Things To Do
in Delhi
Delhi, the capital region of India, is a vast tapestry where ancient Mughal architecture sits alongside modern government boulevards. Old Delhi buzzes with spice markets, mosques, and labyrinthine alleys, while New Delhi showcases broad avenues and ceremonial spaces designed during British rule. The city is a culinary mosaic, blending Punjabi, Mughlai, and North Indian flavors with vibrant street food and refined dining.
In every neighborhood, history, culture, and energy collide to create a dynamic urban experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a walking tour of Chandni Chowk, weaving through narrow lanes and soaking up the sounds and smells of the bustling market. Visit the historic Jama Masjid and climb its minarets for panoramic views of Old Delhi. Sample fresh street snacks like kachori and jalebi to fuel your exploration.
Cross the Red Fort and admire its massive walls as you learn about the Mughal era’s architectural prowess. Stop by Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib for a serene moment and partake in the community langar. Wander through Dariba Kalan to discover antique shops and silver bazaars.
As dusk falls, hop aboard a rickshaw for an exhilarating ride through the bustling bylanes of Old Delhi. Watch street vendors lighting up their stalls and sample spicy chaat at the Paranthe Wali Gali. End your evening with a refreshing kulhad chai while observing the city’s nightlife.
Visit Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire its Persian-influenced gardens at sunrise when the light is soft and golden. Take guided photos against the red sandstone façade and observe local birdlife in the surrounding lawns. Enjoy a traditional breakfast under the shadow of the mausoleum.
Head to Safdarjung’s Tomb to explore one of Delhi’s lesser-known Mughal treasures surrounded by tranquil greenery. Learn about its late Mughal architectural style and the history behind its construction. Relax in the shaded garden pavilions and capture photos of the intricate marble work.
As the sun sets, make your way to the iconic Red Fort to attend the audio-visual Light and Sound Show that narrates Delhi’s rich past. Let the dramatic lighting illuminate the fort’s ramparts while you listen to tales of emperors and conquests. Wrap up the night with fragrant kebabs and kulfi at a nearby eatery.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🚇One-way metro ticket | $0.50-1 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-4 |
| 🌮Street food snack | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and world-class monuments
- Vibrant street food and diverse neighborhoods
- Heavy traffic and crowded markets
- Seasonal heat in summer and humidity during monsoon
- "Namaste" - Hello / Greetings
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Kripya" - Please
- "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help
- "Yeh kitne ka hai?" - How much is this?
- "Aapka swagat hai" - You’re welcome
Places to Visit in Delhi
Visit one of these nice places.
imposing war memorial set along the ceremonial Rajpath, especially photogenic at dusk and after rain.
Mughal architecture with terraced gardens and reflective pools—great for symmetry and golden-hour shots.
Towering minaret with surrounding ruins; dynamic textures and historical architecture provide varied angles.
Massive fortress walls and courtyards offering dramatic skyline and sunset silhouettes.
Iconic lotus-shaped Bahá'í House of Worship framed by tranquil reflecting pools and gardens.
Colorful street scenes, animated storefronts, and architectural details for candid and street photography.
Food in Delhi
Delhi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Spiced chickpeas served with fluffy deep-fried bread; a staple at many Old Delhi eateries.
Must-Try!
Creamy tomato-based curry with tender chicken; best found in classic North Indian restaurants.
Stuffed flatbreads, famously served at Paranthe Wali Gali in Chandni Chowk; try aloo, gobi, and paneer variants.
Savoury and sweet street snacks like aloo tikki, papdi chaat, and dilli ki sized snacks from busy stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market area offering street foods, sweets, spices, and traditional home-style meals.
State-run craft and food bazaar featuring regional foods and products from across India.
Vibrant street market known for affordable textiles, street food, and casual dining options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm hello with Namaste is widely used; address elders with respect ('Ji' suffix often added).
Dress modestly, remove shoes where required, and avoid touching sacred artifacts unintentionally.
Respect personal space; avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas; use the right hand for giving or receiving items.
Safety
Tipping in Delhi
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges may be included in larger establishments; otherwise 5–10% in restaurants is common. Round up fares in taxis or autos when convenient; guides and drivers may appreciate 100–300 INR tips for a day.
Cash (INR) is widely accepted; cards are common in hotels and larger restaurants; UPI and mobile wallets are increasingly popular for everyday payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and dry; temperatures commonly exceed 40°C (104°F). Hydrate, wear light clothing, use sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Humid and disrupted by heavy rainfalls (July–September). Carry a compact rain jacket, waterproof footwear, and be cautious of waterlogged streets.
Cool to cold, with temperatures sometimes dipping below 5°C (41°F) at night. Layered clothing and a warm jacket are essential.
Delhi at Night
Hiking in Delhi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Urban nature trails along the Aravalli ridge with seasonal birds, native flora, and scenic viewpoints.
Extensive forested area offering tranquil trails, birdwatching, and a green escape within or near the city.
Rugged terrain on the southern edge of Delhi with longer hikes, diverse biodiversity, and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Delhi by plane.
Main international and domestic airport serving Delhi; well-connected by metro, rail, and road; multiple terminals with extensive traveler services.
Former civil enclave used for limited civilian flights; primarily a base for general aviation and some charter services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong cultural influence in food and dress, with many residents speaking Hindi, Punjabi, and other regional languages.
A diverse, multilingual population contributing to a lively urban culture and growing global businesses.
A mosaic of Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Jain, Christian, and Buddhist communities with diverse festivals and customs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Historically the most popular sport; many locals watch matches in stadiums and on nearby streets during tournaments.
Rising interest, with leagues and amateur clubs visible in parks and community grounds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Delhi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Delhi has abundant vegetarian options; look for paneer, dal, chana, and mixed-veg curries. Request no ghee if needed and ask for Jain preparations if desired.