Delhi Travel Guide: Explore the Capital City

India’s capital is a vibrant mosaic of history, culture, and relentless modern energy. From ancient Mughal monuments to buzzing streets lined with street food sellers and iridescent bazaars, this city creates unforgettable first impressions. Each corner brims with stories—some centuries old, others unfolding in real time. Planning a trip means immersing in a place where tourism thrives as the ancient and the new explore and jostle for space. There's a certain urgency in Delhi’s heartbeat, and for many travellers, soaking it all in becomes a sensory adventure.

Arrival and Getting Around

Most international visitors arrive through Indira Gandhi International Airport, located about 16 kilometres from Connaught Place—the commercial core of New Delhi. The airport is well-connected to the city by Delhi Metro’s Airport Express Line and app-based cabs, making transfer convenient even during late hours.

Delhi’s Metro Rail, with its over 350 stations, offers one of the simplest ways to move across the sprawling city. The system is affordable, efficient, and air-conditioned—no small luxury during northern India's summer. For places the metro doesn't reach, rickshaws (both cycle and auto) and cabs fill the gaps. While traffic can be unpredictable, the city’s infrastructure has kept up with growth for the most part.

Tip: The Delhi Metro Smart Card can save both money and time, particularly for those planning multiple days in the city.

How to Travel Via Flight From Major Cities Of India

Note:

• Flight durations and fares are approximate and may vary based on airline, booking time, and season.
• Fares are for one-way economy class tickets.
• Always check with airlines or travel portals for the latest prices and schedules.

Accommodation Choices

New Delhi’s lodging options suit every budget, from elegant five-star hotels to lively backpacker hostels. Areas like Connaught Place and Aerocity serve up swanky business hotels, while Paharganj caters to backpackers with hostels and guest houses. South Delhi neighbourhoods like Hauz Khas, Defence Colony, and Greater Kailash are magnets for boutique hotel lovers, thanks to their leafy boulevards and proximity to excellent cafes and shopping.

Historic Sights and Monuments

Few capitals rival Delhi for the sheer sweep of historic sights and historical sites. Spectacular UNESCO-listed monuments stand beside lively markets and imperial boulevards. The Red Fort, once the seat of Mughal power, still presides magisterially over Old Delhi. Its sprawling sandstone ramparts tell tales of emperors, invaders, and independence.

Nearby, Jama Masjid’s black-and-white marble courtyards are an oasis from Old Delhi’s chaos, while Humayun’s Tomb—a blueprint for the Taj Mahal—shows off Persian-inspired symmetry and grandeur. Qutub Minar, an elegant 72-metre minaret, towers above the city’s southern fringe.

Other unmissable landmarks:

• India Gate: A solemn war memorial, beautifully illuminated at night.
• Rashtrapati Bhavan: The official residence of the President, best viewed from the wide Rajpath boulevard.
• Lotus Temple: A serene triumph of modern architecture, open to followers of all faiths.

Old Delhi: Chaos and Charisma

Walking through Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi’s legendary bazaar-nightmare, is a rite of passage, offering a taste of local cuisine at every corner. Rickshaws squeeze through lanes festooned with tangled electrical wires, past shops crammed with fabric, silver, and spice. The aroma of jalebis and parathas wafts down alleys where families have fried the same recipes for generations.

People watching is elevated to an art form here. Listen for the calls of hawkers, watch customers haggle with grinning merchants, and admire the relentless energy that keeps centuries-old businesses alive.

A few must-try street eats in Old Delhi:

• Paranthe Wali Gali: Iconic stuffed flatbreads served with pickle, potato curry, and lassi.
• Karim’s: Hearty mutton curries and kebabs near Jama Masjid.
• Jalebi Wala: Golden, syrupy swirls best enjoyed warm.

Delhi’s Cultural Scene

Tradition and innovation mix in Delhi’s diverse art and culture offerings. Theatre festivals, art exhibitions, and classical concerts frequently light up spaces like Kamani Auditorium and the India Habitat Centre. Modern galleries in Lado Sarai and Vasant Kunj display avant-garde Indian artists, while sprawling markets like Dilli Haat provide handicrafts and cuisine from every region.

Famed for its higher education institutions in Delhi, the city’s university districts regularly host book fairs, spoken word nights, and film screenings—many free to attend.

For book lovers: The Sunday Book Market at Daryaganj is a much-loved haunt, selling treasures from academic tomes to rare first editions at bargain prices.

Green Escapes and Quiet Corners

Despite the urban sprawl, New Delhi surprises with its green lungs. The Lodi Gardens, dotted with 15th-century tombs, are a morning favourite for joggers and birdwatchers. Nearby, the peaceful Humayun’s Tomb gardens shelter laughing families and picnicking students.

The city’s ridge forests, like Sanjay Van, attract nature enthusiasts, while the tranquil grounds of Sunder Nursery combine heritage restorations with botanical strolls.

Cuisine: A Feast of Flavours

Food in Delhi is a pageant of tastes, drawing from royal Mughal kitchens, Punjabi home cooking, southern curries, and spice-laden street bites, all reflecting rich local cuisine. The city’s restaurants satisfy all cravings, whether you fancy a luxurious thali or a humble plate of chole bhature.

Iconic Delhi dishes everyone should try:

• Butter Chicken: Creamy, tangy, and magnetic in its appeal.
• Chaat: Tangy, spicy street snacks found outside almost every market.
• Nihari: Slow-cooked mutton stew with origins in Mughal breakfasts.
• Dilli-Style Momos: Tibetan-style dumplings imbued with fiery chutney.

Contemporary chefs have made Delhi a playground for global cuisine as well, from sushi in swanky rooftop lounges to Neapolitan pizzas in Hauz Khas Village. Vegetarians and vegans will find many dedicated restaurants and extensive choice almost everywhere.

Shopping: Souks, Malls, and Boutiques

Bargain hunters and style mavens both find much to celebrate. Connaught Place in Delhi remains a favourite for branded stores and heritage bookshops. Janpath Market, with its Tibetan artefacts and boho clothing, promises quirky finds at negotiable prices.

Ambience Mall, Select Citywalk, and DLF Promenade headline the modern retail surge, bringing global and Indian fashion under one roof. Boutiques in Hauz Khas and Shahpur Jat focus on handmade accessories, indie labels, and eye-catching jewellery.

Delhi shopping checklist:

• Fabrics and saris
• Handcrafted silver jewellery
• Pashmina shawls
• Fragrant spices and chai masalas

Festival Spirit

Celebrations in Delhi mark the changing seasons and cultural diversity, with processions, feasts, and light shows filling the calendar. During Diwali, lamps grace every doorway and the hum of fireworks lasts late into the night. Holi colours splash over parks and city squares in March, creating scenes straight from myth.

The city’s vast population brings festivals from all over India—Id, Christmas, Guru Purab, Navratri—and many neighbourhoods encourage visitors to join the festivities.

Best Time to Visit Delhi

The ideal time to explore Delhi is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing, especially exploring its numerous historical sites. During these months, the city experiences mild winters, making it comfortable to visit historical monuments, markets, and gardens. Avoid the peak summer (April to June) due to high temperatures and the monsoon season (July to September) for a hassle-free Delhi travel experience.

Top Things to Do in Delhi

Delhi offers a vibrant mix of activities for every traveler. Explore a heritage walk through Old Delhi, savor street food at Chandni Chowk, take a rickshaw ride, or experience the city’s nightlife in Connaught Place. Don’t miss attending a cultural show at India Habitat Centre or exploring the lush Lodhi Garden for a peaceful retreat.

Must-Visit Places in Delhi

Your Delhi travel guide is incomplete without visiting these iconic places to visit:

• Red Fort: The Red Fort, or Lal Qila, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Delhi’s most celebrated landmarks. Built in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, this massive red sandstone fortress served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. The fort’s impressive walls, ornate gates, and exquisite palaces reflect the grandeur of Mughal architecture. Don’t miss the evening sound and light show, which brings the fort’s rich history to life with captivating storytelling and visuals.
• Qutub Minar: Qutub Minar stands as the tallest brick minaret in the world, soaring to a height of 73 meters. Constructed in 1193 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an outstanding example of Indo-Islamic architecture. The minaret is surrounded by the ancient Qutub complex, which includes the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the mysterious Iron Pillar. Visitors are awed by the intricate carvings and the historical significance of this iconic monument.
• India Gate: India Gate is a majestic war memorial located in the heart of New Delhi. Built to honor the soldiers of the Indian Army who lost their lives in World War I, this 42-meter-high archway is surrounded by lush lawns and fountains. The eternal flame, Amar Jawan Jyoti, burns in memory of the unknown soldiers. India Gate is a popular spot for evening strolls, picnics, and photography, especially when illuminated at night.
• Lotus Temple: The Lotus Temple is renowned for its breathtaking flower-like design, symbolizing peace and purity. This Bahá’í House of Worship welcomes people of all faiths and is famous for its serene ambiance and stunning white marble architecture. The temple’s tranquil surroundings and reflective pools make it an ideal place for meditation and quiet contemplation, attracting visitors from around the world.
• Humayun’s Tomb: Humayun’s Tomb is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 16th century, it is the tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun and is considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal. The tomb is set amidst beautiful Persian-style gardens, with pathways, water channels, and lush greenery. Its grand domes, intricate lattice work, and symmetrical design make it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Top Tourist Attractions in Delhi

Delhi is packed with tourism attractions that reflect its rich history and culture:

• Akshardham Temple: Akshardham Temple is a modern architectural marvel and a spiritual-cultural campus on the banks of the Yamuna River. Renowned for its intricate stone carvings, the temple complex features stunning sculptures, lush gardens, and captivating exhibitions that showcase India’s ancient traditions and values. The highlight is the mesmerizing musical fountain and light show held every evening, which narrates stories from Indian mythology and attracts visitors of all ages.
• Jama Masjid: Jama Masjid, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, stands as one of the largest and most magnificent mosques in India. Its grand courtyard can accommodate over 25,000 worshippers at a time. The mosque’s imposing red sandstone and marble structure, along with its towering minarets, offer panoramic views of Old Delhi. Visitors can explore the mosque’s vast prayer hall, climb the minaret for a breathtaking cityscape, and experience the spiritual ambiance that defines this historic landmark.
• Rashtrapati Bhavan: Rashtrapati Bhavan is the official residence of the President of India and an iconic symbol of the nation’s democracy. This sprawling estate, with its majestic dome and sprawling Mughal Gardens, is an architectural blend of Indian and European styles. Guided tours allow visitors to explore select areas, including the grand Durbar Hall, the museum, and the beautifully landscaped gardens, which are open to the public during the annual Udyanotsav festival.
• National Museum: The National Museum in Delhi is a treasure trove for history and art enthusiasts. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts spanning over 5,000 years, including ancient sculptures, manuscripts, textiles, coins, and paintings from various periods of Indian history. The museum’s galleries provide a fascinating journey through India’s cultural evolution, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in the country’s rich heritage.
• Raj Ghat: Raj Ghat is a serene memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, the black marble platform marks the spot where Gandhi was cremated in 1948. The tranquil gardens surrounding the memorial offer a peaceful atmosphere for reflection. Visitors can pay their respects, read inspiring quotes by Gandhi inscribed around the site, and participate in special prayer services held on his birth and death anniversaries.

Best Markets to Visit in Delhi

Shopping is an essential part of any Delhi travel guide. Explore these vibrant markets:

• Chandni Chowk: Chandni Chowk is one of Delhi’s oldest and busiest markets, renowned for its bustling lanes and vibrant atmosphere. Here, you’ll find an incredible variety of traditional clothes, exquisite jewelry, and colorful fabrics at wholesale prices. The market is also a paradise for food lovers, offering legendary street food like parathas, jalebis, and chaat. Wandering through Chandni Chowk is an immersive experience, giving you a taste of Delhi’s rich culture and history.
• Sarojini Nagar Market: Sarojini Nagar Market is a favorite among fashion enthusiasts looking for the latest trends at unbeatable prices. The market is famous for its export surplus garments, stylish accessories, and footwear, all available at bargain rates. With a little patience and good bargaining skills, you can score incredible deals on branded and designer wear. The lively vibe and endless variety make Sarojini Nagar a must-visit for budget shoppers.
• Dilli Haat: Dilli Haat offers a unique open-air shopping experience, bringing together artisans and craftsmen from across India. Each stall represents a different state, showcasing regional handicrafts, textiles, and traditional art. In addition to shopping, Dilli Haat is a culinary delight, with food stalls serving authentic dishes from various parts of the country. It’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and enjoy India’s diverse culture in one vibrant setting.
• Khan Market: Khan Market is one of Delhi’s most upscale shopping destinations, known for its blend of high-end boutiques, bookstores, and chic cafes. The market attracts locals, expats, and tourists alike, offering everything from designer clothing and luxury brands to organic groceries and home décor. After shopping, you can relax in one of the many trendy cafes or restaurants that line the market’s leafy lanes.
• Lajpat Nagar: Lajpat Nagar is a bustling market famous for its wide selection of ethnic wear, accessories, and home furnishings. It’s the go-to place for vibrant kurtis, sarees, dupattas, and traditional jewelry. The market is also popular for its mehendi (henna) artists and street food stalls. Whether you’re shopping for a festive occasion or just want to experience the energy of a classic Delhi bazaar, Lajpat Nagar has something for everyone.

These sections will help travelers plan a memorable trip to New Delhi, ensuring they don’t miss out on the city’s best tourism experiences, attractions, and shopping destinations.

Practical Pointers

Delhi’s extreme seasons demand some smart planning.

• Winter (Nov–Feb): Chilly mornings and evenings. Bring sweaters and jackets.
• Spring/Autumn (Mar–Apr, Sept–Oct): Pleasant and best for sightseeing.
• Summer (May–June): Temperatures soar above 40°C; hydrate and plan outings for early morning or late evening.
• Monsoon (July–Aug): Humid with sudden downpours; waterproof shoes and umbrellas are a must.

Women travellers should dress conservatively, particularly in religious sites and crowded areas. Many metro carriages are marked for women, offering extra comfort during rush hours. English is spoken widely in hotels, restaurants, and by younger Delhiites, but picking up a few words of Hindi always gets a friendly response.

Watch for local scams—like touts at major monuments offering fake tickets or overly helpful “guides”—and rely on official booths or apps for bookings.

Some Itineraries to Consider

Whether visiting for a weekend or a week, there’s no shortage of ways to organise your days.

A classic 3-day plan:

• Day 1: Old Delhi walking tour, Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk markets
• Day 2: Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, Lodi Gardens, Khan Market for lunch
• Day 3: Humayun’s Tomb, National Museum, India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan evening lights

For repeat visitors, curiosity often pulls them towards Delhi’s lesser-known corners—crumbling stepwells, Sufi shrines draped in marigolds, and colonial-era churches that sit quietly amid chaos.

Crafting your own Delhi story means surrendering to both chaos and calm, curiosity and comfort. The city’s ceaseless activity rewards those who approach with open eyes and a hunger for both history and the present moment. Whether marvelling at a centuries-old mosque, shopping for block-printed kurtas, or sharing stories with fellow travellers over masala chai, Delhi rarely leaves anyone unmoved.

Delhi Travel Guide FAQ

Embarking on a journey to Delhi promises a blend of history, culture, and modern marvels, inviting you to explore its many facets. Let's address some frequently asked questions to make your exploration seamless and enriching.

What is the best way to get around Delhi?

The Delhi Metro Rail is an efficient and economical mode of transport. Complement it with rickshaws or cabs for areas beyond metro reach.

Where should I stay in Delhi?

Choose accommodation in Connaught Place or Aerocity for luxury, Paharganj for budget choices, or South Delhi for boutique hotels; indulge in local cuisine nearby for a true taste of the city.

What historic sites are must-visits in Delhi?

Prioritise the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, and India Gate to explore some of the city's most renowned historical sites as a dip into Delhi's rich history.

What should I try to eat in Delhi?

Don't miss butter chicken, chaat, and jalebi. Explore street food in Chandni Chowk for an authentic taste.

How do I navigate Delhi’s extreme weather?

Pack appropriate clothing: warm layers for winter, breathable fabrics for summer, and rain gear for monsoon.

What precautions should women travellers take?

Dress conservatively and use women-designated metro carriages for added comfort.

Are there any scams I should be aware of in Delhi?

Beware of fake ticket sellers and unofficial guides. Use recognised apps and official booths for bookings.

How many days are ideal for a trip to Delhi?

A 3-day itinerary covers the highlights, but extended stays allow you to explore lesser-known gems.

What is unique about Delhi’s shopping scene?

Find a plethora of options from branded stores in Connaught Place to artisanal offerings at Dilli Haat and Hauz Khas in Delhi.

Each moment in Delhi is an opportunity to weave your own tale within its storied walls and vibrant streetscapes. Happy travels!