Delhi
Traveling to Delhi, India is a captivating journey filled with stunning historical architecture and vibrant local culture. One can immerse themselves in the bustling chaos of Chandni Chowk markets, experience the serenity of the Lotus Temple, or savour the Mughlai cuisine, each offering a unique glimpse into the city's rich heritage.
Delhi is a major city and a union territory in northern India. It is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, with a rich historical and cultural heritage. Delhi serves as the capital of India and is known for its diverse population, bustling markets, historical monuments, and vibrant atmosphere.
History: Delhi has a long and complex history dating back thousands of years. It has been the capital of several empires and dynasties, including the Delhi Sultanate, the Mughal Empire, and the British Raj. Each era has left its mark on the city, resulting in a blend of architectural styles and cultural influences.
Culture: Delhi is a melting pot of cultures and religions. It is home to people from different parts of India as well as various international communities. This diversity is reflected in the city's cuisine, festivals, languages, and traditions. Delhi offers a mix of traditional and contemporary arts, with a thriving music, dance, and theater scene.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Delhi, India, is during the cooler months from late October through to March. This is the period when the weather is mild and agreeable, providing an excellent backdrop for exploring the city's many cultural and historical attractions.
The months of October and November, following the monsoon season, offer a refreshing and green Delhi. The city is also adorned with lights and decorations for the festive season around Diwali, the festival of lights, which usually takes place in October or November.
December and January can be a bit chilly, with temperatures ranging from 8 to 20 degrees Celsius (46 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit), but the relatively cold weather offers a different charm. Delhi during this time is blanketed in fog, and it's a good time to enjoy local winter delicacies and explore the city's markets without the intense heat.
From February to March, the city celebrates the onset of spring with various festivals, such as the vibrant Holi, also known as the festival of colors, which usually takes place in March. The gardens and parks of Delhi, such as Lodhi Garden and the Mughal Gardens, also come alive with beautiful blooms, making it a great time for nature lovers to visit.
It's recommended to avoid the months from April to June, as temperatures can soar above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), making sightseeing a daunting task. July to September is the monsoon season and can be quite humid, with heavy rainfall sometimes causing flooding and disruption to travel.
How to Get There
There are various ways to reach Delhi, depending on where you are coming from:
By Air: Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport is one of the busiest airports in India, receiving flights from major cities worldwide. It is well connected with North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and Africa through direct and connecting flights. Domestic flights from all major cities in India also land in Delhi. From the airport, you can take a taxi, metro, or bus to get into the city.
By Train: Delhi is a major railway hub in India, with several railway stations including the New Delhi Railway Station, Old Delhi Railway Station, and Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station. Trains from all over India come to these stations, making it an accessible destination if you are already in the country. The Indian Railways network is vast and can provide a unique and scenic travel experience.
By Road: Delhi is well connected by a network of roads and national highways with all major cities and states in India. Interstate bus services operate between Delhi and neighboring states, and taxis and private vehicles can be used for a more comfortable journey. However, the condition of the roads can vary, and it's important to be prepared for traffic.
By Sea: While Delhi is not a coastal city and thus cannot be reached directly by sea, India does have several major ports (like Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata). From these cities, one can easily get to Delhi by air, rail, or road.
How to get Around
Getting around Delhi can be quite an adventure due to the city's bustling nature, but there are various modes of transport that you can utilize:
Metro: The Delhi Metro is a highly efficient, clean, and convenient mode of transport that connects most parts of the city and extends into the National Capital Region (NCR). It's the quickest way to travel long distances and avoid traffic. The routes are well-marked in English and Hindi.
Buses: Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) operates a large fleet of buses connecting various parts of the city. The fares are quite reasonable, but buses can get crowded, especially during peak hours.
Auto Rickshaws and Cycle Rickshaws: These are common modes of transport for short distances. Ensure to negotiate the fare before starting your ride or insist on going by the meter.
Taxis and Cabs: You'll find plenty of traditional taxis in Delhi, which can be hailed from the roadside or pre-booked. In addition, app-based services like Ola and Uber operate extensively in the city and are a safe and convenient option.
Private Car Rentals: You can rent a car from various car rental agencies if you prefer to drive around yourself. However, be prepared for Delhi's notorious traffic. Also, remember that in India, driving is on the left side of the road.
Bicycles and E-Bikes: In some parts of Delhi, you can rent bicycles or e-bikes. This can be an economical and eco-friendly way to explore the city, especially the more crowded areas where vehicular traffic is restricted.
Walking: For short distances, especially when exploring historical sites, markets, or parks, walking is a good option. Delhi's chaotic charm is best experienced on foot.
Keep in mind that traffic in Delhi can be quite heavy, and journey times can be longer during peak hours.
Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Delhi, India
Top 20 Attractions in Delhi
Delhi, the capital of India, is a city rich in history and culture, with a myriad of attractions to explore. Here are some of the top sights to visit:
Red Fort (Lal Qila): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort is a historic fort in Delhi where the Mughal emperors used to reside. The fort's museum houses a range of artifacts from the Mughal era.
Humayun’s Tomb: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is the tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun. It's a stunning example of Mughal architecture and the predecessor to the famous Taj Mahal.
Qutub Minar: This 73-meter tall minaret is the tallest brick minaret in the world and is yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Delhi. It's surrounded by several other historical monuments known as the Qutb complex.
India Gate: A war memorial located on Rajpath, India Gate is a tribute to the Indian soldiers who died during World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. The area around the monument, particularly the lush lawns, are popular leisure spots.
Lotus Temple (Bahá'í House of Worship): Known for its stunning lotus-shaped architecture, this temple is a significant Bahá'í house of worship and is open to all people regardless of religion or belief.
Jama Masjid: One of the largest mosques in India, it was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. You can climb up its southern tower for a panoramic view of the city.
Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple: This recent addition to Delhi's architecture is one of the largest Hindu temples in the world. Its sprawling complex features an array of exhibits, including the impressive monument, a musical fountain, and landscaped gardens.
Raj Ghat: This is a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. It's a simple black marble platform marking the spot of his cremation.
Lodhi Gardens: A serene retreat from the city's hustle and bustle, these gardens contain tombs of the Lodhi and Sayyid dynasties.
Chandni Chowk: One of the oldest and busiest markets in Old Delhi, it's a vibrant place to explore, offering a range of goods and famous food joints.
National Museum: This is the largest museum in India, housing thousands of artworks, antiquities, and artifacts from the prehistoric era to the modern period.
Dilli Haat: An open-air food-and-crafts market, Dilli Haat showcases arts, crafts, and food from all over India.
Rashtrapati Bhavan: The official residence of the President of India, it's an imposing structure that's a symbol of Indian democracy. Visitors can explore the Mughal Gardens, typically open in February-March.
Connaught Place: One of the largest financial, commercial, and business centers in New Delhi, Connaught Place is filled with restaurants, shops, and cultural spaces, including the central park which often hosts live performances and events.
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib: One of the most prominent Sikh houses of worship in Delhi, this Gurudwara is known for its stunning golden dome and large holy pond.
Hauz Khas Village: This urban village is a blend of history with the remains of a 13th-century fort and modernity with chic boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and bars. The adjacent Hauz Khas Deer Park is a pleasant green space for a walk.
Agrasen ki Baoli: A historical stepwell in the heart of the city, it provides a glimpse into the architectural methods of water conservation in ancient India.
National Gallery of Modern Art: This art gallery showcases works by prominent modern artists from India and around the world.
Purana Qila: One of the oldest forts in Delhi, the Qila has seen many reincarnations over the centuries. It houses a museum exhibiting artifacts excavated from the fort and the surrounding area.
Nizamuddin Dargah: This is the mausoleum of the famous Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya. Visit during the evening for the Qawwali (Sufi devotional music) sessions.
Remember, Delhi is a city of layers - every corner has its own story, and each neighborhood offers something unique. Happy exploring!
Top 10 Activities to do in Delhi
Delhi offers a wide range of activities that cater to different interests. Whether you're a history buff, a food lover, or a shopaholic, there's something for everyone. Here are some top activities you can do in Delhi:
Food Tasting: Delhi is famous for its street food. You can sample mouth-watering treats like chaat, kebabs, biryani, and sweets at famous food hubs like Chandni Chowk, Karol Bagh, and Khan Market.
Historical Tours: Take a guided tour to explore the many historical sites around the city, such as Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun's Tomb, and more.
Shopping: Visit traditional markets like Chandni Chowk, Sarojini Nagar, or Lajpat Nagar for textiles, jewelry, spices, and souvenirs. High-end shopping can be done in places like Select CITYWALK, DLF Promenade, or Khan Market.
Cultural Performances: Catch a live performance of music, dance, or theater at cultural centers like the Indian Habitat Centre, Kamani Auditorium, or Siri Fort Auditorium.
Nature Walks: Enjoy a serene walk at Lodhi Gardens, the Garden of Five Senses, or take a boat ride at the Old Fort (Purana Qila) lake.
Museums and Galleries: Visit the National Museum, the National Gallery of Modern Art, or the Crafts Museum to appreciate Indian art, history, and culture.
Religious Visits: Explore diverse religious sites like Lotus Temple, Jama Masjid, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, or Akshardham Temple.
Photography Walks: Explore Old Delhi's narrow lanes with a camera for some incredible street photography capturing the essence of life in Delhi.
Cooking Classes: Join a cooking class or a workshop to learn about the intricacies of Indian cuisine and try making some dishes yourself.
Spa and Wellness: Indulge in traditional Ayurvedic treatments or yoga sessions at various wellness centers around the city.
Best Shopping
Shopping in Delhi is an experience in itself. The city offers an eclectic mix of traditional markets, high-end boutiques, and modern malls. Here are some of the best places to shop in Delhi:
Chandni Chowk: Located in Old Delhi, Chandni Chowk is a bustling marketplace that offers everything from textiles, jewelry, shoes, electronics to wedding items. It's particularly famous for its variety of sarees and lehengas. Don't forget to check out Dariba Kalan for silver jewelry and Khari Baoli for spices.
Connaught Place: A colonial-era shopping district, Connaught Place is home to a variety of brands, both local and international. The area also has a host of restaurants, cafes, and pubs. Nearby, Janpath Market is a great place for budget shopping, offering clothes, accessories, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Sarojini Nagar: Known for its export surplus clothing items, Sarojini Nagar is a haven for fashion enthusiasts on a budget. The market is packed with stalls selling trendy clothes, accessories, and home décor items at throwaway prices.
Dilli Haat: A blend of a craft bazaar and a food plaza, Dilli Haat is a one-stop-shop for handicrafts, handlooms, and cuisines from all over India. It's an ideal place to buy souvenirs and traditional Indian clothes.
Karol Bagh: It's one of the oldest shopping areas in Delhi, where you can shop for clothes, shoes, cosmetics, and electronics. Gaffar Market in Karol Bagh is particularly famous for its electronics goods.
Khan Market: Known as one of the most upscale markets in Delhi, Khan Market offers a mix of Indian and international boutiques, bookstores, and designer shops. It's also known for its gourmet food stores and excellent restaurants and cafes.
Paharganj: The Main Bazaar in Paharganj is known for its wholesale and export shops. You'll find a variety of goods including clothes, shoes, jewelry, books, music, and much more.
South Extension: This is one of the poshest markets in Delhi, divided into South Ex-I and South Ex-II. Here, you'll find a mix of high-end boutiques, retail stores, and street stalls selling designer wear, jewelry, and footwear.
Lajpat Nagar (Central Market): This market is known for its affordable fashion items, textiles, and home decor. Also, you can get beautiful henna (mehendi) designs on your hands from artists in this market.
Malls: For a more modern shopping experience, you can visit Delhi's many malls. Prominent ones include Select CITYWALK in Saket, DLF Promenade and Ambience Mall in Vasant Kunj, and Pacific Mall in Subhash Nagar.
Remember, bargaining is quite common in most traditional markets in Delhi, so don't shy away from negotiating prices.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Delhi, being a cosmopolitan city, has an active nightlife with a variety of entertainment options to choose from. Here are some of the popular options:
Live Music: Delhi has a thriving music scene. Venues like The Piano Man Jazz Club in Safdarjung, Hard Rock Café in Saket, and Summer House Café in Hauz Khas regularly host live music performances encompassing various genres.
Night Clubs and Lounges: The city is dotted with numerous nightclubs and lounges where you can dance the night away. Kitty Su at The Lalit, Privee' at Shangri-La's Eros Hotel, and Keya in Vasant Kunj are some popular choices. Hauz Khas Village and Connaught Place are known for their lively nightlife with numerous bars, pubs, and restaurants.
Theatre and Performances: If you're interested in theatre, dance, or comedy shows, institutions like the India Habitat Centre, Kamani Auditorium, Siri Fort Auditorium, and Akshara Theatre frequently host performances. There's also the Kingdom of Dreams in nearby Gurgaon, which hosts Bollywood-style musicals.
Cinema: Delhi boasts a number of multiplexes showing the latest Bollywood and Hollywood films. There's also the Indian Habitat Centre's Stein Auditorium, which often screens independent films and documentaries.
Late Night Food Trails: Delhi is famous for its street food, and several places in the city serve mouth-watering delicacies till late at night. Areas like Pandara Road, Jama Masjid, and Connaught Place are known for their late-night eateries.
Art Galleries: While they are not typically open late into the night, galleries such as the National Gallery of Modern Art, Kiran Nadar Museum of Art, and various private galleries in Lado Sarai have evening hours and often host openings and events.
Shopping: Some markets in Delhi like Sarojini Nagar, Janpath, and Paharganj are open until late, offering a unique shopping experience under the city lights.
Outdoor Activities: For a serene experience, take a late-night stroll at India Gate or a walk around Connaught Place.
Sports Bars: Enjoy a game of pool or watch a live sports match at various sports bars in the city like Underdoggs Sports Bar & Grill, The Playground, or Yes Minister - Esports Bar.
Local Cuisine
Delhi, often referred to as a food lover's paradise, offers a variety of cuisines reflecting its rich history and diverse cultures. Here are some of the city's specialties:
Paratha: Paratha is a type of Indian flatbread, which is often stuffed with different fillings. At the famous Parathe Wali Gali in Chandni Chowk, you can find a variety of these, filled with everything from traditional options like potato and paneer (cottage cheese) to unique ones like banana and rabri (a sweet, condensed-milk-based dish).
Chaat: Delhi is famous for its street food, especially chaat. These savory snacks feature a mix of textures and flavors, from crisp to soft, sweet to tangy. Popular types include Aloo Tikki (fried potato patties with various toppings), Gol Gappa (also known as Pani Puri, crisp hollow puris filled with a mixture of flavored water, tamarind chutney, chili, chaat masala, potato, onion, and chickpeas), and Dahi Bhalla (soft lentil dumplings topped with yogurt and tamarind chutney).
Butter Chicken: This creamy, buttery chicken dish is a favorite at Delhi's Punjabi restaurants. It's made with tender chicken pieces marinated in a mix of spices, cooked in a tandoor (traditional clay oven), and served in a rich tomato-based gravy.
Chole Bhature: A popular North Indian dish, Chole Bhature is a combination of spicy chickpeas (chole) and fried bread (bhature). It's often eaten for breakfast or lunch and is a must-try in Delhi.
Biryani: Biryani in Delhi, especially in areas like Nizamuddin and Old Delhi, is a flavorful dish made with aromatic basmati rice, meat (like chicken, mutton, or fish), and a blend of spices. It's usually accompanied by raita (yogurt-based side dish) or a hard-boiled egg.
Kebabs: Delhi has a rich tradition of Mughlai cuisine, with mouth-watering kebabs being a specialty. Seekh Kebabs (minced meat skewers), Shami Kebabs (patties of meat, lentils, and spices), and Galouti Kebabs (melt-in-your-mouth minced meat patties) are favorites at places like Karim's near Jama Masjid and Ghalib Kebab Corner in Nizamuddin.
Nihari and Bheja Fry: These are slow-cooked meat dishes, traditionally cooked overnight to bring out the flavors. Nihari is a stew made from meat (usually mutton) and Bheja Fry is a spicy dish made with goat or sheep's brain.
Sweet Dishes: Delhi's sweet offerings are equally famous. Try the Jalebis (spiral-shaped fried dough soaked in syrup), Rabri Faluda (a combination of condensed milk and vermicelli noodles served with or without ice cream), and Kulfi (a dense, creamy form of ice cream).
Street Drinks: Don't miss the local beverages like Masala Chai (spiced tea), Lassi (a yogurt-based drink), and Aam Panna (a refreshing drink made from raw mangoes).
Momos: Originally from Tibet, Momos have become a popular street food in Delhi. These dumplings are filled with a variety of stuffings, steamed, and often served with a spicy red chutney.
Delhi Street Food
Delhi is famous for its street food, which can be found in almost every corner of the city. However, some areas are particularly renowned for their wide variety and quality of street food offerings. Here are the top spots:
Chandni Chowk: This is arguably the heart of street food in Delhi. Here you can find everything from the famous Parathe Wali Gali, offering a variety of stuffed parathas, to sweets shops selling jalebis and rabri. Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi Wale is known for its incredible variety of kulfis (Indian ice cream). For non-vegetarian delicacies, Karim's and Al-Jawahar are must-visit places.
Chawri Bazaar: Located close to Chandni Chowk, Chawri Bazaar is particularly known for its Bedmi Puri, a popular breakfast dish, and Aloo Sabzi. Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi Wale and Aloo Tikki are also popular here.
Old Delhi: Old Delhi in general is a haven for food lovers. Apart from Chandni Chowk, areas like Jama Masjid offer a variety of non-vegetarian street foods like kebabs, biryani, and nihari. Haji Mohd. Hussain Fried Chicken is a famous stop for fried chicken.
Karol Bagh: This area is known for Roshan Di Kulfi, which serves kulfi and other North Indian dishes, and for its chole bhature, aloo puri, and a variety of chaats.
Rajouri Garden: This area is popular for its street food serving Punjabi-style snacks and dishes. There are many food joints offering gol gappas, pav bhaji, chaats, tikkas, and rolls.
Lajpat Nagar (Central Market): This market is famous for its roadside vendors and food stalls serving a variety of delicacies, including momos, gol gappas, tikkis, and shawarmas. Dolma Aunty Momos is a popular stop here.
Nizamuddin: Known for its biryani, kebabs, and nihari, Nizamuddin is a must-visit for non-vegetarian food lovers. Karim’s, Ghalib Kabab Corner, and Al-Quresh are popular eateries in this area.
South Extension: A popular market in South Delhi, it is known for street food like aloo chaat and gol gappas.
Hauz Khas: The Hauz Khas Village area is known for its trendy cafes and restaurants, many of which offer their own takes on popular street foods, in addition to a variety of cuisines from around the world.
Accommodations
Choosing where to stay in Delhi depends on your preferences and what you're looking to get out of your visit. Here are some areas to consider:
Connaught Place: This is a bustling commercial and business hub of Delhi with a variety of accommodation options, from budget hotels to five-star properties. Its central location is a major advantage, and it's close to several attractions, markets, and restaurants. The area also has excellent connectivity to the rest of the city.
Karol Bagh: This area is a popular choice among budget travelers and is known for its shopping district. It has many budget and mid-range hotels, and it's also close to the railway station.
Paharganj: Very close to New Delhi Railway Station, Paharganj is famous for its budget guest houses and hotels. The area has a vibrant market for shopping and is quite popular with backpackers.
Chanakyapuri: This is a diplomatic enclave and one of the safest and greenest areas of Delhi. The hotels here are more on the luxurious side, and the area is close to some major tourist spots like India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan.
South Delhi (Saket, Hauz Khas, Greater Kailash): These neighborhoods are known for their upscale residential areas, shopping malls, restaurants, and nightlife. Accommodation here ranges from boutique hotels to high-end options. Hauz Khas Village, with its historic park, deer park, and lake, is a particularly attractive area.
Aerocity: Located close to Indira Gandhi International Airport, Aerocity is a newly developed area that has a range of luxury hotels. It's an ideal location for those who are in Delhi for a short time or have an early flight to catch.
New Friends Colony: This is a peaceful residential area with good connectivity to famous tourist spots. It offers a range of accommodation options, from budget to luxury, and is close to some excellent restaurants.
