Things To Do
in Delhi Cantonment

Delhi Cantonment is a well-planned, largely residential district in New Delhi that blends military heritage with modern amenities. It features wide avenues, tree-lined streets, and a calmer atmosphere compared with central Delhi. The area provides convenient access to government offices, markets, and green spaces, while still being within easy reach of major sights.

Visitors appreciate its balanced vibe of security, accessibility, and comfortable urban living.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Sites
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the iconic India Gate, a war memorial that stands as a symbol of national pride. From there, take a leisurely stroll through the lush gardens surrounding it, enjoying the serene atmosphere. As the morning sun rises, grab a breakfast of parathas at a nearby local eatery, immersing yourself in authentic Delhi flavors.

afternoon
:

Head over to the National Museum, where you can explore India's rich history through its vast collection of artifacts and art. Afterward, take a short trip to the nearby Lodhi Gardens, where you can admire the beautiful tombs and peaceful greenery. Enjoy a picnic lunch here, surrounded by locals and nature, allowing yourself to unwind.

evening
:

As the sun sets, make your way to Connaught Place, one of Delhi's premier shopping and dining districts. Browse through the array of shops and boutiques, picking up unique souvenirs and local crafts. Cap off your day with dinner at a rooftop restaurant, savoring delicious Indian cuisine while taking in the vibrant city skyline.

day 2
Cultural Immersion at Local Markets
morning
:

Start your day at the vibrant Khari Baoli spice market, where the aroma of spices fills the air and local vendors showcase their colorful wares. Engage with shopkeepers, learning about the various spices and their uses in Indian cooking. After exploring the market, enjoy a traditional breakfast of chole bhature at a nearby eatery.

afternoon
:

Make your way to the bustling Chandni Chowk, where you can wander through narrow lanes filled with shops selling textiles, jewelry, and street food. Take time to sample local delicacies like jalebi and kachori from famous street vendors. Visit the historic Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, a serene place of worship that offers a glimpse into Sikh culture.

evening
:

As the day winds down, head to the Red Fort, where you can enjoy a sound and light show that narrates the fort's illustrious history. After the show, find a cozy café nearby to relax and enjoy a cup of chai while reflecting on the day's adventures. Experience the lively atmosphere as locals gather for evening strolls in the vicinity.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
Coffee or beverage$1-4
🗺️Public transport ride (short distance)$0.3-1.5
🏨Mid-range hotel (one night)$60-120
🛒Groceries for a week$25-60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Calm, green surroundings within reach of central Delhi
  • Good public transport links and proximity to major sights
  • Less nightlife within the cantonment itself
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours in surrounding areas
  • "Namaste" - Hello
  • "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
  • "Yeh kitne ka hai?" - How much is this?
  • "Mujhe Delhi Cantonment jana hai" - I want to go to Delhi Cantonment
  • "Kripya dheere boliye" - Please speak slowly

Places to Visit in Delhi Cantonment

Visit one of these nice places.

Tree-lined Cantonment Avenues at Dawn

Calm morning light through broad streets lined with colonial-era bungalows and modern apartments.

Mehrauli Archaeological Park

Ancient ruins and sandstone structures with golden-hour backdrops near Delhi’s oldest sites.

Qutub Minar Complex

Iconic UNESCO site with a tall minaret and lush gardens—great for architectural photography.

India Gate and Rajpath at Night

Illuminated monument with reflections on the reflecting pool and nearby activity.

Culinary Guide

Food in Delhi Cantonment

Delhi’s cuisine is a melting pot of North Indian flavors, street bites, and modern cafés. In and around Delhi Cantonment you’ll find Punjabi and Mughlai staples, tandoori specialties, and contemporary vegetarian options, all complemented by vibrant sweets and regional snacks.

Delhi Cantonment Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Chole Bhature

A hearty chickpea curry served with fluffy fried bread, best enjoyed at local dhabas or puri shops.

Must-Try!

Rajma Chawal

Kidney bean curry with steamed rice, a classic comfort dish.

Paneer Tikka

Marinated paneer skewers grilled to smoky perfection, often served with mint chutney.

Aloo Paratha

Stuffed potato flatbread served with yogurt or pickle.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Chandni Chowk (Old Delhi)

Historic market for chaat, parathas, kebabs, and sweets; ideal for street-food sampling.

Karol Bagh Market

Bustling market with snacks, chaat stalls, and fresh produce.

Climate Guide

Weather

Delhi experiences a subtropical climate with hot summers (April-June), a heavy monsoon season (July-September), and cool winters (November-February). Spring and autumn bring pleasant, moderate temperatures. Prepare for high humidity during the monsoon and significant cold during winter nights.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A respectful greeting such as Namaste or a handshake; address elders with courtesy.

Dress Code

Modest clothing in religious sites and homes; remove shoes where required.

Queue Etiquette

Stand in line and wait your turn; avoid loud behavior in quiet spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

As in any large city, stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night and in crowded areas. Use licensed taxis or rideshares, keep valuables secure, and follow local guidance during demonstrations or large gatherings.

Tipping in Delhi Cantonment

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, a service charge may be included; if not, a 5-10% tip is common. Small tips to hotel staff or drivers are appreciated but discretionary.

Payment Methods

Cash and card payments are widely accepted; digital wallets and UPI are increasingly popular for everyday purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot, dry days with temperatures often above 35°C. Carry water, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.

Monsoon

High humidity and occasional heavy rains. Carry an umbrella or light rain jacket; some streets can flood slightly during downpours.

Winter

Cool to chilly with nights sometimes dipping near or below 10°C. Layer clothing and plan outdoor activities for midday warmth.

Nightlife Guide

Delhi Cantonment at Night

Delhi Cantonment itself is quieter after dark, with limited nightlife within the cantonment area. For a livelier scene, venture to central or south Delhi where many bars, lounges, and live-music venues offer varied options.

Hiking in Delhi Cantonment

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary

A protected area offering varied hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and seasonal flora close to Delhi.

Aravalli Biodiversity Park

Urban biodiversity park with easy trails, birdwatching, and scenic views southwest of central Delhi.

Airports

How to reach Delhi Cantonment by plane.

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)

Delhi’s main international and domestic gateway, about 15–30 km from Delhi Cantonment depending on route; connected by metro, taxi, and rideshare.

Getting Around

Walkability

Delhi Cantonment is fairly walkable in the core residential and market zones with shaded sidewalks and compact streets. Some parts are more spacious and vehicle-heavy, so plan for short walks or take rideshares for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Defence personnel families

A significant portion of residents are associated with the military and defense establishments; this shapes the neighborhood’s security feel and amenities.

Local residents

Diverse mix of civil service employees, retirees, students, and professionals; a blend of traditional and modern living.

Expatriates and professionals

A smaller but steady presence of expatriates and long-term professionals drawn to the area’s amenities and tranquil vibe.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

The most popular sport in India, widely played in parks, schools, and leagues.

Football

Commonly played in local grounds and parks; informal matches are frequent.

Badminton

Indoor and outdoor courts are common in clubs and community centers.

Tennis

Public and private clubs offer courts with seasonal tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy during peak hours on major routes nearby. The Delhi Metro provides a reliable alternative for many routes; ridesharing and taxis are widely available. Expect delays around market areas and during festival seasons.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Delhi Cantonment.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Delhi Cantonment and Delhi offer abundant vegetarian options; ask for dairy-free substitutes where needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There are a mix of government and private hospitals within a short drive, including proximity to Army/Defence medical facilities and major private hospitals in central and south Delhi. For emergencies, head to a nearby hospital such as AIIMS or an established private facility. Always carry your medical details and travel insurance when visiting.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

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