Delhi
Delhi Travel Guide
India's capital: Mughal monuments, Old Delhi lanes and street food.
- Best months Oct–Mar
- Ideal trip length 3–4 days
Delhi is India's capital and one of the easiest places to start an India trip. Three UNESCO World Heritage monuments, a walled Mughal city, leafy colonial avenues and some of the country's best street food sit within a single metro network. Plan at least three days: one for Old Delhi, one for the monuments of the south, and one for New Delhi's museums, gardens and markets.
Best time to visit
Recommended
October to March is the most comfortable season, with clear days and cool evenings. April to June is very hot, the monsoon from July to September is humid, and air quality can be poor from November to January, so people with breathing problems should plan around it.
How to reach
Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is the main gateway, with domestic flights from nearly every Indian city and many international routes. The Airport Express Metro line links it to New Delhi railway station.
New Delhi, Old Delhi, Hazrat Nizamuddin and Anand Vihar are the main stations. Delhi is a hub for trains to almost every part of the country; book through IRCTC well in advance for popular routes.
National highways connect Delhi to Jaipur, Agra, Chandigarh, Dehradun and beyond, and long-distance buses run from the city's interstate bus terminals.
Where to stay
Connaught Place and Paharganj suit budget and mid-range travellers who want to be close to the Metro and the railway station. South Delhi neighbourhoods and Aerocity are quieter and more upscale. Staying near Old Delhi puts you inside the heritage area but the lanes are crowded and noisy.
Top things to see and do
- 1
Red Fort
The 17th-century Mughal fort in Old Delhi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Allow two hours for the ramparts, halls and museums.
- 2
Humayun's Tomb
An early Mughal garden tomb, also UNESCO-listed, with quiet lawns and fine stonework that inspired later Mughal architecture.
- 3
Qutub Minar
A tall 13th-century red sandstone minaret with the surrounding Mehrauli archaeological complex, another UNESCO site.
- 4
Chandni Chowk
Old Delhi's main bazaar, best explored on foot or by cycle rickshaw for spices, sweets, textiles and the lanes around Jama Masjid.
- 5
India Gate and Kartavya Path
The war memorial and ceremonial avenue are most pleasant in the evening, when families gather and the lights come on.
- 6
Lodhi Garden
A calm park with 15th and 16th-century tombs, good for an early walk or a break between sights.
Food to try
Try chaat and parathas in Old Delhi, kebabs and Mughlai dishes near Jama Masjid, chole bhature, and butter chicken, which many people associate with the city. Street food is part of the experience, so choose busy stalls with high turnover.
Travel tips
- Use the Delhi Metro for most journeys; it is faster than road traffic and easy to navigate.
- Some monuments have a weekly closing day, and the Red Fort is closed on Mondays, so check the day before you go.
- Carry water and sun protection from April to September, and avoid the middle of the day.
- Use metered taxis, app-based cabs or the Metro rather than agreeing prices with touts at stations.
Frequently asked questions
How many days are enough for Delhi?
Three days covers Old Delhi, the main monuments and New Delhi comfortably. Two days works if you focus on the highlights; add a day if you want museums and day trips.
Is Delhi safe for tourists?
Millions of visitors travel through Delhi safely. Use the usual city precautions: keep valuables secure, use trusted transport, avoid empty areas late at night and be wary of unsolicited offers of help.
What is the best way to get around Delhi?
The Metro is the fastest and cheapest option for most places. Use app-based cabs or auto-rickshaws for short or late-night trips and cycle rickshaws inside Old Delhi.
Official sources
- Incredible India (Ministry of Tourism)
- Delhi Tourism
- Archaeological Survey of India
- UNESCO World Heritage List
- Indian Railways
Timings, fees, permits, closures and transport change often. Please confirm current details with the official sources above before you travel.