New Delhi Travel Guide

Plan your visit to New Delhi with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, activities, tips, and more.


Introduction to New Delhi

New Delhi, the capital of India, is a bustling city with a rich history and culture. From iconic landmarks to delicious cuisine, New Delhi offers a unique experience for travelers. The city is home to some of the most famous tourist destinations in India, including the Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, and Qutub Minar. The city is also famous for its lively bazaars, street food, and shopping.

List of Places to Visit in New Delhi

There are many must-visit places in New Delhi, including:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Red Fort: Built in the 17th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site was the residence of Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. The fort has beautiful architecture, gardens, and museums.
  • Humayun’s Tomb: A masterpiece of Mughal architecture, Humayun’s Tomb is a must-visit site for history buffs.
  • Qutub Minar: The tallest brick minaret in the world, Qutub Minar is a historical tower built in the 12th century.

Natural Attractions of New Delhi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chattarpur Farms: A serene escape from the chaos of the city, Chattarpur Farms is a must-visit for nature lovers.
  • India Gate: A war memorial, India Gate is a popular picnic spot and a great place to take a stroll.
  • Lotus Temple: Also known as the Bahá’í House of Worship, Lotus Temple is a beautiful white marble structure resembling a lotus flower. It’s a great place to meditate.

Hiking/Biking Routes of New Delhi

If you want to explore the city on foot or by bike, here are some routes to consider:

  • Safdarjung’s Tomb to Lodhi Art District: This route takes you through some of the most beautiful and historic parts of New Delhi, including the Safdarjung Tomb, and the Lodi Art District.
  • Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate: This route runs through the heart of New Delhi’s political center, taking you past iconic landmarks such as the Rashtrapati Bhavan, Parliament House, and India Gate.

Best Things to Do in New Delhi: Activities and Tours

There are many exciting things to do in New Delhi such as:

  • Tuk Tuk Ride: Take a ride on a tuk-tuk, a three-wheeled motorized vehicle that is a common form of transportation in India.
  • Raj Ghat Tour: Visit the final resting place of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of India.
  • Food tour: New Delhi is famous for its street food; take a food tour to taste some of the local delicacies.

Week-Long Itinerary for New Delhi

Day 1 - Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk Day 2 - Humayun’s Tomb, Lotus Temple Day 3 - Qutub Minar, Chattarpur Farms Day 4 - Raj Ghat, Akshardham Temple Day 5 - Crafts Museum and Dilli Haat Day 6 - National Museum and India Gate Day 7 - Connaught Place and Janpath market

Food and Drink Scene of New Delhi

Must-Try Dishes

  • Butter Chicken: A creamy and rich chicken dish that is a staple of North Indian cuisine.
  • Paranthas: A popular Indian flatbread stuffed with various fillings such as potatoes, cauliflower, and cheese.
  • Chole Bhature: A spicy chickpea curry served with crispy fried bread.

Local Beverages

  • Chai: India’s famous masala tea is a must-try for tea lovers.
  • Lassi: A refreshing yogurt drink that comes in sweet and salty varieties.
  • Nimbu Pani: A simple and refreshing drink made with lemon juice, water, and sugar.

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

New Delhi offers a wide range of accommodation options for travelers. Here are some top picks:

  • The Imperial: A beautiful heritage hotel in the heart of New Delhi.
  • Hostel The Spot: A budget-friendly hostel with comfortable dorms and private rooms.
  • Bloomrooms: A mid-range hotel with cozy and stylish rooms at affordable prices.

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

New Delhi is a shopper’s paradise. Make sure you pick up some of these unique items:

  • Textiles: New Delhi is famous for its beautiful textiles such as silk, cotton, and wool.
  • Jewelry: From delicate silver to ornate gold pieces, there is something for everyone in New Delhi’s jewelry markets.
  • Spices and Tea: Stock up on aromatic spices and flavorful tea blends.

Local Culture and Customs of New Delhi

The people of New Delhi are friendly and hospitable. It’s important to dress modestly and respect local customs.

Best Time to Visit New Delhi

The best time to visit New Delhi is from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of New Delhi

Do:

  • Dress conservatively: It’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Carry cash: Many small shops and vendors do not accept credit cards or digital payment methods.
  • Haggle: Bargaining with street vendors is a common practice in India.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water: Always drink bottled water or bring your own water filter.
  • Disrespect religious sites: It’s important to remove your shoes and cover your head when visiting religious sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in New Delhi

New Delhi is generally safe for tourists, but it’s important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Always use licensed taxis and avoid walking alone in deserted areas.

Health in New Delhi

Travelers should ensure that they are up to date on routine vaccinations before visiting India. It’s also recommended to take precautions, such as using insect repellent and avoiding street food to prevent illnesses.

Getting to New Delhi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near New Delhi

  • Indira Gandhi International Airport: The main airport in New Delhi, which is located 10 miles south of the city center.

Bus Stations Near New Delhi

  • Kashmiri Gate Bus Terminal: The largest bus terminal in New Delhi, which provides inter-state and inter-city bus services.

Other Options

  • Metro: The Delhi metro is a fast and convenient way to get around the city.
  • Taxis: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also readily available in New Delhi.

How to Get Around in New Delhi

The best way to get around New Delhi is by metro, taxi, or auto-rickshaw. Walking or cycling is not recommended due to the city’s chaotic traffic and crowded streets.

Where to Go Next from New Delhi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many nearby destinations that you can explore from New Delhi:

  • Agra: Home to the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra is just 3 hours away from Delhi by train.
  • Jaipur: Known as the “Pink City,” Jaipur is a historic city famous for its stunning palaces and forts.
  • Amritsar: A city in the state of Punjab, Amritsar is home to the Golden Temple, one of the most revered sites in Sikhism.

Conclusion

New Delhi offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. From exploring historical sites to indulging in street food, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, New Delhi has it all. Plan your next trip to New Delhi with this comprehensive travel guide!

Safdarjung's Tomb Safdarjung's Tomb Muhammad Shah's Tomb Muhammad Shah's Tomb Sikander Lodi's tomb Sikander Lodi's tomb Bara Gumbad and Mosque at Lodi Gardens Bara Gumbad and Mosque at Lodi Gardens Sheesh Gumbad, Lodi Gardens Sheesh Gumbad, Lodi Gardens Agrasen ki Baoli Agrasen ki Baoli Jantar Mantar Jantar Mantar Gandhi's famed Salt March Gandhi's famed Salt March Gurudwara Bangla Sahib Gurudwara Bangla Sahib The Parliament House The Parliament House The calm of Dilli Haat The calm of Dilli Haat Everything a backpacker needs and then some, Main Bazaar Everything a backpacker needs and then some, Main Bazaar A view of Paharganj A view of Paharganj