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Plan Your Trip to New Delhi: Best of New Delhi Tourism

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New Delhi, India

Chaotic and colorful, New Delhi is full-on sensory overload. The Old Delhi neighborhood is a tangle where people, cows, and rickshaws all share the road. In the maze of Chandni Chowk market, vendors sell sizzling kebabs, bright orange marigolds, and souvenirs—spices, puppets, pashminas, jewelry, and so much more. In trendy Haus Khas Village, medieval sites sit next to boutiques, bars, and cool cafes. Lodi Colony, an upscale area built under British rule, has been transformed into an arts district with over 50 vivid murals now covering its walls. The capital city and its surrounds have an incredible history, as you can tell from the sheer number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the early 13th-century Qutub Minar, a sandstone minaret, the 17th-century Red Fort of the Mughal emperors, and Humayun’s Tomb, which inspired the Taj Mahal.

How to do New Delhi in 1 day

Sprawling markets, towering mosques, and classic Indian fare
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Mughal architecture in and around New Delhi

You can’t do a dive deep into New Delhi’s culture without exploring the history of the Mughals. They were a powerful dynasty in the larger Indian subcontinent from the 16th to 18th centuries, and were best known for the architectural grandeur of buildings like the Taj Mahal. On a recent visit, I fell in love with the Mughal-era landmarks, from forts to summer palaces to marketplaces.
Zinara Rathnayake, Galle, Sri Lanka
  • Humayun's Tomb
    10,552
    A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this well-kept landmark looks like a magnificent palace, but it’s actually a red sandstone mausoleum that was the inspiration for the Taj Mahal. In the mid-16th century, Queen Hamida Banu Begum built it in memory of her late husband, the second Mughal Emperor Humayun. Walk through the series of gardens separated by water channels, then enter the two-story mausoleum crowned by a marble dome.
  • Purana Qila
    534
    Built in the 1530s, Purana Qila—meaning “old fort”—doesn’t get the same love as other monuments scattered across Delhi. On the eastern edge of the city, it’s a great place to spend some time exploring the three gateways leading into the massive structure. Afterward, enjoy an evening breeze amid the surrounding greenery. Get your ticket for the museum and all of the other attractions at the counter.
  • Pasar Chandni Chowk
    4,469
    One of India’s largest wholesale markets, Chandni Chowk is a labyrinth of lanes and alleyways filled with shophouses where goods are sold on the ground level and families live on the floors above. Emperor Shah Jahan’s daughter, Princess Jahanara, contributed the original design crisscrossed by canals. It’s dense, crowded, and chaotic, but you shouldn’t leave Delhi without experiencing Chandni Chowk. Booking an evening food tour is a great way to explore it.
  • Jama Masjid
    2,396
    During the rule of Emperor Shah Jahan, more than 5,000 people worked for over six years to build the impressive Jama Masjid. It’s one of Delhi’s holiest mosques—and the largest in India—housing about 25,000 devotees at a time. This red sandstone and white marble mosque feels particularly special on Friday afternoons, when the city’s Muslims gather for prayers. Remember to dress modestly and respect local religious customs.
  • Red Fort
    5,607
    History buffs shouldn’t miss the iconic Red Fort, built in the mid-17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan. With towering red sandstone walls, this massive UNESCO World Heritage Site is a great example of Mughal heritage. It blends Islamic-era building traditions with Persian, Hindu, and Timurid (a Turco-Mongol empire) designs. I was glad I booked a walking tour so that I could explore the fort’s audience halls, royal baths, indoor gardens, and ornate mosque.
  • Safdarjung Tomb
    425
    Similar in style to Humayun's Tomb, Safdarjung's Tomb is much less grand than most of the other Mughal sites across Delhi. But don’t skip it, because the complex houses gardens, fountains, three pavilions, and some heavily ornate towers. It was built in the 1750s in memory of Safdarjung, a statesman during the Mughal Empire. I recommend going in the evening for stunning sunset views.
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New Delhi travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travelers ask in the forums.

Availability of Taxis and Rideshare Services

According to forum posts, taxis, Uber, and Ola are readily available at Delhi Airport, offering convenient options for travelers to reach various destinations within the city. Some travelers have indicated that app-based services like Uber and Ola can sometimes quote highly inflated prices.

Metro Connectivity

For many users, the Airport Express metro line is a frequently recommended transit option due to its direct connection between the airport and New Delhi railway station. The journey is relatively quick, taking about 19-20 minutes, and costs approximately Rs 60 per person. This service is highlighted as particularly useful during peak traffic hours, providing a faster alternative to road transport.

Shuttle and Public Buses

Some travelers said that free shuttle buses operate between terminals at Delhi Airport, which is useful for passengers needing to transfer between terminals. Additionally, DTC buses run with reduced frequency and capacity, with the EX 4 route connecting Terminal 3 to major points like ISBT and Kashmiri Gate via New Delhi.

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Itinerary Options

Some travelers suggested a variety of itineraries for exploring New Delhi and its surroundings. A popular option is the Golden Triangle, covering Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur over 5 days. This route typically includes significant landmarks like the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Jaipur's Amer Fort and City Palace.

Day-Specific Plans

For those with limited time, some posts outlined day-specific plans in Delhi. One suggested itinerary includes sightseeing at major attractions such as the Red Fort, India Gate, and Qutub Minar on separate days, utilizing local transportation like Ola or Uber to navigate between sites efficiently.

Alternative Activities

Additionally, for a more unconventional experience, some forum members recommended visiting less touristy sites such as the Sulabh International Toilet Museum or participating in city walks organized by local NGOs to explore Delhi's diverse culture and history more intimately.

Transport Tips

Regarding transportation, using apps like Uber or Ola was frequently advised for convenience, especially when traveling with family or in groups, as they offer a comfortable and flexible way to move around the city.

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Hotel Recommendations Near Delhi Airport

According to forum posts, some travelers recommend JW Marriott, Andaz, Roseate House, and Radisson Blu in Mahipalpur as top choices for staying near Delhi Airport. These hotels are noted for their proximity to the airport, approximately 5 km away, and offer paid shuttle services. Radisson Blu is slightly further but still conveniently reachable.

Budget-Friendly Options

For those seeking more budget-friendly options near the airport, IBIS and Red Fox in Aerocity have been suggested by forum users. These hotels offer reasonable rates and are still within close proximity to the airport, making them ideal for short stays or layovers.

Accommodation for Families

For family accommodation, travelers have pointed out that hotels like Red Fox, Lemon Tree, and IBIS in Aerocity are preferable due to their family-friendly amenities and the availability of day-use rooms. These hotels provide a comfortable and convenient stay for families needing a brief rest during their travels.

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Car Rental Agencies and Pricing

Some travelers have suggested contacting various car rental agencies in New Delhi for quotes. Prices for a full day with a driver range from INR 4000 to INR 5500. For shorter trips within Delhi, the cost is about INR 2500 per day for 80 km. For destinations like Noida and Gurgaon, the rate increases to approximately INR 4000-4500 per day with a 250 km limit.

Self-Drive Options

According to forum posts, self-drive options like Zoom Car and Myles are available but are considered expensive by some users. These options do not include fuel costs. Travelers looking for alternatives to these services have not provided specific recommendations within the posts.

Recommendations and Precautions

Travelers have called out the importance of distinguishing between drivers and tour guides, as drivers in New Delhi are not permitted to act as guides inside monuments. It's advised to hire a separate tour guide for comprehensive tours. Furthermore, for the best experience and rates, contacting local operators directly or through hotel services is recommended over international platforms.

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Group Tours

Some travelers have recommended using the hop-on hop-off (HOHO) bus service for a one-day tour in Delhi, highlighting its convenience for visiting multiple landmarks. Additionally, Delhi Tourism's bus tours are praised for being economical and comprehensive, covering major attractions in both Old and New Delhi.

Private Tours

For those preferring a more personalized experience, hiring a private car has been suggested. This option allows travelers to explore at their own pace and customize their itinerary according to personal preferences. The cost for a private car for a day is around 2300 INR, which can vary depending on the vehicle type and tour duration.

Alternative Suggestions

Alternatively, some users have proposed a mixed approach of using Delhi's metro system for quick transportation between distant attractions, combined with walking or short rides for nearby sights. This method is considered both efficient and budget-friendly, allowing for a more immersive experience of the city's diverse locales.

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Major Festivals in New Delhi

According to forum posts, major festivals celebrated in New Delhi include Holi and New Year's Eve. Holi, known as the Festival of Colors, is particularly prominent, with celebrations involving colorful powders and water balloons. This festival generally occurs in March, and many travelers inquire about organized events or safe places to participate in the festivities.

New Year's Eve Celebrations

For many users, New Year's Eve is another significant celebration in New Delhi. Travelers often seek advice on where to enjoy cultural or atmospheric celebrations rather than typical big parties. Recommendations frequently include visiting temples, cultural centers, or attending traditional music and dance performances to ring in the new year.

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Availability and Location

According to forum posts, SIM cards are available at Delhi Airport, specifically from Airtel and Vodafone kiosks. These counters are located in the airport's arrival section, and some are open 24 hours, catering to international flight schedules.

Purchasing Experience

Some travelers mentioned that purchasing a SIM card at the airport could be more expensive than buying one in the city. There are also reports of varying customer service experiences, with some users facing challenges in acquiring a SIM due to requirements for a local contact to receive a One-Time Password (OTP).

Activation and Usage

For many users, the activation process at the airport is quick, with SIM cards often activated within 10 to 25 minutes. However, the usage is generally limited to the duration of the visa, and it is recommended to use apps like WhatsApp for international communication, as some SIM plans may only offer local call and text services.

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E-Visa Availability and Restrictions

According to forum posts, e-visas are currently issued to over 150 countries, but not to UK or Canadian passport holders. This restriction may result from reciprocal visa arrangements.

Processing Time and Experience

Some travelers have noted that the e-visa process at Delhi Airport involves having your photograph and fingerprints taken electronically. The e-visa itself is then stamped into your passport. The entire process is usually quick if you follow the signposted e-visa queues, which are clearly indicated.

Practical Tips

Travelers have called out that it is important to have a printed copy of your Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) as it is typically required for the process, though a digital copy with a scannable barcode may also suffice in some cases. Always have the required documents handy, such as the ETA and your boarding pass from the incoming flight, to facilitate a smoother process at the e-visa counters.

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Frequently Asked Questions about New Delhi


Some of the most popular restaurants in New Delhi include:

New Delhi is known for some of its popular attractions, which include:


If you're a more budget-conscious traveler, then you may want to consider traveling to New Delhi between December and February, when hotel prices are generally the lowest. Peak hotel prices generally start between June and August.