing

After spending three months adventuring all over Northern India , from the high-altitude desert-scape of Spiti Valley to the golden city of Amritsar, my partner and I were ready to move on to another destination on our backpacking adventure; a destination that was so close, we would be heading there on foot.

After hours upon hours of research, we decided to take a chance on India’s closest neighbor and deepest foe; a country that used to be a part of India itself:

On the morning of August 3rd, 2019, after spending the past five days falling in love with the culinary and temple delights of Amritsar, we were finally ready to leave incredible India and cross the Wagah Border that separates the Indian city of Amritsar from the Pakistani city of Lahore. 

Unfortunately, not only did we overestimate what time the border was open until, but we also underestimated how long it would take to reach said border.

In typical Samantha fashion, we ended up leaving our Amritsari guesthouse a bit too late before calling our Uber.

As I tried to put in the destination, I was faced with the glaring realization that Uber wouldn’t allow me to select the Wagah Border as a drop-off point, and the last “pinnable” location would have meant walking over two kilometers (~1.2 miles). 

After we finally got into our driver’s car and tried to explain this, he simply did not understand why we had all of our bags.

While accustomed to tourists visiting the Wagah Border to see the famous daily border closing ceremony, it seemed to be the first time he’d encountered riders looking to actually be left at the border.

After what felt like an eternity of back and forth as I obsessively watched the clock tick closer and closer to 3:30 pm — the time the border officially closed — he relented and we were on our way.

After a whole year researching this infrequently visited country, we were finally on our way to the foodie city of Lahore… 

…but not before a whole lot of stress. 

It quickly became apparent that the border wasn’t as close as we had thought, and my anxiety levels increased tenfold.

As soon as we approached what appeared to finally be the separation between the two lands, I could see hundreds of Indians preparing to attend the infamous ceremony.

Running around seemingly aimlessly as we hopped out of the car, we were finally pointed in the right direction by an army official, who made sure to remind us that there wasn’t much time.

The entire process of stamping out of India and having our bags checked was permeated with stress:

It was 2:57pm and we still had to “cross” the border — and even then we still had to go through Pakistani customs!

With the help of some friendly border agents, we managed to cross the line that used to never exist with mere moments to spare.

Breathing a sigh of relief, we slowed our pace as we handed over our passports to the Pakistani official guarding the gate.

“Welcome to Pakistan,” he said.

And what a welcome it was.

It was almost as if the crazy border crossing was some sort of prequel, as the four months that followed were some of the wildest and most memorable of my entire life.

And the craziest part?

Said months ended with yet another crossing back into India, where instead of learning from our mistakes, we ended up stamping back into the country with even less time to spare!

Perhaps the third time will be the charm?

Only time will tell!

-Samantha from International Detours Travel Blog

8. Being “Tom Hanks” In India – 24 Hours In Delhi Airport

I wasn’t even meant to be in India.

Sitting in the international lounge of Delhi Airport, in the eyes of the Indian police force, I was in India.

But to the team of border agents that had put me there, I was not. I was instead in “no man’s land” unable to leave the airport. I felt like Tom Hanks in the movie Terminal .

Let this be a cautionary tale to all – make sure you have an Indian Visa.

These days Indian Visas are easier to come by thanks to an e-Visa system for most nationalities that can be acquired as little as four days before travel.

But back in 2010, an Indian Visa meant the hassle and slog of visiting a not-so-local embassy and a fair amount of paperwork.

Except — and here’s the rub — I hadn’t even realized I needed one.

I was heading back from a glorious trip from Nepal to the United Kingdom after trekking to Everest Base Camp, high on yak butter, mountain air, and the “taste” of success.

In my mind, I’d hit proverbial gold by getting very cheap flights from Kathmandu to Delhi to Mumbai to London. It meant a three-legged route over most of the routes that flew direct (very expensive) or with one connection in India (still fairly expensive), but I had saved hundreds of my hard-earned English Pounds.

But I hadn’t thought through the following:

Touching down in Delhi meant picking up my bag and then transferring both bag and myself to the Domestic Terminal for a national flight.

That meant stepping foot properly on Indian soil, and that meant having a Visa.

All of which meant I ended up having to cancel my two flights — with no refund due to my incompetence — and spend a huge amount of money on a last-minute flight to re-route directly to London. A flight, moreover, that left in 23 hours time having just missed the daily flight out.

Luckily, Delhi Airport had just been renovated, and it was comfortable. But 24 hours is a long time to kill with no Indian money and just Pringles for company.

The hours blurred as I slipped in and out of sleep. At around the 20-hour mark, Pringles long-gone and bored of trips to the free water faucet, I cracked.

I put my credit card down on a full breakfast buffet despite the extortionate cost I thought I would be lumbered with. It turned out to be $6 USD when I received the bill, chuckling in hindsight, a month later.

But it’s definitely not a mistake I’ll make again.

-Dave from Dave Chant

Inspiring Travel Stories About India

9. Experiencing True Hospitality In Jaipur

It was my first solo female travel trip outside of Europe.

I had always wanted to go to India and therefore decided to go to Rajasthan, India’s most colorful desert state.

As a student, I was limited to my college breaks which happened to be the monsoon season in India. 

I knew the monsoon wasn’t the best time to travel to India, but I was lucky with the weather. There was hardly any rain.

The other perk of traveling off-season was the lack of tourist crowds; however, this also meant that I rarely met other foreign travelers. Being overwhelmed by the culture shock of India, I felt lonely sometimes.

My first three weeks in India were a roller coaster.

As a young white girl, I got a lot of attention and was confronted with my fair share of hassles and scams. There were times I wanted to run away and take the first plane back to my hometown.

At the same time, I was amazed by the beauty and diversity of Rajasthan. After a rough start, I slowly started to fall in love with India. 

It was in Jaipur that I knew I would love India forever. By that time I was dying to meet some fellow travelers to share all the crazy things that I experienced. Therefore I decided to sign up for a full day tour to the palaces and forts that surround the city.  

I started my day hopeful, but when I entered the tour bus it was full of South Indian tourists. Being the only white lady on the bus, there was a lot of staring and giggling. As the tour guide explained the program, most eyes were set on me and I felt really awkward.

Thankfully, things soon changed, and I got to see the kindness of strangers while traveling .

At the first stop, one family asked me to sit with them and they gave me a cup of tea from their thermos.

At the next stop, families shared their homemade lunches with me. All these families made sure I did not feel alone for one minute.

Although we could not communicate with words, hospitality needs no language and the day ended up being a heartwarming experience.

-Ellis from Backpack Adventures

10. Becoming A More Confident Traveler In Varanasi

Before I traveled to India, I was nervous to explore the country and I was unsure of what to expect in a culture so different from my own.

I was raised in the USA and had been living in Denmark for two years, but I knew that India would be a significant culture shock.

My plan was to travel to India on my own and meet a tour group for a 25-day tour heading from north to south. At the urging of a friend, I booked three additional nights on my own in Varanasi after my tour ended.

When I landed in Delhi to begin my group tour my nervousness was at a high. The massive city, the constant car horns, and the erratic driving of my airport transfer welcomed me to India.

That first night I was on my own and I went right to my hotel room. Overwhelmed, I thought that I would be crazy to think I could travel solo in India at the end of the trip. 

As I relaxed, I slowly became acculturated and comfortable in India. I found the beauty in the chaos of the northern cities and by the end of my trip I was ready to fly to Varanasi.

My nervousness evolved into confidence and I felt a sense of achievement as I returned to the north and made my way to Varanasi. I loved exploring so many places in Varanasi — the city is a stunning and magical destination.

I loved getting out on the Ganges River and experiencing the sunrise and sunset ceremonies on top of exploring temples.

It’s hard to believe I started in Delhi, almost afraid to leave my hotel room, and finished in Varanasi, feeling like I could travel anywhere solo.

India really changed my confidence as a person and as a traveler and I can’t wait to go back.

-Derek from Robe Trotting

11. Escaping Life & Loneliness

I was standing at the end of the ridge. Chilly winds were stroking my hair and I was there, admiring the greatness of the mighty Himalayas.

This was my first escape; my first solo trip. I’d come here to mend the pain of losing someone and to find peace.

One hazy morning in Lucknow, I booked a ticket to McLeodganj, a small suburb in Himachal Pradesh.

Nothing was clear for me. I was overwhelmed with doubt, fear, uncertainty, and an ache in the heart; the kind of ache you feel when you know something terrible is about to happen but you can’t do a thing to change it. 

You see, I was just a college kid who knew nothing about buzzwords like “self-discovery,” “finding peace,” or “letting go.” I was on the verge of breaking up with my long-time girlfriend; forced to discover that nothing is permanent in life. My chaotic mind had a hard time processing this truth.

I was stepping out of my home state for the first time, reaching Himachal via Delhi. Overrun by mixed feelings of delight and dilemma, I hopped on the bus from Kashmiri Gate ISBT and reached my destination the next morning after an eight-hour drive. 

But…what was next? What was I supposed to do? Where would I find peace? I’d never been given a guidebook for this.

I wandered the streets of McLeodganj, observed monks near the Dalai Lama Temple, and gazed at the sunset. There was no one to talk to me or to laugh with me.

There I was, alone.

But, this wasn’t a bad thing. Soon, I found myself watching local kids smile, dancing to the rhythm of a stranger’s guitar, and eating whatever I liked.

Solo travel was providing freedom I hadn’t felt in years. I found solitude when I’d expected loneliness.

I returned home with clarity and peace within. A decision that was taken in haste became one of the best I’ve ever made in my life. From then on travel became therapy to me; a solace I always look forward to.

You see, we complicate life too much; overthinking, irrational fears, and doubts.

Our minds become our own enemies. But clarity comes when you let go of control and let go of your mind to wander, to see possibilities, and to realize that the world isn’t so bad at all.

In fact, it’s quite the opposite.

-Vipin from Misfit Wanderers

12. Kindness On The Road In India

This is an inspiring travel story about the kindness of strangers ; an angel helping me out when I stood helpless and penniless in a completely unknown place.

It so happened that I was solo backpacking in the interiors of Tamil Nadu, in South India, and the region was new to me. I didn’t know the local language and most of the time had to manage by sign language.

Once I was traveling in a crowded public bus in rural Tamil Nadu. It was the last leg of my journey and so far I was happy that I could manage it well.

The plan was to reach a place from where a night bus would take me to Chennai and from there I would fly back home. On the bus, a woman with an infant sat next to me. Her child was crying badly and the woman kept adjusting her position to feed him under a shawl.

The sun had already set. After some time, I got off at a place that was just a stop for connecting buses, with about 10 people waiting around. There was only one night bus going to Chennai.

Getting off the bus, I slipped my hand inside my sling bag for my wallet…

…when I realized I had been pickpocketed!  

At the bus stop, nobody could understand what I was saying due to the language barrier, and I didn’t have a dime on me to buy a further ticket for the only night bus to Chennai. All my money and cards were gone — and the bus I’d been on was gone, too!

Suddenly a teenager appeared and asked me in broken English what was wrong. He narrated the story to others and people started advising me to be careful and to learn how to avoid pickpockets .

While they were still chatting, I moved away from the ticket counter, feeling completely clueless about what to do next.

Luckily, a few minutes later the teenager appeared again with some money. Apparently, the boy had requested fellow passengers to help and they all contributed 10 Rupees each!

The amount was sufficient to buy me a ticket and some refreshments. All of those who gave money told me to accept the offering, and the situation also commanded that I do so.

I had actual tears in my eyes. My trust and faith in strangers grew immensely after that day.

-Nisha & Vasu from Le Monde the Poetic Travels

Do you have any short India travel stories of your own?

Maybe you have some india travel horror stories or inspiring travel stories to add to the list.

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11 Comments

really good knowledgeable post. Thank you so much and keep it up…

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On the Edge of Delhi, a Dynamic Cultural Scene Takes Shape

Beneath an ancient tower, contemporary galleries, studios, bars and clubs are popping up in three neighborhoods, drawing art lovers, fashionistas and nightlife seekers.

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By Finn-Olaf Jones

“Delhi is a soldiers’ town, a politicians’ town, journalists’, diplomats’ town. It is Asia’s Washington, though not so picturesque,” wrote Jan Morris, the acclaimed British travel writer, half a century ago.

“The only culture in Delhi is agriculture,” went another put-down.

But art and culture follow money, and for the past two decades Delhi has experienced a sea change. Thanks largely to a real estate boom and the rise of the high-tech suburb of Gurgaon, Delhi has doubled its number of high-net-worth individuals in five years, built a metro system rivaling New York City’s in size, and nurtured a burgeoning cosmopolitan class.

To find where this creative crowd gallery-hops, shops and otherwise chills, go south. The rising neighborhoods of Hauz Khas Village, Lado Sarai and Mehrauli’s “Style Mile” teeter on the edge of Delhi’s Outer Ring Road, almost equidistant from Gurgaon’s call centers and the central city’s ziggurats and domes.

“It’s a very dynamic location,” said Bhim Bachchan, who returned to Delhi after a career in U.S. investment banking to run an e-commerce studio and resort wear store, Ramola Bachchan , in the Soho-esque Hauz Khas Village. “There’s a new class of hip, young, often wealthy people from both the suburbs and central Delhi that congregates around these hot spots on the edge of town. They’ve been cooped up during Covid. Now they’re out.”

‘The East Village of Delhi’

The 13th-century, 238-foot-high Qutab Minar hovers over these neighborhoods: a fluted, sandstone tower that is illuminated after dark like an epic lighthouse for navigating the meandering streets. Here and there, medieval ruins poke like dinosaur bones through modern developments.

Visitors coming by taxi to Hauz Khas Village — the most northerly and established of these neighborhoods — get dropped in a parking lot a few yards from the village’s three main streets that circle into each other, next to a reservoir and deer park where sultans once hunted. Now, teens in heavy metal T-shirts, munching on the local street food, golgappa (syrup-filled puff balls), sit astride the broken domes of madrasas where Muslim scholars once studied, while bars and galleries adjoin weathered walls and terraces. The name Hauz Khas is Urdu for “Royal Water Tanks,” which still surround the village like sentinels standing guard against the smog and clamor of the city beyond the deer park.

Strolling Hauz Khas’s alleys, one comes across little treasures like Bana Studio , which sells one-off vintage tribal jewelry amid framed pictures of former clients, including George Harrison. Or AllArts , an Aladdin’s cave of Bollywood film posters and lobby cards. For much-needed relief I wandered into the Blossom Kochhar spa, cafe and natural beauty boutique, an upscale flower child’s nirvana, for an outstanding aromatherapy massage followed by masala tea and scones.

At night, the action moves upstairs, where popular bars and nightclubs vie for Delhi’s grunge-chic youth. Currently, Social , with its industrial scrap-metal aesthetic, and the rooftop Imperfecto , drowning in sangria and rum drinks, are the winning spots.

Although Hauz Khas is brimming with tiny arts studios lorded over by Lokayata Art Gallery , with its rooftop, bus-size, fiberglass iguana, a more cutting-edge contemporary art scene is flowering a few blocks east of the Qutab Minar, amid the tire shops and hardware joints of the Lado Sarai neighborhood.

“This is like the East Village of Delhi,” Shaji Punchathu, the founder of Gallery 1000A , in the heart of Lado Sarai, tells me, referring to New York’s historically edgy downtown neighborhood. The area, he said, is now home to the first concentration of contemporary art galleries the city has ever had.

On a recent summer afternoon, Mr. Punchathu and his assistants were in the midst of setting up a multimedia exhibition, “Molecules,” featuring works by five Indian artists, including remarkable, illuminated, icon-like engravings of what appeared to be mutating cells by the Delhi-based artist Amit Das. His engravings were so unusual that I couldn’t tell how they were produced. “It’s a novel method he developed using needles to embed the ink on the paper,” Mr. Punchathu said. “Our artists often use local artisanal techniques that aren’t well known in the West.”

I crossed the street to Latitude 28 , one of the pioneering galleries that anchored Lado Sarai over a decade ago when rents here, far from the city center, were still a lot cheaper. “They’ve since caught up,” Mr. Punchathu said. The gallery was exhibiting a multimedia show called “The World Awaits You Like a Garden,” featuring five artists celebrating fuel-choked Delhi’s oft-overlooked background as a lush, flower-scented city. Some of the most striking works were by the Gurgaon-based artist Gopa Trivedi, depicting highly detailed illustrations of invasive botanical plants based on Mughal court miniatures.

“The Indian contemporary art scene has been rocketing since Covid,” said Bhavna Kakar, Latitude 28’s director. Ms. Kakar is also the editor in chief of Take on Art magazine, one of Asia’s most authoritative contemporary art magazines, which is published out of the gallery. “People have been spending a lot of time in their homes and want something good on their walls. They’re not looking as much overseas anymore.”

Window-shopping and tandoori portobello

I was looking for lunch, having already breakfasted on a Paris-worthy croissant and coffee at Miam Patisserie down the street, but here I found Lado Sarai’s great weakness: no grazing, because there are few restaurants. “We have a dozen of the best galleries in Asia, but only a French patisserie to feed us,” Ms. Kakar said.

Outstanding food was only a 15-minute walk away on the Kalka Das Marg, which circles the base of the Minar, called the “Style Mile” by Indian cognoscenti. As with many spots in Delhi, one needs to scratch the surface to find the shiny things, and at first glance the Kalka Das Marg seems to be a charmless street. But then, wandering down alleys between grubby buildings, you emerge in a modern courtyard lined with remarkable shops and restaurants. Down one such byway, I discovered the whitewashed Cubist pavilions of the Ambawatta One complex, where I gaped at the high-end fashion stores, cafes and galleries that struck me as the Delhi version of Rodeo Drive. Unlike Mumbai, which only has a single tropical season, Delhi has multiple seasons and hence a broader diversity of high fashion peeking out of the windows of its shops, whose designers, such as Rohit Bal , Ritu Kumar and Tarun Tahiliani , are as familiar to Delhi’s high fashionistas as Michael Kors, Tory Burch or Diane von Furstenberg are to New York’s.

The Style Mile is especially charming at sunset, when the birdsong of the surrounding parkland overtakes the traffic din and the stunning sunset across the city is gradually replaced by the lit-up Qutab Minar, which hovers above like a celestial chandelier.

One of the hardest dinner reservations to get in Delhi is at Rooh , in the Style Mile, where at night the young and bejeweled risk scratching their Bentleys and Range Rovers in the cramped parking lot off the Kalka Das Marg. From there, they step up to the rooftop dining terraces (insiders know not to pick the less scenic interior of the restaurant) to feast on unlikely but surprisingly great fusions of Indian and Italian dishes.

Platefuls of zucchini spaghetti with tomato dum sauce, or tandoori portobello with black garlic butter pao, were accompanied by an impressive wine list and even more impressive bartenders. Here, suspended between gnarled treetops, colored lanterns, vast ruins of the old sultanate below and the surreal Qutab Minar against the stars, I finally sensed the fantastical garden city celebrated in Latitude 28’s exhibition. Over the course of the languorous evening, the bright saris and dark suits, the constant clinking of glasses and the formidable gold jewelry offered up a uniquely glamorous sense of the city’s newfound wealth and confidence.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places for a Changed World for 2022.

Asia Beckons Again

The pandemic’s pause on international travel lingered long in the region. as it reopens, we take the pulse of some favorite spots..

Thailand: The island of Koh Tao, known for snorkeling and diving, wants tourists back. But can nature and the new developments strike a balance ?

South Korea: In search of some inner calm? Rural Korea offers tranquil thatched mountain hamlets , peaceful Buddhist temples and unhurried “slow food” towns.

Japan:   Kyoto, one of Japan’s most-visited destinations before Covid, desperately needs tourism’s money. But it is hoping to avoid the excesses of Instagram-driven itineraries .

India: Art galleries, bars and clubs are bringing color to three neighborhoods on the edge of Delhi, drawing art lovers, fashionistas and nightlife seekers .

Tastes of Asia : We asked five photographers with deep connections to India, Japan, Korea, Singapore and Thailand to share one of their favorite local dishes .

Hotels: From an eight-suite hideaway in a Himalayan pine forest to a Phnom Penh hotel aimed at digital nomads, we found 10 standout accommodations .

Deals: International airfares aside, Asia has long been a value-lover’s paradise. The region is once again offering a range of tempting bargains .

Language Apps: While you may not master every language ahead of your tour through Asia, these digital tools can help you get by .

A Definitive List of the Places to Visit in Delhi, India

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.

The vibrant capital city fo India, Delhi is where ancient history and modernity blend seamlessly, creating an experience that’s as rich as it is diverse. In this post, we’ll explore the best places to visit in Delhi, taking you through a journey of colorful markets, majestic monuments, lush gardens, and more.

Let’s dive into this fascinating city and discover why these spots make our list of the top places to visit in Delhi, India!

If you’ve more time in Delhi and want to explore the places around Delhi? Read our ultimate guide to the best weekend trips from Delhi .

DELHI QUICK LINKS Airport Transfer:  Klook  offers arrival meet-and-greet plus airport transfer to your hotel in Delhi at reasonable prices. Where to Stay:  Bed & Chaï  (budget);  Mizpah  (mid-range);  The Manor  (boutique);  Haveli Dharampura  (heritage);  The Imperial  (luxury) Top Rated City Tour:  Full Day City Tour of Old & New Delhi Top Rated Food Tour:  Old Delhi Food & Heritage Walk Top Rated Day Tour:  Taj Mahal Tour Ground Transport:  If you are heading to Agra or  Jaipur  next, you can easily book train and bus tickets in advance on  12Go .

Delhi: First Impressions

Delhi, more often than not, serves as the initial step for journeys across North India . For those with limited time in India, the Golden Triangle is a popular choice. This renowned tourist circuit links the iconic cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur , offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The story of Delhi is intriguing. It’s like reading a really really old book. Far from being merely old, this city is steeped in ancientness, with a history that stretches back thousands of years making it one of the most cultural and historic cities in the world.

Over the centuries, Delhi has been built, destroyed, and rebuilt several times. Each era left its mark, from the rulers of ancient dynasties to the mighty Mughals, and finally the British before India gained independence.

This incredible fusion of different epochs is akin to a journey through time along the streets of Delhi. You can see ancient forts standing tall beside modern buildings, telling tales of a city that has seen empires rise and fall. It’s this rich, layered history that makes Delhi a living, breathing museum of India’s past.

As an essential stop in any Indian odyssey , Delhi offers a glimpse into the soul of India, helping you to grasp the essence of this extraordinary country.

Places to Visit in Delhi: An Ultimate List

Delhi has something for everyone! Whether you’re a history buff, architectural enthusiast, culture connoisseur, mythology zealot, art lover, vintage fanatic, museum aficionado or foodie, or a parent who wants your children to learn and have fun; you’ll never run short of places to visit in Delhi and things to do in Delhi.

Delhi presents an array of attractions for its guests, including the old-world charm of Purani Dilli, numerous historic monuments, expansive national museums, verdant gardens, tree-lined broad streets, traditional Havelis, and sprawling farmhouses. The list is indeed extensive!

Here’s a list of almost all the places in Delhi that are worth exploring, tailored to your unique interests. You can choose places that resonate with your taste, style, and preference, and speak directly to your heart and curiosity.

Delhi For History Buffs And Architectural Enthusiasts

Owing to its rich history, there’s no dearth of historical places in Delhi. It’s a historical lovers’ playground.

Gates of Delhi

India Gate Turkman Gate Khooni Darwaza or Kabuli Darwaza Kashmere Gate Ajmeri Gate Mori Gate Lahore Gate Delhi Gate

Did you know? Delhi originally was a walled city. It had 14 gates out of which 5 are still standing strong.

National War Memorial

Lal quila (red fort), salimgarh fort, fatehpuri mosque, tomb of razia sultan, mirza ghalib haveli (ghalib ki haveli).

When somebody asked Ghalib for his postal address, he cut him down to size: “Asadullah Ghalib, Delhi kafi hoga” (Asadullah Ghalib, Delhi, will be enough.)

Agrasen ki Baoli or Ugrasen ki Baoli

It is the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi.

Humayun’s Tomb

It’s speculated to have inspired the Taj Mahal. Nevertheless, it’s one of the best places to see in Delhi. Read our guide to Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi .

Barakhamba Tomb

Purana qila.

It is the oldest fort in the city that narrates the history of Dilli in detail.

Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque

It’s inside the premises of Purana Qila.

Sher Shah Gate, and the remains of the fort of Sher Shah Suri

It is right opposite the grand remains of Purana Qila.

Khairul Manzil

It is a mosque opposite Purana Qila.

Bāġ-e Bīdel (Garden of Bīdel)

This complex has two graves, one that of the 17th-century poet Abdul-Qādir Bīdel and another one of Sufi Saint Malik Yaar Paran.

Lodhi Gardens

It contains Mohammed Shah’s Tomb, the Tomb of Sikandar Lodi, Shisha Gumbad, Bara Gumbad, and Athpula Bridge.

Feroz Shah Kotla Fort

It encompasses Jami Masjid, Minar-e-Zarreen, Ashokan Pillar, and Baoli. It’s also known to be the abode of the djinns.

The Hauz Khas Archaeological Complex (Tughlaq Monuments)

R.k. puram heritage trail.

It includes a visit to the Wazirpur Monument Complex, Bijri Khan’s Tomb, and Munda Gumbad.

Ashokan Rock Edict and Park

Safdarjung’s tomb.

It has many small pavilions like Jangli Mahal, Moti Mahal, and Badshah Pasand and has a garden. Read more about the Tomb of Safdarjung in Delhi.

Mehrauli Archaeological Park

It’s adorned with ancient tombs and monuments viz. Rajon Ki Baoli, Jamali Kamali Mosque, and Tomb, Dargah of Qutb-ud-din Bakhtiyar Kaki(Qutb Sahib), Tomb of Balban, Tomb of the Sufi poet Jamali, Tomb of Adham Khan, Zafar Mahal, and Jahaz Mahal.

Qutub Complex

It’s studded with ancient architectural ruins named Alai Darwaza, Alai Minar, Alauddin’s Tomb & Madrasa Complex, ltutmish’s Tomb, Imam Zamin’s Tomb, Iron Pillar, Mughal Serai, Qutb Minar, Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Sanderson’s Sundial, Smith’s Folly, and Tarikh-ul-Islam Mosque. Qutub Minar is the world’s tallest brick minaret.

It embraces ancient ruins named Khirki Masjid, Bijay Mandal, Quila Rai Pithora, Kalusarai Masjid, Serai Shaji Mahal, Satpula, Begumpur Masjid.

Tughlaqabad – Adilabad – Nai-ka-Kot Fortress Complex

Read more about the ruins of Tughlaqabad.

Rashtrapati Bhavan

Parliament house, lotus temple, jantar mantar, haveli dharampura, delhi 6 (old delhi haveli tour).

Pro-tip: The Light and Sound Show at Red Fort and Purana Qila are unmissable. If you happen to be in Delhi on weekends, make sure to attend the Change of Guard ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Delhi For Spiritual Zealots

Shahi sunehri masjid, chandani chowk, sunehri mosque, red fort, hazrat nizam-ud-din dargah.

Be a part of eternal history; listen to the Sufi qawwali at ’Nizamuddin Ki Dargah’.

Sis Ganj Gurudwara

Sri digambar jain lal mandir, jama masjid, bangla sahib gurudwara, cathedral church of the redemption, sacred heart cathedral, laxminarayan temple (birla mandir), hanuman mandir, neeli masjid, hauz khas village, kalkaji mandir, akshardham temple, sri venkateswara balaji mandir, jhandewalan temple, moth ki masjid, chhatarpur temple (shri adya katyayani shakti peeth mandir).

Delhi For Museum And Vintage Enthusiasts

Gandhi smriti museum, azad hind gram, national philatelic museum, national rail museum, national science centre, national museum, national police museum, air force museum, metro museum, tibet house, indira gandhi memorial museum, zakir hussain memorial, archaeological museum & indian war memorial museum, sulabh interna tional museum of toilets, delhi for kids, nehru planetarium, national zoological gardens (delhi zoo or chidiya ghar), madame tussauds, shankar’s international dolls museum.

Read more about Dolls Museum in Delhi.

Stellar Children’s Museum

Hauz khas deer park, national children’s museum, children’s park near india gate, atlantic water world, kingdom of dreams, gurugram, worlds of wonder, noida, waste to wonder (seven wonders of world).

Recently opened in Delhi, this park features replicas of 7 wonders of the world made entirely from waste.

Read More: Lansdowne – A Perfect Weekend Getaway from Delhi

Delhi For Art Lovers

National gallery of modern art, india habitat centre, crafts museum, kiran nadar museum of art, ghalib academy and library, sangeet natak akademi (asawari), art positive, exhibit 320, nature morte, vadehra art gallery, art heritage gallery, delhi art gallery, indira gandhi centre for the arts, latitude 28, kamani auditorium, lalit kala akademi, jan natya manch street plays, kumhar gram (potter’s village), india international centre, lodhi art district.

Read our in-depth review of the Lodhi Art District in Delhi .

Delhi Drum Circle

Champa gali.

Delhi for Book Lovers

Daryaganj sunday book market (shifted to mahila haat).

There are a ton of charming Book Cafes that are counted among the best places to hangout in Delhi 🙂

Cha Bar at Iconic Oxford Book Store Cafe Turtle Spell and Bound Bookshop and Cafe Ivy and Bean Music and Mountains – Hillside Cafe (Sakley’s) Rico’s May Day Bookstore and Cafe Jugmug Thela Book Talk T’Pot Book Cafe Serendipity – The Claridges Cafe Moon River Book Exchange Cafe XCO Cafe Woodbox Cafe Fursat Se Another Fine Day Cafe, Gurgaon The Reader’s Cafe, Ghaziabad

Delhi For Fitness Freaks

Raahgiri day (on sundays).

If you haven’t been, Raahgiri is something you must experience at least once.

Spin Monkey Cycle Tour

Explore Delhi like never before with the Spin Monkey Cycle Tour !

Delhi For Nature Lovers And Outdoor Enthusiasts

Mughal gardens (renamed as amrit udyan now).

‘Udyanotsav’ marks the annual opening of the Mughal Gardens to the public from 5 February to 12 March, (except on Mondays) between 9.30 AM to 4 PM.

Sunder Nursery

Delhi’s first arboretum, Time magazine ranks Sunder Nursery among the world’s 100 greatest places to visit in 2018 . It’s not only a haven for nature lovers but a treat for history enthusiasts too. Just adjacent to Humayun’s Tomb, Sunder Nursery is a restored Mughal-era complex that houses 6 historical monuments – Sunder Burj, Mirza Muzaffar Hussain’s Tomb, Lakkarwala Burj, Sunderwala Mahal, Chhota Batashewala, and an unidentified Mughal Tomb besides a beautiful plant nursery.

Garden of Five Senses

Delhi flower markets at ghazipur and connaught place, okhla bird sanctuary, noida, asola bhatti wildlife sanctuary.

Did you know? Delhi is the world’s second most bird-rich capital city after Nairobi, Kenya.

Delhi for Thrill Seekers

Mystery rooms.

Try rock climbing at Camp Wild !

The Paintball Co

Go play Paintball1

Delhi For a Traveler in You

One dollar travel cafe, cp, the hippie trail, hauz khas village, kunzum travel cafe, hauz khas village.

Definitely, A Traveler’s refuge! Read travel books or spend time with fellow travelers with a cup of coffee and cookie at Kunzum Travel Cafe

Cafe Wanderlust, Gurgaon

Delhi for shoppers, chandni chowk.

Shopping at Chandani Chowk is an experience like no other. Lined with shops and stalls, the narrow and crowded lanes are teeming with an array of items-you can literally find anything and everything here.

Some of the most famous traditional bazaars here include Dariba Kalan, Nai Sarak, Bhagirath Place, Katra Neel, Kucha Choudhary Market, Khari Baoli Spice Market (Sadar Bazaar), Kinari Bazar, Paranthe Wali Gali.

Shopping in Karol Bag, especially along Ajmal Khan Road and in Gaffar Market is a great experience. Ajmal Khan Road is a paradise for fashion enthusiasts while Gaffar Market is a tech lovers’ dream-it’s here you can find electronics at competitive prices.

Paharganj Market

A lively marketplace that’s as affordable as vibrant. You must know the art of bargaining!

Gandhi Nagar Market

It’s the largest textile market in Asia—you can imagine the sheer variety and volume of fabrics and garments on display.

Kamla Nagar Market

Majnu ka tilla (little tibet), inner circle, connaught place, janpath market, palika bazaar, state emporia complex, baba kharak singh marg.

It houses emporiums from all Indian states selling state specialties.

Rajiv Gandhi Handicrafts Bhavan

Dilli haat, ina and janakpuri, lajpat nagar (central market), sarojini nagar market, m block market, greater kailash, khan market, nehru place market, south extension market, shahpur jat, azadpur subzi mandi aka farmer’s market.

Take a sneak peek at Asia’s largest wholesale fruits and vegetable market and enjoy the fresh produce that arrives from all across the country.

Delhicacies – Delhi for Foodies

Undoubtedly, one of the most gastronomically delightful cities in the world, Delhi has eateries for every type of craving and for every budget. Here you can savor a variety of Indian street food .

Paranthe Wali Gali, Chandni Chowk

Try their yummy stuffed paranthas!

Old Famous Jalebi Wala, Chandni Chowk

Here, you’ll get to relish Delhi’s best Jalebi!

You must savor the regional delicacies (they have stalls from different states in India) while you shop at this cultural village.

Roshan di Kulfi, Karol Bagh

Their Lacha Tokri is to die for!

Keventer’s

They have several outlets in Delhi. Stop by one of them and try your favorite flavor of appetizing shakes.

Legends of India, CP

Legends of India = Deliciousness

Haldiram’s

Eating at Haldiram’s is like taking a delightful culinary tour through the heart of India’s rich and varied snack culture. And, you must not miss Raj Kachori!

Khan Chacha, CP

A must-visit for some mouth-watering kababs and tikkas!

Shyam Sweets, Chawri Bazaar

Fill your mouth and your soul with their heavenly Aloo Puri. Couple it with hot halwa to enhance the experience.

Saravana Bhawan, Janpath and  Andhra Bhawan, Ashoka Road

Both famous for their authentic South Indian food.

Pandara Road

It’s full of outlets serving spicy North Indian and Punjabi cuisine.

Bengali Market

Eat all kinds of street food and sweets here. It’s one of the best places in Delhi to try gol gappe, papri chaat, crisp aloo chaat, and sandesh!

Gole Market

Mind-boggling variety of food-a shout-out for our favorite at Gole Market – Bangla Sweet House . Their mini-samosa and gulab jamun are to die for.

Gujarat Bhawan

One stop shop for authentic Gujarati cuisine in Delhi.

Khandani Pakodewala, Sarojini Nagar or Vinod Snacks, Pakode Wali Gali, Lajpat Nagar

Visit one of them for crispy, and spicy pakodas.

Wafflesome, Greater Kailash-I

Do you love waffles? I absolutely adore them! There’s something irresistibly comforting about biting into a warm, crispy waffle, with its golden pockets perfectly holding your favorite toppings. Whether it’s drenched in syrup, sprinkled with sugar, or loaded with fruit and cream, each waffle is a small piece of heaven on a plate!

Chache Di Hatti, North Campus

You can’t say you’ve visited Delhi if you haven’t tasted chacha ke chole bhaturey!

Sitaram Diwan Chand , Paharganj

They are serving chole bhaturey since 1970. Delhites vouch for its chole bhaturey. Taste it to believe it.

Shawarma Waala, Kamla Nagar

For shawarma, of course!

A perfect place to savor the old-world charm of baking.

Azoté, SDA Market

Yummy Red Velvet Sundae!

Thadi, Hauz Khaz Village

You can laze around while you eat here.

The Great Kabab Factory

Check out their Great Kababs.

Authentic Rajasthani cuisine in Delhi.

QD’s restaurant, Hudson Lane

Yumy Paneer Tikka!

Majnu ka Tila

Famous for Tibetan street food. You must try Laping noodles, pancakes, shabalay, and thukpa.

Giani di Hatti, Chandni Chowk

Almost divine kulfi faluda!

Kailash Chandra Jain Chai Wallah

Ah! Their Almond Chai.

Hira Lal Chaat Wala, Chawri Bazaar

Kulle ki Chaat or Daulat ki Chaat

Pandey’s Paan, CP

Wouldn’t you want to conclude your dinner with an Indian after-dinner treat? Savor the best paan in Delhi here!

Karim’s, Chandani Chowk

A literal haven for Mughlai food lovers!

YETI, The Himalayan Kitchen, Hauz Khas Village

It not only offers heart-warming Himalayan cuisine but is also known to be one of the most Instagram-worthy cafes in Delhi.

Prabhu Chaat Bhandar , UPSC Road

Delhi mein aa ke chaat nahin khayi to kya kiya? Prabhu Chaat Bhandar is famous for its signature chaat since 1935.

Fun Fact: “It is said that Prabhu Chaat Bhandar was amongst the first chaat stalls in Delhi to be listed in the income tax bracket for its immense revenue collection.” quotes NDTV Food. This reminds me of an anecdote – Once when income tax officials arrived at Prabhu Chaat Bhandar for a raid, Nathu Lal (founder) claimed that he didn’t have a taxable sale. Having heard that, the income tax officers started counting the used plates.

Delhi is known for its mouth-watering street food. You can’t leave the city before you try famous street food infamous for causing Delhi Belly. So, how do you consume it without getting sick?

I only have one piece of advice – Take a legit food tour that allows you to savor Delhicacies without the risk of Delhi Belly .

What’s the most authentic way to explore the local Indian food scene? Well, my friend Viola shared her experience wherein she got a chance to cook with a local in Delhi. Read to know how you too can experience India, homemade!

Pro-Tip: Delhi has so much to offer that one gets confused about what to do and what not in a limited period of time. If you plan to visit India’s cultural hub, please make a list of your type of places (I am sure the list will be long enough), visit these, and experience them for yourself.

Phew! That’s a wrap-up of our guide to the best places in Delhi. In case I missed out on any place that’s worth visiting in Delhi, do let me know.

INDIA TRAVEL ESSENTIALS Here are the essential resources I personally use and recommend for planning a trip to India. Visa for India:   iVisa  works great for applying for a fast e-visa online. Also,  OneWayFly  is great if you need to show proof of onward travel (flight itinerary) or hotel reservation. For travel insurance:   Heymondo . It’s the most affordable travel insurance with maximum coverage. You get 5% off if you use my link. For Connectivity:   Airalo . It’s the first-ever eSIM global website where you can buy an eSIM at affordable prices and stay connected while traveling. For booking flights:   Skyscanner  and  WayAway . They are the best search/comparison flight booking sites that help you find the best and cheapest flight deals. And with the  WayAway  membership plan, you’ll get cashback for every booking. Plus, with the special promo code “MELODIES” a 10% discount is activated. International money transfer & currency exchange:   Wise . With competitive exchange rates, fast transfers, and a 9.1/10 rating on TrustPilot, it’s the only service you should use every time you transfer and exchange internationally. For finding accommodations:   Booking.com  and  Agoda . They are the pioneers among hotel booking websites that give you a lot of choices with their huge selection of properties reviewed by travelers. For rental car:   Discover Cars . It’s the best international car rental platform for all your car rental needs. For ground transport:   Omio ,  RailEurope , and  Bookaway . Best sites for booking bus and train tickets in India. For tours & day trips:   Viator ,  Get Your Guide , and  Klook . They offer the best city tours and day excursions in India. For guidance on the go:  A  Lonely Planet Guidebook for India  comes in handy here.

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Anjali Chawla

9 thoughts on “A Definitive List of the Places to Visit in Delhi, India”

Very nice and informative article. Thanks for sharing. Regards. BanBanjara

Glad you liked it. Thanks for spending time.

Tibetan street food and Paranthe Wali Gali are my favourite food joints in Delhi. Thanks for the great post.

So true, they are great destinations to indulge in local and delicious food. Thanks for reading and appreciating the post. Hope you are able to try some new food joints as well.

I really appreciate your post and you explain each and every point very well. Thanks for sharing this information.

Thanks for the kind words. We are happy that our post could be useful for you, that’s our motive as well.

The artistic style of sharing information had kept me bound throughout the blog. I would like to thank the writer for sharing such amazing and informative content with us and will share it with my friends and family members. I also request the writer to keep sharing such interesting content with us.

We really appreciate you taking the time to express that. We put a lot of effort into our blog and it feels nice when someone acknowledges our work. Thank you so much 🙂

Breathtaking! Thanks for the best guide to this incredible country!

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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!

TheWanderingQuinn

Wednesday 16th of October 2019

These 10 Unique New Delhi Experiences Are A Must-Try In The Indian Capital

Chock-full of and near to enough bucket list attractions to fill weeks of travel, check out these 10 amazing experiences only found in Delhi.

India has been a traveler’s delight for centuries, offering ashrams for spiritual seekers , vibrant festivals for revelers, and a roster of breathtaking attractions . Delhi, its capital, is no exception. Whether staying in a hotel or one of the city’s many charming B&Bs , visitors to Delhi find a rich and enthralling experience here. The city is chock-full of and near to enough bucket list attractions to fill weeks of travel. Check out these 10 amazing experiences only found in Delhi.

10 Private Full-Day Old And New Delhi City Tour

Old and New Delhi are twin cities inextricably linked through their rich shared history. Seeing the area with a guide is best, as layers of meaning and history pile one atop the other in this complex cityscape. This private tour allows for a deep dive into all that makes these twin cities so special. Travelers will see many highlights throughout the city, ranging from the vibrant Chandni Chowk bazaar to the sacred and solemn Jama Masjid.

• Tour: Private Full-Day Old and New Delhi City Tour
• Cost: $41 USD per adult
• Duration: 8 hours

Book this tour

9 Old Delhi Food, Heritage And Cultural Walk With Rickshaw Ride To Masterji Kee Haveli

Guests on this tour immerse in the delightful frenzy of Old Delhi, seeing this unique area on foot. Stops include opportunities to taste local dishes and explore the centuries-old heritage and culture. Visitors also visit a traditional compound-style house called a haveli . The journey includes a rickshaw ride, so guests can experience traveling in the historical city like the nobility of bygone eras who once wielded great power and wealth from within the walls of these castle-like Havelis.

• Tour: Old Delhi Food, Heritage&Cultural Walk with Rickshaw ride to Masterji Kee Haveli
• Cost: $50.94
• Duration: 4 hours

Related: These Are The 10 Must-See Bucket-List Attractions In Delhi

8 Old Delhi Street Food Tour

India is known worldwide for its flavorful and indulgent cuisine. The country also has a vibrant street food scene, driven by innovation and competition in this fast-paced industry with discerning and loyal customers. Explore the local flavors of Old Delhi on this guided street food tour. Eat where the locals do and take your taste buds on an adventure while exploring the magnificent old city.

• Tour: Old Delhi Street Food Tour
• Cost: $39.48

Related: 12 of the Best Indian Foods You Need to Try

7 Private Jaipur City Tour From Delhi By Car

For all that it has to offer, Delhi can be an overwhelming spectacle. A private guided excursion to nearby Jaipur City is a welcome break and a historical must-see. Guests are treated to a whirlwind tour of the city’s highlights, including the fanciful Hawa Mahal, built with pink and red sandstone. Visitors will also enjoy a tranquil visit to Jal Mahal, an elegant and striking palace built in the middle of a lake. There is a lot to see in this tour, and a lunch break is built into the schedule to keep the pace comfortable, relaxing, and refreshing.

• Tour: Private Jaipur Day Tour from Delhi By Car
• Cost: From $110 USD per adult
• Duration: 14 hours

Related: How To Plan A Trip To The Historic City Of Delhi, India

6 Old Delhi Photography And Food Tour With Rickshaw Ride To Masterji Kee Haveli

Delhi is a frenzied feast for all the senses, and photography is a great way to bring home those bucket list experiences. Grab a camera and spend four hours snapping the inspiring sights and curious moments of Old Delhi. This photography tour is unique in that it also includes a food tour, which is ideal for foodies, photographers, and food photographers.

• Tour: Old Delhi Photography & Food Tour with Rickshaw Ride to Masterji Kee Haveli
• Cost: $50.94 USD per adult

5 Private Taj Mahal Tour From Delhi By Car - All Inclusive

Just a few hours away, the Taj Majal is a bucket list destination that ought to be combined with any visit to Delhi. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been mesmerizing visitors for centuries and continues to live up to (and exceed) the hype. A palace dedicated to love, guests will certainly fall in love with the poignant and bittersweet story behind this spectacular complex. This all-inclusive private tour takes the guesswork out of visiting the Taj Mahal, so visitors can relax and enjoy one of the most amazing human-made sites on earth.

• Tour: Private Taj Mahal Tour from Delhi by Car - All Inclusive
• Duration: 12 hours

Related: Everything You Need To Know About The Iconic Taj Mahal In India

4 Private Full-Day Shopping Tour In New Delhi

From ancient bazaars to high-end shopping and rare hand-crafted masterpieces, New Delhi is a shopper's paradise. This tour is uniquely designed for each shopper’s taste. Visitors simply provide a list of items they want to shop for (e.g., handicrafts, jewelry, spices, etc.), and the tour guide will customize a 6-hour shopping tour through the city, making sure that travelers enjoy shopping at all the right establishments.

• Tour: Private Full Day Shopping Tour in New Delhi
• Duration: 6 hours

3 Veg And Non-Veg: Private Cooking Class In Delhi

India is one of the world’s oldest food destinations, with trade ships plying the coast for centuries to transport spices to the world. What better place to learn the local cuisine than through a hands-on cooking class? All skill levels are welcome, as the skilled instructor explains each step and ingredient to participants. Guests will learn to make 2-3 types of traditional Indian snacks followed by 4-5 main courses. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options will be available. Learn the delicious secrets of Indian spices and bring home the ancient cooking techniques of India. Now that’s quite a souvenir.

• Tour: Veg and Non veg : Private Cooking Class in Delhi
• Cost: $47.58
• Duration: 3 hours

2 Full Day Delhi Tour By Tuk Tuk - Private Tour

The three-wheeled tuk-tuk or auto rickshaw is practically a symbol of India. Piloted by fearless drivers, these small but mighty autos compete for the road alongside trucks and cars with authority derived from their sheer numbers and the sentimental place they hold in the country’s identity. Hop in a tuk-tuk to see Delhi like a local and learn why the city and the tuk-tuk maintain a special relationship. What’s more, this tour is offered in an enhanced three-wheeler with free WiFi, Bluetooth music connection, and a box of tasty refreshments. Essential stops include the Red Fort and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, one of the most important sites in the Sikh faith.

• Tour: Full Day Delhi Tour By Tuk Tuk-Private Tour
• Cost: $43.58

1 Night View Of Delhi Tour

Aglow with streetlights and neon shop signs, Delhi has a second life after dark. Street food stalls buzz with the clank of pots, and young people gather around traditional tea vendors known as chai walla . The city’s well-heeled residents frequent trendy restaurants, performances, and hush-hush nightlife spots. Experience the magic of Delhi at night with this four-hour guided tour showing the city’s monuments illuminated in the evening and bustling nighttime markets. The charm of India Gate at night is always a highlight, where guests can enjoy a relaxing stroll in the glow of the lit-up monument.

• Tour: Night View of Delhi Tour - 4 Hrs

Connaught Place, Delhi: History, Attractions, Shopping, Nightlife

Connaught Place, commonly known as CP, is a bustling commercial and cultural hub of New Delhi. This iconic landmark is famous for its colonial architecture, bustling markets, vibrant nightlife, and diverse food scene. In this ultimate guide, we’ll take you on a journey through all the best things to see, do, and experience in Connaught Place.

Connaught Place was designed by British architect Edwin Lutyens in the early 20th century. The area was named after the Duke of Connaught and was intended to serve as the commercial center of Delhi. Today, it remains a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, with its vibrant atmosphere and cultural significance.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about exploring Connaught Place, including transportation options, the best time to visit, top attractions, food spots, shopping destinations, nightlife, hidden gems, and much more.

Table of Contents

History of Connaught Place

Connaught Place was built between 1929 and 1933 and was designed by British architect Robert Tor Russell. The market was built to replace the old city of Shahjahanabad, which was becoming overcrowded and unsanitary. Today, Connaught Place is considered one of the most significant heritage sites in New Delhi.

This guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your visit to Connaught Place, including how to get there, the best time to visit, and what to see and do. We’ll also cover the top food spots, shopping destinations, nightlife options, and accommodations in the area. Finally, we’ll provide tips on staying safe and traveling on a budget.

How to Reach Connaught Place

Before you start exploring Connaught Place, it’s important to know how to get there. Here are the transportation options and parking options available:

Modes of Transportation

There are several modes of transportation available to reach Connaught Place, including:

Metro: The nearest metro station is Rajiv Chowk , which is on the Blue and Yellow lines.

Bus: Several buses connect Connaught Place with other parts of Delhi.

Auto-rickshaw: Auto-rickshaws are readily available and are a convenient option for short distances.

Taxi: Taxi and cabs can be booked through ride-hailing apps like Uber and Ola.

Parking Options

There are several paid parking options available in Connaught Place, including street parking, multi-level parking, and private parking lots.

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Best Time to Visit Connaught Place

The best time to visit Connaught Place depends on your preferences and interests. Here are some factors to consider:

Weather Conditions

The best time to visit Connaught Place is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and mild. Summers can be scorching hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C, while winters can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to 5°C or below.

Crowds and Peak Season

Connaught Place can get crowded, especially on weekends and during festivals. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, it’s best to visit on weekdays.

Festivals and Events

Connaught Place hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including Diwali , Holi , and Christmas . If you want to experience the cultural vibrancy of the area, plan your visit during these times.

Top Attractions in Connaught Place

Connaught Place is home to several iconic landmarks and attractions that are worth exploring. Here are some of the top attractions:

1. Central Park

Central Park is a lush green oasis in the heart of Connaught Place. It’s a popular spot for morning walks, picnics, and outdoor activities.

2. Hanuman Mandir

Hanuman Mandir is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It’s believed to be one of the oldest temples in Delhi and attracts a large number of devotees.

3. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is a prominent Sikh temple that’s known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture.

4. Janpath Market

Located in close proximity to Connaught Place, Janpath Market is a vibrant shopping district that offers a wide range of products, including clothing, handicrafts, jewelry, and souvenirs. It’s an ideal spot for bargain hunters and those looking for unique finds.

5. Palika Bazaar

Palika Bazaar is an underground market that offers a wide range of products, including electronics, clothing, footwear, and accessories. It’s a great place to shop for affordable goods, but visitors should be prepared to haggle.

6. Jantar Mantar

A fascinating astronomical observatory, Jantar Mantar features several instruments that were used to measure time, track stars, and predict eclipses. The site offers a glimpse into India’s rich scientific heritage and is a must-visit for history buffs and astronomy enthusiasts.

Best Food Spots in Connaught Place

Connaught Place is a foodie’s paradise, with numerous options catering to different budgets and tastes. Here are some of the best places to eat in the area:

Local Street Food Options

Connaught Place is known for its delicious street food, with vendors selling everything from chaat, samosas, and kachoris to chhole bhature, tikkas, and rolls. Some popular street food stalls include Bishan Swaroop Chaat Corner, Prince Paan, Chaat Corner, and Shiv Misthan Bhandar.

Fine Dining Restaurants

Connaught Place is home to some of the best fine dining restaurants in the city, offering a wide range of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, Italian, and Japanese. Some popular restaurants include The Spice Route, The Imperial, and The Pavilion.

Budget-Friendly Eateries

If you’re on a tight budget, don’t worry – Connaught Place has plenty of options for you too. From local eateries to fast-food chains, there’s something for everyone. Some popular budget-friendly options include Keventers, Wenger’s Deli, and Sita Ram Diwan Chand.

Indulge in the Irresistible Nizam’s Kathi Roll

Nizam’s Kathi Roll is a popular street food that originated in Kolkata but has now become a favorite in Delhi. The rolls are made with a paratha or flatbread that is stuffed with a spicy filling of meat, vegetables, or paneer. The rolls are then wrapped in paper and served hot, making them a perfect on-the-go snack. A visit to Connaught Place is incomplete without trying the mouth-watering Nizam’s Kathi Roll.

Savor the Delicious Delights at Cha Bar

Located in the heart of Connaught Place, Cha Bar is a popular destination for tea lovers. The tea bar offers a wide selection of teas, from classic blends to exotic flavors, and is known for its delectable snacks and desserts. Whether you’re a tea aficionado or just looking for a cozy spot to relax, Cha Bar is the perfect place to unwind and savor the flavors of Delhi.

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Shopping in Connaught Place

Connaught Place is a shopper’s paradise, with something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to shop in the area:

#1. Local Boutiques

Connaught Place is home to several local boutiques that offer unique, handcrafted products, including clothing, accessories, and home décor. Some popular boutiques include Anokhi, Fabindia, and Ogaan.

#2. High-End Stores

If you’re looking for luxury brands, Connaught Place has several high-end stores, including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Dior. These stores offer premium products and a luxurious shopping experience.

#3. Street Vendors

Connaught Place is also home to numerous street vendors who sell everything from clothes

Explore the Vibrant Nightlife at Connaught Place

Connaught Place has a lively nightlife scene with a variety of options to choose from. From pubs and bars to nightclubs and live music venues, there’s something for everyone. Some of the most popular places include Lord of the Drinks, The Junkyard Cafe, and The Electric Room. The area is generally safe at night, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Historical and Cultural Sites in Connaught Place

Connaught Place is home to several historical and cultural sites that are worth a visit. Agrasen ki Baoli is an ancient stepwell that dates back to the 14th century and is known for its unique architecture. The National Museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits related to India’s history and culture. And of course, no trip to Delhi is complete without a visit to India Gate , a war memorial dedicated to Indian soldiers who died in World War I.

Experience the Richness of Culture at National Museum

The National Museum is one of the largest museums in India and houses a vast collection of artifacts, artworks, and antiquities. The museum showcases the cultural heritage of India, from ancient times to the modern era. The exhibits include sculptures, paintings, manuscripts, coins, and other relics, providing a glimpse into the rich history and diversity.

Read Also: Top 10 Most Popular Museums in Delhi You Need To Visit

Best Photo Spots in Connaught Place

If you’re looking for the perfect Instagram-worthy shot, Connaught Place has plenty of options. Some of the best spots include Central Park, which has a beautiful fountain and manicured gardens, and the rooftop cafes that offer stunning views of the surrounding area.

Activities for Families and Kids in Connaught Place

Connaught Place has plenty of options for families and kids as well. For a fun day out, head to the Adventure Island amusement park or the Playbox indoor play area. The National Museum also has several exhibits that are geared toward children, and the art galleries and museums offer a great opportunity to learn about Indian culture and history.

Religious Sites in Connaught Place

Connaught Place is home to several religious sites that are worth a visit. The Sacred Heart Cathedral is a beautiful church that dates back to the early 20th century and is known for its Gothic architecture. The Jhandewalan Temple is a popular Hindu temple that is dedicated to the goddess Aadi Shakti, and St. James’ Church is a colonial-era church that dates back to the 19th century.

Hidden Gems in Connaught Place

If you’re looking to explore some of the lesser-known spots in Connaught Place, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover. For book lovers, Bahrisons Booksellers is a must-visit spot that offers a wide range of books and magazines. The rooftop cafes in the area are perfect for a relaxing afternoon, and vintage shops like Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi Wale offer a unique shopping experience.

Art and Culture in Connaught Place

Connaught Place is a hub for art and culture in Delhi. From art galleries to cultural centers and performing arts venues, there’s something for everyone. The National Gallery of Modern Art is a must-visit spot for art lovers, and the Indian Habitat Centre offers a wide range of cultural events and programs throughout the year.

Sports and Recreation in Connaught Place

If you’re looking to stay active during your trip to Connaught Place, there are plenty of options for sports and recreation as well. The area has several fitness studios

In conclusion, Connaught Place in Delhi offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to all interests and preferences. From historical monuments to street food, shopping, and nightlife, the area has something for everyone. A visit to Connaught Place is a must for anyone looking to experience Delhi’s unique charm and culture.

Additional Resources:

• What to Eat in Delhi’s Connaught Place Neighborhood
• Top 10 Rooftop Restaurants in Delhi
• 5 Best Reasons to See Lotus Temple in Delhi
• Top 5 Reasons to Visit Qutub Minar, Delhi
• A First-Timer’s Guide to the Golden Triangle Tour in India
• Top 10 Reasons To See India’s Capital, Delhi
• Top 10 Things to Do on Golden Triangle Tour India
• Why Golden Triangle is the best tour in India?

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Discover what it’s like to travel in India, with true travel stories from locals, tourists, expats, journalists and adventurers. Discover the festivals, experience Mumbai vicariously, and journey through words through one of the world’s most diverse and fascinating countries.

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Woman wearing just underwear boards Delhi bus, viral video flagged to cops

A video showing a woman wearing underwear while travelling in a crowded bus in delhi has gone viral on social media..

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• A woman wearing underwear boarded a crowded bus in Delhi
• The video has gone viral
• The viral video of the woman has left social media users furious

Passengers travelling in a bus in Delhi were in for a shock as a woman wearing underwear boarded the crowded vehicle. A 12-second video of the scenario went viral on social media and has left the internet absolutely furious.

In the video that was recorded by one of the passengers, the woman wearing underwear boarded the bus and was seen standing near the door. Irked by her presence, another female passenger who was standing near her, walked away.

As the video went viral on X (formerly Twitter), social media users lashed out at the woman for her inappropriate behaviour. “Instead of recording the video, passengers should have thrown her out of the bus,” a user said.

“I am sick of this. No civic sense,” another comment reads.

“Unfortunate to draw social media fame. Haven’t seen this even abroad in local buses or trains. We’re a very confused society in need to prove our strength/identity/attention call it whatever. Empowerment done wrong.”

Several others tagged Delhi Police and asked officials to take action against the woman. Authorities are yet to respond to the viral video.

Air India Will Launch Airbus A350 Service On Short Route From Delhi To Dubai

• Air India will introduce its Airbus A350 on the Delhi-Dubai route, offering passengers a new flying option.
• The carrier's A350s have so far been used on domestic routes for crew familiarization.
• The A350s are part of Air India's strategy for expanding international routes in the long run.

Passengers traveling between Delhi and Dubai are spoiled for choice, with several carriers operating multiple flights daily on the route. And Air India will introduce its latest widebody plane – the Airbus A350 – between the two cities, giving passengers another aircraft option for their Dubai flights.

Air India’s A350 to fly to Dubai

Air India has announced that it will introduce its brand-new Airbus A350 aircraft on its first scheduled international flight to Dubai. The airline will start flying the A350 from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to Dubai beginning May 1, and these flights are now up for reservation on Air India’s website and mobile app or via travel agents.

Air India currently operates a total of 72 flights a week to Dubai from five Indian cities, of which 32 are from Delhi. The schedule for its A350 Dubai service is as follows:

Flying on domestic routes first

Air India now has three Airbus A350s in its fleet: VT-JRA, VT-JRB, and VT-JRE. It has deployed these planes extensively on domestic routes in India before their eventual international debut as part of crew training, familiarization, and regulatory compliance purposes.

The first of these planes, VT-JRA, started scheduled domestic flights in January, with Air India advertising these services in massive marketing campaigns. In recent days, it has flown primarily in South India on sectors such as Chennai-Bengaluru, Chennai-Hyderabad, and also to Mumbai.

2nd Airbus A350-900 Delivered To Air India

VT-JRB has also had similar routes, but it has also flown between Delhi and Bengaluru as well as Bengaluru and Hyderabad. VT-JRE was flying between Delhi and Mumbai at the time of writing and has flown exclusively between these two cities in the last few days.

These A350s feature 28 private suites with full-flat beds in business class, 24 seats in a dedicated premium economy cabin offering extra legroom and other enhancements, and 264 seats in economy. All seats offer the latest-generation Panasonic eX3 in-flight entertainment system and HD screens that offer more than 2,200 hours of entertainment content from around the world.

Symbolizing new aspiration

The A350 is Air India’s latest flagship aircraft, and it is expected to open up several new international routes in the coming years as the airline tries to match other leading global carriers. It has been preparing its crew and maintenance staff in the last few months to operate the A350 and even received permission from the aviation watchdog, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), for its engineering line maintenance.

The A350s are part of Air India’s massive 470 aircraft order with both Airbus and Boeing . Of the 250 new aircraft ordered from Airbus, 40 were for the A350. The carrier initially agreed to get six -900 variants meant for Russia’s Aeroflot and the rest as -1000 but later changed the order to split in the middle , with 20 each of the -1000 and -900.

With several more A350s set to join Air India in the coming years, the airline will, indeed, have the much-needed capacity to double down on its international network. Dubai is just the start!

What are your views on this? Please leave a comment below.

IATA/ICAO Code: AI/AIC

Airline Type: Full Service Carrier

Hub(s): Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport

Year Founded: 1946

Alliance: Star Alliance

CEO: Campbell Wilson

Country: India

Region: Asia

More From Forbes

7 ways to travel more sustainably.

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Sustainable travel can be fun, rewarding and not at all challenging

Sustainable travel is surging in popularity, but what does it mean? The vague term can refer to traveling in a way that’s conscientious of the environment and local communities, leaving less of an impact on a destination and perhaps even bettering the location in the process. Sustainable tourism, in many ways a reaction to overtourism, helps protect the planet, to ensure destinations are liveable and worth visiting for years to come. And while travel can certainly takes its toll, creating carbon emissions, waste and more, responsible tourism is an essential step in protecting the planet.

Sustainable Travel Tips

Responsible tourism helps the environment by limiting ecological impact, supporting indigenous wildlife, respecting cultural heritage, and not taking away from a destination as a visitor, be it removing a shell from a beach or littering on a hiking trail. Plenty of responsible travel itineraries are easily replicable, but many trips can be adapted to be more sustainable. There are so many ways, big and small, to travel more responsibly and sustainably. Here’s how to start:

1. TSA-Friendly Doesn’t Need To Be Earth Hostile

You can buy single use and tiny versions of pretty much every care product these days, but do you actually need to? Opt for refillable travel bottles to decant your normal products into, and you’ll always have TSA-friendly bottles of shampoo, lotion, whatever you need at the ready. If you prefer to travel without liquids, consider switching to bars of shampoo and conditioner toothpaste powder and other products, which are eco-friendly wherever you are.

Planning ahead can be a major factor in sustainable travel

2. Opt For Public Transit

Public transportation — buses, trains, light rail, etc. — is always more sustainable than a private ride. If possible, use public transit to get to and from your destination and learn your destination’s public transit system to navigate while you explore. Not only will you likely save money as well as lower your carbon footprint, you’ll get a taste of how locals live. If public transit isn’t an option, consider booking shared rides to the airport and excursions, or renting an electric or hybrid vehicle if driving solo is the only option.

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A bit of planning ahead can save considerable landfill waste. Bringing a reusable coffee cup for morning coffee runs and reusable water bottle will hopefully cut down the amount of single-use items you purchase on the go. Other easy to pack items including a reusable travel utensil set, reusable straws and reusable earplugs can help avoid creating more waste on the road. If you’re someone who discards beach reads, consider switching to an e-reader. Pack tote bags to carry souvenirs or other items purchased on the road that won’t require disposable plastic bags.

4. Eat Conscientiously

Eating local is the best way for your diet to support local eco-systems. Not only does dining at independent, small businesses (e.g. not chains), support local business people, but can often have lower environmental impact than major franchised restaurants that ship ingredients and supplies across the country. Making lower impact choices, including eating mostly plant-based, when possible, can also make travel a bit greener. If you don’t have anything to do with leftovers, consider ordering with a bit more restriction so you aren’t creating an excess of food waste.

Local culinary experiences can be healthy, fulfilling and sustainable

5. Book A Sustainable Hotel

Staying at a property dedicated to sustainability can make a big impact, especially by showing the travel industry that this is a priority for hospitality. Hotels are offered various certifications to prove their sustainable status, which can be achieved as a remote eco-lodge or luxury property in a major city. Several hotels are seeking LEED certification , the Green Hotels Association has a collection of vendors who prioritize sustainability, and the Leading Hotels of the World has a sustainability collection of five star properties.

6. Buy Carbon Offsets

While we technically can’t undo the damage we cause to the environment, there are initiatives to at least mitigate it. Carbon offsets allow consumers to compensate for their carbon footprint by funding projects that reduce carbon dioxide pollution. CoolEffect.org can help you decide how much to give, based on trip itinerary and logistics. For example, to offset air travel, a roundtrip, 6-hour flight would add about 1.89 tons of CO2 per passenger, and $31.17 of carbon offsets would help mitigate that.

Some airlines offer the option to purchase carbon offsets alongside airfare

7. Slow Down Your Travel

Slow travel is a buzzword that’s emerged in the 2020s, when work and leisure travel aka bleisure have melded more than ever, and the concept of working and even socializing remotely is totally normalized. Rather than a quick jaunt back and forth, slow travel emphasizes taking your time with tourism, be it living in a rental property for a month and enjoying the sights on the weekends, going backpacking, biking or hiking for an extended off the grid period, or traveling via train instead of air. Slow tourism has been proven to have a positive environmental impact .

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Cass Review: Gender report author cannot travel on public transport over safety fears

Dr Hilary Cass says she is more upset and frustrated about the falsehoods being peddled about her research than the abuse directed at her, because it is "putting children at risk".

Saturday 20 April 2024 13:38, UK

The paediatrician behind a landmark report into transgender treatment of children has criticised the "disinformation" about her findings as she revealed she avoids travelling on public transport over security fears.

Dr Hilary Cass has said the attacks on her study were "inaccurate" and "unforgivable" as it put young people "at risk".

The recently-published Cass Review found that there was "remarkably weak evidence" to support gender treatments for children.

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The "toxicity of the debate" was also not helping, with people afraid of discussing transgender issues openly, she said.

The research was commissioned by NHS England four years ago after a steep rise in the numbers seeking help for gender issues.

Dr Cass told The Times newspaper: "I have been really frustrated by the criticisms, because it is straight disinformation. It is completely inaccurate.

"It started the day before the report came out when an influencer posted a picture of a list of papers that were apparently rejected because they were not randomised control trials.

"That list has absolutely nothing to do with either our report or any of the papers."

She added: "If you deliberately try to undermine a report that has looked at the evidence of children's healthcare, then that's unforgivable. You are putting children at risk by doing that."

Read more: What gender treatments are currently available to children?

She also hit out at Labour MP Dawn Butler, who questioned Health Secretary Victoria Atkins during a House of Commons debate on Monday about why "over 100 studies have not been in this Cass report".

Dr Cass expressed dismay at the Brent Central MP making assertions that were "completely wrong".

She said researchers had examined every research paper, but not all met the threshold standard for inclusion.

The total number of datasets deemed to be of high or medium-quality was 60 out of 103.

The Cass report made more than 32 recommendations, including that gender care operates "to the same standards" as other children's health services.

The review found the entire field of medicine aimed at enabling children to change gender had been "built on shaky foundations", with not enough evidence to support prescribing hormones to under-18s to pause puberty or to transition to the opposite sex.

Last month, NHS England confirmed children would no longer be prescribed puberty blockers outside of research trials.

It also emerged adult gender clinics had refused to take part in the review, which was described as "hugely disappointing" by Dr Cass.

'Vile emails'

Regarding the online abuse she has received, the physician said: "There are some pretty vile emails coming in at the moment.

"Most of which my team is protecting me from, so I'm not getting to see them."

She added: "What dismays me is just how childish the debate can become.

"If I don't agree with somebody then I'm called transphobic or a TERF [trans-exclusionary radical feminist]."

'Misinformation makes me seethe'

But asked if the vitriol had affected her, Dr Cass, the former president of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, said: "No... it's personal, but these people don't know me.

"I'm much, much more upset and frustrated about all this disinformation than I am about the abuse.

"The thing that makes me seethe is the misinformation."

She added: "I'm not going on public transport at the moment, following security advice, which is inconvenient."

NHS England has since announced a second Cass Review-style appraisal of adult gender clinics.

But Dr Cass confirmed to The Times she will not take part in that report.

She said: "You heard it right here - I am not going to do the adult gender clinic review."

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• Transgender