Delhi Travel Guide (Plains/India/South Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Delhi

Delhi, the capital of India, is a city of contrasts, blending the old and new in one dynamic metropolis. From ancient forts and tombs to modern architecture and world-renowned museums, Delhi offers travelers a diverse range of experiences. Discover this vibrant city with our comprehensive travel guide.

List of Places to Visit in Delhi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Delhi has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, and its museums and historical places reflect this. Visit Raj Ghat, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi; the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; and Qutub Minar, a towering 73-meter minaret from the Mughal era. Other must-see attractions include the Jama Masjid mosque, the Lotus Temple, and the Humayun’s Tomb, a stunning example of Mughal architecture.

Natural Attractions of Delhi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For outdoor lovers, Delhi offers a range of natural attractions, from the serene Lodi Gardens, to the bustling India Gate and the Yamuna riverfront.

Take a stroll in Lodi Gardens, which features a variety of trees, plants, and flowers, where you can enjoy a picnic or relax in the peaceful atmosphere.

For a breathtaking view of the city, head to India Gate, an iconic monument memorializing soldiers who died in World War I. You can walk or cycle around the park, and enjoy the street vendors near the gate.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Delhi

Despite being a crowded city, Delhi offers plenty of opportunities to explore on foot or by bike. If you’re looking for an easy and scenic hike, head to the Aravalli Hills, a mountain range that stretches from Delhi to Gujarat.

You can also explore the city’s parks and gardens on foot or by bike. The Nehru Park, Deer Park, and Sanjay Van are some popular parks and trails that offer a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city.

Best Things to Do in Delhi: Activities and Tours

There are endless activities and tours to choose from in Delhi. For a unique experience, take a tour of Old Delhi by cycle rickshaw, a popular mode of transportation in the area. You can also take a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Indian dishes, or explore the city’s vibrant street art scene with a guide.

If you’re looking for a more spiritual experience, visit an ashram or take a yoga class at one of the many studios in the city. A trip to Delhi wouldn’t be complete without trying some street food, so head to Chandni Chowk and try some of the city’s famous street delicacies.

Week-Long Itinerary for Delhi

Day 1: Visit the Red Fort and Jama Masjid mosque Day 2: Explore the Humayun’s Tomb and Qutub Minar Day 3: Take a cycling tour of Old Delhi and visit the Raj Ghat Day 4: Stroll through the Lodi Gardens and picnic there Day 5: Visit the Lotus Temple and Akshardham Temple Day 6: Experience the street food of Chandni Chowk and visit India Gate in the evening Day 7: Visit the National Museum and Delhi Haat for some shopping

Food and Drink Scene of Delhi

Must-Try Dishes

Delhi’s cuisine is a melting pot of flavors, and whether you’re a vegetarian or non-vegetarian, there’s something for everyone. Some must-try dishes include:

Butter chicken: a creamy tomato-based dish served with naan bread
Chole bhature: spicy chickpea curry served with a deep-fried bread
Chaat: a savory snack made with crispy fried dough, yogurt, and chutney
Parathas: thick Indian flatbreads stuffed with various ingredients like potatoes, paneer, and more

Local Beverages

Lassi, a refreshing yogurt-based drink, is a popular local beverage. Another local favorite is the masala chai, a spiced tea served with milk and sugar.

Where to Stay in Delhi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Delhi has a wide range of accommodation options to suit any budget. From luxury hotels to budget guesthouses, there’s something for everyone. Some popular areas to stay in Delhi include Connaught Place, Karol Bagh, and Paharganj. Some recommended hotels include:

The Imperial Hotel: a luxurious heritage hotel located in the heart of the city
The Park Hotel: a modern hotel in Connaught Place
Backpacker Panda: a budget-friendly hostel in Paharganj

What to Buy in Delhi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Delhi is a shopper’s paradise, and there’s something for everyone, from traditional handicrafts to modern fashion. Some popular souvenirs and local products include:

Handicrafts: pick up some colorful Rajasthani textiles, handcrafted pottery, or intricate ceramics
Jewelry: Delhi is renowned for its intricate gold and silver jewelry.
Spices: head to the Chandni Chowk spice market to find a wide variety of fresh Indian spices to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Delhi

Delhiites are generally warm and friendly, but it’s important to be respectful of local customs and culture. When visiting temples or religious sites, dress modestly, remove shoes at the entrance, and avoid touching any religious artifacts or statues.

Best Time to Visit Delhi

The best time to visit Delhi is from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant. The summer months of May to August can be extremely hot, while the monsoon season from July to September can cause heavy rainfall and flooding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Delhi

Do:

Be respectful of local customs and culture
Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites
Use public transportation or ride-hailing services instead of hailing taxis on the street

Don’t:

Drink tap water - stick to bottled water
Take photos of people without their permission
Eat street food from unhygienic vendors

Safety and Health

Safety in Delhi

While Delhi is a generally safe city, it’s important to take necessary precautions when traveling. Be aware of your surroundings, keep your valuables secure, and avoid traveling alone at night.

Health in Delhi

Visitors should take care in terms of food and water hygiene. Some common health issues for travelers include traveler’s diarrhea and mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and malaria. Make sure to consult a healthcare provider before traveling and get any necessary vaccinations.

Getting to Delhi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Delhi

The Indira Gandhi International Airport is the main airport in Delhi, and it’s well-connected with other major cities around the world.

Bus Stations Near Delhi

Delhi has several bus terminals, including the Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT) at Kashmere Gate and Sarai Kale Khan Bus Terminal.

Other Options

Delhi also has a well-connected railroad system with several stations situated across the city.

How to Get Around in Delhi

Delhi has several transportation options, including the Delhi Metro system, public buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services like Uber and Ola. The Delhi Metro is the most convenient and efficient way to travel around the city.

Where to Go Next from Delhi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some popular nearby destinations from Delhi include the Taj Mahal in Agra, Jaipur, and the wildlife sanctuary of Ranthambore. There are also several trekking and camping destinations in the nearby Himalayan foothills.

Conclusion

Delhi is a city of contrasts and a perfect blend of ancient and modern India. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has helped you plan your trip to Delhi, making your visit a memorable one.