Delhi
THE QUICK VERDICT
Choose Delhi if you want India's power capital — Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, Humayun's Tomb, Chandni Chowk old-Delhi street food, and the gateway to Agra + Jaipur.
- Best for
- Old Delhi paratha lanes, Red Fort, Humayun's Tomb gardens, Qutub Minar, gateway to Agra and Jaipur
- Best months
- Feb–Mar · Oct–Dec
- Budget anchor
- $75/day mid-range
- Skip if
- air quality, scams, or extreme grime are deal-breakers — winter smog hits hazardous AQI weekly
India's sprawling capital blends Mughal grandeur with modern chaos — from the Red Fort and Jama Masjid to the bustling lanes of Old Delhi and the leafy avenues of New Delhi designed by Lutyens.
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Tours & Experiences
Bookable tours, activities, and day trips in Delhi
Where to Stay
Compare hotels and rentals in Delhi
📍 Points of Interest
At a Glance
- Pop.
- 32M (metro)
- Timezone
- Kolkata
- Dial
- +91
- Emergency
- 112
Delhi has been the seat of power for numerous empires over 3,000+ years — from the Pandavas of the Mahabharata to the Mughals and the British Raj, earning it the nickname "City of Cities"
New Delhi was designed by British architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker in the 1910s-20s, creating the grand ceremonial axis from Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate that defines the capital today
Delhi is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites — the Qutub Minar, Humayun's Tomb, and the Red Fort — spanning nearly a millennium of architectural achievement
The Delhi Metro is one of the world's largest metro systems with over 250 stations across 12 lines, transforming daily commutes for millions in a city of 32+ million people
Old Delhi's Chandni Chowk, built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in 1650, remains one of Asia's oldest and busiest markets — a sensory overload of spices, textiles, and street food
Delhi's street food scene is legendary — from the paranthas of Paranthe Wali Gali to the chaat of Bengali Market, the city is a living encyclopedia of North Indian cuisine
Top Sights
Red Fort (Lal Qila)
📌The massive red sandstone fortress built by Shah Jahan in 1639 served as the Mughal capital for nearly 200 years. The Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, and evening sound and light show bring Mughal history to life.
Humayun's Tomb
📌This stunning 1570 garden tomb was the prototype for the Taj Mahal. The Persian-influenced architecture set within symmetrical Mughal gardens is one of Delhi's most photogenic sites, especially at sunset.
Qutub Minar
📌A soaring 73-meter-tall victory tower built in 1193, the tallest brick minaret in the world. The surrounding Qutub Complex includes the enigmatic Iron Pillar (rust-free for 1,600 years) and ruins from Delhi's earliest sultanates.
Jama Masjid
📌India's largest mosque, built by Shah Jahan between 1644 and 1656. The vast courtyard can hold 25,000 worshippers. Climb the southern minaret for panoramic views over Old Delhi's chaotic rooftops.
India Gate & Rajpath
🗼The 42-meter war memorial arch anchors Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath), New Delhi's grand ceremonial boulevard stretching to Rashtrapati Bhavan (the President's residence). A beloved gathering spot at sunset.
Lotus Temple
📌A striking Baha'i house of worship shaped like an opening lotus flower, built from white marble. Open to people of all faiths for silent meditation. The architecture has won numerous awards.
Chandni Chowk
🏘️Old Delhi's legendary main street, a 1.3-km stretch of organized chaos with wholesale markets, Mughal-era havelis, temples, mosques, and some of Delhi's best street food. Best explored on foot or by cycle rickshaw.
Akshardham Temple
📌A sprawling modern Hindu temple complex opened in 2005, featuring 20,000 hand-carved figures, a musical fountain show, and exhibitions on Indian culture. No photography is allowed inside.
Off the Beaten Path
Nizamuddin Dargah & Basti
The Sufi shrine of Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya surrounded by a medieval village (basti) with narrow lanes, qawwali music sessions every Thursday evening, and incredible kebab stalls.
While tourists visit Humayun's Tomb next door, few venture into the living, breathing Nizamuddin Basti. The Thursday evening qawwali session at the dargah is one of Delhi's most profoundly moving experiences.
Hauz Khas Village
A medieval water tank and madrasa ruins surrounded by a deer park, with a trendy urban village of galleries, boutiques, and rooftop cafes built into the ruins.
The contrast between 14th-century Tughlaq-era ruins and contemporary art galleries creates a uniquely Delhi atmosphere. The deer park is a peaceful escape, and the sunset views from the ruins are superb.
Agrasen ki Baoli
A dramatic 60-meter-long stepwell dating to the 14th century, hidden among office buildings in central Delhi. 103 stone steps descend into the earth, creating a haunting symmetrical perspective.
This atmospheric stepwell is free to visit and usually uncrowded, offering one of Delhi's most photogenic historical experiences tucked behind modern high-rises on Hailey Road.
Majnu Ka Tilla (Tibetan Colony)
A small Tibetan refugee settlement on the banks of the Yamuna River with authentic Tibetan restaurants, momos, thukpa, and Buddhist monasteries. A slice of Tibet in Delhi.
This vibrant Tibetan enclave feels like a different country. The momos and thukpa here are the best in Delhi, and the tiny lanes reveal monasteries, shops selling Tibetan handicrafts, and genuine warmth.
Climate & Best Time to Go
Delhi has an extreme climate with scorching summers (April-June), a humid monsoon (July-September), and cool to cold winters (November-February). October-March is the best period for visiting. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 45°C (113°F).
Winter
November - February41-72°F
5-22°C
The best time to visit. Cool, dry days perfect for sightseeing. December-January mornings can be foggy and cold (near freezing). Layering is essential for early mornings and evenings.
Summer
March - June77-117°F
25-47°C
Brutally hot, especially May-June when temperatures soar past 45°C. Hot dust storms (loo) blow through the city. Outdoor sightseeing is extremely challenging. Most locals stay indoors during peak afternoon heat.
Monsoon
July - September79-97°F
26-36°C
Heavy rainfall brings relief from the heat but creates waterlogging and traffic chaos. High humidity makes it uncomfortable. The city turns green and monuments look dramatic against monsoon skies.
Autumn
October64-93°F
18-34°C
A brief transition month as the monsoon retreats. Temperatures begin to drop and humidity eases. Good for sightseeing, though early October can still be warm.
Best Time to Visit
October to March is the best time to visit Delhi. November to February offers the most pleasant temperatures for sightseeing, though December-January mornings are foggy and cold. Avoid April to June when temperatures regularly exceed 45°C.
Winter (November - February)
Crowds: High — peak tourist season, especially around Diwali and Christmas/New YearCool and dry with pleasant daytime temperatures for sightseeing. December-January mornings can be foggy with near-freezing temps. The city's best season for outdoor exploration and festivals.
Pros
- + Pleasant daytime temperatures
- + Major festivals (Diwali, Republic Day)
- + Best sightseeing weather
- + Cultural events and exhibitions
Cons
- − Dense fog in December-January delays flights/trains
- − Cold mornings (bring layers)
- − Severe air pollution in November
- − Peak pricing for hotels
Summer (March - June)
Crowds: Very low — too hot for most travelersIncreasingly unbearable heat, peaking in May-June at 45°C+. Hot winds (loo) and dust storms. Most tourists avoid this period. Only recommended for those on a tight budget or schedule.
Pros
- + Lowest hotel prices
- + No crowds at monuments
- + Mango season (April-July)
- + Long daylight hours
Cons
- − Extreme heat (45°C+ in May-June)
- − Heat stroke risk
- − Dust storms
- − Outdoor sightseeing is miserable
Monsoon (July - September)
Crowds: Low — off-seasonHeavy rainfall, flooding, and high humidity. The city turns green but roads waterlog. Rain provides welcome relief from the summer heat. Dramatic skies over Mughal monuments.
Pros
- + Green landscapes
- + Relief from summer heat
- + Lower prices
- + Dramatic monsoon skies
Cons
- − Heavy rainfall and flooding
- − High humidity
- − Waterlogged roads
- − Mosquitoes and dengue risk
Autumn (October)
Crowds: Moderate — building toward peak seasonA brief but lovely transition month. The monsoon retreats, temperatures drop to comfortable levels, and the city prepares for the festive season.
Pros
- + Comfortable temperatures
- + Post-monsoon greenery
- + Dussehra and pre-Diwali festivities
- + Clear skies returning
Cons
- − Some residual humidity
- − Air quality begins to worsen
- − Mosquitoes still active
🎉 Festivals & Events
Republic Day
January 26India's grandest parade on Kartavya Path featuring military displays, cultural tableaux from every state, and a flypast. Free to watch from certain areas; ticketed grandstand seats.
Diwali
October/NovemberThe festival of lights transforms Delhi with oil lamps, rangoli, fireworks, and illuminated markets. Dilli Haat and Connaught Place are beautifully decorated. Major shopping season.
Holi
MarchThe festival of colors where people throw colored powder and water at each other. Celebrations are exuberant across the city, especially in parks and public spaces.
Qutub Festival
November/DecemberA music and dance festival held against the backdrop of the Qutub Minar complex, featuring classical Indian performances.
Safety Breakdown
Exercise Caution
out of 100
Delhi is generally safe for tourists who take standard precautions. Petty crime (pickpocketing, scams) is the main concern, particularly in crowded tourist areas and on public transport. Solo female travelers should exercise extra caution, especially after dark. The city's traffic is chaotic and dangerous for pedestrians.
Things to Know
- •Use official prepaid taxi counters at airports and railway stations — never accept rides from touts outside arrivals
- •Be wary of "tourist office" scams near Connaught Place and New Delhi Railway Station — the real tourist office is at 88 Janpath
- •Keep valuables in a money belt on the Metro and in crowded markets like Chandni Chowk
- •Women should avoid traveling alone in deserted areas after dark — use Uber/Ola instead of autos at night
- •Avoid drinking tap water — stick to sealed bottled water and be cautious with street food hygiene initially
- •Auto-rickshaw drivers often refuse to use meters — negotiate the fare before getting in or use ride-hailing apps
- •Air quality can be hazardous, especially October-February — check AQI levels and carry N95 masks
Natural Hazards
Emergency Numbers
Police / Emergency
112
Police
100
Ambulance
102
Fire
101
Women's Helpline
1091
Tourist Helpline
1800-111-363
Costs & Currency
Where the money goes
USD per dayBackpacker = hostel dorm + street food + public transit. Mid-range = 3-star hotel + neighbourhood restaurants + transit cards. Luxury = 4/5-star + fine dining + taxis. How we calibrate these numbers →
Quick cost estimate
Customize per category →Estimates based on regional averages. Flight prices vary by season and airline.
budget
$20-35
Budget hotel in Paharganj, street food and local restaurants, Metro travel, free temple visits
mid-range
$50-100
Mid-range hotel, restaurant meals, Uber/Ola transport, guided tours, monument entries
luxury
$150-350+
Five-star hotel (The Imperial, Taj Palace), fine dining, private driver, premium experiences
Typical Costs
| Item | Local | USD |
|---|---|---|
| AccommodationBudget hotel (Paharganj) | ₹800-2,000 | $10-24 |
| AccommodationMid-range hotel | ₹3,000-8,000 | $36-96 |
| AccommodationFive-star hotel | ₹12,000-40,000+ | $144-480+ |
| FoodStreet food meal (chaat, parantha) | ₹50-150 | $0.60-1.80 |
| FoodMeal at mid-range restaurant | ₹400-800 | $4.80-9.60 |
| FoodFine dining meal | ₹2,000-5,000 | $24-60 |
| FoodChai (tea) | ₹10-30 | $0.12-0.36 |
| TransportMetro ride | ₹10-60 | $0.12-0.72 |
| TransportUber/Ola across city | ₹150-400 | $1.80-4.80 |
| AttractionsRed Fort | ₹35 (Indian) / ₹500 (foreigner) | $0.42 / $6 |
| AttractionsHumayun's Tomb | ₹35 / ₹550 | $0.42 / $6.60 |
| AttractionsQutub Minar | ₹35 / ₹550 | $0.42 / $6.60 |
💡 Money-Saving Tips
- •The Delhi Metro is cheap, fast, and avoids traffic — buy a rechargeable smart card for discounted fares
- •Street food in Old Delhi is incredibly cheap and world-class — paranthas, chaat, and jalebi for under ₹100
- •Many major monuments offer free entry on Fridays or national holidays
- •Use Uber/Ola auto-rickshaw option for metered, scam-free short rides
- •Lodhi Garden, India Gate, and Connaught Place are free to visit and perfect for walking
- •Avoid tourist restaurants in Paharganj — eat where locals eat for 50-70% less
- •Book train tickets 2-3 months in advance on IRCTC for the cheapest fares on premium trains
- •Dilli Haat (₹30 entry) is cheaper than boutique craft shops for quality handicrafts
Indian Rupee
Code: INR
1 USD is approximately 83-85 INR (as of early 2026). ATMs are everywhere and accept international cards (Visa/Mastercard). Most charge ₹200-250 per international withdrawal. Currency exchange is available at airports, banks, and authorized dealers in Connaught Place and Paharganj.
Payment Methods
India has undergone a digital payments revolution. UPI-based apps (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm) are used everywhere from street vendors to luxury hotels. International travelers can use credit/debit cards at restaurants, hotels, and shops. However, cash is still essential for auto-rickshaws, street food, and small shops. Carry small denominations (₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100).
Tipping Guide
10% is standard at sit-down restaurants. Many upscale restaurants add a service charge (check the bill). No tipping at street food stalls.
₹50-100 ($0.60-1.20) per bag for porters. ₹100-200 ($1.20-2.40) per day for housekeeping in mid-range to luxury hotels.
Not expected. Rounding up to the nearest ₹10-20 is a nice gesture.
₹300-500 ($3.60-6) per day for group tours, ₹500-1,000 ($6-12) for private guides.
₹20-50 ($0.24-0.60) for food delivery drivers and small services.
How to Get There
✈️ Airports
Indira Gandhi International Airport(DEL)
16 km southwest of Connaught PlaceAirport Express Metro Line runs to New Delhi Metro Station in 20 minutes (₹60). Prepaid taxi booth at arrivals costs ₹350-500 to central Delhi (30-60 min depending on traffic). Uber/Ola available. Terminal 3 handles international flights; Terminals 1 and 2 handle domestic.
✈️ Search flights to DEL🚆 Rail Stations
New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS)
The main railway station in central Delhi, connected to the Metro. Trains to all major Indian cities including Shatabdi Express to Jaipur (4.5h), Gatimaan Express to Agra (1.75h), and Rajdhani Express services nationwide. Use the official IRCTC website or app to book.
Old Delhi Railway Station (DLI)
Near Chandni Chowk, serving many trains to northern and eastern India. More chaotic than New Delhi station. Grand Trunk Express and other historic services depart from here.
Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station (NZM)
In southeast Delhi, serving Rajdhani Express trains to Mumbai, Chennai, and southern India. Less crowded and often more convenient than New Delhi station.
🚌 Bus Terminals
Kashmere Gate ISBT
The largest interstate bus terminal, with services to Jaipur (5-6h, ₹500-1,200), Agra (4-5h, ₹400-900), Rishikesh (6-7h, ₹500-900), Amritsar (7-8h, ₹700-1,500), and across northern India. Connected to Kashmere Gate Metro station.
Anand Vihar ISBT
Serves eastern destinations including Lucknow, Varanasi-bound buses, and Uttarakhand hill stations. Connected to Anand Vihar Metro station.
Getting Around
Delhi has excellent public transport anchored by the massive Metro system. Auto-rickshaws, ride-hailing apps (Uber and Ola), and cycle rickshaws fill the gaps. Traffic is notoriously congested, especially during rush hours. The Metro is usually the fastest way to get around.
Delhi Metro
₹10-60 (~$0.12-0.72) depending on distanceOne of the world's largest rapid transit systems with 12 lines and 250+ stations covering Delhi and the NCR region. Clean, air-conditioned, fast, and affordable. Women-only coaches available at the front of each train.
Best for: All travel across Delhi — the fastest and most reliable option, avoiding traffic entirely
Uber / Ola
₹100-500 (~$1.20-6) for most city tripsRide-hailing apps widely available across Delhi. Choose from mini, sedan, and premium options. Transparent pricing, GPS tracking, and digital payments. Share your ride details with someone for safety.
Best for: Door-to-door travel, night trips, and routes not well-served by Metro
Auto-rickshaws
₹30-200 (~$0.36-2.40) for short-to-medium tripsGreen-and-yellow three-wheelers are ubiquitous in Delhi. By law they must use meters, but many refuse — negotiate the fare before boarding or use the Uber/Ola auto option for transparent pricing.
Best for: Short distances and navigating narrow lanes where cars can't go
Cycle Rickshaws
₹20-100 (~$0.24-1.20) for short tripsPedal-powered rickshaws that navigate Old Delhi's narrow lanes where motor vehicles can't go. An iconic way to explore Chandni Chowk. Agree on the fare before boarding.
Best for: Exploring Old Delhi and Chandni Chowk — the only practical way through the narrowest lanes
DTC & Cluster Buses
₹5-25 (~$0.06-0.30)Delhi's bus network is extensive and very cheap. AC green buses (cluster scheme) are more comfortable than the older red DTC buses. Routes can be confusing for newcomers.
Best for: Very budget-conscious travelers comfortable with local transport
Walkability
Delhi is not a walkable city overall — distances are vast, sidewalks are often broken or nonexistent, and traffic is aggressive. However, specific areas are great for walking: Old Delhi (Chandni Chowk to Jama Masjid), Connaught Place, Lodhi Garden area, and Hauz Khas Village. Always carry water and sun protection.
Travel Connections
Jaipur
The Pink City and gateway to Rajasthan, with magnificent forts, palaces, and vibrant bazaars. Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, and the City Palace are highlights.
Agra
Home of the Taj Mahal, one of the world's most iconic monuments. Also features Agra Fort and the nearby abandoned Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri.
Varanasi
One of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, sacred to Hindus. The ghats along the Ganges, the evening Ganga Aarti, and the labyrinthine old city are unforgettable.
Rishikesh
The yoga capital of the world, set on the banks of the Ganges where the river exits the Himalayas. Famous for ashrams, river rafting, and the Beatles connection (Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's ashram).
Amritsar
Home of the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), Sikhism's holiest shrine, reflected in its sacred pool. The Wagah Border ceremony at sunset is a spectacle of patriotic pageantry.
Entry Requirements
Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter India. The e-Visa system allows citizens of 160+ countries to apply online. Tourist e-Visas are available for 30 days, 1 year, or 5 years. The application process is straightforward but must be completed before travel.
Entry Requirements by Nationality
| Nationality | Visa Required | Max Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Citizens | Yes | 30 days / 1 year / 5 years | e-Visa available online. 30-day single/double entry ($25), 1-year multiple entry ($40), 5-year multiple entry ($80). Apply at indianvisaonline.gov.in at least 4 days before travel. |
| UK Citizens | Yes | 30 days / 1 year / 5 years | e-Visa available. Same categories and prices as US citizens. The 1-year and 5-year visas allow stays of up to 90 days per visit. |
| EU Citizens | Yes | 30 days / 1 year / 5 years | e-Visa available for all EU nationalities. Some EU nationals may also apply at Indian missions for longer conventional visas. |
| Canadian Citizens | Yes | 30 days / 1 year / 5 years | e-Visa available. Same fee structure. Canadians can also apply for a 10-year conventional tourist visa at Indian consulates. |
| Australian Citizens | Yes | 30 days / 1 year / 5 years | e-Visa available. Apply online at least 4 days before departure. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months with 2 blank pages. |
Visa-Free Entry
Visa on Arrival
Tips
- •Apply for the e-Visa at least 4-7 days before travel — processing typically takes 72 hours but can vary
- •Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from date of arrival with at least 2 blank pages
- •Upload a clear passport photo and passport scan — applications are commonly rejected for poor image quality
- •Print your e-Visa approval (ETA) to show at immigration — digital copies on your phone are accepted but having a printout is safer
- •The e-Visa is valid for entry at 28 designated airports and 5 seaports — check that your arrival point is eligible
- •Register with FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office) if staying longer than 180 days
Shopping
Delhi is a shopping paradise spanning everything from medieval bazaars to luxury malls. Old Delhi's wholesale markets sell everything imaginable at rock-bottom prices, while South Delhi offers boutique and designer shopping. Bargaining is expected in markets but not in malls or fixed-price shops.
Chandni Chowk
historic bazaarAsia's oldest and busiest market, divided into specialized lanes — Dariba Kalan for silver jewelry, Khari Baoli for spices, Kinari Bazaar for wedding accessories, and Nai Sarak for books and stationery.
Known for: Silver jewelry, spices, wedding accessories, textiles, street food, wholesale goods
Khan Market
upscale shopping districtOne of the most expensive retail streets in Asia, popular with diplomats and affluent Delhiites. Independent bookshops, designer boutiques, fine dining, and specialty stores.
Known for: Designer clothing, international brands, bookshops, gourmet cafes, organic products
Dilli Haat
crafts marketAn open-air government-run craft bazaar where artisans from across India's states showcase regional handicrafts, textiles, and cuisines. Fixed-price shopping with rotating vendors.
Known for: State handicrafts, handloom textiles, tribal art, pottery, regional food stalls
Sarojini Nagar Market
street marketDelhi's most popular street shopping destination for budget fashion — export surplus and rejected garments from major international brands at throwaway prices. Heavy bargaining required.
Known for: Bargain fashion, export surplus clothing, accessories, shoes
🎁 Unique Souvenirs to Look For
- •Miniature paintings — traditional Mughal and Rajasthani miniatures from Crafts Museum or Dilli Haat
- •Pashmina shawls — genuine Kashmiri pashmina from reputable dealers in Khan Market or Cottage Industries Emporium
- •Spices from Khari Baoli — the largest spice market in Asia, operating since the 17th century
- •Silver jewelry from Dariba Kalan — Old Delhi's 400-year-old silver market
- •Block-printed textiles — hand-printed fabrics from Rajasthan available at Dilli Haat and Fabindia stores
- •Attar (natural perfume) — traditional oil-based fragrances from Old Delhi perfume shops
- •Kolhapuri chappals — handmade leather sandals in various designs
Language & Phrases
Hindi is written in Devanagari script. English is widely understood in Delhi, especially in business, hospitality, and educated circles. However, Hindi and Urdu are the everyday languages. Even basic Hindi phrases will earn you warm smiles and better prices in markets.
| English | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Namaste | nah-mah-STAY |
| Thank you | Dhanyavaad / Shukriya | dhan-yah-VAHD / shoo-KREE-yah |
| Yes / No | Haan / Nahin | hahn / nah-HEEN |
| How much does this cost? | Ye kitne ka hai? | yeh kit-NAY kah hay? |
| Too expensive | Bahut mehnga hai | bah-HOOT meh-NGA hay |
| Where is...? | Kahan hai...? | kah-HAHN hay? |
| I don't understand | Mujhe samajh nahin aaya | MOO-jhay sah-MAHJ nah-HEEN ah-yah |
| Water | Paani | PAH-nee |
| Delicious | Bahut accha / Swaadisht | bah-HOOT AH-chah / swah-DEESHT |
| Please | Kripaya | kree-PAH-yah |
| Excuse me / Sorry | Maaf kijiye | MAHF kee-jee-yay |
| Goodbye | Alvida / Namaste | al-vee-DAH / nah-mah-STAY |
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