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Home » Asia » India » Delhi

INSIDER DELHI ITINERARY for 2024

Delhi is an incredible, crazy city bursting with flavors, color, and beautiful chaos! Spend busy days exploring historic mosques and ancient temples. Make your way through vibrant markets – some of the oldest and largest in the world. Your days will be full to the brim!

We’ve put together a Delhi itinerary that takes you to all the best that this city has to offer. Learn about India’s rich history and the many fascinating religions that make up Delhi culture. Taste deliciously unique cuisines, and embrace the local traditions!

With tips on how to stay safe and enjoy the city to the utmost, you simply can’t go wrong. These are the best places to visit in Delhi.

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Best Time To Visit Delhi

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It’s easy to decide when to visit Delhi ! The city is the kind of holiday destination you definitely want to visit in the shoulder seasons, spring and fall. Spring (February – March) is sunny and pleasant without getting too hot. Fall (September – December) is similarly lovely!

Like most places you’ll encounter while backpacking India , Delhi doesn’t even really have a winter. It has a monsoon season (July – mid-September) and in this period, the weather is wet, humid and hot. Unless you’re used to this kind of weather, we recommend you avoid traveling during this time, as it can get very uncomfortable!

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Still, most of the year is very hot and full of sunshine. Tourists travel to Delhi anytime between October and March, when all the heavy rains are gone, temperatures are milder, and the land is lush and beautiful.

Weekends in Delhi are little different to the rest of the week, and more attractions are closed on a Monday than over the weekend.

Deciding where to stay in Delhi can be tough as the city is so damned big. If you want to be right in the middle of the action, find accommodation in Lajpat Nagar. This colorful neighborhood is where you’ll find the sprawling, busy, brightly colored Central Market, one of Delhi’s greatest markets and one of the stops on our Delhi itinerary!

Situated in South Delhi, this is a great place to have as your home-base. It’s close to everything, and you’ll never be more than a few steps away from some great restaurants and bars, as well as family-run eateries and unique stores. It’s not for the faint-hearted, as it’s always busy! But if you’re looking to meet people and have loads of fun, you’re sure to do that here.

For something a little more secluded (a tough feat on any day in Delhi), the best place to stay in Delhi, is Lodhi Colony. This neighborhood is a little more upscale, as well as quieter! This was the last residential area built during the British reign and has a unique and special atmosphere. There’s a lot to see and enjoy here but in a more peaceful environment.

Other great neighborhoods are Old Delhi, where you can connect with the city’s history and enjoy quirky shops, beautiful architecture, and Hauz Khas Village. This neighborhood is where you can experience Delhi’s medieval history!

So, as you can see, there are a great many fantastic options for your vacation in Delhi. Just be sure to stay central if you only have 3 days in Delhi!

Best Hostel in Delhi – Hostel Smyle Inn

Located in the heart of Delhi, Hostel Smyle Inn is walking distance from many of our stops! It’s a simple, charming family-run hostel with a history of great value. Free breakfast and high-speed internet add to the comfortable rooms. If you’re looking for a more affordable option and terrific value for money, this is your best bet!

Best Airbnb in Delhi: Comfy condo with outside space

A cosy space with lots of natural light and a timeless view will help you feel situated in no time. Besides your room, you have access to a bathroom (with shower), living room and kitchen. There is also a small garden, shared with the neighbours, that you can use!

Is this amazing Delhi Airbnb booked for your dates? We’ve got your back with our Best Airbnbs in Delhi  guide!

Best Budget Hotel in Delhi – Hotel Sky

Hotel Sky is a great budget hotel with all the amenities and a terrific location. In addition to cozy rooms, you can enjoy the in-house restaurant, free parking, and a terrace! You can also take advantage of the room service and currency exchange. It’s a terrifically convenient accommodation choice, perfect for families and couples.

Best Luxury Hotel in Delhi –  The Imperial

Beautiful decor and luxurious facilities, The Imperial is one of Delhi’s top hotels. Relax in the pool or with the world-class spa facilities! The hotel has seven restaurants, yoga classes, a book shop, and babysitting services. It is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate while remaining close to all the action.

The best way to get around the city is with the Delhi Metro. It’s quicker than every other mode of transport, and cheaper too. The trains come every 5-10 minutes, and the first coach is always reserved for women. So if you’re a woman traveling Delhi alone, you can chill comfortably here.

Be prepared for crammed coaches during rush hours, which differ according to the day! If you want to avoid the coach at these times, Delhi also has that handy world-wide app, Uber. If you don’t want it to get too pricey, you can even get an Uber Pool.

Of course, one of our favorite ways to get around any city is by walking. Stroll between the stops that are close together, and experience much more of the city than you would any other way! You’ll see so many interesting and exciting things as you explore by foot.

You can grab a city map at your accommodation, and plot out your Delhi itinerary stops before you set off. And if your feet get tired at any point of the day, hail a rickshaw, and experience another of Delhi’s cultural icons as you head for your next stop!

Old Delhi | Spice Market | Tomb of Safdarjung | Qutub Minar | Rashtrapati Bhavan | India Gate

Wondering what to do in Delhi? We’ve got all the best for you. The majority of day 1 in Delhi is spent in the most historic part of the city, Old Delhi! Explore the structures which have formed Delhi, and enjoy the vibrancy of markets and mosques.

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Stroll through Old Delhi

• Why it’s awesome: It’s where you can enjoy the epitome of traditional Indian culture and liveliness!
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: One of the many great eateries where you can enjoy some local favorites is Jung Bahadur Kachori Wala

Founded in 1639 as a walled city, Old Delhi is a treasure trove of historic attractions and beautiful little details. It’s always bustling and colorful, the streets winding through gorgeous architecture and urban areas!

One of India’s best-known traditional urban environments, you’ll learn more about India, both contemporary and historic, right here. A number of our stops are in the area, but we suggest you start day 1 in Delhi strolling through and having a look around! It’s chaotic and jam-packed, loads of fun, as long as you’re ready for a crowd.

Once named Shahjahanabad and the capital of the Mughal empire, it was filled with mansions, mosques, and gardens. It remains Delhi’s symbolic heart, and there’s always something going on.

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Do some spice shopping at Khari Baoli

• Why it’s awesome: It’s one of the world’s biggest spice markets
• Food nearby: Grab something from the incredible street food stalls

After exploring the greater Old Delhi, head over to Asia’s best and biggest spice market! If you’re spending more than 2 days in Delhi, and you plan on doing your own cooking, you should definitely try a few spices! Many of these you will find nowhere else. You can also grab some dried fruit and unusual snacks to enjoy on the rest of your two days in Delhi.

It’s an immersive experience and a sensory overload, you’ll want to smell everything! You’ll want to taste everything too, but don’t try that. You can, however, take lots of photos, and barter with the tradespeople. Many of whom have run these stalls for generations.

This vast market has been operating since the 17th century, a historic part of Delhi culture. It may be just a market, but it’s an authentic Indian experience you won’t forget anytime soon!

Insider Tip: The market is closed on Sundays, and runs from 10 am to 8 pm. We’ve made it our second stop so that you’re here before the crowds and the heat of midday!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Visit the Tomb of Safdarjung

• Why it’s awesome: Peaceful, monumental and lovely, it’s the perfect stop after all that exciting busyness
• Cost: $2 USD
• Food nearby: If you don’t feel like street food, visit the nearby Sugar Blossoms for sweet treats and a boutique feel

Displaying the grandeur of the Mughal era, this iconic tomb was built in 1754 and houses Nawab Safdarjung. It was the last monumental tombs and garden from the Mughals, a sandstone and marble mausoleum!

One of the things we love about this tomb is how relatively small the crowds tend to be! It’s beautiful and historic, but it was only recently renovated, leaving it rather unknown to tourists. So you can stroll slowly through and admire the artistry without the crowds you’ll find at most Delhi attractions! This makes it the perfect stop after the bustling market.

The tomb itself is nestled in a square garden with a lovely garden, a library, and pavilions. Catch your breath here and relax on the grass before setting off to the next stop on your Delhi itinerary!

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Explore Qutub Minar

• Why it’s awesome: It’s one of the most famous Delhi points of interest, and for good reason!
• Cost: $7 USD
• Food nearby: For something a little different, enjoy a late lunch at the Armenian restaurant, Lavaash By Saby!

Built in the 13th century, this curious tower dominates the nearby skyline. 73-meters high, the tower is made up of alternatingly angular and rounded flutings. It’s surrounded by two historic mosques, one of which is the oldest in Northern India!

It was built as a victory tower and is made up of red sandstone recycled from various temples. It’s one of the most popular Delhi points of interest, and an absolute must-see.

A lot has happened with this unique tower. Three floors were added years after its construction, and at one point, lightning struck and broke off the top floor!

There is not even certainty about who it’s dedicated to – a Sufi saint, the father-in-law of the man who commissioned it, or the muezzins who used it for the call to prayer. But whatever it’s dedicated to, it’s a beautiful and impressive monument to India’s rich and colorful history!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – See the presidential palace, Rashtrapati Bhavan

• Why it’s awesome: It’s the presidential palace, with so much to see and famously beautiful gardens
• Cost: $1 USD per circuit
• Food nearby: Grab some Indian comfort food at the nearby MP Club & Canteen South Avenue

For something a little more modern but just as ornate and beautiful, visit the Rashtrapati Bhavan! Built for the Viceroy of India, this massive mansion is an experience of Indian stateliness and wealth – something you may see little of in contemporary Delhi.

The mansion has a full 340 floors! It also has 190 acres of curated garden you could get lost in. you can join tours in 3 circuits of the mansion – one of the main building, one of the museum, and one of the extensive gardens. You can choose what you’re most interested in and enjoy a tour of that, or join them all!

The gardens, in addition to curated spaces, include forest, parks, wilderness, and water bodies! You’ll see peacocks sauntering about, and other small animals and birds.

The museum includes invaluable artifacts of Indian heritage, art and culture! The mansion, of course, includes ornate halls, a massive library, and drawing rooms. There’s just so much to see!

If you’re spending the weekend in Delhi, you can even watch the changing of the guards, a tradition that remains from British rule. Timings for this change, so ask at the desk when you arrive or check for your dates!

Insider Tip: The three circuits are closed on Mondays, and with the exception of the museum circuit, on Wednesday too. Be sure to plan your Delhi itinerary around this!

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Marvel at India Gate

• Why it’s awesome: It’s an impressive monument in a lovely area
• Food nearby: Enjoy some fantastic Indian and Mughal cuisine at Gulati Restaurant

The perfect place to end off your first day in Delhi is India Gate! This war memorial is lit up at night – which is likely when you’ll see it, considering how full your day is! It stands as a memorial for the British Indian Army soldiers who died in WWI and the Second Anglo-Afghan War.

There are over 13,000 names inscribed on the gate. There is also a flame continuously burning as a memorial to the unknown soldier, all the men who died in battle, whose names are not marked down. It’s a beautiful memorial to a difficult time in human history, and one everyone will appreciate and respect.

Reflecting the styles of the Arc de Triomphe and older Greek memorial gates, the India Gate has put a unique twist on the style and is something all its own. Watch the sunset behind it and the lights go on to illuminate the structure!

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Chhatarpur Temple | Akshardham Temple | Hauz Khas | Humayun’s Tomb | Lotus Temple | Red Fort | Chandni Chowk

On the second of your 2-day itinerary in Delhi, explore both modern and historic landmarks in the newer part of the city. End the day off with a visit to one of the world’s biggest market roads! Many of the stops can even be explored on a self-guided Delhi walking tour.

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Visit Chhatarpur Temple

• Why it’s awesome: It’s an icon of Delhi, massive, calming and impressive
• Food nearby: Get a casual, cozy breakfast at Dilip Momos

Dedicated to the Hindu goddess Katyayani, this magnificent temple is the perfect way to start day 2 in Delhi! It’s surrounded by trees and greenery, with a terrifically peaceful atmosphere – particularly, first thing in the morning!

There are many beautiful statues of the Hindu gods and goddesses in the temple. Walk through the temple grounds and enjoy the scenic calm.

The structure is very unusual, made almost entirely from marble. It is also one of the largest temples in the world! A full 60 acres with over 20 temples. You can spend hours here, but we recommend limiting yourself to 2-hours.

Be sure to explore the surrounding area a little! It’s an important biodiversity area, with lakes, exotic vegetation, and season waterfalls.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Walk through Akshardham Temple

• Why it’s awesome: This is the biggest and best temple complex in India
• Food nearby: You can find something yummy at the Akshardham Complex Food Court

Akshardham sits on the banks of the river, an extensive complex with much more than a temple. The name means ‘divine abode of god’, and that high title is certainly reflected in the temple’s perfection and massive expense.

Spend hours here, exploring the themed gardens, a boat ride that takes you through the cultural history of Delhi, and watching a water show.

The main attraction, of course, remains the temple. Incredibly decorated, the pink sandstone and marble are carved with dancers, deities, animals, and plants.

You’ll also find over 100 life-sized elephant statues on the temple grounds! It’s an experience totally unlike any other temple pilgrimage, unique and wondrous.

Visit the hall of values to see life-size robotic displays of the life of Swaminarayan (the temple’s main deity). Stroll along the lake and explore Bharat Upavan, a garden filled with bronze sculptures of deities and others.

Insider Tip: Like many of the stops on our Delhi itinerary, the dress code here requires covered legs till the knee, and arms to the elbow. But if you aren’t dressed appropriately, a free sarong is available, so you don’t have to miss it!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Enjoy the peace at Hauz Khas Complex

• Why it’s awesome: It’s an enchanting medieval village and mosque, completely different from the more contemporary stops
• Food nearby: Get some tea and cake at the quaint, kitsch Elma’s teashop and cafe

For a greater feel for historic India, visit the Hauz Khas Complex! This 13th-century village is the perfect place to see how people lived here during Medieval times. It’s relatively unknown, so you’re likely to spend your visit exploring with only a few others in a peaceful environment.

The complex includes a medieval seminary, a mosque, and a stone water tank. The lush wild garden compliments the historic structures, and makes you feel like you’re walking somewhere magical.

Insider Tip: The complex is closed to visitors every Monday, so if you’re here on this day, give this stop a skip. It’s better to visit over a weekend in Delhi.

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Stop at Humayun’s Tomb

• Why it’s awesome: It’s gorgeous, the inspiration behind the Taj Mahal!
• Cost: $9 USD
• Food nearby: Get some tasty late-afternoon kebabs at Yaseen kabab Corner

Built in 1570, this tomb has a great deal of cultural significance in India! It was the first garden-tomb in the country, and had a huge influence on architecture and style throughout the centuries.

The tomb is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and has undergone extensive restorations to ensure that we can still visit it and admire the historic splendor for generations!

This is such a great place to take photos, and at the time you’ll be visiting (late afternoon), it is relatively quiet. You can join a guided tour to learn more about the history and influence of Humayun’s Tomb. Or just explore the grounds on your own and admire the beauty!

If you later visit the Taj Mahal, a stop here is even more important. You’ll really be able to see how this mausoleum inspired the later one. It’s the beginning of the Mughal architectural style that culminated in that iconic place!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Pray at the Lotus Temple

• Why it’s awesome: A really unique design and joyful environment
• Food nearby: Enjoy a good meal and drinks at The Flying Saucer Cafe

This impressive and unique place is a wonder to visit! 27 marble flower petals make up the unusual structure, designed after the sacred lotus. It is a religious worshipping grounds for all faiths, so you can choose to pray there with people from all over the world and all religions!

If you do choose to go inside, you’ll get a quick brief on what to do – primarily, be quiet and respectful. You’ll also leave your shoes behind in a secure room. If you don’t, just take it in from the outside, and get a few shots!

Insider Tip: Like many of the stops, the Lotus Temple is closed on a Monday – when planning a trip to Delhi, we suggest you book your dates around this day. A weekend in Delhi is much better.

Day 2 / Stop 6 – Admire the Red Fort

• Why it’s awesome: It’s one of the top Delhi landmarks, massive and ornate
• Cost: $4 USD
• Food nearby: Enjoy a laid-back meal at Abdul Ghani Qureshi Kabab

Also called Lal Qal’ah, this Mughal fort complex is one of Delhi’s top attractions! It’s been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and should not be missed when touring Delhi!

Stroll through palaces and canals, baths, entertainment halls, ornate gardens and a beautifully decorated mosque – all in the Red Fort Complex! It’s a beautiful fusion of cultures and architectural traditions and is considered the peak of Mughal creativity.

It’s the perfect next stop, just a short walk away from the Tomb! You could spend the whole day here, exploring the different structures and gardens and admiring the little details. But since there’s so much to see in just 2 days in Delhi, we recommend a visit of 2-3 hours!

Day 2 / Stop 7 – Shop and eat at Chandni Chowk

• Why it’s awesome: It’s a massive, exciting market you could spend hours and hours exploring
• Food nearby: Get some traditional Indian ice cream at Kuremal Mohanlal Kulfiwale

End off day 2 in Delhi on the perfect note. It’s one of our favorite stops on the 2-day itinerary in Delhi! Right opposite Red Fort you’ll find this long busy street, one of the oldest and greatest markets in the city.

Chandi Chowk is a full-day market, but we love it in the evening when the atmosphere shifts and the bustling daytime visitors give way to the nighttime crowd.

This massive outdoor market has some of the best and most well-priced fabrics and Indian clothing you’ll find in Delhi! In fact, it has everything. It’s the perfect place to shop, eat, and enjoy the vibrant local culture.

It’s always crowded, so be prepared to nudge through some people when necessary. You’ll find huge bargains here, and some incredible food! Many of the stalls have been run by the same family in the same place for over 100 years. It’s an experience in tradition and changing culture.

Insider Tip: Keep cash on you! You’re not likely to find a card machine here, and you don’t want to miss out. Just make sure your bag is always closed and on the front of your body.

Hostel Smyle Inn

Located in the heart of Delhi, Hostel Smyle Inn is walking distance from many of our stops! It’s a simple, charming family-run hostel with a history of great value.

• Free Breakfast

Lodhi Gardens | Food Tasting Tour | Tuk-Tuk/Rickshaw Tour | National Museum | Sri Bangla Sahib Gurudwara

There’s still a lot to see in Delhi! So if you’re spending more than 2 days here, that’s wonderful. Our 3-day itinerary in Delhi has got you covered, to see everything possible!

Lodhi Gardens

• The gardens stretch for 90 acres!
• Historical monuments and ruins dot the extensive park
• The monuments are from the 14th-17th centuries, and everything is well-maintained

Developed by the British as a landscaped setting for the various monuments within it, Lodi Garden is gorgeous! It was once named Lady Willington Park but was renamed Lodhi Garden, after one of India’s great dynasties, when India gained its independence.

The garden is a lovely place to stroll and enjoy a picnic! Flowers line the walkways, and a great many trees stretch up to compete with the tall monuments.

The monuments in the garden are open to visitors, so you can explore them and admire the historic architecture and detail. You can even join a tour, and learn about the various structures from a local guide.

Be sure to bring your camera, and try to go early or late in the day! At these times, hardly anyone will be here. You can enjoy the monuments in silence, and get some exquisite photos with no one in sight!

The garden feels like an oasis in the middle of the city. It is located squarely in one of New Delhi’s busiest areas, but once you step in that green expanse, it feels immediately as if you are in the countryside. A countryside dotted with precious monuments and tombs!

Old Delhi Street Food Tasting Tour

• Experience the city in a unique way, tasting local street foods and snacks
• Travel by rickshaw and explore Delhi’s winding streets
• Enjoy a trip to the spice market and try new things

The best food tour in Delhi is definitely a street food tour! Indians enjoy many of their meals from street food stalls – they’re a huge part of the culture here. As such, it’s a great way to experience and learn about local life!

You can either tour the street food stalls yourself and give everything that looks exciting a go. Or you can join a guided tour and try what’s considered the best of the Delhi street food scene! Either option is great, and very different.

It’s a fully immersive experience, and you’ll move through the bustling market tasting sugary jalebis and famously good Dahi Vada ! Learn about the neighborhood’s history and traditions, both food-related and otherwise. India has such a unique and unusual cuisine history!

Thankfully, there’s just as much for vegetarians to enjoy as meat-eaters. However, if you do choose to tour the market yourself, consider avoiding meat, as food poisoning can occur. If you  join a tour, rest assured they choose their stops carefully with hygiene in mind.

Jump on a rickshaw and explore the area, traveling through the narrow streets with your enthusiastic local guide and a small group!

Or, if you go it alone, we still recommend you jump on a rickshaw! Just ask the rider to take you around the old walled city while you do a bit of digesting.

Old Delhi: 3-Hour Tuk-Tuk/Rickshaw Tour

• Explore all the main highlights of Old Delhi
• Ride past bazaars and temples in a tuk-tuk or bicycle rickshaw
• You’ll even participate in a community kitchen where you can get back and learn more about contemporary India

This is such a great way to see the city! Explore the historic Old Delhi on a rickshaw/tuk-tuk . The rickshaw has been a part of Indian transport for centuries and is one of the absolute best ways to experience Delhi.

Sit back and relax while your tour guide and rider shows you the sights and tells you a bit about their history and importance! Stop and find something beautiful at the market, and enjoy how your guide navigates the busy crowd to bring you comfortably through.

You’ll want your camera on this tour!

Visit Jama Masjid, Delhi’s largest mosque and a stop not yet on your itinerary for Delhi! This beautiful structure was built in 1650, and has remained one of India’s most massive mosques all these centuries. You’ll have time to tour the mosque a little before setting off to your next stop.

Ride through the largest spice market in Asia (and an earlier stop on your Delhi trip itinerary), Khari Baoli. You’ll even get to volunteer, if you choose to, at the langar, community kitchen service.

It’s a great way to experience India. Not only will you experience more of the local culture and way of life. You’ll also learn about Delhi’s history, and about the tenets of the various religions in this city, like Sikhism and the Jain religion!

National Museum of New Delhi

• Brilliant displays of historic artifacts, artworks, statues and sculptures
• The museum covers Indian history from ancient times until now
• Carefully curated, with great facilities and helpful staff

We’ve saved this incredible stop till now because you’d be best served by spending a full day here! The museum is a wonderful experience, with so many exhibitions, and all well-maintained.

India’s history is so vastly different to the more commonly known western societies. The art, cultures, religions and belief systems that have thrived here are unique, complex and beautiful. Celebrate and learn about them here, where you can find a wealth of knowledge in all fields!

Experience the artifacts at the museum’s Tactile Experience display! Created specially for the blind, the gallery has tactile replicas of some of the museum’s most interesting artifacts. So for once, you can touch what’s on display!

The jewelry display is exquisite, and the arms and armor gallery has so many artifacts, the like of which you’ll find nowhere else! The Central Asian Antiquities has over 12 000 objects from the 3rd to the 12th century AD – gathered from the Silk Roads.

India has such a rich history, with so many empires and dynasties holding power and influencing the culture and way of life. The opportunity to actually see the things used in war, and in everyday life back then, is truly wonderful. Especially after seeing the many incredible structures on your 3-day itinerary in Delhi!

Sri Bangla Sahib Gurudwara

• A beautifully peaceful place in the heart of Delhi
• Delhi’s most impressive and stunning Sikh religion temples
• Open 24/7, you can visit here at any time of day

Famous for its unique spirituality, hospitality, and gorgeous architecture, Sri Langa Sahib Gurudwara is a wonderful place to visit. Particularly for spiritual people. You can join the Sikhs in prayer at any time of day, or simply admire the beauty of it, and the friendliness you’re faced with.

The atmosphere here is incredibly warm and friendly. The people are always happy to help in any way. You can even enjoy some free halwa!

While Sikhism is a relatively unknown religion, it’s the fifth-largest religion in the world, with about 28 million followers! This means that this temple is often very busy, as it is a holy site of pilgrimage.

Sikhs believe in one God, but also in karma and reincarnation! It’s a fascinating religion, and one you can learn a lot about here. This stop isn’t for everyone, but anyone interested in spirituality and religion, as well as human kindness, will love it!

Of course, you can also simply admire the unique architecture, the marble facade, and the golden minarets! It’s a beautiful structure that emanates warmth and can always be relied on to bring a little peace.

Is Delhi Safe? Well, Delhi has a few safety issues to keep in mind so that you can be sure to enjoy your holiday to the fullest! Firstly, the very crowded areas are places where pickpockets thrive, like in every city. Delhi just has more crowded areas than many others.

So keep your bag closed and in front of you. Keep your wallet in your front pocket rather than the back. Don’t wear flashy jewelry or anything too expensive-looking that can easily be grabbed!

Another issue is the congestion on the roads. This is one of the reasons we recommend using the metro, as traffic is a serious problem! More than that though, you need to be very careful when crossing the street.

Unfortunately, Delhi is not an especially safe place for women traveling alone – rape and sexual assault is pretty common. If you do choose to travel alone, avoid empty streets even during the day. At night, take extra care. Make sure your transport home is safe and reputable. Also be sure to watch your drinks.

If you arrive in Delhi and your taxi driver says the hotel you ask to go to is dangerous or closed, get out or ask to be taken to the place you said. Known as touts , these men are almost always trying to take you to a hotel where they earn commission on your stay.

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The day trips from Delhi take you to some of the most beautiful places in India! Leave the bustling city behind and explore the more rural side of India. And of course, you have to see the Taj Mahal!

Akshardham: Exhibition, Light and Water Show with Transfers

Visit Akshardham Temple outside of Delhi city and experience the splendor of Delhi’s Hindu decor and decadence! You’ll learn about Hindu gods and goddesses, and the unique spirituality that still dominates Indian culture.

Explore the gorgeous gardens and see 20,000 gods and goddesses carved into the majestic temple. You can then watch the night-time light and water show, with the temple as the backdrop! This show depicts Hindu values like morality, perseverance and family harmony in a unique and beautiful way.

Board a boat and pass through a display of all of India’s greatest contributions to the world! It is a truly unique and immersive day trip from Delhi.

Private Taj Mahal & Agra Tour from Delhi by Car

Of course, no visit to Delhi and India is complete without seeing the Taj Mahal! This ivory-white marble mausoleum was built in 1632 to house the favorite wife of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan , and is now one of the new seven wonders of the world!

Explore this iconic monument in the early morning, before the crowds get too big. Then move onto the Taj Mahal’s sister-monument, the immense Agra Fort!

It’s an incredible way to spend the day, enjoying these historic monuments and relaxing outside of the city. See a bit of rural India, and have lunch in Agra.

Delhi and Agra 2-Day Tour with Taj Mahal Sunrise

This tour is for those who only have a few days to spend in India! You’ll spend day 1 stopping at the best sites in Old and New Delhi before leaving for Agra.

Agra is a smaller city near Delhi, famous for, you guessed it, the Taj Mahal. There are some hostels in Agra if you want to extend a day trip.

The best part of this tour is that you can see the Taj Mahal at sunrise. The white marble blushes pink, and the crowds are as small as they’ll ever be. You may even get a picture without anyone else in sight!

Spend the day much like in the last tour suggestion, exploring the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort and relaxing in expansive gardens.

Jaipur Private Day-Trip by Car or Train

Visit the ‘pink city’ on one of the best day trips from Delhi! Jaipur is enchanting, and distinctly different from Delhi, making it the perfect place to see next. You can catch a train and watch the countryside pass by, or enjoy private transfer.

Once you’re in the city, enjoy a guided tour of the city’s top attractions! These include the Palace of Winds, designed for royal ladies to look out and not be seen. They also include the enchanting Water Palace, the Amer Palace, and the City Palace, which make up the center of Jaipur !

It’s a full day of touring, and you’ll be dropped off at your hotel tired and happy.

Customized Private Day Tour of Delhi

If you’re traveling with anyone who only has one day in Delhi, then this is the perfect tour. You’ll set off on a full-day excursion, and pick all the stops in a personalized itinerary for Delhi.

Choose between museums and mosques, temples, markets and ancient complexes. You may not be able to fit our whole Delhi itinerary into a day, but you can certainly visit all your favorite stops!

Your local guide can either accompany you and tell you about your various stops, or simply transport you between places and allow you to enjoy your romantic day without stress or concern.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Delhi itinerary.

How many days are enough for Delhi?

3-5 days in Delhi are ideal if you want to see all of the top sights. Any extra days are a bonus – allowing you to take your time or head out on day trips.

What should you include on a 3 day Delhi itinerary?

Make sure to include these top attractions on your Delhi itinerary: – Old Delhi – Khari Baoli – Tomb of Safdarjung – Lotus Temple

Where should you stay in Delhi if you have a full itinerary?

Lajpat Nagar is the best place to base yourself if you’re only spending a short time in Delhi. Located in South Delhi, its central location means you’re only a short away from top attractions.

Is Delhi worth visiting?

Sure is! From vibrant markets to eccentric architecture and ancient temples, Delhi is a treat for all the senses.

Whether you’ve got just a weekend in Delhi, or weeks, you can use this Delhi itinerary to make sure you tick off all the best sights and attractions in the exciting capital city!

There is so much to enjoy about this city. The vibrant culture is phenomenal, and you’ll always hear laughter and singing – not to mention intense bargaining. The historic monuments are so unlike western attractions, unique and outrageously graceful.

You’ll learn much as you go along, and gain a new appreciation for India, its many struggles, and the people who persevere and make it beautiful.

Be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes! As well as a good camera – Delhi is a photographer’s dream. But really, with so much color, life, and free access to all the best monuments (can you believe?) it’s any backpackers dream!

Suzanne Borders

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How to Spend Three Perfect Days in Delhi: An In-Depth Itinerary

A lot of people despise Delhi.

Let’s face it: this city doesn’t have the best of reputations.

Delhi is polluted, congested, dirty, smelly, loud, and scams are rampant. The air is toxic to breathe, there’s non-stop hassle to deal with, and the sheer number of people can leave you feeling overwhelmed. It’s maddening at times. 

Am I selling this city to you yet?

Because there’s just as much to love about it. In fact, Delhi is one of my favourite cities on the planet, and I fell for it from the moment I stepped foot on its busy streets.

You’ve got its fantastic food scene, the lush parks, the incredible architecture, the blend of cultures, the city’s long and fascinating history, and the fact that it’s unlike anywhere else on earth. And there’s so much beauty in amongst the challenges.

Plenty of first-time visitors to India’s capital hear about Delhi’s reputation and decide to duck in and out of the city as quickly as possible. 

I think they’re making a big mistake by doing so.

Even if it’s your first time in India and you’re feeling intimidated, don’t skip over Delhi . This city has so much to offer its visitors, and I’d suggest allocating at least three days to exploring.

Today’s post is going to be an itinerary for how to spend three days in Delhi, a list of the best places to see in Delhi, a photo essay, and a love letter to this frenetic yet wonderful city. 

Let’s get started.

How Many Days Should You Spend in Delhi?

Three days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Delhi.

Well, there are three main areas in the city.

You’ve got crumbling, chaotic Old Delhi, once the magnificent walled city of Shahjahanabad in the 17th century. This area is all about the culture shock, with so many sights and sounds and smells to absorb at once.

There’s New Delhi, which was created by the British when they decided to build a new capital in India — this part is all about the gleaming buildings, government structures, and a sense of a little more order.

And to the south, you’ll find South Delhi — an upmarket residential neighbourhood that’s calmer, quieter, and leafier than the rest of the city.

All three areas have so much to offer up to visitors.

It therefore makes sense to devote at least one day to each of these three distinct areas. I recommend spending your first day in town wandering through Old Delhi, your second day marvelling at New Delhi, and your third day unwinding in South Delhi. 

It’s going to make for the perfect introduction to the city. 

Day One: The Best Time to Explore Old Delhi!

When you picture the commotion and cacophony of Delhi, you’re most likely thinking of Old Delhi.

I recommend spending a full day in this area, allowing your senses to be attacked as you dodge rickshaws and motorbikes and thousands of people, avoiding cows and goats and dogs as you wander down narrow alleyways, smelling incense and street food and, um, things that are a little less pleasant. 

There’s nowhere on earth quite like Old Delhi.  

Start your day, though, by heading to the Red Fort when it opens. Without the crowds of tourists, it’ll bring about a peaceful start to a day that’s likely to be anything but.   

Built from sandstone in the 1600s and originally used as a residence for Mughal emperors, the inner structures have since been plundered and destroyed, yet it’s still worth visiting.

Despite being right in the heart of Delhi, it’s surprisingly calming to wander through this large area of green space, and it makes for a tranquil introduction to the city’s architecture. 

Jama Masjid is just a 15-minute walk away from the Red Fort, so it’s the next logical stop on a tour of Old Delhi. 

This mosque is one of the largest in Delhi, able to hold a whopping 25,000 people at a time, and is one of the most impressive structures in the city.

One highlight is climbing to the top of one of the minarets for a wonderful view over Old Delhi. It’s so worth doing, even though the staircase is cramped, dark, and daunting to walk up/down.

Watch out for scammers here! There’s plenty of people looking to take advantage of tourists in this area. You’ll have to pay to hire robes, no matter how covered up you are, pay for a camera permit, and somebody will undoubtedly take your shoes off you and ask for a tip for keeping them safe when you return. 

Venture next to Raj Ghat, a memorial to Gandhi that’s worth visiting, despite looking understated compared to everything you’ll have seen so far. Of course, its simplicity is the point. 

Raj Ghat is a 30-minute walk from Jama Masjid, but the walk itself isn’t particularly exciting, so feel free to grab a rickshaw or an Uber to get there.

The memorial comprises a small black marble platform with an eternal flame at one end, marking the exact spot where Gandhi’s body was cremated.

Around the memorial, there’s plenty of manicured green space that’s filled with people picnicking and relaxing, and it’s a calming area for meditating, paying your respects, and taking a break from the chaos. 

And believe me, you’re going to want to take that break because your next stop is going to be Chandni Chowk. 

You’ve never been anywhere like Chandni Chowk.

This unbelievable district and market is the heart of Old Delhi and it’s unlike anywhere you’ll have ever been before. The chaos! The traffic! The confusion! The smells! The sounds! 

I couldn’t get enough of it. 

Most of the time, you’ll have no idea where to even walk, as there’s zero opportunity to just stand and soak it all in. Instead, everybody will be swarming around you, moving, moving, moving, and sounding their horns to get you moving, too.

There was always something fascinating to see, as the video below illustrates.

As you walk the alleys of Old Delhi, you’ll be overcome by an odd, dizzying sensation, where you feel as though you don’t belong and you have no idea what’s happening. You’ll wonder if you’ve stepped foot on another planet.

If you’re anything like me, it’s going to make you feel so alive. 

Yes, this is somewhere that’s certain to leave you feeling overwhelmed, but it’s somewhere you have to see. It’s somewhere where you’ll want to have your camera to hand, knowing that there’s so much going on but that it’s impossible to capture it in a single frame. 

Still, you’ll have fun trying. 

One of best ways to learn more about Delhi’s food scene is to jump on a street food tour . I recommend the offering from UrbanAdventures .

Diving mouthfirst into a city’s food scene is the best way to get to know a place, and in India, I quickly found I was clueless.

As I’d wandered the streets of Old Delhi earlier that afternoon, I’d quickly realised I had no idea what any of the dishes were. I didn’t recognise a thing! 

That was intimidating.

With fears of Delhi Belly reverberating through my head, I’d been too nervous to go anywhere near the street food through worry that I’d get sick.

When you couple that with not even being able to identify the dishes that were for sale, I was mostly skirting past the stalls with a nervous expression on my face.

That was exactly why I recommend jumping on this tour.

Guided by a charismatic university student who has lived in Delhi her entire life, she’s the perfect person to introduce you to the Delhi food scene. This guide lives for food and she raves over getting to be a street food tour guide and how much she enjoyed eating 10 items a night.

On the tour, you’ll get to sample Indian-style shawarma,  golgappas  (my favourite!), and  bhelpuri . Next, comes the  pao bhajji  and  kulfi-falooda,  and you’ll rounded off our tour with  gulab jamun  (another favourite!) and  jalebi .

In short, this is a phenomenal activity for your first day in the city. You’ll get to explore the markets and stalls with a local, build up your confidence when it comes to eating on the streets, and — of course — sample some of the best food of your life. I’d honestly take this exact tour again because I want to re-eat all of the delicious snacks!

Day Two: It’s All About New Delhi

Hopefully, exploring Old Delhi left you feeling enthralled, but it’s heading to New Delhi that will have you falling for this city. My second day in town was my favourite — I loved everything I saw on this day. 

Up first: Agrasen ki Baoli.

If you’re planning for an extended trip of India, you’ll likely end up coming across stepwells every now and then. They’re exactly what they sound like — wells with steps leading all the way to the bottom, so that you can collect water no matter how far down it is. These days, most of them go unused, and they make for very Instagrammable scenes. Agrasen ki Baoli is right in the centre of Delhi and is supposedly one of the most haunted spots in the city. 

This is a place to grab a few seconds of respite — it’s a spot where locals come to chill out with their friends and chat, and it’s a good destination to spend twenty minutes taking photos and enjoying the ambience. 

Next, head on over to India Gate — it’s a 25-minute walk from the stepwell.

Prepare yourself in advance for a huge number of crowds and selfie-requests here, but it’s totally worth the crush to see such a majestic structure with your own eyes.

India Gate is a war memorial, dedicated to the 70,000 soldiers in the British Indian Army who died fighting in the First World War. It’s full of tourists, schoolkids, and families having picnics, as well as tons of street vendors, but it’s an impressive structure nonetheless. 

You’re going to want to grab an Uber to take you to the next stop, and you should spend the drive preparing yourself to be wowed.

Humayun’s Tomb will likely be one of your biggest highlights of New Delhi. I know it was for me. If you have time to see just one thing in this city, it should be this.

The red sandstone tomb was built in 1570 and was actually the inspiration behind the Taj Mahal. It’s such a large complex that you could easily spend several hours there, depending on how keen you are to linger and soak up the atmosphere.

Within walking distance, you’ll find Safdarjung Tomb, a sandstone and marble mausoleum that was constructed in the 1700s. It has a similar vibe to the complex surrounding Humayun’s Tomb, but attracts far fewer people. It’s really worth visiting.

Lodhi Garden is a 10-minute walk away, and don’t you dare think about skipping it.

For a city park, it’s so impressive. I mean, just look at all of those structures! I’ve never seen a park have so many cool buildings dropped right in the middle of it.

By the time you reach the Lodhi Garden, the sun will be setting, which will make the experience all the more magical. You could easily spend a couple of hours walking around the old historic monuments, watching families play cricket, fly kites, and picnic on the grass. 

Now, when you think of great street art, Delhi probably isn’t one of the cities that first comes to mind, but there’s plenty of excellent examples if you know where to look.

I suggest rounding off your day in New Delhi with a stroll through nearby Lodhi Colony: an area of the city that’s been turned into a public art district. There are dozens of enormous colourful murals blanketing the buildings around here, and they’re so much fun to hunt down. 

This area isn’t often visited by tourists, as it’s not very well-known, but it’s more than worth visiting.

Day Three: Explore South Delhi

Round off your time in the city with a relaxing day in South Delhi. It’s undoubtedly been an action-packed trip to the city so far, so if you’re craving a more low-key day, South Delhi is the neighbourhood for you!

This area of Delhi is a chilled-out, green, and peaceful neighbourhood, with little hassle or noise to contend with. It’s a great spot to simply head out for a walk, wander around one of the parks, people-watch on the streets, and check out one of the local cafes. 

There’s also some pretty cool attractions to check out. 

Kick off your explorations of this neighbourhood with an amble around the Lotus Temple, a Sydney Opera House-esque Baháʼí Place of Worship that’s open to anyone, regardless of their religious beliefs. There are just seven Bahai temples found in the world, and the white marble Lotus Temple is the only one in Asia. It’s a soothing spot, with nine turquoise pools and lush gardens to wander around. 

Next, take an Uber over to Qutub Minar. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this towering minaret reaches a height of 73 metres and is surrounded by so many interesting ruins and structures.

Don’t skip this attraction! It’s far away from everywhere else in the city, but so worth venturing over to see it.

In the afternoon, if you’re not yet exhausted, head to the PVR Directors Cut cinema to watch a Bollywood movie. This is a luxury cinema in South Delhi, with comfortable chairs that recline, blankets, pillows, air purifiers, and waiters to bring meals to your seat.    

Where to Stay in Delhi

Delhi is a sprawling city and there are so many options for where to stay.

I recommend opting for accommodation in South Delhi. As I’ve mentioned a couple of times already, it’s the calmer, cleaner area of the city, and you’ll be staying in a leafy suburb with less noise and a safer vibe. 

I stayed in  this incredible guesthouse , which absolutely made my stay in Delhi so much better. The welcoming owner did so much for us, from showing us around the local night market to driving us to tourist attractions, introducing us to his favourite breakfast spot, and even making a dozen phone calls when my SIM card wouldn’t activate. It’s one of the best guesthouses I’ve ever stayed in.

How to Get Around Delhi

It’s so easy and so inexpensive. 

You’ll likely arrive in the city just before sunrise, as that’s when most international flights seem to land, so you might be put off by tackling the public transport system. Don’t be! 

I took the metro from Delhi Airport to our guesthouse in South Delhi and it couldn’t have been easier. In the early morning, it’s clean, quiet, calm, and uncrowded. There’s even a women’s-only carriage on all of the trains for all of my solo women out there. 

For getting around the city, I recommend using a mix of Uber and rickshaws. Both are so easy to use and everywhere, so you’ll never have to wait long. I recommend always checking the price on Uber first, so that you have a maximum price for your journey with which to negotiate with the rickshaw drivers. It’s super-inexpensive! I paid just $7 for an hour-long Uber ride across Delhi. When it’s that affordable, there’s no reason not to use it. 

When’s the Best Time to Visit Delhi?

For the majority of my India posts, you’re going to notice that I recommend visiting in winter, but for Delhi, I think early-or-late-winter would be the best time to visit. 

At this time of year, you’re going to avoid the dense fog that rolls in every morning, there won’t be as much smog and pollution in the air, and the temperatures will still be manageable. I’d aim for October/November or February/March. Definitely avoid visiting immediately after Diwali, when the air pollution is always horrendous.

I’d also recommend double-checking when all of the attractions are open. The Lotus Temple is closed, for example, every Monday.

What About Delhi Belly, Tho?

Delhi Belly: my biggest fear. I was absolutely  convinced  I would get food poisoning in India, because doesn’t it happen to everyone?

And yet, it didn’t. Despite eating pretty much anywhere that was serving up delicious-looking food, neither I nor my boyfriend suffered from food poisoning. I believe three things helped keep us safe:

Going vegetarian!  Most of the locals in India are vegetarian — the country has the lowest amount of meat consumption in the world — so we switched over to a meat-free lifestyle, too. Note that I didn’t say plant-based, because you’re also going to want to avoid most fruits and vegetables while you’re in the country, too — especially if they’re uncooked or peeled. 

Hand sanitiser!  Much of what gets written off as food poisoning in India is general contamination from touching surfaces with bacteria on it, and then not washing your hands and touching your mouth. I used hand sanitiser on an hourly basis and took extra care not to touch my face. I also used the hand sanitiser to sterilise any utensils at restaurants, as they could have been washed with dirty tap water.

Pudin Hara!  I’m a total convert to  Pudin Hara  — peppermint oil capsules from India — and take them every time my stomach feels a little unsettled. You can buy them from any pharmacy when you get to India, but you can also pick them up  from Amazon . I took like, a hundred tablets with me, as I took a capsule with every single meal. I fully plan on keeping a large supply of these with me whenever I travel, as they were so life-changingly great at settling my stomach. An added bonus was the deliciously minty burps that overpowered the scent of curry that was emanating from my body. 

And that was Delhi!

I hope my passion for this city came across in this article because I was simply spellbound by Delhi. 

I arrived full of apprehension, expecting to hate it, but left naming it one of my favourite cities in the world. 

I highly recommend giving it a chance.

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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40 comments.

I loved this post so much! I always enjoy your write-ups of different cities around the world, especially when they’re places I’ve always wanted to visit. Did you feel safe in Delhi as a woman btw? Did you get any harassment or anything?

Hey, thanks so much, Justine! I was surprised to feel really safe actually. I even rode in the mixed gender carriage on the metro because I just didn’t experience any harassment at all. There was no groping, no touching, no staring, no unexpected peen reveals, haha. There was harassment from touts and scammers and tuktuk drivers, but nothing that was directed at me solely because I was a woman. Of course I made sure to cover up in order to not draw attention to myself, so that may have helped. But overall, I felt very safe! Would happily spend weeks alone in Delhi, just wandering around.

I confess I’m one of those people who skipped Delhi to go elsewhere, but you’re convincing me I should give it a shot next time. The photos of all of the architecture are so beautiful. Definitely worth a little bit of hassle in order to see it I think.

I absolutely agree. I very nearly skipped Delhi, but I’m so glad I didn’t. Hopefully you’ll get to see it if you return to India :-)

Well I’m sold! Looks absolutely incredible Lauren! I’ve always pictured Delhi as being busy and dirty and stressful, so I had no idea that it had so many beautiful buildings. I’d love to see them for myself one day x

Yes! I was exactly the same. It really is worth pushing through all the hassle to get to see so many of its gems. And, well, I found the hassle to be pretty fun to experience :-)

Lovely post! I haven’t been to India yet, but Delhi sounds like somewhere I’d like to visit, just for a few days as you recommend! It looks amazing.

Yay! I’m so happy to hear that! I hope you do get to visit at some point :-)

Great explanation of your time in Delhi. It reminded me of all the wonderful food we ate while we were there. I never thought I would want to go back, but perhaps your article has inspired me to think about it. Thanks!

Yesss! The food! Well, the food is excellent everywhere in India, but I especially loved it in Delhi.

Beautiful pics indeed. I’m from India and I agree that Delhi is really a mesmerizing place. You just can’t get enough of Delhi. Not only is it historically important but also it holds a lot of architectural wonders.

Yes, exactly! I knew all about the chaos and the pollution before I arrived, but had no idea how architecturally impressive the city would be!

Amazing post! I didn’t think anything or anyone could make me want to visit New Delhi, but here we are! This looks absolutely amazing.

Delhi doesn’t appeal at all, even though you made a convincing case for it. I’d love to see all the buildings but don’t think I could handle the noise and pollution. I think I’d be desperate to leave!

This looks like such a fun three days and the perfect introduction to Delhi. Do you have any more restaurant recommendations for the city to share?

You sell Delhi well Lauren – one of the few people in the world who has successfully managed to make me want to visit. Would you consider spending as much as a week in the city? Maybe even a month? Would it be a good spot for digital nomads? Would love to hear your thoughts.

Great article with detailed research. This is really a great cultural city full of beautiful monuments, You should also visit Akshardham one of the biggest temples in the world.

Really been enjoying your India articles, Lauren. Are you planning on returning to explore some more regions of the country soon?

Any suggestions for how to spend an extra day in Delhi? I’ll have four days and I’m not sure how to fill the extra one in my itinerary. Your post has been very useful, though – thank you!

Great post. unlike the others here you convinced me *not* to travel to Delhi! It looks like too much and I prefer my vacations to be relaxing

THIS is why you’re my favorite travel blogger! You took a destination I had no interest in visiting, wrote a great article, and convinced me to add Delhi to my bucket list. I’m almost eager to embrace the madness of Chandni Chowk!

What a compliment! Thank you so much, Kenny!

Thanks for the great write up Lauren! Delhi has actually never really been on my list of destinations to visit, but now being an expat in Jakarta, I’ve learnt that the hustle and bustle is part of the charm of Asia and one gets used to it. I can only imagine how amazing the food must’ve been. I think 3 days would be enough for me though before I head for refuge in tranquility. Thanks again for the great insights!

Great post. Delhi is a truly awesome city and has so much to see and do. I love visiting India’s capital and one of my favourite spots is Humayan’s Tomb. It’s a great place to visit first thing in the morning.

Amazing blog. I am in Delhi for the past 2-3 months. I am stuck here due to corona. Now, when some things are open. I am looking to travel somewhere else. Well, Nice blog. Thanks for sharing this article :)

I gotta say Delhi was not even on my radar before I read this post, and now I am seriously intrigued. Your experience in Delhi is quite different from what my expectation of the city was. Would you say this is a good place for a family trip with children (around age 10 to 12)?

This phrase that you wrote resonated with me so much: That dizzying feeling when you feel as though you don’t belong and you have no idea what’s happening and you wonder if you’ve stepped foot on another planet?

I do love that feeling and I can only imagine how amazing it would feel to step foot in New Delhi. I can’t wait until we can start travelling again as India is high on my list of places to visit. Thanks for such an in-depth post!

Amazing! Very informative and detailed. India is my dream trip. I feel like it’s calling me but I’m yet to answer it. Hopefully I’ll manage to go once the situation relaxes a bit more. Thank you for this guide as it gave me lots of tips and insights

Lauren, what a post! I am speechless, totally speechless. I am trying to pull words out of my brain and begging them to make it to my fingertips quickly enough so that I don’t forget what I want to type. Let me just say again, it’s a bloody amazing post. I almost feel like I was there too. It’s hard for a post to accomplish that, yet, yours did. Lauren, all your photos and descriptions are mesmerising to say the least, Every word shouts from the screen at me as if saying: ‘Come, come here!’ You seriously inspired me. I have never been to India but now feel like I need to go, badly need to go. I am sorry to kill to the enthusiasm now with a purely practical question, or actually two questions but I really would like to know: 1 What vaccination did you need/have done before travelling? and 2 Did you travel on your own? If so, how did that feel? I have been following you blog for quite some time. Being a travel blogger myself (though just a complete newbie) I absolutely admire and respect your ability to draw the reader into your story and this Delhi post particularly is an exceptionally amazing piece. I will probably go back to it again and again, just to soak up the atmosphere and possibly mentally prepare for that journey myself. Thanks a lot Lauren. Can’t wait for more. And quite honestly, I believe you could have broken it into more posts. I mean Shartaram is a 1000-page book, isn’t it? I certainly wouldn’t get bored if your posts were like this one.

Oh Lauren and one more thing, I am soooo sharing this post. Can’t wait for your next one. Love, Sonia

Fantastic post, Lauren, you have put a great summary of things to do in Delhi!

I have been to Delhi several times and want to go again! Nothing is more rewarding to me than going to the food street near Jama Masjid and try different kind of foods. The Kebab of Kareems or chicken fries of Haji Mohd. Hussain are just heavenly!

Thank you for the post! I’m inspired to visit India the next time around – it’s definitely on my bucket list. I just wished it were dog-friendly since I love traveling with my dog. :(

So happy to know that you loved Delhi. I have been living on and off, in and around Delhi for almost a decade and I just love this city. I am glad that you enjoyed the desserts and street foods as well.

Delhi is exceptional! Thank you for sharing these moments with us

Of course! It’s such a fantastic city :-)

This is awesome! I’m excited to try those street foods out there. That place has a lot of historic events, great views, scenery, and of course watching your video makes me comfortable now to go there since people are so nice. Thank you for sharing this awesome article.

Hi, I love your article. I am from Delhi, and to be honest after reading your post feeling too happy. You have provided a virtual tour of Delhi. Amazing. Keep wandering and keep rocking.

Hi Lauren! Thanks for sharing your experience! I have a quick question. The link for the street food tour doesn’t work. Do you have the contact details of the person to take the tour? I couldn’t find anything similar to it on the internet, and I really want to take it! I’m travelling next week and so excited to live this experience. Thank you for your help!

Hi Natalia! Yes, I noticed that UrbanAdvertures doesn’t seem to be running that tour anymore, which makes me so sad! I hope they’ll bring it back one day. I had a look on GetYourGuide, and there are some similar tours, for example, this tour looks like a good approximation of the one we took, and it has excellent reviews!

I have followed and read about my country from perspectives of a lot of bloggers belonging from different countries and parts. It is funny to find out that our normal Pudhin Hara tablet plays a major HERO role in each of their India Itinerary.

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How Long to Spend in Delhi: Itineraries from 1 to 7 Days

Delhi, the capital of India, dominates India's north and is usually the first stop on an India trip. Here we offer you some suggestions about planning a Delhi itinerary and other travel tips.

What to Do in Delhi

How long to spend in delhi, where to stay in delhi, best times to visit delhi, how to get around delhi, delhi travel tips.

In Delhi, you can enjoy many ancient buildings and temples . They are good way to learn about Indian history and its religious culture. We recommend visiting the Red Fort, once the seat of the Mughal Empire, going to Humayun's Tomb, the inspiration of Taj Mahal, and listening to the chanting in old temples, like Jama Masjid and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib.

Delhi also offers many a good chance to taste authentic Indian curry and other Indian delicacies, to watch an amazing Indian dancing and singing show, to take part in an Indian cooking class, and to explore local markets.

You can also experience the festive atmosphere of Delhi and join in the celebrations during big festivals such as Holi in March and Diwali in November.

It usually takes 1–3 days to do the top activities in Delhi. If you have more than 3 days, we recommend you journey out of Delhi to places like Agra (where the Taj Mahal is) and Jaipur.

A Classic Delhi Itinerary: 1–3 Days

Generally, 2 days is a suitable stay length for Delhi : one day for arrival, one for classic city sightseeing, and a day tour to uncover the essence of Delhi culture.

3 days will let you travel in a more relaxed pace and explore Delhi's suburbs.

Day 1 : Arrival day. You could rest and adjust to jet lag or explore freely to settle in.

Day 2 : Explore Delhi's highlights. Visit the Red Fort and Jama Masjid Mosque. Take a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk market. Go to Qutub Minar and Humayun's Tomb.

Day 3 : Explore Delhi based on your interests. If you like culture and temples, visit some special temples like Lotus Temple (a Bahá'í temple), Gurudwara Bangla Sahib (a Sikh temple), and Laxminarayan Temple (a Hindu temple). If you're traveling with kids, you could go to fun parks (like Adventure Island) or somewhere educational, like the Museum of Toilets.

A Delhi and Nearby Cities Itinerary: 4–7 Days

If you have more time, exploring the popular cities near Delhi is recommended, and it is most travelers' choice. Agra and Jaipur , close to Delhi, are the most popular destinations. Together they're known as the ' Indian golden triangle ' — the No. 1 itinerary for India travelers, especially for first timers.

It takes about 5 hours' driving from Delhi to Agra and Agra to Jaipur, and 6 hours from Deli to Jaipur. If you want to experience a luxury train travel , we can also arrange it for you. See our  7-Day Maharajas' Express Luxury Train Tour .

The biggest attraction in Agra is the Taj Mahal . Jaipur, the pink city, is India's most famous ancient city. Its grand palaces and forts like Hawa Mahal and Amber Fort are the highlights, and its heritage hotels are also of interest to many tourists.

Days 1–2 : Delhi exploration. Discover the most popular attractions. Visit all of the three UNESCO heritage sites: the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Humayun's Tomb. Go to Jama Masjid mosque, and take a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk market.

Days 3–4 : Agra discovery. After 5 hours' driving from Delhi to Agra, visit Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb (Baby Taj) and 'Moonlight Garden'. Explore the famous Taj Mahal and Agra Fort the next day.

Days 5–6 : Jaipur experience. Following 5 hours' driving from Agra to Jaipur, go to City Palace, where the king of Jaipur now lives. Visit Hawa Mahal ('Palace of Winds') and Amber Fort. Take an Indian cooking class.

Day 7 : Return to Delhi from Jaipur for your departure

You can check out more on our 7-Day Golden Triangle India Tour if you are interested in this itinerary. Or you can contact us to tailor a trip based on your interests, group size, travel length, and other needs.

If you want to get more about India itinerary planning, you can check out here: How Long to Spend in India (for First Timers): from 5 Days to 1 Month and 2 Weeks in India: The Best 4 India Itineraries for You

Delhi is divided into old and new districts, known as New Delhi and Old Delhi.

New Delhi is more recommended as an area to stay . The environment in New Delhi is clean and tidy. There is lots of choice of hotels and restaurants. It is also closer to attractions.

Old Delhi, which shows more-traditional images of India, is not so recommended for accommodation. It features narrow and chaotic streets and markets. There are some economic hotels, but the choice of hotels is limited.

For business men or travelers who need to catch a flight, staying at the Aerocity hotel area is recommended. It is close to the airport, needing only 10–20 minutes' driving.

October to March has the best times to visit Delhi when the weather is dry and it is not so hot . April, May, and June are the hottest months of the year. The scorching heat could be a challenge. Rainy season is from July to September. But the hot and rainy seasons offer discounts and quieter attractions.

See more on Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Delhi .

Metro and taxi are the main ways to tour around Delhi. Most attractions can be reached by metro. Calling a taxi using taxi apps or booking online is also a common way to get around.

Auto rickshaw or tuk-tuk is an interesting way to get around Delhi. When you take a tuk-tuk, make sure the driver knows exactly where you're going and negotiate the price to something reasonable.

Delhi's buses are also a way of travel. But they have no English instructions and no arrival announcements, so they're not tourist-friendly.

Without the hassles of hailing a car or planning a route in advance, private transfers could be your best choice , especially when you need to travel to surrounding cities like Agra and Jaipur. A private and safe vehicle will get you there most comfortably and flexibly.

1. Visa : You will need to apply for a tourist e-visa unless you are from a select few neighboring countries like Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives.

2. Safety : India is a relatively safe country for tourists, but you still need to be mindful of some things, like keeping important items such as your wallet and passport safe, watching out for thieves, and avoiding going out alone at night. >>> Is India Safe to Visit

3. Tipping : Tipping is expected. It doesn't matter how much you pay, even 10 rupees.

4. Customs and etiquette : Delhi, typical of India, has a lot of religious customs. Entering a temple usually requires removing shoes, covering the torso to the neck, knees and shoulders (and more ideally), and some temples require covering the head with a turban. Don't touch locals' heads or shake hands with your left hand.

5. Food : Mutton and chicken are the main meats served. 60% of Indians are vegetarians. Most restaurants do not serve alcohol.

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Perfect 3 day Delhi itinerary: An insider’s guide

Table of Contents

Perfect three-day Delhi itinerary: An insider’s guide

Are you planning a trip to Delhi, India’s fascinating capital city? This perfect 3 day Delhi itinerary includes all the must-visit places, and the best things to do, plus a lot of insider tips. Planning a visit to Delhi can feel overwhelming. There is simply so much of everything: History, culture, art, shopping, markets, parks, three UNESCO World Heritage sites, 174 National Protected Monuments , hundreds of state protected monuments, and more than 33 million people. Delhi is not a city you see, it’s a city you experience.  And the famous foods of Delhi cannot be overlooked, either.

This jam-packed guide on how to spend three days in Delhi will give you a solid plan to cover a lot of ground and experience the magic that is Delhi. From the crowded lanes of Chandni Chowk and Old Delhi, to the lofty architecture of Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO world heritage site, to leafy Lodhi Garden and the grandeur of Connaught Place, this perfect Delhi itinerary will help you explore one of the most historical cities on earth.

Note, Delhi is the first stop on every Golden Triangle tour of India . And it’s also a base for exploring the best luxury getaways near Delhi .

This Insider’s Guide to an ideal 3 day itinerary in Delhi is a guest post by Suzanne of Suzanne Wanders Delhi . Suzanne lives in Delhi with her dog Watson.

Top 10 tourist sites of Delhi

• Old Delhi, Chandni Chowk, and Red Fort
• Humayun’s Tomb
• Qutab Minar
• India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, and Kartavya Path (formerly Raj Path) 

Lodhi Garden

• Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple
• Bahai (Lotus) Temple
• Hauz Khas and Deer Park

Connaught Place

How to get around Delhi

The first thing you’ll want to do in Delhi is buy a metro card.  In my opinion, the metro is the fastest and easiest way to get around.  

The Delhi Metro Network

You can go practically anywhere in Delhi using the metro.  It’s clean, easy to use, and much faster than driving. You can buy a metro card at any metro station.

If you’re still unsure, read this step by step guide on how to use the Delhi metro . 

India can be unpredictable so it’s best to be flexible. Opening and closing hours change without notice, monuments and sites close unexpectedly, or you may see something that veers you off in another direction altogether.  

This itinerary covers the must-see sites everybody visits, but also a few off the beaten path places only locals know about (my specialty!). Read on for an epic three days in Delhi itinerary. 

I’m purposely starting you off with a soft landing in one of the most peaceful and lovely areas of the city.  You’ll gradually work your way up the bonkers scale and end your 3 days in Old Delhi, a place like no other!

Three day Delhi itinerary

Day 1 in delhi – morning.

If you’re wondering what a traditional Delhi breakfast is, people usually eat parathas, (flatbreads, often made with potato and onion) with curd (yogurt) or chole bhature (chickpeas in gravy with puffy fried bread).  

Instead of coffee, most Indians drink masala chai in the morning, spiced milk tea.  

Once you’re full and caffeinated, it’s time to get on with your busy 3 day Delhi itinerary.

Humayun’s Tomb (UNESCO)

Delhi is a historic city and your first day starts with one of the most beautiful historic sites in the city, Humayun’s Tomb.

Take the metro to Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium station and exit Gate 2 or 3. Grab an auto rickshaw to the entrance of Humayun’s Tomb. Don’t let the rickshaw drivers rip you off! This should be no more than INR 100 for two people.

Humayun was the great-grandfather of Shah Jahan (the ruler who built the Taj Mahal), and one of India’s great Mughal rulers. Humayun’s wife commissioned the building of his tomb and financed it herself. It was the first garden style tomb built in India and completed in 1572.

This is a UNESCO site, so I recommend buying your ticket online through the ASI portal https://asi.payumoney.com/ to avoid the ticket counter line-up. You’ll also get a small discount.

Hours & Cost: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, daily – INR 600 for foreigners, children under 15 free

Lodhi Art District

Grab an auto rickshaw or Uber and head over to India’s first outdoor art district in Lodhi Colony.  

There are more than 50 murals painted on the facades of the British-built residential buildings. Many have a social or environmental theme. This map lists the murals and their locations, but feel free just to wander the lanes: St+Art India’s location guide .

Hours & Cost: 24/7 but to see the murals go in the daytime – free

Day 1 in Delhi – Afternoon

By now you might be ready for lunch and Lodhi Colony has some wonderful restaurants, such as Jamun, Guppy, and Ping’s Café Orient.  

For a simple and local vibe, head to the dhabas in Khanna market at the bottom of Lodhi Colony.  Leave room for ice cream at Jaatre, it’s one of the best ice cream shops in Delhi.

Across Lodhi Road is the most captivating park in Delhi, Lodhi Garden. 

Among the trees and grassy laws are tombs, mausoleums, a mosque, and an arched bridge dating back to 1444. Make sure you have your camera ready!

Hours & Cost: 6:00 am to 7:30 pm, daily – free

Khan Market  

Walk along Subramaniam Bharti to Khan Market (about 10 minutes).  

Khan Market is a great market to browse around in a calm (by Delhi standards) environment. It’s full of international and Indian brand shops, cafes, and restaurants and on this list of best places for shopping in Delhi .

There’s a couple of really good bookshops (books are cheaper in India and I always stocked up at these shops before I moved here): Bahrisons and Faqir Chand.  

If you’re in need of a coffee break, Di Ghent and Perch Wine & Coffee Bar are great options.

Hours & Cost: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm, daily (hours may vary) – free

Now it’s time to see one of Delhi’s most iconic sites, India Gate.  

From Khan Market, either walk straight up Shahjahan Road or take an auto rickshaw to India Gate. This should cost no more than INR 100.

Built as a war memorial in the style of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, India Gate is always full of activity. Honestly, the people watching is just as interesting as the monument.  

If you’re feeling energetic you can walk along Kartavya Path to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the British-built parliament buildings – it’s about 2 km.

Hours & Cost: 7:00 am to 11:00 pm, daily – free

Day 1 in Delhi – Evening

By now you’re probably realizing this 3 day in Delhi itinerary is jam packed! After India Gate and all that walking you might be ready for dinner.  

Head to Pandara Market (if you’ve ventured as far as Rashtrapati Bhavan take an auto rickshaw, but if you’re still at India Gate, it’s an easy walk).

Pandara Market is a small complex of several restaurants. Gulati is my personal favourite but they’re all decent.  Save room for kulfi (traditional Indian ice cream) from the Krishna di Kulfi stand beside Gulati. 

Night cap with a view at Cirrus 9

It’s been a very full first day in Delhi but if you’re not ready to go back to your hotel just yet, hop in an auto rickshaw for a short ride to the Oberoi Hotel.  

The Oberoi has a lovely rooftop bar with a large terrace overlooking Delhi’s green space (did you know Delhi is one of the greenest capital cities in the world?) and the Humayun’s Tomb complex, where you started your day.  

Hours: 5:00 pm to 1:00 am, daily

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Day 2 in Delhi – Morning

Fuel up on breakfast and caffeine because it will be another full but epic day in Delhi.

Agrasen ki Baoli 

Begin today at Delhi’s most stunning stepwell.  If you go early (it opens at 7 am) you’ll probably be the only person there and will be able get some incredible photos. 

Take the metro to Barakhamba Road station and exit Gate 4.  Walk 10 minutes to the stepwell on Hailey Lane.

The original stepwell dates back to 3000 B.C. The current structure was built in the 14 th Century by the Agrawal community.  Walk down the 108 steps to the bottom, but don’t stare at the black water pooled there for long – it’s believed to have mystical powers!

Hours & Cost: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm, daily – free

Devi Prasad Sadan Dhobi Ghat

Just around the corner from Agrasen ki Baoli is one of the outdoor laundries India is famous for.

You will think you’ve stepped back in time when you see the hand cranked spinning machines, huge sudsy vats, and laundry being beaten and scrubbed on cement slabs.

The dhobis get started very early, so if you are having an early morning you can come here before the stepwell. They are a friendly community, but please be respectful – this is not a tourist site, it is their place of livelihood.

Hours and Cost: 5:00 am to 2:00 pm, daily – free

If you need a coffee break, there’s a nice café, CAARA Café, in the British Council building on KG Marg, around the corner. Make sure you have ID with you to get through security.

Jantar Mantar

Hop in a rickshaw for a quick ride to Jantar Mantar. Jantar Mantar means “instruments for measuring the harmony of the heavens.”  

These are a series of 13 architectural astronomy instruments. In 1724, when they were built, they were extremely precise. Today the fine calibrated markings have eroded so the instruments are not as accurate. It’s still a remarkable site.

Hours and Cost: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, daily – INR 300 for foreigners, children under 15 free

Day 2 in Delhi – Afternoon

Before you begin the second afternoon of your 3 day Delhi itinerary, take time for lunch.  

There are great restaurant options on Janpath Road, close to Jantar Mantar and across the street from your next stop: Saravana Bhavan, Café Delhi Heights, Pujab Grill, and Pind Balluchi.

Janpath Market

Cross to the other side of Janpath Road from the restaurants and you’ll be at Janpath Market. This is actually 4 markets in one – it’s a great place to cover some traditional Delhi market ground!  

There’s a Tibetan section, Gujurati section, the main market, and a street market. You’ll find all sorts of souvenirs, clothing, and small household items here.  

Make sure to bargain! Unless prices are marked, start by offering less than half the quoted price and go from there.

Tip: if you have old denims you want to update, bring them to the Gujurati part of the market. You can get them embossed with hand embroidery, patch work, or decorative embellishments at a very reasonable price.

Once you’re done browsing at Janpath Market, walk straight up Janpath Road to the unofficial commercial centre of Delhi, Connaught Place (or CP as locals call it).

This is the British-built commercial and retail hub. It’s immediately recognizable by the iconic white colonnades. CP is a favourite hangout and meeting place for Delhiites and always a hive of activity. Head to the inner circle (CP is made of 3 concentric traffic circles) for the most action.

CP is full of restaurants, bars, galleries, hotels, cinemas, a Museum of Illusions and a giant charkha wheel in the park. You could spend all day here, but keep moving – there is more to do in your 3 day Delhi itinerary!  

Optional: State Emporiums on Baba Kharak Singh Road

If you want to satisfy a shopping craving and learn about Indian handicrafts and culture, check out the government run stores on Baba Kharak Singh Road.  

They are a treasure trove of India’s diverse art and culture. You can visit all the states of India in just a few hours here.

Each state has their own shop selling local handicrafts and cultural items. Tea from Assam, pearls from Telangana, woolens from Himachal, spices from Kerala, saris from Bengal – these are just a small sample of what the state emporiums offer. Prices are usually reasonable. 

The emporiums are all located on one side of Baba Kharak Singh Road between Block P of Connaught Place and Shivaji Stadium metro station. 

Hours and Cost: 10:00 am to 6:30 pm (hours vary between shops), closed Sunday – free 

Hauz Khas Fort

It’s time to check out one of my favourite places in all of Delhi, Hauz Khas Fort. 

Hop on the metro from the Rajiv Chowk metro station in Connaught Place and take the Yellow line to Hauz Khas station.  From here grab an auto rickshaw to Hauz Khas Village. 

Walk straight down the main road of the village to the very end, which is the entrance to Hauz Khas Fort.  The fort closes at 7:00 pm so make sure you give yourself at least an hour to see it.

Hauz Khas Fort is part of the second medieval city of Delhi, Siri, and was built in the 1300s.  Besides the actual fort, there are tombs, a mosque, a madrassa, and an ancient reservoir that Hauz Khas was named after. It’s one of the best things to do in Delhi .

Hours and Cost: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, daily – INR 300 for foreigners

Day 2 in Delhi – Evening

After the fort, explore the lanes of Hauz Khas Village and have some dinner.  There are several great options: Coast Café, Naivedyam, and Social.  

If you don’t eat at Social, make sure you go there for an after dinner drink or dessert.  They have one of the very best views in Delhi from their outdoor terrace.

Shri Jagannath Mandir

Just up Hauz Khas Fort Road is a lovely South Indian temple devoted to Lord Krishna. Its formal name is Shri Neelanchal Seva Sangh, but it’s commonly known as Shri Jagannath Mandir.

Before you enter the temple remove your shoes – you can leave them with the shoe minder (a small donation would be appropriate) or by the temple steps.

There are several small temples here, each with their own deities whose clothing and jewellery are changed daily.  Every evening there’s an aarti (religious ceremony) around 7:00 pm.

Hours and Cost: 4:30 am to 1:30 pm & 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm (March to September); 5:30 am to 1:30 pm & 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm (October to February) – free 

Still have some energy left?

If you’re not ready to call it a night yet, you’re in luck because the night life in Delhi is thriving.   

There’s plenty of bars with dance and live music in the immediate area.  Some of the ones I like are Imperfecto, Auro, Summer House and Molecule.   

Day 3 in Delhi – Morning

This is the last day of your Delhi 3 day itinerary and it will be a memorable one!  I’ve saved the craziest, most bonkers part of Delhi for last. 

Today you’ll visit a couple of important spiritual sites, so dress conservatively (shoulders and legs below knees covered, with a bandana or scarf for your head) and wear shoes that are easy to remove.  

Fuel up on breakfast and head out to Old Delhi. But first there’s one stop every visitor to Delhi should make.

Raj Ghat (Gandhi Memorial)

No 3 day Delhi itinerary is complete without paying tribute to the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi.  

Gandhi is still revered across India. His birthday is a national holiday (October 2), his face is on the currency, and his portrait hangs in most government offices. 

This simple but moving memorial is the place where Gandhi was cremated after his assassination in 1948.  Many world leaders and dignitaries have paid their respects to Gandhi here, including Queen Elizabeth II and Barack Obama.

To get to Raj Ghat, take the metro to Delhi Gate station, exit Gate 4 and grab an auto rickshaw from there. It should be no more than INR 100 for two people.

Hours and Cost: 6:30 am to 6:00 pm, daily – free

Jama Masjid

Get back on the metro and go one stop on the Violet line to Jama Masjid station.  

Not only is Old Delhi’s Jama Masjid the largest mosque in Delhi (it can hold 25,000 people), it’s also historic. This was the family mosque of Shah Jahan, the Mughal ruler responsible for the Taj Mahal. It was built in the 1650s.

It’s quite beautiful, constructed entirely of red sandstone and marble. For a small fee you can climb the minarets for great views (and photos) of Old Delhi. 

Jama Masjid is a working mosque and there’s a strict dress code. Cover ups are available if your outfit is not suitable. Shoes must be removed and women must cover their heads.

Hours and Cost: 7:00 am – 12:00 pm & 1:30 pm to 6:30 pm, daily – free but there is an INR 300 fee for bringing in a camera 

Day 3 in Delhi – Afternoon

Red Fort (UNESCO)

If you’re intrepid you can walk to the Red Fort from Jama Masjid, otherwise grab an auto rickshaw.  

By now you might be ready for lunch, so while you’re visiting the Red Fort, stop at Café Delhi Heights. It’s located at the visitors centre in the old army barracks. 

Red Fort is one of the most magnificent sites in Delhi. It’s the former palace and main residence of Delhi’s Mughal rulers up until 1857, when the British exiled the last of the Mughal sultans.

Hundreds of people lived and worked at the Red Fort during Mughal times. It was a world unto itself with gardens, a covered bazaar, palaces, audience halls, and baths.  

This is a UNESCO site and I recommend you purchase your ticket in advance at https://asi.payumoney.com/ .  You’ll also get a small discount this way.  

Hours and Cost: 8:00 am to 9:00 pm, closed Monday – INR 600 for foreigners, children under 15 free

Chandni Chowk

To really experience Old Delhi, all you have to do is walk along Chandni Chowk. This is Delhi’s most famous road and it will be something you never forget. 

Chandni Chowk is a pedestrian zone during the day (although cycle rickshaws and the odd motorcycle still ply the street). Start at the Red Fort and make your way along the south side where the temples are.  

If you’re energetic, you can walk all the way to Fatehpuri Masjid at the far end (just over 1 km). Khari Baoli, the famous spice market, is located here. If not, just take a cycle rickshaw.

Explore the lanes off Chandni Chowk and you’ll find a silver market, wedding market, car parts market, stationary market, and paratha wali gali – the lane of paratha (stuffed flat breads) shops.

Hours and Cost: the market is open 11:00 am to 8:00 pm, closed Sunday – free

Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib

One of the most important and beautiful gurudwaras (Sikh temple) in Delhi is right on Chandni Chowk, near the Red Fort.  

Cover your head, remove your shoes, and go inside. Everyone is welcome.  One of the main beliefs of Sikhism is that everyone is equal, regardless of gender, social status, or ethnicity. 

The shrine is located on the exact spot where the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur was beheaded in 1675 (‘sis’ means ‘head’ in Punjabi).  

Feel free to ask for a tour of the communal kitchen where thousands of meals are prepared daily by volunteers. For a special experience, join the community for langar in the dining room, the free vegetarian meal.   

Hours and Cost: 24/7 – free

Day 3 in Delhi – Evening

It’s time to leave the craziness of Old Delhi and head back to south Delhi.  You may want to go back to your hotel to freshen up before your last evening of this 3 day Delhi itinerary.  

Qutub Complex (UNESCO)

It’s time to see one of the most magnificent sites in Delhi, the Qutub Minar. Take the metro to Qutub Minar station and hop in a rickshaw for the 2 km ride.  

Qutub Minar one of the best and oldest examples of Indo-Islamic-Afghan architecture; much of the complex was built in 1192. 

The complex is built on the site of ancient Hindu and Jain temples, which were torn down to make room for the Islamic buildings.  Much of the stones and building materials were re-used in the structures at Qutub.

Take a good look at the columns in the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque – you can see the carved, decorative stones that make up the columns have Hindu and Jain deities and designs. This is an example of the Indian practice of ‘jugaad,’ meaning frugal innovation or creative hack.

The Qutub Minar is a UNESCO site. For a better price and to avoid the ticket line-up, buy your ticket online through the ASI portal https://asi.payumoney.com/ .

Hours and Cost: 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, daily – INR 600 for foreigners, children under 15 free

Dinner with a View

For your last night in Delhi, have dinner with a magical view of the Qutub Minar.  

To ensure you get a table on the terrace so you can enjoy the views, I recommend calling ahead to make a reservation.

Great restaurants with a view of the Qutub are: 

• Cho Vietnamese Kitchen & Bar
• Bo Tai 

Not ready to end your 3 epic days in Delhi?

Lucky for you one of Delhi’s very best bars, Miso Sexy, is in the Ambawatta One complex within walking distance of the above restaurants.  

Miso Sexy has a fabulous outdoor terrace with great views of the Qutub Minar (until about 10 pm when the lights on the Qutub are turned off). It’s the perfect, though not so quiet, place for a night cap on your last night in Delhi!

And there you have it – an awesome plan for how to spend 3 days in Delhi!  

Delhi is vast and there’s so much more you could see and do, but this is an excellent start.  You’ll just have to come back again to see more!

Where to Stay in Delhi

Now that you’ve got an amazing itinerary for 3 days in Delhi, you’re probably wondering where you should stay.

Honestly, as long as you’re in south Delhi, with access to the metro you’re good to go. Most of the sites listed in this itinerary are in south Delhi and it’s also one of the best areas of the city to stay.

Below, we recommend a few options for accommodation in Delhi to suit all budgets .

Best Hostels in Delhi

There are some excellent hostels in Delhi, which is great news for budget travellers. Avoid the Paharganj area, which is gritty and congested, and Karol Bagh, which is also highly congested, instead opt for one of these south Delhi hostels — and stay in a residential area lined with leafy streets: 

Hosteller Delhi: Book on Agoda here .

Moustache Delhi: B ook on Agoda here .

Booking.com city map of Delhi

Best hotels in delhi.

Best Mid Range Hotels in Delhi

If you’re looking for a hotel with many comforts and a good location but not a 5 star price, there are some great options:

Hotel Palace Heights, Connaught Place:

• Book on Agoda here .

The Neem, South Delhi:

Udman Panchshila, South Delhi:

Best Luxury Hotels in Delhi

When it comes to luxury accommodations in Delhi, there are many beautiful properties. These are four of the very best: 

Shangri-La Eros New Delhi:

The Imperial Hotel:

ITC Maurya:

The Claridges:

• Book on Agoda here.

Best Guest Houses in Delhi

If you’re the type of traveler who wants a more authentic experience, Delhi has some wonderful guest houses / home stays .  These are two of my favourite and both include a home cooked breakfast:

Prakash Kutir Bed & Breakfast (Hauz Khas, South Delhi): Book on Agoda here .

Zaza Stay (Nizamuddin West, Central Delhi): Book on Agoda here .

Suzanne is a Canadian living in Delhi. She loves exploring Delhi and helping visitors discover the city.  She blogs at Suzanne Wanders Delhi .

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Popular categories, the ultimate 2 day new delhi itinerary.

By: Charlotte · Last updated 31. January 2024 · In: India , Travel

Are you wondering how to spend your 2 days in New Delhi? As the second largest city in India, forming the perfect 2-day itinerary for New Delhi can be daunting. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with this list of 10+ of the most amazing things to do and see in the city in two days.

This is what I consider to be the ultimate 2 day New Delhi itinerary for first-timers. And exactly how I wish I had spent my first time there. Keep in mind that I have packed a lot into this itinerary, so if you know you can’t keep going from dusk until dawn, consider skipping one of the stops on both days.

Be sure to also check out my New Delhi survival guide for your first time in the city. I talk all about what to expect, how to get around, which area to stay in and where to eat + scams to be aware of!

🌟 Remember to always get insurance before you travel to India or anywhere else. SafetyWing is an affordable subscription travel insurance that you can purchase even after departure. Read my complete SafetyWing review here.

Article overview

Day 1 – South Delhi

Day 2 – central & north delhi, popular new delhi tours, safety tips for travelers, is new delhi worth visiting, are 2 days in new delhi enough, what is the best time to visit new delhi, is new delhi expensive, can i drink tap water in delhi, is delhi a walkable city, what is the best way to get around new delhi during a 2-day trip, looking for more india guides, remember to pin it for later 😉, new delhi 2-day itinerary.

If it’s your first time in New Delhi and you only have 2 days, I highly recommend you join a guided tour to get to know the city. I’m so happy we decided to book this popular private Old and New Delhi tour for our first day.

We got to explore places we wouldn’t have seen on our own and we learned so much from our knowledge guide, Junaid. He also gave us survival tips for the city and told us where we should explore on our own. So much value for such an affordable price!

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

You can check price & availability here >> PRIVATE FULL-DAY TOUR OR OLD AND NEW DELHI

Get ready for an incredible day of historic architectural gems, focused around the southern part of New Delhi.

1. Humayun’s Tomb Complex

Start your day at the tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun, a mesmerizing UNESCO world heritage site. As the first garden tomb in India and the first large-scale building to use red sandstone, it represents a leap in Mughal architecture.

Humayun’s tomb garden also includes smaller monuments like the beautiful tomb of Isa Khan Niyazi, an Afghan noble. So take time to enjoy and go for a stroll through the paradise garden, designed according to Persian tradition.

We walked from our hotel in southeast New Delhi, around 7:00 am, and were the first ones there. Humayun’s Tomb was one of the highlights for me in India, it was so nice to just wander around and enjoy the beautiful surroundings almost all by ourselves. 

Entrance fee: Indian nationals Rs. 30 – Foreigners Rs. 500

Opening hours: 6 am to 6 pm daily

2.  Tomb of Safdarjung

The Safdarjung Tomb, made of marble and sandstone, is the last magnificent tomb garden of the Mughal era. The tomb was constructed in 1754 for Mirza Muqim Abul Mansur Khan, better known as Safdarjung. It is conveniently located close to both Lodhi Gardens and Humayun’s tomb.

Safdarjung Tomb is not on the itinerary of most people doing Delhi in less than 3 days, so it’s usually very peaceful and you won’t have to navigate around large crowds of people to get that perfect shot.

Entrance fee: Indian nationals Rs. 15 – Foreigners Rs. 200

Opening hours: 7 am to 7 pm

🌟 My top pick >> Be sure to check out this highly-rated photography tour that includes both The Safdarjung Tomb and Lodi Gardens!

3. Lodhi Garden

What do you least expect to find in a busy, overpopulated metropolis like Delhi? An oasis. But it does exist. Your next stop is Lodhi Gardens, one of the incredible, green spaces of Delhi, sprawling across 90 acres of land. Here, you get to discover the stunning North Indian Islamic architecture and history.

You can easily walk here from the Tomb of Safdarjung. I recommend picking up some street food and enjoying a nice picnic in beautiful gardens.

The impressive tombs, beautiful bridges and watchtowers were built in the 15th century by the Lodhi and the Sayyid dynasties before the Mughal Empire took over. The gardens are also a favorite amongst Delhi’s high society – so you might be able to spot a high-profile politician or celebrity.

We went to Lodhi Garden on a Saturday which meant it was very crowded with locals walking their dogs, working out and just spending the day in the park with their families. I can imagine a weekday would be a much better time to visit to fully be able to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Entrance fee: FREE

Opening hours:  6 am – 7.30 pm daily (it might be open later)

4. Mehrauli Archaeological Park

If you have one last stop in you for the day, jump in a rickshaw and make your way down to Mehrauli Archaeological Park, an incredible area consisting of over 100 historically significant monuments spread over 200 acres in Mehrauli. Close by you’ll also find the Qutub Minar World Heritage Site and the Qutb complex.

If you’re a history buff like me, you’re going to love this place. It is the only area in Delhi known for 1,000 years of continuous occupation and includes the ruins of a fort built in 1060 AD(!!!).

To be honest, you could probably spend an entire day down here. So if you have more time in the city, consider saving this for the next day.

Opening hours:  5 am – 6.30 pm daily.

5. Flavors and Food Stories of New Delhi

Instead of just another dinner in a restaurant, book this exciting Flavors and Food stories tour . Indulge in Delhi’s signature butter chicken curry or a shahi paneer, taste Chaat from Delhi’s most famous chaat stall and visit and volunteer at Gurudwara temple to experience the “art of gratitude” ++. I’m getting hungry from just typing this. Yum!

🌟 If you would rather skip one of the architectural heritage sites, I highly recommend that you participate in an educational and ethical walking tour through the Sanjay Colony slum area instead. Here you will discover a rich sense of community and entrepreneurship and gain new insights into the lives of locals. And the best part is that all proceeds are re-invested into the development of community projects such as education and healthcare for the residents.

Day two of this New Delhi itinerary continues with central and north Delhi.

6. Shopping & Markets

Who needs standard supermarkets, air-conditioned shopping malls or fancy boutiques when you can have the Delhi markets? Start your day and dive right into the action by exploring the amazing, large-scale markets in Delhi, like Chandni Chowk, Dilli Haat, Khari Baoli or Chor Bazaar. They are an absolute paradise for shoppers, buzzing with customers as early as 6 am.

You can buy pretty much everything you can imagine: Tons of fresh vegetables and fruit, wonderful home decorations and fabrics, handicrafts, vintage goods, tea, spices, jewelry, clothes and much more. Just make sure to bring patience, bargaining skills and endurance.

You will return with bags of wonderful goods, a belly full of delicious Indian food and a lot of new friends. Spending one day here will save you months of lessons in Indian culture and etiquette, language, history, delicacies, art and fashion.

Dilli Haat is a paid-entrance open-air market located in South Delhi, run by Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation. They also operate two other locations but I do think the original one opposite INA Metro Station is the best.

What is so great about Dilli Haat is that it gives the feel of a traditional weekly village market (called a haat) but it is open every day. We opted to do most of our shopping here so we could escape the crowds for a little while.

Get there just as they open at 10.30 am for the best prices and a more comfortable temperature. I bought several straw bags here for only $7 apiece so I couldn’t be happier.

Entrance fee:  Indian nationals Rs. 30 for adults, Rs.10 for children and foreigners Rs. 100.

Opening hours: 10 (or 10.30) am to 10 pm daily

🌟 My top pick >> Private Custom Shopping Tour of Delhi’s Bustling Markets

7. Swaminarayan  Akshardham Temple

The Akshardham Hindu Temple is another must-see in Delhi. It is a stunning spiritual-cultural site regarded by Swaminarayan Hindus as a temporal home of God on earth. ‘Akshardham’ means the abode of almighty Lord Swaminarayan, a yogi and ascetic, who revived central Hindu practices.

His life and work are portrayed in the various exhibition halls. The Akshardham temple reveals thousands of years of fascinating Hindu spirituality, Indian culture and architecture.

This is one of the most intricately beautiful buildings in India and is definitely worth a visit. But remember that you’re not allowed to bring a camera, phones, umbrellas, toys, food or drinks inside the complex.

Entrance fee: Entry to the complex is free but there are different exhibitions and shows that require a ticket

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday – First Entry: 9.30 am – Last Entry: 6.30 pm

8. Red Fort

The Red Fort, also known as the Lal Qila, was constructed by one of the most famous Mughal emperors, Shah Jahan. He also commissioned  Taj Mahal,  Agra Fort and several other majestic buildings around northern India. Not surprisingly, the period of his reign is considered to be the golden era of Mughal architecture.

Built on the banks of Yamuna River, it took over 8 years to finish the construction of the magnificent fort. When Shah Jahan decided to shift his capital from Agra to Delhi, the Red Fort took over as the main royal residence of the Mughal emperors. And it stayed that way for over 200 years.

Today the fort has become an icon of the city and is a must on any Delhi itinerary. With its towering red sandstone walls measuring 33 meters high and almost 2.5 kilometers long, you can’t really miss this place. Inside you’ll find a large complex of entertainment halls, palaces, indoor canals, a stunning white marble mosque and perfectly manicured gardens.

Entrance fee:  Indian nationals Rs. 35 – Foreigners Rs. 500. You can book your tickets in advance so you don’t have to wait in line. You also have the option to add a tour guide and hotel transfers.

Opening Hours:  7 am to 5.30 pm daily

🌟 Learn about the Mughals and their influence on the city’s culture and architecture on this early morning bicycle tour . Travel in a small group with experienced guides to absorb Delhi’s culture before ending the experience with a hearty local breakfast. The perfect way to start the day before you explore the Red Fort!

9. Agrasen ki Baoli

Just a short walk away from Connaught Place, down a peaceful residential street, you’ll find Agrasen ki Baoli, a centuries-old, subterranean stepwell hidden behind a seemingly uninteresting stone wall.

Stepwells, otherwise known as “baoli” or “bawli”, depending on the region, were built centuries ago in the arid zones of Rajasthan to provide water all year around. These days the wells are no longer used for storing water, instead, the aesthetically pleasing geometric features attract local and international visitors alike.

We visited Agrasen ki Baoli in the middle of the day and to our surprise, we were the only tourists there. The guard told us that “modeling” was not allowed but photos were, so we had to be a bit sneaky to get a couple of good shots here.

Entrance fee: Free

Opening hours: 9 am to 5.30 pm

10. Old Delhi Spice Market (Khari Baoli)

Finish your two days in Delhi with a still down Khari Baoli Road, home to Asia’s largest wholesale spice market. The market has been in operation since the 17th century and is today a vibrant and fun attraction for both locals and tourists.

Although I’m not usually a fan of guided tours I would suggest touring the market with a good guide so he can take you up to one of the rooftops for an incredible view of the bustling streets below. If you go by yourself there’s a good chance you’ll struggle to find the entrance as it is quite hard to spot.

Just like most parts of Delhi, the Old Spice Market is crazy and chaotic. So if you have the opportunity to visit early in the morning you’ll see a totally different side to the area and maybe even witness a beautiful sunrise.

Opening hours : 10 am to 9 pm Monday – Saturday. The roof is open 24/7 but be aware of the people sleeping up there.

🌟 Don’t miss out! Experience the streets and bazaars of Old Delhi and learn about traditional Indian life during this 3-Hour Old Delhi Heritage Walking Tour . Visit the Jama Masjid mosque, Red Fort and the Chandni Chowk market. Taste some of the famous local snacks and enjoy a short ride by rickshaw to the spice market.

New Delhi guided tours

As I mentioned above, I highly recommend you join a guided tour if you only have 2 days in New Delhi . For someone who doesn’t really love organized tours, I have to admit that it is often a good idea in a place like India. Especially for the first day, until you get used to the beautiful mayhem that is New Delhi.

I actually loved all the guided tours we attended during this trip. Especially the photography walking tour and the private Old and New Delhi tour . It really is the best way to get the lay of the land and hopefully snag a few tips from locals.

There’s no secret that New Delhi can be an overwhelming place to visit. It’s basically an assault on all your senses. But I don’t want that to keep you from visiting, because New Delhi is unlike any place other place in the world.

Just prepare yourself to be overwhelmed before you go, and keep your wits about you just like you would in any other big city. And you will be totally fine!

Here are some quick safety tips for New Delhi:

• Be aware of your surroundings:  New Delhi is a crowded and chaotic city, so it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings at all times. Keep an eye out for any suspicious activity or people who may be following you. I experienced a man following me for several hours, so I just sat down at a restaurant in a crowded place with my bag on my lap and stared at him. After a few minutes, he finally went away.
• Use reliable transportation:  When traveling around the city, it’s best to use reliable transportation such as taxis, rickshaws and the metro. Always ask the driver for the price before you get in, and bargain if you feel it’s too much. The metro in Delhi is also surprisingly efficient and easy to use. If you’re only in Delhi for a few days, I highly recommend you join a guided tour or hire a private driver to get the most out of your time.
• Avoid displaying valuables:  To avoid becoming a target for theft, avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics. I brought my camera everywhere but kept it in my bag or around my neck at all times.
• Dress appropriately:  New Delhi is a conservative city, so it’s important to dress appropriately. Avoid wearing revealing clothing or anything that may be considered disrespectful to the local culture.
• Be cautious with food and drink:  Have you heard about Delhi belly? Well, you will probably experience it in New Delhi. Be cautious when trying new foods or drinks, as some may not agree with your stomach. To be safe, stick to bottled water (or even better, bring a filtered water bottle ) and avoid ice or food from street vendors. I ate everything I could get my hands on and definitely experiences Delhi belly but never got sick.
• Stay in well-lit areas:  When walking around at night, stay in well-lit areas and avoid walking alone if possible. Stick to busy streets with plenty of foot traffic.

You can read more about safety during your 2 days in the city in my first time in New Delhi guide .

FAQs: 2 days in New Delhi

Yes, New Delhi is definitely worth visiting for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food. It is the capital city of India and has plenty to offer for tourists. If you’re a history buff like me you’re going to love it!

You can cover most of the major attractions in New Delhi in two days, but you may not have enough time to fully experience the city. I would say that the ideal time in Delhi for tourists is 3 or 4 days. After that, you’re probably tired of all the craziness and ready to move on.

The best time to visit New Delhi is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. The temperature during these months ranges from 10°C to 25°C, making it the perfect time to explore the city. I visited New Delhi in August, it was HOT and humid, but totally doable.

New Delhi can be expensive, but it depends on your budget and the type of activities you plan to do. Accommodation, food, and transportation are generally affordable, but entrance fees to some of the major attractions can be expensive.

No, it is not recommended to drink tap water in Delhi. It is advisable to drink bottled water or use a water purifier to avoid any health issues.

Delhi is not a very walkable city due to its vast size and heavy traffic. However, some areas like Connaught Place and Old Delhi are pedestrian-friendly and great for exploring on foot.

The best way to get around New Delhi during a 2-day trip is by using the metro, rickshaws, or taxis. The metro is the most convenient and affordable way to travel around the city.

If you are limited on time I recommend booking a private tour of the city to get the most out of your time.

• First time in New Delhi: How to survive (and have a good time)
• Taj Mahal photography guide + insider tips for first-time visitors
• How to spend 2 days in Jaipur: Top 12 things to do
• Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden) – The best view of Taj Mahal
• Nahargarh Fort: The best sunset point in Jaipur

I hope you found this 2-day New Delhi itinerary helpful!

About Charlotte

Charlotte is the passionate traveler and online business coach behind Sunshine Seeker. She started working as a content creator on Instagram in 2014, before social media was even a thing, and as a travel blogger in 2015. Over the past 14 years she has explored 45+ countries and lived in Oslo, Kraków, Bali and Lombok. Every month she helps more than 50,000 people plan their adventures and learn how to create more freedom by working online.

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Kingdom of Travelers

3 Days in Delhi: The Perfect Delhi Itinerary

Delhi is not just a city in India, it’s an experience.

Navigating a new location for the first time can be challenging. Where to go, what to do, what not to do? To help you out, I have put together a 3-day itinerary for your trip to Delhi. 

I was born in Delhi, but I never imagined myself writing about it on my blog. I am thrilled to write this blog because I love the city. Delhi is a massive metropolis, With a population of over 20 million people.

The city is a blend of ancient forts, temples, markets, and modern metro, mega shopping malls, finance, and technology centres. It has over 5000 years of history and three world heritage sites that you can’t find anywhere else.  

Delhi, in my opinion, is not just a city in India, It’s a unique experience. For many people, Delhi is the starting point of their journey and their first introduction to India. If you have never visited South Asia, you may be surprised by the packed marketplaces, noisy roads and streets, and diverse cultures.

Delhi has a lot to offer; you could easily spend a week here, but if you only have three days to spend in this massive city, that is the minimum time.

So, take a look at my 3-day Delhi Itinerary, which will show you the best places to visit in Delhi.

Table of Contents

Delhi Itinerary Day 1 (Old Delhi)

Jama masjid.

The Jama Masjid is a grand mosque in the city of Delhi, India. It is one of the largest mosques in India and outside of Saudi Arabia.

The Jama Masjid was originally built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan between 1650 and 1656. The design of the mosque was influenced by Mughal architecture like the Taj Mahal. The prayer hall inside the mosque can easily accommodate 25,000 worshipers.

Three domes and four towers each with a star on top, giving it a beautiful look from all directions!

Don’t forget to go to the top of the Minar for a stunning view of the Red Fort, Chandni Chowk and Old Delhi. 

Tips:- Women need to rent a robe to get inside the Masjid. in reality, this robe is for women who are not wearing modestly, If you dress modestly, you won’t need to rent a robe.

You need to remove your shoes outside of the masjid. There will be people at the entrance who will take care of your shoes in exchange for a tip. You can also store your shoes in your bag.

Your next stop should be Red Fort, which is about a 15-minute walk from Jama Masjid.

Timings:- 7 AM to 12 PM and 1.30 PM to 6.30 PM   

Nearest Metro Station:- Chawri Bazaar

Red Fort 

Red Fort is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Delhi. And one of the best place to include in Your Delhi Itinerary. Your visit is incomplete without visiting the red fort.

It’s a massive red sandstone wall structure that served as the Mughals’ main residence for 200 years. The monument is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is well-known for its rich history.

You will enter through the Lahori gate, and inside the fort, you will see. Diwan-I-Aam,( Hall of public audience) Diwan-I-Khaas, (hall of private audience) ‘Hammam; Place for royal bath, Pearl mosque. And the Palace of Color was most admirable to me because of its fascinating architecture.

The Next destination is Raj Ghat, which is about 3 km from the red fort, a 35-minute walk or 7 to 10 minutes by Auto or taxi.

Timings:- 6 AM to 6 PM . Closed on Monday.

Nearest Metro Station:- Red fort 

Raj Ghat is a memorial for Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of the Indian independence movement. It is a commemoration of the spot where Gandhi was cremated on the 31st of January 1948. He was famous for his highly peaceful protests against the British rule in India.

There is a quiet green space around Raj Ghat, People come here for a picnic and take some rest. You can also stop here for a short break before continuing to your next destination.

The following stop is Chandni Chowk, which is about 3.5 km from Raj Ghat, a 35-minute walk, and 7 to 10 minutes by Auto or Taxi.

Timings- 5 AM to 7 PM.

Nearest Metro Station:-  Delhi Gate Metro Station

Chandni Chowk 

The Chandni Chowk market is an iconic part of Old Delhi. Mughal emperor Shah Jahan originally built it as part of the Red Fort complex in the 17th century. The market has a rich history and home to some of the city’s oldest buildings. 

Despite being one of Delhi’s busiest and largest wholesale markets, the market has retained its identity over the years.

This market is well-known for its delicious food. And some shops and restaurants are serving yummy food from generations. My visit to Chandini chowk used to be incomplete without eating some delicious food. 

Because this is where you will find the most delicious food in all of Delhi.

There are several little streets in Chandni Chowk, each of which is like a market known for something. I am sharing with you some of them which you should visit. 

Paranthe Wali Gali

Paranthe wali Gali is famous for the shops that sell popular sweets and Paranthe’ which means lentil wafers. This place is home to many varieties of these wafers.

Popular varieties include gobhi, Kaju, and methi paratha. Pt. Kanhaiyalal Durgaprasad Dixit outlet serving Paranthe since 1875. 

Kinari Bazaar

Kinari Bazaar is one of the most popular shopping destinations for Indian brides. You will see beautiful Indian Bridal dresses and other accessories.

Chawri Bazaar

Chawri Bazaar is an iconic wholesale market specialized in brass, copper, and paper products such as wedding and greeting cards. 

Khari Babri Spice Market

Khari Baoli is widely regarded as one of the biggest and most popular markets for spices in India. This is the only Bazaar in Delhi that still has maintained its traditional architecture with many winding lanes of shops selling all sorts of spices, herbs, and food items.

Timing :- 10:00 to 7 PM. Markets closed on Sunday.

Nearest Metro station :- Chandni Chowk metro station

Delhi Itinerary Day 2 ( New Delhi)

The India Gate is a war memorial located astride the Rajpath, and built-in 1931. This is considered the largest war memorial in India. It was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and built as a monument for 90,000 soldiers who died in World War I.

The design of India Gate is frequently compared to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The structure is surrounded by plenty of green space and is a popular picnic spot for Delhi residents.

India Gate is usually crowded with tourists and many street vendors. I also went there many times with family and friends for picnics.

The next stop is the National Museum, which is about 2 km from India Gate. and takes about 23 minutes to walk or 5 minutes by taxi.

Timing :- 24 hours

Nearest Metro station :- Central Secretariat 

National Museum

The National Museum was founded in 1949 and is one of the oldest and largest museums in India. The museum has a diverse collection of more than 200,000 objects and artworks. And some objects are over 5000 years old.

The Museum was built to provide a repository for all that is beautiful and awesome in human culture and creativity. If you simply enjoy visiting museums and are keen on history then check out the National Museum of Delhi, because this is one of India’s most impressive museums.

Your next stop is Safdarjung Tomb, which is about 3.5km from The National Museum and takes about 42 minutes to walk or 7 to 10 minutes by taxi or auto.

Timing :- 10 AM to 6 PM, closed on Mondays and public holidays

Nearest Metro station :- Central Secretariat (the museum is around 4 km from the metro station)

Safdarjung Tomb

The Safdarjung Tomb is a sandstone and marble monument that was built in 1754. The monument is the last Mughal structure in Delhi. 

The Tomb’s gate with two floors and various inscriptions was very appealing to me, and the ceiling was a beautiful piece of artwork with carvings and decorations. Plus, from the gate, you can get an excellent view of the tomb.

The monument has a similar look to Humayun’s tomb complex, but gets fewer tourists. 

The following stop is Lodhi Garden, which is about 500 metres from Safdarjung Tomb and takes about 6 minutes to walk.

Timing :- 7 AM TO 6 PM. 

Nearest Metro station :- Jor Bagh metro station

Lodi Garden

This is another one of my favourite places in Delhi.

Lodi Garden or Lodhi Gardens is a city park, Spreads over 90 acres of land, As you stroll around the garden you will notice interesting monuments to the Mughal and Lodi dynasties. 

This Garden is a popular quiet and peaceful green space where Delhiites come in the mornings and evenings to walk, run, and exercise. And also a lot of young couples come to the Garden to spend time in a quiet area inside the tomb.

The next destination is Humayun’s tomb, which is about 3 km from Lodhi Garden and takes about 40 minutes to walk and 6 minutes by taxi or auto.

Timing :- 6 AM TO 8 PM. 

Nearest Metro Station :- Jor Bagh metro station

Humayun’s Tomb

Humayun’s tomb was built as a memorial to the second Mughal Emperor Humayun in 1562. This was the first great Mughal structure in India, and historians regard it as one of the country’s most important heritage sites. Also, The monument was the first garden-tomb in India.

Therefore, take a walk around the beautiful garden. Because this is a peaceful garden to spend some relaxing time. Whenever I wanted to spend some calm time with my girlfriend I used to go to Humayun’s Tomb. So don’t forget to include it in your Delhi itinerary.

There is also a nice shop situated near the tomb, Anokhi’s discount store , which Sells women’s traditional clothing at reasonable prices. If you enjoy shopping and have the time, go check it out.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, around 7 km from Humayun’s Tomb and 10 to 15 minutes by cab or vehicle, is your next stop.

Timing :- 6 AM TO 6 PM. 

Nearest Metro Station :- JLN Stadium

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is a Sikh temple, situated in Connaught Place. This  was constructed to commemorate the occasion of eight Sikh Guru Har Krishan’s visit. in 1664. Bangla Sahib complex includes the Main prayer hall, a holy Sarover or lake, a Hospital, and a langar Hall. 

Sikh priests sing sacred songs in the main prayer hall almost 24 hours a day. And I use to feel calm and relaxed inside the main prayer hall.

The Sarovar, or Lake, in the Gurudwara complex is considered holy. You will see colourful fish in the lake, as well as people bathing in holy water and walking around the lake. 

The Gurudwara Langar hall serves free food to thousands of people of all faiths and castes. There is a large and impressive kitchen. I recommend that you go to the kitchen because it’s incredible to see how they prepare food for thousands of people.

Note:- You need to cover your head and remove your shoes. Before entering the gurdwara complex, It is mandatory for everyone. There is a shoe storage area where you can leave your shoes without fear of losing them.

Connaught Place is the next stop, about 1km from Gurudwara Bangla Sahib and takes 10 to 12 minutes to walk.

Timing :- 24 Hours

Nearest Metro Station :- Rajiv Chowk

  Connaught Place

Connaught Place is the most famous shopping district, and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Delhi for both international and domestic travellers

This place is unique in that it houses the most expensive showrooms and all major brands, as well as a flea market where you can find nice clothes, shoes, jewellery, and much more for a low price.

There is also a well-known underground market called Palika Bazar, which is similar to a flea market. But you must be skilled at bargaining for Palika Bazaar because their prices are 5 to 10 times higher, which means that if they can sell something for $10, they will charge you $100, so you must bargain a lot.

Connaught Place is also famous for cafes, clubs, pubs and restaurants. So, if you want to go to some nice restaurants, popular cafes, clubs, or pubs, you’ve come to the right place.

Nearest Metro station :- Rajiv Chowk

Delhi Itinerary Day 3 ( South Delhi )

Qutub minar.

The Qutub Minar is the most popular tourist destination in India and the most visited tourist attraction in Delhi. A Unesco world heritage site, Built-in 1192 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak.

The Minar is also known as the world’s tallest brick Minaret, standing at 73 meters in height.

This Monument is an excellent example of Indo-Islamic architecture and historical brilliance. The carvings on the minar and throughout the complex are mind-boggling. If you look closely, you will notice that each floor of the minar has a unique feature. 

There are also some Hindu and Jain carvings in the complex. The Qutub complex includes a mosque, an iron pillar, tombs, and plenty of green space.

The next stop is Lotus Temple, which is about 12 km from Qutub Minar and takes about 20 minutes by taxi or auto.

Timing :- 7:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Nearest Metro Station :- Qutab Minar.

Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple is one of the most sacred places for Bahá’í followers. Built in the shape of a lotus flower in 1986.There are only seven Baha’i temples in the world, and this one is the only one in Asia.

The entire temple is made of white marble, with 9 pools and plenty of green space. Plus, There is no scripture in the temple.

This architectural masterpiece has received numerous awards for its design and architecture over the years. The temple is the best place to meditate to calm one’s mind.

 Any person of any caste or religion is welcome to visit this temple. I recommend that you spend a few minutes inside the temple to reset your mind and body. 

The next stop is Hauz Khas Village, which is about 9.5 Km from Lotus Temple and takes about 20 minutes by taxi or auto.

Timing :- 9:30 AM to 5.30 PM. Closed on Monday

Nearest Metro Station :- Kalkaji Mandir Metro

Lunch at Hauz Khas Village

Hauz Khas Village is a historically rich and happening place in south Delhi. This place has been the talk of the town for ages. And got its name from a water tank built in the 13th century.

This historic party destination is also well-known for its numerous cafes, pubs, clubs, restaurants, and art galleries. As well as, this is one of the most happening areas in town. While touring Hauz Khas village, you will see tombs, a water tank, an Islamic cemetery, and a park.

Hauz Khas Village has its own charm, and it is a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

The following destination is Dilli Haat, which is about 3.5 km from Hauz Khas Village and takes about 10 minutes by taxi or auto.

Timing :- Till Midnight.

Nearest Metro Station :- Hauz Khas

Dilli Haat is a place where people from all over the country come to sell their goods and to buy goods.

It was originally set up as a market for craftsmen from rural India who brought their wares to sell at Dilli Haat in Delhi so that they could earn an income. However, with time, This Place became more than just a crafts market.

At Dilli Haat, you can find and buy clothes, jewellery, textiles, handicrafts and much more. You can also taste some of the most delicious cuisines of India. It is a vibrant place with lots of colours and happy people.

The speciality of Delhi Haat is that you can find handicrafts and cuisines from every state in India. Plus this is also the best place to buy souvenirs. However, keep in mind that to get a good deal, you must bargain.

Timing :- 10AM to 10pm.

Nearest Metro Station :- INA.

Map of Delhi Attractions

To make your travel and route planning easier, I’ve included all of the places mentioned in this 3-day Delhi itinerary on this map.

Is It Delhi or New Delhi?

Delhi is divided into 11 districts, one of which is known as New Delhi. When the British relocated their capital from Calcutta to New Delhi in 1911, they gave it this name. Since then, New Delhi has been regarded as India’s capital.

So Delhi is the city in India. And New Delhi is India’s capital, which is located in Delhi. 

How Long Should You Spend in Delhi ?

Delhi has a complex cultural landscape and a lot to offer to tourists. If you have enough days in hand, spend a minimum of 3 days in Delhi. In order to make your trip memorable.

This will allow you to explore and enjoy what Delhi has to offer. as well as to indulge in the local flavours that are hard to find elsewhere. You should not rush through the different places as you can find themselves missing out on something amazing.

When is The Best Time To Visit Delhi?

The weather is cooler and drier from October to March. If you are visiting in September or April, then you will find that it is too hot and humid outside. The monsoon season lasts from June to September and the city can get quite muddy and dirty.

The relatively cool, dry season makes for excellent travel. It is largely free of the stagnant air, heat and dust that cover India for almost half the year.

How to Reach Delhi?

Air -Delhi has India’s largest and busiest airport. Which connects to major cities around the world. There are two main terminals. Terminal 3 is used for international as well as some domestic flights. And terminal 2 is for low-cost domestic flights. 

Train –  Trains arrive in Delhi from all over India. By train, you can easily reach Delhi. The City has 3 Main Railway stations: Old Delhi Railway Station, New Delhi Railway Station, And Nizamuddin railway station. If you are arriving in Delhi from another city or Departing to any other city. In most cases, you will start or end your journey at one of these railway stations.

Road – A network of roads and national highways connects Delhi to the rest of the country.

Where to Stay in Delhi

moustache hostel Delhi –

Tatvam asi Homestay

Bajaj Indian Home Stay

BloomRooms Hotel Janpath ( 3star)

The Imperial, New Delhi (5 stars) 

How to Get Around Delhi

The Delhi Metro is one of the best ways to get around the city because Metro is the quickest, cheapest, and safest mode of transportation. The big advantage of using a metro is that it will drop you almost right outside your destination, so you don’t have to worry about getting lost or taking a wrong turn.

The first coach of the Delhi metro is reserved exclusively for women, If you are a solo female traveller, you can travel comfortably there.

To avoid standing in line, you can buy a Metrocard for Rs 200. However, if you dislike crowded transportation, you should avoid taking the metro.

If you only need to travel a short distance, a tuk-tuk (auto-rickshaw) or an air-conditioned taxi is a good option. You can also book taxis through the Uber or Ola apps.

If you want a completely hassle-free way to get around Delhi, hire a taxi for the entire day, which is not expensive. The best part about hiring a taxi for the whole day is that you don’t have to wait for taxis or tuk-tuks all the time, and you can leave your belongings in the car. Your hotel is the best place to book a taxi for the entire day.

I personally enjoy walking around the city because going from one location to another can surprise you.

What to Wear in Delhi?

The climate in Delhi is quite extreme – Weather is hot and humid during the summers, but cold during the winters. So, it’s best to dress in light fabrics that are soft against the skin, like cotton or linen. Avoid anything too heavy or too tight-fitting as these will make you feel uncomfortable and irritable. 

Women should avoid wearing short clothes. Because they are not popular in India. People will stare at you if you walk down an Indian street wearing shorts.

In addition, you will not be permitted to enter a temple, masjid, or gurudwara. In some religious buildings, you must cover your head too. So you want to cover at least your legs and shoulders.

According to me, the best clothes to wear in India are Indian. You can easily buy salwar kameez or you can buy only a long Indian style top(kameez) and wear it on jeans. Indian clothes are more comfortable in Delhi weather. And you will feel safer.

Is Delhi Safe to Visit?

Yes, Delhi is safe. There is a crime in every city in the world, but you should be aware of the precautions that must be taken to avoid it.

If you’re in a crowded market or on a metro train or bus, take extra care with your belongings because thieves can steal your valuables. So you want to keep your bag in front of you all the time. Also, keep your wallet in your front pocket and avoid flashing large amounts of cash while shopping in public.

If anyone offers you a tour or a special deal in a hotel room or a stay in a palace or fort, simply ignore them. Because there are people in Delhi who try to defraud tourists.

I don’t recommend travelling at night, especially if you’re a solo female. So Try to return to your hotel before dark.

If you want to go to a restaurant or a club at night, make a wise choice, such as going to tourist-friendly areas. Connaught Place, Hauz Khas Village, and Khan Market are a few examples. And book a taxi from the hotel to the restaurant or bar you want to visit, as well as a taxi back to the hotel.

This was all about Delhi, Now you know how to spend 3 days in Delhi, as well as Best things to do in Delhi. So I hope this Delhi Itinerary will help you to easily plan your trip. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments section and I will do my best to answer them.

More India Travel itineraries.

• JAIPUR ITINERARY: 10 Best Things to Do in Jaipur in 2 Days.
• PUSHKAR ITINERARY: 8 Best Things to Do in Pushkar in 2 Days

Downloadable image of day by day Delhi Itinerary.

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3 Days in Delhi — Sample Itinerary + Planning Guide

By: Author Emily

Posted on Last updated: November 27, 2023

Delhi is a popular entry point to India. It’s the country’s capital and third largest city, so there is tons of stuff to see and do. Three days is a perfect amount of time to spend in Delhi, and this itinerary will help you fill those days perfectly.

In this post, we’ll explore the ins and outs of planning a trip to Delhi (like where to stay and when to go). Then we’ll walk you through a detailed three-day trip, including what to do, how to get there and how much it’ll cost. Keep reading to plan you perfect three-day trip to Delhi, India!

In this post

Here’s what we’re covering in this post. We’ll start with some general planning information and then get into the itinerary itself.

Plan your trip to Delhi

Getting around delhi.

• About this itinerary

Day 1 — Old Delhi

• Day 2 — Old Meets New
• Day 3 — Mughal Tombs and Garden Oasis
• Tips for visiting Delhi

Delhi has a long, rich, and sometimes tragic past. I won’t pretend to be an expert, but I will tell you what I saw and what you can expect to experience.

When we arrived in Delhi, we met our driver and got into an air conditioned SUV. After that, no experience in Delhi was like anything we’d experienced before. For three days I watched in awe as a new world unfolded around me.

The first thing that stood out was the traffic. Things like lanes and traffic signs were more of a suggestion than a rule. The roads were completely filled with cars, tuk tuks and motor bikes, and yet somehow there was always room for more. Horns blasted constantly, but in a polite way as to say “Hi! I’m here!” and not “You’re in my way!” I generally get car sick, but I found this ballet of traffic to be mesmerizing and almost soothing.

When I looked past the vehicles, I started to see the people. The poverty in Delhi is intense, it is in your face and it will break your heart. People all around were living in dilapidated buildings, shanty villages, and on the ground. We saw families bathing and doing laundry on the street and kids walking around barefoot. I don’t want to harp on this, particularly because I don’t have a call-to-action or solution, but I also can’t not mention it.

In our experience, the people of Delhi were kind and polite. We have a blonde toddler, and lots of people asked to take photos with us. They didn’t understand why our baby didn’t want to be held by strangers (something that’s totally common there), but they respected it. They were also really proud of their city and country. India is hosting the G20 summit and everyone was so excited to tell us about it.

Delhi has two main areas: Old Delhi and New Delhi. The people we spoke with said that they don’t think of it that way though, they just think of it as “Delhi.”

Old Dehli is the historical center of the city that once served as the capital of the Mughal Empire. This area is dense with shops and restaurants and made up of many winding, narrow streets. Monkeys jump along the rooftops, sacred cows casually cross the street, and rickshaws zip around with impressive agility.

Contrastingly, New Delhi is incredibly spread out. This area, built out during the British rule in the late 1800s, features wide European-style boulevards and huge traffic circles. In this part of town you’ll find large museums, government buildings, and the city’s most expensive homes.

I’d often heard Delhi described as an assault on the senses, and I honestly didn’t feel that way. The city definitely has an intensity about it that is different than I’ve experienced before, but it wasn’t as overwhelming as I was expecting. Everyone living in this seemingly chaotic space felt so comfortable, and that put me at ease in a way.

We really enjoyed our time in Delhi and I hope you will too.

Let’s jump into planning a trip to Delhi. Here’s the practical information you’ll need to know to book your trip.

India Visa requirements

If you want to visit India, you’ll first need to get a Tourist e-Visa. The Tourist e-Visa is required for visitors from almost every country and has three available durations (30 days, 1 year, 5 years).

You can apply for an Indian Tourist e-Visa online. You will need a valid passport, passport photo, and credit card to pay the application fee. The application fee varies based on your nationality, but most will pay $10 or $25 USD for a 30-day visa.

In most cases, this is a quick and easy process, but don’t put it off to the last minute. It can take longer if complications come up.

Kenny submitted his application first and discovered that the portal had a cap on how many countries he could put in his travel history. He had to send a separate PDF with a list of the countries he’s been to, which delayed his approval. Having learned from his situation, I was able to submit mine accurately the first time and was approved the next day.

Recommended vaccines

India does not have any vaccine mandates, but you might want to get a few before traveling there. In the United States, the CDC recommends the following vaccines for travelers going to India. Other countries may have different guidelines.

( Disclaimer : We are not doctors and this is not medical advice. Consult your physician or a travel clinic for professional recommendations.)

• Hepatitis A
• Yellow Fever
• Cholera (not prominent in Delhi)
• Malaria (not prominent in Delhi)
• Japanese Encephalitis (not prominent in Delhi)

We were already up to date with most of these vaccines including: Covid, Hep A, Hep B and measles. We also already received Yellow Fever vaccines before traveling to Colombia a few years ago. Based on our travel plans (Delhi, Jaipur, Udaipur, Agra), we weren’t at high risk for cholera, malaria or Japanese Encephalitis. That left us with Rabies and Typhoid to consider.

If it was just us adults, we probably would have skipped both. But we are responsible parents traveling with our 2-year-old, so we had a travel consultation with our pediatrician. She actually didn’t strongly recommend any vaccines other than Hep A, which we were due for anyway.

We decided to skip the rabies vaccine. Stray dogs are definitely a thing in Delhi (they are just about everywhere), but we assumed we would be able to stay pretty clear of them. Typhoid spreads through contaminated water, though, and that seemed like a risk that would be harder to avoid completely. We decided to get the Typhoid vaccine for all of us.

The Typhoid vaccine is expensive. It costs around $150 and most insurance doesn’t cover it. (Our insurance covered children but not adults.) It’s also really hard to find. In many cases you have to go to a travel clinic to get it, which can sometimes cost another few hundred dollars. Some CVS locations carry it, especially in major cities, so be sure to check there.

How to get to Delhi

The flag carrier airline of India is Air India. While Air India isn’t known for being one of the better airlines, we personally had a pleasant experience flying Air India Business Class from Dubai to Delhi . I wouldn’t recommend flying Air India long-haul, but it’s a fine option if you’re traveling regionally.

Plenty of other international carriers fly to Delhi, so you’re probably better off flying your home country’s flag carrier instead.

Regardless of airline, you will probably fly into Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL).

There is a Metro stop at the airport, so you can take the Airport Express Line into the city. The Delhi Metro isn’t particularly thorough though. If your hotel isn’t off a Metro stop, this won’t be super helpful.

In that case, your best bet is to take a car. Taxis are available at the airport and offer pre-paid or metered fares. The airport website recommends pre-paid, which requires going to the taxi counter to get a ticket first. Uber is also available in Delhi, so that’s a better option as long as you have cell service or wifi (there is free wifi at the airport).

Another option is to book a car service to be waiting for you when you arrive. We booked a car service through our hotel, and it was incredibly smooth. They were waiting for us with a sign when we cleared customs and they got us right to where we needed to be without any hassle.

Where to stay in Delhi

When it comes to accommodations, you kind of have two options in Delhi. You can take the budget route — which will be incredibly cheap but of varying quality/comfort/safety — or you can go the luxury route — which will be incredibly expensive but a total oasis. There’s not a lot of middle ground in Delhi.

If you want to take the Metro around town, consider staying near Connaught Place. From here, you can easily connect to the Blue Line, Yellow Line and Airport Express Line. This area is pretty touristy and has a lot of hotels and chain restaurants nearby.

If you’re not staying off the Metro, then you’ll mostly be taking cars or tuk tuks around town. In this case, picking your hotel by quality is probably more important than by location. (This is true within reason. You still wan’t to be relatively central. Don’t stay at the JW Marriott by the airport the whole time, for example.)

Personally, we went the luxury route. We stayed at The Oberoi New Delhi and it was incredible. It was one of the best hotel experiences we’ve ever had. The property was beautiful and the staff were so incredibly welcoming, kind and accommodating.

Staying at a nicer hotel also makes dining simpler — if you want it to be. A lot of people get stomach bugs in Delhi, mostly due to contaminated water. If you stay at a nice hotel that has a restaurant, you can generally trust the quality to be mostly safe. (You may still want to avoid uncooked produce, ice and tap water though.)

In a place like Delhi, it was immensely comforting to have a nice hotel to retreat to at the end of the day. The quiet and calm space gave us the chance to recharge so we could experience and appreciate the intensity of the city. If you can afford it, we’d definitely recommend splurging on a nice hotel in Delhi.

How long to stay in Delhi

As India’s capital, Delhi can be a destination on its own or an entry point to the rest of the country. How long you spend in Delhi will depend on how much time you have and what else you’re doing. We think three days is perfect, but here’s how some other durations can fit into your travel plans.

• 1 day in Delhi is enough if you’re starting a longer trip in India. If you’re flying into Delhi and then continuing on to another region or city in India, spending one day in Delhi is a good place to get your first taste of the country. If you only have a day, spend it in Old Delhi.
• 2 days in Delhi is enough if you are doing the full Golden Triangle. If you pack your days full, you can see a lot of Delhi in just two days. You’ll get to experience Delhi but still leave time for Jaipur and Agra.
• 3 days in Delhi is enough if you are pairing Delhi with one other city. Three days in Delhi is really the sweet spot. Spend three days in Delhi and then three days in another city in India (maybe Goa or Udaipur) and you’ve got a perfect holiday.
• 4 days in Delhi is enough if you are taking a day trip to Agra. This is really the ideal scenario if you don’t have a ton of vacation days. You can see a good chunk of Delhi and the Taj Mahal without changing hotels or adding any extra flights.
• 5 days in Delhi is enough if you want to see it all at a relaxed pace. If you want to really take it all in, visit more museums and make sure you hit all the sites, you’ll want to spend five days (or more!) in Delhi.

We were in India for two full weeks and spent 3 days and 4 nights in Delhi. The itinerary below outlines exactly how we filled those three days. Based on our total experience in India, if a friend asked us what they should do, we would tell them to spend four days in Delhi with a day trip to Agra. If they had more time, we’d send them to Dubai for two days first to adjust to the time change before they hit the streets of Delhi.

When to go to Delhi

Delhi has a unique and intense climate. The weather changes drastically by season, so you’ll definitely want to plan accordingly. Here’s a look at Delhi weather by season. All temperatures are in °F.

• Summer in Delhi (April – June): Summer is extremely hot with temperatures regularly hitting 100°F or higher.
• Monsoon Season in Delhi (July – September): The monsoon season starts in late June and brings with it heavy rains and humidity. Temperatures can dip into the 80s but can still peak around 100 when it’s dry.
• Fall in Delhi (October – November) : The rainy season gives way to a milder fall, which sees temps around the 70s/80s and hardly any rain.
• Winter in Delhi (December – January): Delhi actually gets quite cold in the winter, with lows dropping to the 40s and highs in the 60s.
• Spring in Delhi (February – March): Temperatures shoot up quickly in the spring and can vary greatly by the day. Highs will hit the 70s and 80s and lows will move up to the 50s.

The best time to visit Delhi is in the late winter or early spring (January through March). You definitely want to avoid the summer’s crippling heat and monsoon season, which can easily damper any holiday.

Delhi is a really fun city when it comes to transportation. Depending on where you’re from and where you’ve been, you might even get to experience something you’ve never done before! Here’s a peak at your transit options in Delhi.

• Metro : The Delhi Metro is a great way to avoid the traffic and get around Delhi fairly quickly and cheaply. The system isn’t very thorough though, so it won’t get you everywhere. Trains run from 5 AM to 11:30 PM. Fares are based on distance and day of the week and range from Rs. 10 – 60 (less than $1 USD).
• Tuk Tuk: These three-wheeled motorized open-air taxis are driven all over Delhi. They’re perfect for covering short distances around the city and are often much easier than dealing with an actual taxi or Uber. Flag one down and agree on a price before you get in. (TIP: Check the Uber price to help set a baseline price.) Pay in cash when you reach your destination. You usually want to have exact cash, so keep small bills on you.
• Rickshaw : Rickshaws are the primary mode of transportation through and around Chandni Chowk (Old Delhi’s famous market area), as tuk tuks and cars are not allowed. Like hiring a tuk tuk, you should agree on a price first and plan to pay exact cash at the end.
• Uber : Uber is available in Delhi and is generally a good, cheap way to cover longer distances. You’ll need to have cell data or wifi in under to use the app.
• Car Service: The most expensive but easiest way to get around Delhi is to hire a driver. Most hotels will offer this service. It’s a great option if you know you want to see and do a lot around the city and don’t want to waste time figuring out transportation between each attraction.

You’ll note that I didn’t mention walking. Delhi isn’t great for pedestrians — well, at least not for tourist pedestrians. The city has sidewalks, but as our guide told us “it’s just not comfortable to walk,” and that’s a good way to describe it.

In Old Delhi, the narrow streets are too congested with rickshaws and tuk tuks. The windy market streets are also hard to navigate, and it’s not a place where you want to be buried in your phone. And then in New Delhi, the sites are too spread out and traffic circles and intersection are dangerously wide.

We generally love exploring cities and neighborhoods on foot, but it just didn’t make sense to do in Delhi.

About this Delhi itinerary

In this itinerary, we are sharing the details of a 3-day/4-night trip to Delhi. We followed this exact itinerary in February 2023 with two adults and one child.

You’ll find that this itinerary is not packed to the brim. Each of our days wrapped up by about 1 PM. In a city as busy as Delhi, it was actually really nice to have the afternoons to decompress. Since we were traveling with a 2-year-old, we spent our afternoons napping and swimming in the hotel pool. If that isn’t your reality, you could easily take a bit more time at each stop or add more attractions to your day.

This itinerary requires some sort of car/tuk tuk transportation, as all of the sites are not on the Metro. We booked a car with a driver from 8 AM to 1 PM each day, which we’d recommend if it’s in your budget. Alternatively, you could use Uber or hire tuk tuks to move between locations.

Lastly, all prices listed throughout this itinerary are for one adult foreigner. At most of the sites, there is discounted pricing for Indians as well as concessions for children and seniors.

Alright, let’s go!

We are diving head first into Delhi with some of the city’s most famous sites including the Red Fort and Chandni Chowk. This is probably the most intense day in terms of the actual experience and the logistics of getting around. If you only had one day in Delhi, this is how you should spend it.

Jama Masjid Mosque

• Location: Here – At the corner of Esplande Rd and Meena Bazar
• How to get there: (1) Have a car/taxi/tuk tuk drop you off at the mosque OR (2) take the Metro Violet Line to Jama Masjid station
• Hours: 7 AM – 12 PM and 1:30 – 6:30 PM (NOTE: The tower doesn’t open until 10 AM)
• Price: Rs. 300 ($4 USD) plus an additional Rs. 300 to go to the top of the minaret. Cash only.
• Tickets: No tickets, just pay at the gate.
• Guide info: There are guides at the entrance who will offer their services. There are no posted signs inside the mosque, so if you want to learn more you’ll need to hire a guide. (We didn’t get one.)
• How long does it take: 30 minutes (without the tower) or 1 hour (with the tower)
• Tips : If someone offers to take your photo, they’re going to ask for money! (And whatever you give, they will ask for more.)

Jama Masjid Mosque was built in the 1650s and is the second largest mosque in India. It’s an example of Mogul architecture, which is something we’ll see a lot of here in Delhi. Visitors cannot go inside the mosque, but you can visit the courtyard and the marble arch entryway. For an extra fee, you can also climb to the top of the 130-foot minaret for a birds-eye view over Delhi.

There are three gates to Jama Masjid Mosque, but visitors can only enter from Gate 3 on the east side. You will first need to pay the entrance fee (Rs. 300) in cash in order to enter. It’s sometimes called a camera fee, but everyone is required to pay it. Speaking of photos. Photos are allowed but video is not.

All visitors must remove their shoes, which you can leave near the entrance or carry with you. (We love to keep a foldable bag with us for just this purpose.) Women will also be provided a robe. Head scarfs are not required. I have read reports that people have been asked to pay a fee upon returning their robe or retrieving their shoes, though this was not our experience.

If you’d like to go to the top of the minaret, you can purchase a ticket from the ticket booth on the opposite side of the courtyard. The tower opens at 10 AM (later than the rest of the mosque). You must take the stairs to the top and there’s no elevator.

• Location: Here – The visitor entrance to the Red Fort is on the southeast corner of the fort
• How to get there: Hire a tuk tuk/rickshaw from outside the mosque and have them drop you off at the Red Fort Ticket Counter.
• Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM. Closed on Mondays.
• Price: Rs. 550 ($7 USD) for fort only or Rs. 870 ($11 USD) for fort and museum
• Tickets: You can purchase tickets online in advance here . There is also a ticket booth at the entrance.
• Guide info: There are guides at the entrance who will offer their services. There are signs posted in both English and Hindi throughout the fort, so you don’t necessarily need one. (We didn’t get one.)
• How long does it take: 2 hours
• Tips : Large bags (including backpacks) are not allowed inside, so only bring a small tote. Visit in the morning for the lowest crowds.

The Red Fort is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Delhi and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built in the mid 1600s as a royal residence after the capital was moved from Agra to Delhi. The Red Fort was designed by the same architect who built the Taj Mahal.

The entire Red Fort Complex is quite large. Visitors can walk the grounds, which features many different museums, gardens and structures. There are also a few different interactive exhibits, a market and a cafe.

There are several gates at the Red Fort, but only one visitor entrance near Delhi Gate on the south side of the complex. You can buy tickets online or from the ticket booth near this gate. From here, it’s an 8 minute walk to security and the main fort entrance. Rickshaws are also available for hire and cost Rs. 10 per person to cover this distance.

After the ticket check and security screen, you’ll walk through the main gate and then through the market. All items in the market have a set, posted prices and they don’t haggle. Prices are higher here than the rest of the city, but the simplicity might be worth it for you. They also take credit cards.

From here you can explore the grounds in any order. Some buildings and structures you can go inside, others you can’t. There are a few small museums, but they’re mostly just pictures and signs. The fort plus museum ticket covers these museums but not the interactive experiences like “Story of the Red Fort” or the 360 show.

The exit to the Red Fort is directly east of the main gate, near the start of Chandni Chowk Road.

Chandni Chowk

• Location: Here – Chandni Chowk Road between the Red Fort and Fatehpuri Masjid
• How to get there: Walk from the Red Fort exit to the start of Chandni Chowk Road
• Hours: Most shops are open Monday through Saturday, 9:30 AM – 8 PM. Closed on Sundays.
• Price: Rs. 50 – 100 + tip (<$2 USD) for a rickshaw ride through the market
• Tickets: N/A
• Guide info: There are rickshaws stationed at the entrance of Chandni Chowk Road. You can ask them to take you to a specific place, or just ask that they drive you around. Many will explain things as they go. Agree to a set price, but also be prepared to tip on top of that.
• How long does it take: 30 minutes via rickshaw, but longer if you walk.
• Tips : Keep your valuables (phones, wallet) close to you and concealed, as this area has a lot of pickpocketing. It’s also best to take a rickshaw through here. Walking can be stressful because of the traffic and heavy soliciting.

Chandni Chowk is the oldest market in Delhi, and one of the busiest. The small market streets packed with rickshaws, power lines dangling and open-air shops is quintessential Old Delhi. It’s known for overwhelming tourists with its intensity of sights, sounds, and smells.

The market comprises Chandni Chowk Road (where you’ll find larger shops and stores, and even a McDonald’s) and all the tiny, windy streets that branch out from it (where the shop stalls sell everything from spices and flowers to textiles and jewelry).

While many similar markets like this appeal to tourists and hawk mostly souvenirs, Chandni Chowk feels like more of a local’s market. For the most part, this is where the people of Delhi (and Indian tourists) do their actual shopping. Foreign tourists are mostly just riding through it.

There are exceptions to that though. For example, there’s a famous street called Paranthe Wali Gali that is known for its fresh-made paranthas. This is very popular with tourists, though we’ve read it’s overpriced and as good as you’ll find elsewhere. We didn’t stop because we were very cautious about food in India.

There’s also a small side street with beautifully decorated Jain houses. In recent years it’s become a popular Instagram spot if you can find it. However, you might get charged for photos or invited to shop inside an owner’s wildly overpriced pashmina shop.

If you want to explore Chandni Chowk — particularly if you’re a western tourist like us — get a rickshaw to take you through it. This market is pretty intense (crowds, traffic, soliciting), so it’s not really great for a stroll. A rickshaw will make the experience much more pleasant, and won’t be that expensive. You can also ask to walk through part of it, and you’re driver will find a good area for you to do so.

You can hire a Rickshaw from the start of Chandni Chowk Road. Most drivers will have a recommended route and will drive you through in about 20 minutes for about Rs. 50-100 (about $1 USD). I’d recommend tipping on top of that, especially if they provide some information about the market for you.

More to do on day 1

We personally wrapped up after Chandni Chowk. We had our rickshaw driver take us back to the mosque, where we met our car driver to take us back to our hotel. These three sites kept us busy all morning, from our 8 AM pick-up to 12:30 PM drop-off.

The morning was very exciting, so we didn’t have a problem spending the later half of our day at our hotel. We ate lunch, napped, and then spent a few hours at the pool. This was a perfect balance for us, and something we’d recommend if you are traveling with kids.

However, there’s definitely more things you can add to fill out your afternoon. Here are two of the things I had on my list for this day, that we didn’t end up doing.

• Raj Ghat & National Gandhi Museum : Raj Ghat is a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, the peace activist and father of India. You can see a small monument here and then cross the street learn more at the National Gandhi Museum and Library .
• Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib: This Sikh temple is located in the heart of Chandni Chowk. It’s free to enter, and they even offer free meals to anyone who needs them. Head to the visitor’s desk near the entrance and someone will show you around, for which they accept tips.

Day 2 — Old meets new

On our second day in Delhi, we leave behind the busy and crowded streets of Old Delhi and explore more of what New Delhi has to offer. We’ll start with one of the oldest sites in the city and then jump to one of the newest.

The sites on today’s itinerary are much more spread out than in Old Delhi. You’ll definitely want to transit in a car (as opposed to a tuk tuk), because it’s faster. Since there’s a lot of driving and multiple stops, we’d recommend booking a car and a driver for the day. We completed this itinerary in 5 hours, but 6-8 would be much more comfortable. Alternatively you could get an Uber for each leg.

Qutub Minar (also spelled Qutb Minar)

• Location: Here – on the south side of the city
• How to get there: It’s pretty far south, so you’ll need to take a car service or Uber
• Hours: 7 AM – 9 PM everyday
• Price: Rs. 550 ($7 USD)
• Tickets: You can purchase tickets online in advance here . There’s also a ticket booth across the street from the entrance.
• Guide info: We did not notice any guides for hire outside the site. Signs inside were posted in both English and Hindi.
• How long does it take: 1 hour
• Tips : Arrive before 10 AM for low crowds and cooler temperatures. Also consider grabbing a coffee first at Blue Tokai Coffee not far from the entrance.

Qutub Minar is a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can see the ruins of Delhi’s oldest fortified city, dating back to the 1200s. The complex includes a handful of tombs and a mosque, in addition to the namesake minaret. The minaret itself is the tallest stone minaret in the world and the second tallest minaret in India after the Taj Mahal. There’s a beautiful and photogenic courtyard of Mughal archways and lots of lush, green grass.

The entrance to Qutub Minar is on the east side of the complex across the street from the ticket office . You can skip the ticket office and go straight to the gate if you buy your tickets online . Follow the main entrance in and you’ll see the minaret to your left. We suggest starting to the right to see some of the other ruins first, and then finishing at the minaret.

Even though Qutub Minar is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Delhi, it didn’t originally sound that interesting. And if you look at it objectively, maybe it isn’t.

It turned out to be the highlight of our trip though. This was surely a matter of circumstance — we had a perfectly cool morning, zero crowds, and a really happy toddler who loved running up and down the ramps. I wouldn’t say you must go to Qutub Minar, but I will say that we enjoyed it so much more than we expected and we hope you do too.

Akshardham Temple

• Location: Here – Across the river east of Humayun’s Tomb
• How to get there: It’s a hike from Qutub Minar, so you’ll need to take a car service or Uber
• Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 10 AM – 6:30 PM. Exhibitions don’t start until 12:30 PM and the water show is at sunset. Closed on Mondays.
• Price: Entry is free. Tickets for special exhibitions cost Rs. 250 (3$ USD) and the water show costs Rs. 90 ($1 USD)
• Tickets: Tickets for exhibitions are sold from the ticket window inside the temple complex.
• Guide info: Printed guides are available in the visitor center in a variety of languages, but they were sold out of English during our visit so don’t bank on them.
• How long does it take: 2 – 4 hours, depending on lines and if you do the exhibitions.
• Tips: Unless you want to do the exhibitions, go early to beat the heat. Also be sure to review the things to know section below.

Akshardham Temple was described to me as the Disneyland of temples, and once I heard that I couldn’t not see that. While Disneyland is actually very much more exciting, the long security lines, manicured gardens, and a beautiful faux-historical building at the center are definitely similarities between the two.

The main attraction is the temple itself, which is impressive in both size and detail. It was built pretty recently (in 2005), so there is no historical significance to it. The inside of the temple is beautiful and you can follow a small loop past different shrines. You must take off your shoes to enter the temple and there’s a shoe check available.

In addition to the temple, there is a nice garden with statues to walk through, visitor center, a food court, large children’s playground, and a souvenir shop. It takes about an hour to just walk through the temple and the rest of the grounds.

Then comes the “Disneyland” component. There are three exhibitions — an animatronics exhibit, a film and a boat ride —where you can learn more about Hindu heritage and culture. Combo tickets are sold for all three exhibitions, and you cannot buy a cheaper ticket for just one.

What Disneyland day would be complete without a nighttime show? Akshardham has a nighttime light and fountain show that actually looks really cool. It was too late for us to go with a toddler, but it seems to be really popular.

The temple was pretty and we enjoyed our stay, but it is a lot of hoopla for something you can’t take photos of, so it might not be for everyone.

Things to know about Akshardham Temple

• There’s a dress code. Your shoulders, chest, navel, upper arms and knees must be covered (men and women) at all times.
• Photography is not allowed. If you want a picture with the temple, there are two locations inside where you can can purchase photos. The side-view location near the foodcourt costs Rs. 70 and the front-view location near the exhibition ticket booth costs Rs. 140 and up. You can pickup your print 20 minutes later near the exit.
• Cell phones and cameras are not allowed. Even if you aren’t planning to sneak a photo, cell phones are not allowed inside. (And they will check!)
• Security is very thorough. Expect airport-style security at the entrance. There are metal detectors and scanners for everyone and everything, so don’t try to sneak in any contraband. There are separate queues for men and women. Since you can’t have a phone, you will need a plan for meeting up after security. There are benches on the other side of security, so that’s a good place to meet.
• Lines can get really long . The line to get through security and enter the different exhibitions can get really long. During the day, there were large groups of school children and I assume there’s another rush for the fountain show. Be sure to give yourself some buffer time in your schedule to account for the wait.
• Large bags are not allowed. Backpacks and other large bags are not allowed, but women can bring a small purse.
• Location: Here – in the center of a park surrounded by a busy traffic circle
• How to get there: Take a car service or Uber from Akshardham Temple to India Gate. Cars can only pull over on the west side of the gate near this viewing point .
• Hours: You can view the gate anytime.
• Price: Free
• Guide info: N/A
• How long does it take: 30 minutes
• Tips: You can only enter the park around India Gate from certain entry points, including the west side viewing point . There’s a light security check and armed guards at the gate.

India Gate is a large war memorial that is similar in style to several other famous moments around the world, including Arc de Triomphe in Paris. It was built to remember the British Indian Army soldiers who died in WWI.

The memorial is situated inside a busy traffic circle. Also inside the circle is lots of park space, a large children’s playground, and the National War Memorial.

India Gate is mostly just a photo op. Take a few minutes for photos, maybe have a snack on the bench in the shade, and carry on.

Agrasen ki Baoli

• Location: Here – About a mile north of India Gate
• How to get there: You could walk this if you wanted, but it’s a boring walk. Fflag down a tuk tuk or take a car/Uber.
• Hours: You can view the step-well anytime.
• How long does it take: 15 minutes
• Tips: There’s some snack carts outside if you want to grab some chips and a drink while you sit.

Agrasen ki Baoli is a step-well, which is a type of well that can be found all around India. Step-wells are a natural water source with steps built up the side so you could reach the water at any depth. Today, most step-wells are no longer in use and serve as meeting places for people to come, sit and socialize. (Or they’re just decorative.)

This specific step-well is pretty small and the steps aren’t as intricate (read: pretty) as other step-wells. If you haven’t seen a step-well before and you don’t have any others planned, it’s worth a stop. Otherwise, I wouldn’t work too hard to get here.

Did I drag my family 30 minutes out of the way to see this step-well? Yes. Did I mistake this step-well for the one in Jaipur that is much cooler? Also yes.

More to do on day 2

This wraps up our second day in Delhi. We were able to hit these four attractions in about five hours, but that was tight. We easily could have spent another hour our two if we had more time. (Again, we were kind of on the clock to get our kid back for nap time.)

If you finished quickly or wanted to pack more into your day, here are a few other things that would pair nicely with this schedule. The first two you’ll want to do between Qutub Minar and Akshardam Temple, and the second two would fit nicely after India Gate and the step-well.

• Dilli Haat: If you’re interested in shopping, this large bazaar is a great place to buy handicrafts, souvenirs, and foods from all over India. It’s much more relaxed than other markets in Delhi (especially Chandni Chawk), and prices tend to be higher and fixed. There is a small fee (Rs. 20) to enter.
• Lotus Temple: There are only 7 Baha’i Temples in the world, and Delhi has one of them. It’s a beautiful lotus-shaped temple that somewhat resembles the Sydney Opera House. The temple is open to visitors everyday but Monday.
• National Museum, New Delhi: This museum is located along the mall not far from India Gate. There are several museums around here, but this one is great for India history and art.
• Connaught Place: This touristy district is close to the step-well. In the center of the circle is a large park, and around it are many big name stores, hotels and restaurants.

Day 3 — Mughal tombs and garden oasis

On our last full day in Delhi, we’ll observe more of the Mughal architecture that is so famous throughout India. This style — which fuses Hindi, Persian and Islamic elements — is recognizable by the bulbous domes, white marble and sandstone structures, and scalloped archways. Or to say it simply, it’s the same style as the Taj Mahal.

After a busy three days, we’ll finally take a break to relax and unwind in Lodhi Garden.

Humayun’s Tomb Complex

• Location: Here – Directly south of the Delhi Zoo
• How to get there: Have a car/taxi/tuk tuk drop you off
• Hours: 6 AM to 6 PM, everyday
• Guide info: We did not notice any guides for hire outside the site. There were a couple signs throughout the complex in both English & Hindi, but not many.
• How long does it take: 1.5 hours
• Tips: As with all things in Delhi, arrive early to beat the crowds and heat. If there’s no one at Isa Khan’s Tomb when you arrive, go there first for great photos.

Many of the most beautiful and important structures in India are tombs from the Mughal Empire (1526–1761). Humayun’s Tomb was one of the first of this time period, and notably it was the first garden tomb. This style of tomb, which prominently features lush and manicured gardens and waterways, influenced many other tombs of the era, including the Taj Mahal.

Just west of Humayun’s Tomb is Isa Khan’s Tomb. This tomb is much smaller (though I would argue it’s more beautiful) and does not have the large surrounding gardens. It was built before Humayun’s and in the Lodhi style, which is evident by it’s octagon shape (different from the square shape of Humayun’s).

In the middle of these two tombs is Afsarwala’s Mosque and Tomb. Unfortunately this area was closed during our visit.

There is one ticket for all three tombs. The ticket window and entrance is located here on the west side of the complex. The main vehicle drop off point and entry gate is usually north of the ticket window here . During our visit, that entrance was closed and we had to enter from the west side near Sabz Burj Circle .

Once you’ve entered the complex, you can explore the tombs and gardens. You can climb to the top and go inside Humanyun’s tomb, which includes many different rooms. You can also go inside Isa Khan’s Tomb, though it’s quite small. To be honest, these tombs are most impressive from the outside so enjoy the different vantage points as you stroll through the gardens and around the complex.

Safdarjung Tomb

• Location: Here – West of Humayun’s Tomb near Lodhi Garden
• How to get there: Take a car/taxi/tuk tuk from Humayun’s Tomb
• Hours: 7 AM to 5 PM, everyday
• Tickets: You can purchase tickets online in advance here (select Delhi > Safdarjung Tomb). There is also a ticket booth at the entrance.

While Humayun’s Tomb was the first garden tomb of the Mughal Empire, Safdarjung’s Tomb was the last. Built in the waning years of the empire, the tomb is often criticized for lacking the proportions and quality of the grander tombs that came before it. It is also the only tomb built for someone outside of the imperial family.

The gardens in front of the tomb are well manicured and there is a working fountain prominently leading up to the tomb’s entrance. There was some construction going on during our visit and the back half of the gardens were looking quite drab. You can go to the upper level of Safdarjung’s Tomb, but the inside was closed for renovations.

This tomb isn’t the most popular, but we actually liked that about it. We liked the working fountains and palm trees at the entrance and appreciated it’s smaller size. It was nice, but not a must-do.

Lodhi Garden

• Location: Here – Just east of Safdarjung Tomb
• How to get there: You could easily walk to Lodhi Garden from Safdarjung Tomb. If you are arriving by car, ask them to drop you off at the south entrance here.
• Hours: 6 AM to 8 PM, everyday
• Guide info : There are several signs discussing the plants and wildlife as well as maps posted throughout the park in English and Hindi.
• How long does it take: 1 – 2 hours
• Tips: If you’re hungry, pick up some packaged snacks or drinks from the sellers at the entrance. They aren’t allowed to sell inside the park.

Lodhi Garden is a large, beautiful park in the heart of Delhi where you’ll find much needed green space and peace and quiet. There are a few tombs dotted throughout the park, but most people come here to take a break from sightseeing.

We suggest starting your visit at the south end of the park and then looping up and around. Stroll along the flower-lined pathways and try to spot some of the many birds that call this place home. Then take a walk through the rose garden if it’s blooming and circle around the pond to see the geese before taking a different path on your way back.

It’s a large park, but a casual stroll through it will probably only take about an hour. If you want a longer break though, you could easily spend more time here.

Overall, we loved our time at this park. However, I have to warn you that we were harassed by a very aggressive bug. I honestly don’t know if it was a stinging bug, but it was very large and very loud and would not leave us alone. We literally ran through the park screaming and swatting, kid crying, trying to escape it. This really ruined the park for us and we left immediately.

More to do on day 3

After the park, we retreated to our hotel. Just like the past two days, we completed this itinerary between 8 AM and 1 PM. We had more than enough time at each site, but we could see people wanting to spend more time at the park.

If you have more time and energy, here are a few more things that would stack nicely with this itinerary.

• National Railway Museum: This museum explores the history of trains in India. There are a few different trains you can actually ride, plus lots of models, replicas and full-size old trains to see.
• Lodhi Colony : This is India’s first official art district. There is street art and murals throughout the neighborhood and it’s described as an open-air art gallery. You can find a map with several of the prominent pieces here or get a more detailed art analysis of many of the works here.
• PVR Directors Cut: If you want to see a Bollywood film while you’re in India, this the place to do it. PVR is a movie theater chain in India, and Directors Cut is their luxury cinema brand that features reclining seats, in-seat dining service and better A/V quality. There’s a Directors Cut location in Ambience Mall on the far southwest side of the city. (It’s actually pretty close the airport. If you’re spending a night at an airport hotel before you fly out, this would be a fun way to spend the evening.)

10 tips for visiting Delhi

• Don’t drink the water. Traveler’s diarrhea is extremely common among travelers to Delhi (and all of India), and it’s usually caused by contaminated water. Definitely don’t drink tap water in Delhi. Instead, rely on bottled water or invest in a water purifier bottle. (We have this one .)
• Don’t consume anything that has touched tap water. This goes right along with don’t drink the water, but it’s sneakier. Avoid uncooked produced or only eat fresh produce that has a thick peal (bananas, oranges), watch out for ice, brush your teeth with filtered water, etc.
• Research restaurants in advance. This is my last food safety PSA, I swear! Because the water isn’t safe, you should be really careful about what and where you eat. This means you shouldn’t always go to the first restaurant you see. Research restaurants in advance and save them to Google Maps so you know where to go when you’re hungry. Restaurants with lots of positive reviews are probably okay.

• Buy tickets in advance when you can. You can buy tickets online in advance for most major sites in India. This will save you time waiting in the queue. It’s best to buy your tickets one day in advance.
• Go early . Indian tourists tend to be slow to rise. They’ll hit the tourist sites in droves midday and into the afternoon. If you go in the first hour or two a site is open, you can usually beat those crowds. It’s also cooler in the morning.
• Book a car. If it is in your budget, we’d recommend booking a car with a driver to take you around the sites. You can usually coordinate this with your hotel. It’s not something we’d usually recommend, but it’s just the easiest way to get around since the Metro isn’t always a convenient option and sites are spread out.
• Carry cash. Keep at least a thousand Rupees ($12 USD) in smaller bills on you at all times. You’ll need cash to pay for things like tuk tuks and rickshaws, snacks and drinks from small stands, and even entry to certain sites if you don’t have tickets yet.
• Bring a baby carrier. Delhi isn’t great for strollers, for the same reason it’s not great for walking. If you have young children, keep them in a baby carrier. (We review our favorite baby carriers for travel in this post.)
• Stay at a nice hotel if you can. Delhi is incredible, but it can also be a lot to take in. If you can afford to stay at a nice hotel, it is a really good way to relax and recharge between excursions.
• Tip everyone. Everyone who does something for you — like takes a photo, gives you directions, shares information about a site — is usually going to ask for a tip. I’m a seasoned traveler and still fell for the old “let me take your photo” trick. In most cases, Rs. 100 ($1 USD) is enough, but it depends on the situation.

Closing thoughts on Delhi

We had an amazing time in Delhi. The city was unlike anywhere I’ve ever been before, and it far exceeded my expectations going into it.

To be completely honest, I wasn’t overly excited about India at first. Reading about it was exhausting and I felt like everyone framed the city as being chaotic, noisy and overwhelming. Maybe it’s because I came in prepared for the worst or because I’ve got a lot of travel experience under my belt, but I just didn’t feel that way.

In my introduction to Delhi, I described the traffic as soothing, and I think that’s actually how I felt about the whole city. There was so much going on, but it was all so fluid. Everyone (except me) knew exactly what was going on, and I was just standing quietly watching it unfold. It was a good reminder that people, places and things can exist in ways that don’t perfectly align and cater to own personal preferences and that’s okay.

I don’t know when I’ll be back in Delhi, but I do know that I won’t rule it out. India is huge and there’s so much of it that we haven’t seen. If we end up on a flight connecting in Delhi, I’ll welcome the chance to see more of this city.

More From This Trip

• Emirates Business Class Review – A380 JFK to DXB
• Our Stay at Atlantis Dubai – A Perfect Place to Recharge
• Detailed 2-Day Dubai Itinerary
• Air India Business Class Review – 787 from DXB to DEL
• A Parent’s Guide to Traveling to India with Kids
• India Golden Triangle in 10 Days [Travel Guide, Itinerary &Tips]
• 3 Days in Delhi – Sample Itinerary + Planning Guide
• The Oberoi New Delhi Hotel Review
• Jaipur Itinerary – 1 or 2 Days in the Pink City
• Review of Jai Mahal Palace (Jaipur)
• Train from Jaipur to Udaipur – AC 3-Tier Sleeper Class
• The Oberoi Udaivilas Hotel Review (Udaipur)
• Udaipur Travel Guide + Things To Do
• Celebrating Holi in Udaipur (With a Kid)
• Overnight Train from Udaipur to Agra – AC First Class Sleeper
• The Oberoi Amarvilas Review: A Luxury Hotel with Taj Mahal Views
• Kerala Express Review – Agra to Delhi in AC 2-Tier Sleeper Class
• Hotel Review: JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity
• Qatar Airways Economy Review – DEL to DOH
• Doha Things To Do & Travel Guide (Perfect for a Stopover!)
• Qatar Airways Qsuite Review – 777 from DOH to JFK

24 Hours in Delhi – The Perfect One Day in Delhi Itinerary

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: August 17, 2023

Categories DELHI , INDIA

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

Looking at how to spend 24 hours in Delhi? Keep reading this guide.

I know that, for some, Delhi can be a nightmare. You see all these pretty pictures in the brochure, which is why you wanted to visit. But, instead, you land off the plane and jump into the manic, crazy, hot, dirty, and loud capital of India!

Well, a warm welcome to you. But, I have some good news, you don’t have to stay long if you don’t want to!

Outside of Delhi, is where your real Indian adventures will begin with places like the Taj Mahal in Agra , Jaipur in Rajasthan , or even Varanasi by the river Ganges but I would encourage you to spend at least a day in Delhi to ‘acclimatise’. Even if it’s just to get used to the smells.

It definitely is possible to do a whistle-stop tour of this diamond in the rough (okay, really rough) and see pretty much everything there is to see as a tourist.

Personally, I love Delhi. When I was living and working here as an ex-pat, it was my go-to place for a weekend of sightseeing.

For me, I need to be culture-shocked when I travel and my thirst for the unusual seems to be getting more, not less as I’m getting older.

I find my eyes can’t stop looking around at the crazy traffic, seeing what the street food vendors are selling, admiring the vibrant colours of the market places and the life that runs through the veins of this awesome city.

It’s kind of like marmite, you either love it or you hate it! Here’s how to spend 24 hours in Delhi.

Getting around Delhi

Delhi is huge and many of its attractions are spread out over the old city.

Personally, I would suggest hiring a taxi or a Tuk-Tuk for a full-day tour. That way, it’s easy to hop in and out of the different attractions.

Plus, if you’ve just landed off the plane, you’ll probably prefer convenience to help with the jet lag.

Alternatively, you can get stuck on the public transport on offer.

I love working out train lines and Delhi’s is quite easy once you master it. The metro is a fast and cheap option that gets you around the city quickly.

But, it’s BUSY and a little hectic. If you’ve ever been on the underground in London, imagine it being rush hour, all day, every day.

It does get extremely crowded and so you have to be a little forceful to get out at the right stop.

Don’t be afraid to shout MA’AF KIJI (excuse me in Hindi) and you’ll get through the crowds okay!

Tickets depending on the length of your journey can cost you anything between 20-50 rupees a single journey.

How to spend 24 hours in Delhi – a complete one-day in Delhi itinerary

India gate & rajpath.

First up is the iconic landmark of the India Gate. 

Built to commemorate the lost lives of soldiers in the First World War, it has an eternal flame that is always lit underneath.

It’s kind of like the Indian Arc De Triomphe but with people selling chai, chaat, and poppadoms all around it!

It’s one of my favourite places to visit in the day or evening as it’s free and has a peaceful family vibe. The only downside is all the hawkers who seem to ask to take my photo constantly when I’m blatantly holding a DSLR camera!

It’s always super busy in the afternoon, so if you did want to beat the crowds or take pictures without any people in it you should start off early in the morning.

You can take a turn around the gate and explore the parliament buildings in Rajpath which is a little journey up the long ceremonial axis road.

It’s always been somewhere I would have liked to have a picnic as there is a nice grass area around it, but I haven’t yet had the chance (and the weather is always too hot!). Maybe in the winter, I’ll have more luck.

If you did want to get some tacky souvenir pictures, there are always guys selling them near the gate. You should pay no more than 50 rupees per photo.

A little insider tip, if you only want one photo to take away, don’t let the guy take ten! He’ll expect you to want all of them.

Then that 50 rupees will turn into 500! He’ll print them instantly on his little portable photo machine so you don’t have to come back later in the day.

The next place to visit is the Red Fort or in Hindi Lal Qila which means “blessed fort”.

You’ll see this little beauty on the 500 rupees notes you’ll have in your wallet.

The fort, which is built with red sandstone, was a prominent Mughal Emporer residence for over 200 years!

Today, it’s a UNESCO world heritage site and has a collection of historical rooms, buildings, and museums to wander around.

My favourite part was the mixture of Persian, European, and Indian architecture and the many Indian archways which were in perfect symmetry.

It’s really nice just to wander around the gardens here too as they have a mixture of temples and buildings lined with colourful flowers!

Watch out for pickpockets as you’re near the notorious Chandni chowk which is the next stop.

Read more – the most Instagrammable places in Delhi!

Chandni Chowk

Delhi’s oldest market district is truly starting out at the deep end in terms of that all-important culture shock!

I was actually warned not to come here as even some of my |ndian friends said this place was a little rough.

But, to me, that was like saying ‘don’t press that red button’ so I just HAD to go!

The best way to explore this place is to hire a rickshaw for around 250 rupees and get taken around a grand tour of the place.

It’s congested, smelly, exciting, inspiring, and hectic and it won’t be somewhere you forget in a hurry!

Click here for a complete guide to the Old Delhi Spice Market & How to find the famous rooftop.

Make sure you explore the oldest and largest spice market in Asia while you’re here.

I couldn’t stop sneezing when I first visited as the air is saturated with spice, but the views are totally worth it walking up the dodgy dark stairs.

In fact, the first time I ever went here I almost refused to go up as I thought he was taking us somewhere weird as a scam or something. Just, trust.

Be warned that a lot of the rickshaw drivers work on a commission basis with a lot of the ‘government tourist’ shops in the marketplace.

There are no government shops, it’s a lie to get you to buy stuff at stupid prices.

Basically, the more you buy, the more they get in terms of payment. So, they may keep taking you around until you buy something.

Be assured, it is NOT mandatory for you to buy anything. Just be forceful and say you’re not interested. I

f you did have more time, an awesome way to explore this city is to do the Delhi by cycle tours.

You start out early to beat the heat and you get a little history and culture lesson too. You get water, chai, and breakfast at Karim’s included! For tours and booking see their official website. 

Lunch at Karim’s

My cycle tour was actually how I discovered Karim’s and I’ve been going back ever since.

Featured on the BBC and Lonely Planet, Karim’s is voted one of the best restaurants in all of Asia.

I’m not kidding when I say that people visit from all over the country to get a taste.

Make sure you try their Mutton Korma with their fabulous Roti. Roti is my absolute favourite!

It’s like naan bread, but it’s puffy and it’s the size of your head! It’s also super cheap and has a good hygiene rating – even if the streets around it look foul.

Jama Masjid

After lunch, head into the biggest mosque in all of India. It’s absolutely humungous!

Although this is a place of worship, they seem to run a little bit of industry on tourists and the rules seem to change each time I go.

You should be able to just place your shoes for free outside and go in but they charge weird fees for tourists. They charge for the phone, camera, and shoe sitting.

Even though my phone and camera were not on the show, they still tried to charge me 300 rupees for entry!

It’s a little bit of a con but I guess this is India. Women will also have to cover up completely to go inside.

Don’t worry, if you don’t have appropriate clothing the guys here will give you a floral smock that makes you look like a grandma!

I just picked one that was the least garish. You’ll be walking in bare feet so beware of the floor, it gets HOT.

There should be mats to help with the heat but sometimes they aren’t always there.

You should also be aware you may not be able to enter the mosque during prayer time.

Lotus Temple

It’s a Baha’i place of worship and is open to everyone from all religions and backgrounds and has 27 marble petals to form the shape of a flower.

The architecture has won multiple awards and has become a major tourist site in Delhi that you cannot miss.

The queuing system can be quite intense with people shouting at you in Hindi and ushering you to the side, which I presume meant ‘keep in line’ or ‘move over’.

You’ll be given a shopping bag to keep your shoes in and you should keep this with you at all times.

When you get inside, just stop, sit down and look up! The ceiling and inside of the lotus flower are incredible.

You have to keep complete silence but you’ll be so wow’ed you may be lost for words anyway.

Shopping in Delhi: Janpath market

Shopping at Janpath is my all-time favourite place for souvenirs.

It’s cheap, friendly, and has everything I need as a tourist to take home. I also don’t have to pay an entrance fee like Dili Haat, so I know it won’t be jumped up prices!

You can find everything here from bags, shawls, Ganesh statues, incense, jewellery, and more.

It’s where I go shopping for all my cheap presents to bring back home if I’m stuck on ideas (sorry family and friends haha).

If you were after finer gifts, there is a ‘cottage industry emporium’ which is located to the right of McDonald’s.

It’s expensive, but it showcases top-quality products which are perfect as home decorative items.

Finish the day at Connaught Place

If you’re not dead off your feet and want to head in for some kip to fight off the jet lag, I would suggest going to Connaught place in the evening.

The whitewashed buildings which are formed into a perfect circle houses some of the best nightlife in Delhi.

You’ll have bars, restaurants, cafés, and shopping all here to enjoy.

Connaught place is HUGE and it’s even split into sections from A-Z to help with locating where you want to go. Personal favourites of mine are Lord of the Drinks (even just for the name) and Social.

The best tip I can give you for bars is to look up!

Most of the restaurants and bars here are above the shops below, so you need to look above to find them.

Warning: Connaught place is notorious for being a little dodgy so be careful around the outer circles and always have a means of transport available to you if you do come here late at night. Be careful of pickpockets and people trying to show you directions!

So, that’s your 24 hours in Delhi itinerary

This is the sure-fire way of getting everything you need out of this crazy city in the shortest amount of time.

You should be able to see most things in just one day in Delhi.

If anything on here didn’t take your fancy, there are also the Lodhi gardens if you would like tranquillity, Humayun’s tomb if you wanted a pre-Taj mahal build up and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib to keep you occupied.

Also, I love the Instagram-worthy Agrasen Ki Baoli which is a bit of a hidden gem and supposedly haunted!

Read my complete guide for Agresen Ki Baoli here.

The best tip I can give you is to be aware of scams and to go with the flow; Delhi is Delhi and It will always be Delhi!

That’s what I love most about it, It’s gritty but you won’t forget it in a hurry.

The best place to stay in Delhi

Here are some hotels for every budget, click on the links to check for available dates and rates;

5* Luxury (£60 – £150):

Leela Ambience

Mid-range (£15 – £50):

Yes Please Treebo Natraj

Crown Plaza

Budget (£5-£10)

Zostel Hostel Delhi

Start planning the rest of your trip to India!

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Wednesday 16th of November 2022

Best place for information.

Sophie Pearce

Thanks Aarchy!

Himanshu Rai

Saturday 15th of October 2022

Fantastic blog. This site contains incredible information about the top tourist destinations in Delhi, and the images are very stunning. Thanks for sharing this fantastic article. I learned so many things from your blog and others from the move to Delhi .

Saturday 22nd of October 2022

Hi Himanshu, thanks for reading and your kind words :) Sophie x

Moogoo Gaipan

Sunday 25th of September 2022

"Lal" in Lal Qila means "Blessed"? Who knew!

(Actually it means "Red", as in "Red Fort".)

Monday 26th of September 2022

Thanks Moogoo! x

Amelia Juliet

Friday 9th of September 2022

Very Nice blog. All the information given is very relevant. Loved your experience at Delhi. Hope you had a great day.

Sunday 11th of September 2022

Hi Amelia, thank you so much! Hope you enjoy Delhi. Sophie x

life on mountain

Tuesday 8th of December 2020

Thanks for sharing, keep up the good work

Thursday 15th of April 2021

Thank you so much!

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2 Days Delhi Itinerary: A Perfect Plan for Sightseeing

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Destinations > New Delhi > 2 Days Delhi Itinerary: A Perfect Plan for Sightseeing

Delhi is a land of multifaceted attractions, diverse cultures and colourful markets. On your 2-day trip to the city, you can explore an interesting mix of two distinct locales – Old Delhi and New Delhi . The ancient monuments, bustling bazaars, roadside eateries and narrow lanes of Old Delhi give a glimpse of the city’s rich history. In contrast, New Delhi displays a vivid picture of the colonial period with its tree-lined avenues, imposing buildings, fancy restaurants, pubs and lounges and shopping arcades.

Here’s how you can plan your itinerary to explore the best that Delhi has to offer, in just two days:

7.00 am – 8.00 am : Capture the most iconic attractions on the Rajpath

Rajpath | 2 Days Itinerary for Delhi

Start your first day in the capital a little early to capture the true essence of the political seat that it is before the traffic hits the road. Take a morning walk or drive along the Rajpath to explore the best of the best in Lutyen’s Delhi and get the most amazing, sun-lit pictures in front of landmark buildings.

What to see?

• Rashtrapati Bhawan
• Parliament House

Once you have covered everything on the boulevard, proceed to the Dil of Delhi – Chandni Chowk.

• By road : Approx. 20 minutes’ drive
• By metro : Central Secretariat to Chawri Bazar/Chandni Chowk (Yellow Line)

8.30 am – 1.00 pm : Indulge in gastronomic & cultural delights of Old Delhi

Old Delhi | 2 Days Itinerary for Delhi

Welcome to ‘food heaven’, just in time for breakfast! Go ahead and treat your taste buds with some ultimate desi flavours at any of the iconic food stalls hidden in the nooks and corners of Old Delhi. Old Delhi and Chandni Chowk is one of the must places to visit in Delhi . 

Where to go and what to eat?

• Lotan Chole Kulche Wala – Chole kulche
• Shyam Sweets – Halwa Nagori
• Jung Bahadur Kachori Wala – Kachori aloo and lassi
• Shiv Misthan Bhandar – Bedmi poori
• Paranthe Wali Gali – Stuffed paranthas

Stuffed much? Now, continue your sightseeing tour with a visit to Old Delhi’s heritage structures.

• Jama Masjid
• Havelis of Begum Samru, Mirza Ghalib & Zeenat Mahal
• Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib Ji

While you make your way through the madness to explore the many gems of Chandni Chowk, do not forget to take a break and sample some mouth-watering delicacies that every Delhiite swears by.

• Natraj Dahi Bhalle Wala – Dahi bhalle and aloo tikka
• Ashok Chaat Corner – Gol gappe and papdi chaat
• Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi Wale – Flavoured kulfi
• Giani’s Di Hatti – Rabri falooda
• Kanwarji’s – Quick bites &amp; desserts

Proceed to Red Fort (Lal Quila), which is located at a short walk from Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib Ji.

1.00 pm – 4.00 pm : Delve into the Mughal magnificence at Red Fort

Red Fort | 2 Days Itinerary for Delhi

It’s only fair to save the best for the last! Spend a few hours exploring the UNESCO-listed Red Fort .

• Entry Fee : INR 35 for Indians, INR 500 for Foreigners
• For Video Camera : INR 25
• Open till : 4.30 pm (Tuesday-Sunday)

End your trip through history and set out to explore CP – Delhi’s shopping & entertainment hub.

• By metro : Chandni Chowk to Rajiv Chowk (Yellow Line)

4.30 pm – 7.30 pm : Enjoy a shopping spree at Connaught Place

Connaught Place | 2 Days Itinerary for Delhi

When in Delhi, you definitely can’t miss out on shopping and there couldn’t be a better place to shop at than Connaught Place, popular as CP. Spend a few hours exploring its Inner Circle and Outer Circle that are lined with major brand outlets and finding some great buys at Janpath and Palika Bazar.

• Closed on : Sundays

7.30 pm onward : Relish scrumptious food, party or attend a live gig

Food, party or attend a live gig | 2 Days Itinerary for Delhi

With all the sightseeing and shopping, you would be tired by now so it is best to just kick back and go to any of the amazing nightlife places in Connaught Place for dinner, drinks or just hanging out!

Where to go?

• The G.T. Road
• Saravana Bhavan
• Parikrama – The Revolving Restaurant
• The Big Chill Café
• My Bar Headquarters
• Odeon Social

Call it a day when you wish and then, retire to your hotel in Delhi to get charged up for the next day.

10.00 am – 11.30 am : Visit the centuries-old Qutub Minar Complex

Qutub Minar | 2 Days Itinerary for Delhi

Start your second day in Delhi on a relaxing note; leave the hotel after breakfast and head straight to the world’s tallest brick minaret – Qutub Minar , which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

• Entry Fee : INR 30 for Indians, INR 500 for Foreigners, Free for children below 15 years
• For Still Camera : INR 25 (Non-commercial use)
• For Video Camera : INR 25 (Non-commercial use)
• Open till : 5.00 pm (Monday-Sunday)

After exploring the monument, proceed to Hauz Khas to further fascinate the history buff in you.

• By road : Approx. 15 minutes’ drive
• By metro : Qutab Minar to Hauz Khas (Yellow Line)

11.45 am – 2.00 pm : Explore the mystical ruins and quirky cafes of Hauz Khas

Hauz Khas | 2 Days Itinerary for Delhi

Spend an hour taking a stroll around the historic Hauz Khas Complex and explore the many remnants from the past scattered across it like Hauz Khas Lake (Royal Tank), a Lodhi-era mosque and a tomb.

• Entry Fee : None
• Open till : 7.30 pm (Monday-Saturday)

Post your tryst with the area’s beautiful past, get acquainted with its revving urban present. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at any of the fancy restaurants or cafes lined along the lanes of Hauz Khas Village .

Where to eat?

• Hauz Khas Social
• Yeti – The Himalayan Kitchen
• Mia Bella – Romantic Kitchen & Bar
• Vapour Bar Exchange
• The Tea Room from Blossom Kochhar
• Elma’s Bakery & Kitchen
• Kunzum Travel Café

Once you’re done with lunch, leave Hauz Khas and proceed to Lotus Temple for some peaceful time.

• By metro : Hauz Khas to Kalkaji Mandir (Magenta Line)

2.00 pm – 3.00 pm : Admire the architectural beauty of Lotus Temple

Lotus Temple | 2 Days Itinerary for Delhi

Witness the beautiful flower-shaped structure of Lotus Temple and spend some quiet time inside it.

• Open till : 5.30 pm (Tuesday-Sunday)

From here, head to Humayun’s Tomb in the eastern part of the city to continue with Dilli darshan.

• By metro : Nehru Place to JLN Stadium ( Violet Line )

3.30 pm – 4.30 pm : Capture the grand setting of Humayun’s Tomb

Humayun’s Tomb | 2 Days Itinerary for Delhi

Explore the structure that inspired years of Mughal architectural innovations including Taj Mahal.

• Entry Fee : INR 30 for Indians, INR 500 for Foreigners
• Open till : Sunset (Monday-Sunday)

After one of the best-preserved monuments, explore one of the most beautiful gardens in Delhi.

• By road : Approx. 10 minutes’ drive

4.45 pm – 5.30 pm : Take a stroll around the historical Lodhi Garden

Lodhi Garden | 2 Days Itinerary for Delhi

Drive further along the Lodhi Road to reach Lodhi Garden , a historical park dotted with many age-old structures like Bara Gumbad, Shisha Gumbad and tombs of Mohammed Shah and Sikandar Lodi.

• Open till : 7.30 pm (Monday-Sunday)

Get ready to enjoy some authentic street food and street shopping now at South Delhi markets.

• By road : Approx. 10-15 minutes’ drive
• By metro : JLN Stadium to Lajpat Nagar (Violet Line)

    Lajpat Nagar to Sarojini Nagar/South Ex (Pink Line)

5.45 pm – 8.00 pm : Indulge in street grubs and budget shopping

Budget Shopping | 2 Days Itinerary for Delhi

Before your final day in Delhi comes to an end, you must engage in some Delhi-style street shopping and sample some delicious street food items at any of the popular marketplaces of South Delhi.

• Lajpat Nagar
• Sarojini Nagar

Explore the colourful maze of shops and street food joints at the sprawling Central Market in Lajpat Nagar, head to South Ex for branded shopping or haggle your heart out at Sarojini Nagar market. End your Delhi tour at Dilli Haat to enjoy shopping, dining and cultural performances, all at one place.

• By road : Approx. 5-20 minutes’ drive
• By metro : Lajpat Nagar/Sarojini Nagar/South Ex to INA ( Pink Line Metro Route )

8.00 pm onwards : Experience the richness of Indian culture at Dilli Haat

Dilli Haat | 2 Days Itinerary for Delhi

There could not be a better place to mark an end to your trip than Dilli Haat, a one-stop destination to enjoy shopping for handicrafts and tasting delightful local foods from different states of India. The time spent in this rural setting before you return to your hotel will be something to remember by.

[showhotelbycity hotelcity=’New Delhi’]

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48-Hour Itinerary

48 Hours in Delhi: The Perfect Itinerary

Shraddha Gosavi / TripSavvy

Delhi, India's capital, is an evocative city of ancient and modern contrasts. Its many previous rulers have all left their mark, including many majestic monuments, there. What's so phenomenal is that least eight cities have preceded the Delhi of today. The first is believed to have been the settlement of Indraprastha, which featured in the great Hindu epic The Mahabharata. This text possibly dates back as far as 400 BC.​

Nowadays, Delhi is divided into two distinct parts — old and new. What's referred to as crumbling Old Delhi was the illustrious 17th-century city of Shahjahanabad, built for mighty Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. The British formed New Delhi in 1911 when they decided to move their capital there from Kolkata. They went on a construction spree, and this part of the city is orderly and well-planned, with many imposing government buildings. To the south of New Delhi, affluent South Delhi has leafy upscale residential neighborhoods, as well as some popular markets and significant historical attractions.

Only have a couple of days to explore Delhi? The best strategy is to divide and conquer — splitting your sightseeing into separate districts. Ease yourself into it by starting in South Delhi and leaving Old Delhi until your last day. This comprehensive itinerary for 48 hours in Delhi mixes heritage with spirituality, shopping, and delicious food! Do note that shops in Old Delhi's Chandni Chowk are closed on Sundays, and some monuments are closed on Mondays.

Although Delhi has an excellent Metro train system , for the sake of convenience it's easiest to hire a car and driver for the duration of your stay to get around. You'll be harassed much less too, as your driver will look after you. Just make sure you avoid getting stuck in heavy traffic in the mornings from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., and evenings from 5.30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Day One: Morning and Afternoon

Morning: Arrive in Delhi, check into your accommodations , and have lunch. If you're visiting India for the first time, choose one of these top Delhi bed and breakfasts for personalized assistance and service. Delhi also has some excellent boutique hotels and luxury hotels, if that's more your style. Alternatively, if you're on a budget, here are some inexpensive places to stay in Delhi.

2 p.m.: This afternoon will be devoted to exploring the sights of South Delhi, starting with Qutab Minar in Mehrauli. Many people are tempted to skip Qutab Minar because it's situated so far south, away from the city's other top attractions . However, it's a big mistake to do so. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most important places to visit in Delhi. Qutab Minar was built in 1206 and is the tallest brick minaret in the world. It's an incredible example of early Indo–Islamic architecture, with a mysterious history. (Entry fee: 600 rupees for foreigners and 40 rupees for Indians. Free for children under 15 years old).

3 p.m.: Adjacent to Qutab Minar and spread over 200 acres is Mehrauli Archaeological Park. Although it contains more than 100 historically significant monuments, it remains a lesser-known Delhi attraction. Each monument has a unique story to tell. Two highlights are the 16th century Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb, with its alluring architecture, and the ancient step well Rajon Ki Baoli . (Entry fee: Free for all).

Day One: Evening

4 p.m.:  Head over Hauz Khas Village, where hip meets medieval heritage, and spend the evening there. In case you're starting to feel fatigued, make Kunzum Travel Cafe your first stop ( T49 Hauz Khas Village .  Open 11 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. ​except Mondays).  Replenish yourself with coffee and cookies, and only pay what you like.

5 p.m. : While it's still daylight, check out some of the remarkable historical sites around Hauz Khas, conveniently located only meters away from Kunzum Travel Cafe. Hauz Khas (meaning "royal tank") gets its name from the 13th-century reservoir there, which is now encircled by a paved walking track. Of note near the edge of it are the remains of a fort, a 14th-century madrasa (an institution for Islamic learning), mosque, and tomb of Firuz Shah (who ruled over the Sultanate of Delhi from 1351 to 1388). The setting is particularly picturesque at dusk.

6 p.m.:  Return to Hauz Khas Village and wander through its atmospheric narrow lanes, admiring the colorful street art, and stopping by boutiques and art galleries of interest.

8 p.m.:  It's time to decide on a restaurant for dinner. For lip-smacking gourmet south Indian food try  Naivedyam  ( 1 Hauz Khas Village, near Cloud Showroom ) or Coast Cafe ( Above Ogaan, H2 Hauz Khas Village ). For modern Indian food, Auro Kitchen & Bar ( 31 DDA Shopping Complex, Aurobindo Place Market, Hauz Khas)  is recommended. Yeti The Himalayan Kitchen ( 30 Hauz Khas Village ) serves authentic Tibetan and Nepalese cuisine. Otherwise, Elma's Bakery Bar & Kitchen ( 31 Hauz Khas Village)  does decent Continental food.

10 p.m. : Depending on what night of the week it is, and how much energy you have, you may wish to kick on at a bar . Hauz Khas Village is a hot party place on weekends. Make sure you get enough rest though because the next day of sightseeing will require stamina! Top picks are Lord of the Drinks ( inside the Deer Park, Hauz Khas ) for a garden setting. Hauz Khas Social  ( 9A and 12 Hauz Khas Village ) for a lively ambiance. Summer House Cafe, Bandstand, or Auro Kitchen & Bar ( all located in Aurobindo Place Market just outside Hauz Khas Village ) for live music and DJs.

Day Two: Morning

7 a.m.: Rise and shine early, and start the day with a refreshing walk in Lodhi Gardens ( Lodhi Road, New Delhi ). As well as being a favorite morning destination of Delhi's local residents, Lodhi Gardens is home to a number of monuments, including tombs of 15th and 16th-century rulers. The gardens were built around them by the British in 1936. (Entry fee: Free for all).

8.30 a.m.: If you haven't had breakfast and are hungry, drop into The All American Diner at the India Habitat Center ( opposite Lodhi Gardens on Lodhi Road ). You'll feel like you've been transported back in time to the 1960s! Tuck into waffles, milkshakes, pancakes, cereal, oatmeal, pastries, eggs, bacon and sausages.

9.30 a.m.:  Proceed to  Humayun's Tomb ( Mathura Road, Nizamuddin East ) about 5 minutes away. It was built in 1570 and houses the body of Mughal emperor Humayun. The first Mughal architecture of its kind in India, its design inspired the more prominent Taj Mahal and you'll definitely notice the resemblance. (Entry fee: 600 rupees for foreigners and 40 rupees for Indians. Free for children under 15 years old).

10.30 a.m.: Nizamuddin Dargah *, the mausoleum of famous 14th century Sufi saint Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, is close by on Lodhi Road. It's surrounded by a fascinating but congested tangle of alleyways and has an ancient holy step well. A number of other historical figures, including Persian and Urdu poet Mirza Ghalib, are also buried in the tomb complex. If you don't want to brave the crowds to see it, and would rather do some clothes shopping, visit Anokhi's discount store ( Shop 13, Nizamuddin East Market, enter from Gate #9 . Closed Sundays ) instead. Anokhi sells women's clothing made out of gorgeous block-printed cotton fabrics. The discount store stocks factory seconds and end-of-line pieces at 35-50% less than 13th-centurymarket price.

11.30 a.m.: Continue your sightseeing at India Gate, about 10 minutes away on Rajpath. This iconic arch-shaped monument is a war memorial that honors the Indian soldiers who lost their lives in World War I. It was designed by British architect Edwin Lutyens, who was responsible for much of New Delhi's construction under British rule in the 1920s and 1930s. (Entry fee: Free for all).

*Do note that it's necessary to dress conservatively when visiting Nizamuddin Dargah and later on at Swaminarayan Akshardham, as they are places of worship. This means covering your upper arms and legs. It's also respectful to cover your head (with a handkerchief, scarf or shawl) inside Nizamuddin Dargah.

Day Two: Afternoon and Evening

 Shraddha Gosavi / TripSavvy

12.30 p.m.:  Have lunch at Connaught Place, New Delhi's financial and commercial precinct.  The menu at  Zaffran  ( Hotel Palace Heights, D-26/28, Inner Circle, Connaught Place ) features Punjabi and Mughlai specialties. Parikrama  ( 22 Antriksh Bhavan, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, Connaught Place ) is a revolving restaurant with city views, serving Indian and Chinese food. Astonishing Junkyard Cafe ( 91 N Block, Outer Circle, Connaught Place ) is full of re-purposed and up-cycled trash. Also, check out some recommendations of what to eat in Connaught Place.

1.30 p.m.:  Drive 20 minutes to Swaminarayan  Akshardham  ( NH 24, Akshardham Setu, New Delhi. Closed Mondays),  on the other side of the Yamuna River. This sprawling Hindu temple complex, with its thematic gardens, is an architectural marvel. Ideally, half a day or more should be devoted to seeing it all, but this isn't possible due to time constraints. Do be aware that umbrellas, luggage, toys, food, and electronic items aren't permitted inside. This includes cameras and cell phones. There is a cloakroom where you can leave them but the line may be long. (Entry fee: Free for all. However, tickets are required for the exhibitions and multimedia water show).

4 p.m.:  Arrive at Gandhi Smitri ( 5 Tees January Marg, New Delhi. Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Mondays ). It takes about 25 minutes to get there from Akshardham, so make sure you leave the temple by 3.30 p.m. Gandhi Smriti is where Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated on January 30, 1948. The room that he slept in has been kept exactly how he left it. There are also plenty of photos, sculptures, paintings, and inscriptions on display. (Entry fee: Free for all).

5 p.m.:  Spend the evening at  Dilli Haat  ( opposite INA Metro Station, South Delhi. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. ), which has been set up by the government to provide a platform for artisans to come and sell their wares. It gives the feel of a traditional weekly village market (called a haat ). Cultural performances and food from the various states in India are added attractions. It's a fantastic place to pick up souvenirs and eat. (Entry fee: 100 rupees for foreigners and 30 rupees for Indians. 20 rupees for children). If you want to shop for cheap clothes, stop by  Sarojini Nagar market  ( closed Mondays ) where you'll find export surplus brand names at throwaway prices. Follow these  tips for bargaining  to get the best deals.

Day Three: Morning

Having had a couple of days to settle in and acclimatize, it's now time to tackle Old Delhi. In contrast to spacious New Delhi, this chaotic and crumbling area teems with life. It's easy to become overwhelmed. Hence, consider taking a guided tour to make your explorations more manageable. There are many to choose from, depending on your interests. It's advisable to get an early start to avoid the masses as much as possible. Old Delhi really becomes intense and noisy after 11 a.m.

6.30 a.m.: If you're an active person, go on one of the Delhi by Bicycle tours of Old Delhi (daily, 6.30 a.m. to 10 a.m. including a stop for breakfast). There are three tours available, each focusing on different aspects of Old Delhi. The cost is 1,865 rupees per person.

8 a.m.: If you'd prefer to begin your day in a more sedate manner, try a two or three-hour walking tour of Old Delhi. If you're a foodie, take the Old Delhi Breakfast Trail offered by Delhi Food Walks (daily, 8 a.m. to 11 a.m) or Old Delhi Food Trail offered by Delhi Magic ( daily, 10 a.m. to noon ). If you're keen on experiencing the markets in Chandni Chowk, Delhi Magic also runs an Old Delhi Bazaar Walk ( daily except Sundays, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. ). The former street children of Salaam Balak Trust do a wonderful job of guiding this Old Delhi Walk , which ends at the shelter home where they once lived ( daily except Sundays, 9 a.m. to noon ). The early morning Old Delhi Bazaar Walk and Haveli Visit offered by Masterji ki Haveli is also recommended.

Don't Want to Take a Tour?

Get your driver to drop you off at the gigantic sandstone 17th century Red Fort ( sunrise until sunset, daily except Mondays ) at the end of Chandni Chowk. The fort served as the residence of Mughal rulers for nearly 200 years, until 1857. Inside, there's a war museum, some shops, palace ruins, and a little-known step well. If you're going to Agra, you might want to skip the Red Fort in favor of Agra Fort, which is more impressive. This is especially so if you're short on time and/or money. (Entry fee: 600 rupees for foreigners and 40 rupees for Indians. Free for children under 15 years old).

Next, cross the main road to Jama Masjid ( daily, 7 a.m. until prayers at noon ), which is India's largest mosque. You can climb the narrow staircase of one of its minaret towers for a captivating view over the city. (Free to enter. However, it costs 100 rupees to climb the tower and 300 rupees for cameras).

Now, walk along Chandni Chowk until you reach the Sis Ganj Gurudwara (Sikh temple) and Golden Mosque. Turn left from there and you'll enter Kinari Bazaar, which specializes in everything you can think of for weddings. Keep going straight along Chandni Chowk until you reach Fatehpuri Masjid at the end of the road. Turn right onto Khari Baoli Road and enter the biggest wholesale spice market in Asia. Gadodia Market, nearby, is where most of the spice shops are situated.

Delhi Itinerary – How To Spend 1 Day In Delhi

Posted on Last updated: 25 April 2024

Categories India , Itineraries

The large city of Delhi is located in northern India on the banks of the River Yamuna. One of Delhi city’s 11 districts is New Delhi which is the capital of India.

Home to more than 33 million people, Delhi is one of the most populated cities in the world.

Famous for its rich history and cultural heritage this vibrant city is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The city is packed with historical buildings, museums, mosques, bazaars and spice markets, alongside modern buildings, skyscrapers and luxury shopping emporiums, making Delhi a fascinating city to explore.

Building a one day in Delhi itinerary is tough, as there’s so much to see and do. So we’ve narrowed down all the best parts, into how to do Delhi in a day.

Table of Contents

How To Get Around Delhi

Delhi is a large city and you have a few different options to get around it.

With a population of over 32 million people, Delhi is a city full of pedestrians.

And with the population density bursting at the seams, this means traffic, congestion, and crowds.

So there are many times you will get to places faster on foot, than by vehicle. Especially if you haven’t got far to go.

Taxi/Tuk Tuk

Jumping in a rickshaw (tuk tuk) is a great option if your legs are feeling tired.

Quick trips are usually cheap and shouldn’t cost more than 50 rupees, but be sure to negotiate a price before getting in the vehicle.

Regular taxi’s are available and should operate on a metre.

App-based taxi services like Uber and Ola also operate in Delhi.

The Delhi Metro is a fast and reliable mode of transport that connects all areas of the city. Making it a popular choice with locals and tourists.

It provides a great way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks such as the Red Fort and India Gate, which are all easily accessible via the metro.

One Day Metro Card : 150 Rupees.

A perfect example of this is the Private Tour: Old And New Delhi City Sightseeing Tour .

With this option you get an air conditioned vehicle and a driver for the day, and get to see the best of Delhi in a private, customisable 8-hour tour.

Simply tell your driver which sites you’d like to visit, and enjoy complete flexibility as you visit museums, bazaars, and anything else that interests you.

Some of the best days out we’ve had have been on private tours.

For those short on time, or that prefer everything to be organised for them, there are some awesome tours on Get Your Guide available to book in advance.

From food tours, to river rides and walking tours, there’s plenty to keep you busy in this bustling city!

Best Time To Visit Delhi

Delhi lies between the Himalayas and the Thar Desert which means it experiences some quite extreme weather.

The most popular time to visit is during the winter, which starts around mid November through until the end of February.

This is when temperatures are generally at what some people would call a pleasant 24°C during the day and it’s cool at night for sleeping.

Remember, this is just a guide, so you may want to mix it up and add/subtract different attractions.

What To Pack

Photography Camera

Reusable Water Bottle

Lightweight Rain Jacket

Delhi Itinerary Day 1

The red fort.

The first stop on your one day in Delhi itinerary, has to be The Red Fort.

One of the most historic forts in India, The Red Fort served as the main residence of the Mughal Emperors for nearly 200 years and now remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.

Built from 1639 – 1648, (it took a total of 8 years, 10 months and 25 days) this private house was constructed by Shah Jahan for private residence of his daughter.

Now The Red Fort can be visited by tourists and locals from Tuesday to Sunday between 9.30am – 4.30pm. The Fort is closed on Mondays.

Tickets for the Red Fort can be combined with a 3-Hour Old Delhi Heritage Walking Tour With Rickshaw Ride .

Also, every year on the Independence day of India (15 August), the Prime Minister hoists the Indian “tricolour flag” at the main gate of the fort and delivers a nationally broadcast speech from its ramparts.

Walk around, take photos, and dive into the culture of one of the top things to see in Old Delhi in a day.

Depending on your time restraints, a lot of people choose to visit Taj Mahal from Delhi too, but that is a full day trip.

Chandni Chowk

From The Red Fort it’s just a 5 minute walk to explore the streets of Chandni Chowk!

Chandni Chowk is a busy market area full of spices, dried fruit, silver jewellery and vivid saris. And while the narrow side streets are crowded, they make for one hell of an experience!

From the spice markets to the rooftops this is the rawest places you’ll see on your one day in Delhi itinerary.

A great way to experience both The Red Fort and Chandni Chowk is to combine them with the: 3-Hour Old Delhi Heritage Walking Tour With Rickshaw Ride .

This tour allows you to walk through the streets and bazaars of Old Delhi in a day, and experience traditional Indian lifestyles. Then visit the Jama Masjid mosque, Red Fort and the Chandni Chowk market. Before enjoying a short ride by rickshaw back to the spice market.

Otherwise, if you would like a a more in depth food tour, there’s the: Eat Like a Local: Chandni Chowk Street Food and Walking Tour .

Designed for the foodies, this walking tour is the perfect way to sample the best street food and snacks Delhi has to offer. Allowing you to taste over ten different traditional drinks and dishes, including seasonal specials!

Eat Local Street Food

The first thing you’re going to want to do on your India itinerary is try the cuisine!

So we recommend exploring the streets on your one day in Delhi itinerary, and getting stuck into the local snacks.

But what is Delhi Chaat? – Chaat is a savory snack originated in India, typically served at the road-side from stalls or food carts.

With its origins in Uttar Pradesh, chaat has become immensely popular in the rest of the Indian subcontinent.

From the traditional samosas, to the Asian inspired momos, go out and grab some cheap street food!

One of the top ways to do so is on an Old Delhi Street Food Tasting Tour . You’ll experience the culture of India through the vibrant street food scene of Old Delhi, with this tasting tour of local on-the-go snacks.

Plus you get to travel from location to location by rickshaw and experience the city like a local.

We couldn’t get enough of the Indian spices, and we’re sure you’ll love them too on your Delhi in a day tour!

Experience The Nightlife

If you’re one day in Delhi itinerary ends up on a weekend, then we recommend heading out to experience the Delhi nightlife.

We are not party goers at all when we travel, but after speaking to some friends at our accommodation we thought why not give it a go.

It was such a random experience, but we ended up dancing to Punjabi music until the early hours. Don’t ask us where, but it was an evening of laughs and certainly rounded off the madness of exploring Delhi in a day.

Many of Delhi’s best bars are centrally located on the Outer Circle of Connaught Place, so jumping in a rickshaw or taxi is easy enough.

Partying in one of the most populated cities in the world – why not? If you’re in Delhi then this has to be one of the best things to do in India .

Where To Stay In Delhi

The Metropolitan Hotel & Spa

A 5-minute drive from Connaught Place, The Metropolitan Hotel & Spa New Delhi features an outdoor pool and 3 dining options.

Situated in New Delhi’s city centre, it also offers a fitness centre and spa.

The Metropolitan Hotel & Spa is 0.6 miles from New Delhi Railway Station, 550 yards from Airport Express Metro Station (Shivaji Stadium) and 7.5 miles from Delhi International Airport.

Stylish air-conditioned rooms feature Indian motifs. Equipped with an iron and a flat-screen TV with cable channels, they also come with a minibar.

Private bathrooms feature bath and shower facilities, free toiletries from NeoVeda and a hairdryer.

The Prime Balaji Deluxe

Located just 100 yards from the New Delhi Railway Station, The Prime Balaji Deluxe @ New Delhi Railway Station operates a 24-hour front desk to assist guests at all hours.

It provides complimentary airport pick-up. Free WiFi access is available.

Each room here will provide you with a TV, air conditioning and a seating area. There is also a refrigerator.

Featuring a shower, private bathroom also comes with free toiletries. Extras include satellite channels.

Joey’s Hostel

Joey’s Hostel is located in New Delhi , just 400 yards from the Laxmi Metro Station. Free WiFi access is available.

Each room here will provide you with air conditioning. It comes with shared bathroom.

At Joey’s Hostel you will find a terrace and a shared kitchen.

Other facilities offered at the property include a shared lounge, a ticket service and a tour desk. The property offers free parking.

For more places to stay in Delhi, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com .

Planning Your Trip

Book your flight.

Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight.

They search websites and airlines around the globe to find you the best possible routes and prices.

Book Your Accommodation

Use Booking.com to find the best accommodation deals.

They consistently return the cheapest rates on everything from guesthouses to hotels for all of your budget needs.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Use SafetyWing to find the best travel insurance for you.

They provide travel and medical incident insurance built specifically for digital nomads.

Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.

Book Your Tours & Activities

Use GetYourGuide to book your activities in advance.

They sell the best tours, excursions and activities to attractions around the world.

Conveniently book, download and access your tickets on the move all from your mobile.

Book Your Rental Car

Use RentalCars.com to find the best deals on rental cars in the area.

They compare all major car rental companies and allow you to easily book the perfect vehicle for your trip.

Buy Those Last Minute Bits

Use Amazon to buy everything you need for your adventure.

They offer next day delivery and you can use my travel packing checklist to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything.

Pin It For Later

Rajat Kumar

Sunday 22nd of November 2020

You can't really miss visiting Chandani Chowk. That's a real essence of Delhi.

I hope you had amazing stay in Delhi during your journey.

Charlie Pauly

Thursday 28th of January 2021

Agreed! I had an epic time in Delhi, thank you!

Friday 27th of December 2019

Wonderful Image!! Nice list of places to explore near Delhi. Thanks for a marvelous posting I really enjoyed reading it, this post is very interesting and informative.

Must Visit Places in Delhi – 3 Days in Delhi Itinerary

India’s capital city, Delhi is the gateway for international holidaymakers entering the country, and the perfect place to start a tour of India. The fascinating mix of cultural heritage and colourful bazaars also attracts national tourists looking for a short break or a layover before travelling up to see the Taj Majal or Rajasthan. Visiting Delhi for a short time? Then follow our 3 days in Delhi itinerary, the easiest way to reach points of interest, the best places to visit in Delhi and places nearby within easy reach for a day trip.

So what is there to see? There are 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Delhi , 174 National Monuments, 30 museums, 20 main temples and hundreds of lesser known treasures. Add to this landscaped gardens, toss in lively markets and amazing street food, to get an idea of the dizzying megalopolis. Although you obviously can’t fit in everything, 3 days is long enough to see the main sights of Delhi, to enjoy the city vibe, and to take a day trip to visit cool places nearby.

Delhi is the gateway to India, a stepping-off point to reach the most famous site of Taj Majal in Agra or to explore Rajasthan’s exotic cities of Jaipur , Jodhpur and Jaisalmer. But before you start wandering afar, spend 2 or 3 days in Delhi itself and enjoy this vibrant potpourri of World Heritage Sites, browse the spice bazaars and stroll through the colonial gardens. Delhi is easy to see, just hail a tuk-tuk auto rickshaw to guide you through the bustling streets, embark on a colourful journey to discover the must-see places to visit.

This is a helpful itinerary for everyone that includes lots of useful advice, for those living in India and heading to Delhi for a short break, and also for tourists flying in from overseas. Even if you only have a one day stopover in Delhi before travelling on, there’s time to fit in the essentials on a quick tour of the city.

Follow our insider guide, a 3 days in Delhi itinerary to see the must visit places in India’s capital city. Allow 2 days for exploring Old Delhi itself, then go out for a day trip.

Connaught Place

Keoladeo national park, best time to visit delhi, 3 days in delhi itinerary – top places to visit.

An iconic heritage city and the capital of India , Delhi is hard to explore in a short time so I suggest spending at least 2 days here to discover the major points of attraction. Staying in Delhi for 3 days is perfect, as it gives you the chance to see nearby places of interest too. Let me guide you around my city and suggest some exciting day trips.

Local lady Simran Raju explains the best way to see the sights of Delhi, and as well as day trips to places nearby, on an easy 3 day itinerary. Discover how to get around Delhi, where to go and which places to visit, as well as trying genuine Delhi cuisine.

Delhi is a popular destination with so much to see and do, put it on your itinerary as it’s definitely worth a visit. Old Delhi has a rich historical heritage that is visible everywhere you go – the monuments, museums, art galleries, festivities and cultural activities alone, are enough to keep anyone occupied for months. So how long do you need in Delhi? With a carefully planned trip, 3 days will be enough to see the city sights and beyond. To make things easy, I have sketched out a three day itinerary, a bit tight but to the point, covering all the must-visit places in Delhi for a first time visitor.

Book a centrally located hotel. This will save you time, a must if you are in Delhi for only 2 or 3 days and want to see all the top sites. A central location does not necessarily mean an expensive stay. All types of accommodation are available from luxury to medium range or budget hotels, as well as Airbnb self-catering holiday apartments. If you are a solo traveller, there are some good hostel options in Delhi too.

Day One in Delhi Itinerary

1. Mahatma Gandhi Museum 2. Red Fort (World Heritage Site) 3. Jama Masjid 4. Chandni Chowk Market 5. Lakshmi Narayan Temple (Birla Mandir) 6. Jantar Mantar 7. Connaught Place

On your first day in Delhi, start off with a cultural visit to Mahatma Gandhi Museum and library. Browse the fascinating memorabilia of India’s late leader, then head over to famous Delhi Red Fort alongside River Yamuna. Pop along to admire the spectacular Jama Masjid Mosque before trying Delhi street food Chandni Chowk bazaar for lunch. Pick up some bargains in the fascinating market. Spend a peaceful hour in Birla Mandir Temple and gardens, and finally visit Jantar Mantar ancient observatory. End your first day in Delhi with a walk over to Connaught Place for dinner.

Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Museum

The National Gandhi Museum is the perfect place to start your itinerary of Delhi, an insight to the recent history of India through the memorabilia of the immortal ‘Father of the Nation’. A resource centre with a significant library, exhibition galleries and audiovisual department, it illustrates the works and philosophy of Gandhi.

Located in the Raj Ghat area of New Delhi near the Yamuna River, memorials to Mahatma Gandhi and the late Prime Ministers of India are set in parkland opposite the museum.

Opening Times Opens 10 am to 5 pm (closed Mondays). Entry Fee Entrance to the museum and library is free. How to Get to Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Delhi Gate metro station is the nearest stop (Violet Line). Distance 1 km, 15 minute walk. Alternatively, Jama Masjid or Red Fort metro stations on the same line.

Red Fort , Delhi

A must-see on your Delhi Itinerary is the famous Red Fort . High on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites, Red Fort is one of India’s top monuments and the most visited place in Delhi. This fortified palace was built in 1639 for Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan on the banks of River Yamuna, when he shifted his capital to Delhi from Agra. In fact, it was designed by the same architect who drew up the plans for the Taj Mahal.

Lal Quila ‘the red fortress’ gets its name from the red sandstone rampart walls and is the best spot to take your iconic photo shots against a background of Old Delhi. It is worth going inside the enclosure to see the Audience Hall, Diamond Palace and Pearl Mosque, the step-well and white marble hammam. A museum holds an assortment of precious artefacts. Since 1947, Red Fort is the famous symbol of Indian Independence Day, commemorated yearly on August 15 th when the PM raises the national flag.

Tip Get to the Red Fort early in the day before it gets too busy, and come back at nightfall to see the multimedia light show, one of Delhi’s major tourist attractions.

Opening Times for Lal Quila Red Fort Opens sunrise to sunset Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays).  Entry Fee Adult price tickets: Indian nationals ₹ 90; foreigners ₹ 950. Red Fort Light and Sound Show At sunset there is a show in Hindi. This is followed by an English performance at 7 pm (February to May), 9 pm (May to August), 8.30 pm (September to October), or 7.30 pm (November to January). Adult ticket costs ₹ 80. How to Get Here Chandni Chowk metro station on the Yellow Line is the nearest stop.

Jama Masjid

A kilometre to the west of Lal Quila in Old Delhi, you’ll find the eastern gate to one of India’s largest mosques, the famed Jama Masjid . Like the Red Fort, the walls surrounding Jama Masjid are made of the characteristic red sandstone quarried in Rajasthan, which was used by the Mughal rulers during the Delhi Sultanate to construct breathtaking monuments.

Dating to the mid 1600s, the temple’s façade is overlaid with white marble panels, at either side 2 tall thin minarets rise up, while the roof features 3 spectacular marble domes topped in pure gold. Inside the iconic mosque, black and white marble floors are covered with Persian carpets for devotees to kneel down and pray. Imagine 900 worshippers inside the temple, and a congregation of up to 25,000 outside in the courtyard for Friday prayers and you’ll have an idea of the dimensions, and importance of Jama Masjid.

Opening Times Opens every day for visitors from 7 am to noon, and 1.30 pm to 6.30 pm. Prayer time for Muslims from noon until 1.30 pm. Entry Fee Entrance is free. Small fee to go up the minarets. A photography permit costs ₹ 300. Dress Code Remove shoes before entering the mosque. Women should wear loose modest clothes that cover up (not trousers) or they can hire one of the gowns provided. How to Get Here Jama Masjid is the nearest Metro Station (Violet Line), otherwise it’s a 500 m walk from Chawri Bazaar station on the Yellow Line.

Chandni Chowk Market

Do you fancy wandering the markets of Old Delhi for some shopping? Busy Chandni Chowk street market bazaar is near Red Fort, so this is easy to fit into your Delhi itinerary. Designed in 1650 for Princess Jahan Ara Begum, legend tells of a plaza where moonlight reflects off the waters of an ornamental pool to refresh Indian hot summer nights.

Nowadays a thronging marketplace, the side streets and indoor markets around Chandni Chowk are full of stalls selling cheap clothes and bright saris, bangles and bags, and local handicraft, as well as household goods and electronic devices. The fresh food market is stacked with colourful fruit and vegetables, and spices.

Enjoy the best street food in the city while you’re here or try one of the neighbourhood eateries for lunch.

Opening Times Open 9.30 am to 8 pm, closed on Sundays. Free to enter. How to Get to Chandni Chowk Market Chandni Chowk metro station on the Yellow Line.

Lakshmi Narayana Temple (Birla Mandir)

Lakshmi Narayana Temple aka Birla Mandir is the Hindu Temple with distinctive Shikhara towers, located to the west of Connaught place in central Delhi. One of the most popular temples in Delhi and dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Birla Mandir was built less than a century ago in 1939. Everyone is welcome to enter this place of worship, and join in the mystic aarti rituals (mornings and evenings) where believers pass their hand over a flickering oil candle to cleanse their souls.

Explore the grand hall and side temples, see the shrines and statues, then spend a while in the peaceful gardens of Birla Mandir before continuing your Delhi itinerary.

Opening Times Open 4.30 am to 1.30 pm and 2.30 pm to 9.00 pm. Free Entrance *Camera and phones are not allowed inside the temple (free lockers). How to Get to Birla Mandir , Delhi. Located on Mandir Marg, west of Connaught Place. Nearest Metro Station is RK Ashram Marg (Blue Line); 1.8 km walk.

Jantar Mantar

New Delhi Jantar Mantar was the first of 5 astronomical observatories to be founded by Maharaja Jai Singhhi in the 18th century; the others can be found in the Indian cities of Jaipur, Ujjain, Mathura, and Varanasi. Worth a visit if you’re staying in Delhi, the ‘jantras’ were precise instruments devised to gauge time. Like a giant sundial which align to the stars, the Jantar Mantar was used to observe the celestial system.

Opening Times Open every day from sunrise to sunset. Entrance Fee ₹ 25 for Indian nationals, ₹ 300 for foreigners. How to Get Here New Delhi Jantar Mantar is located on Parliament St, Connaught Place. Patel Chowk Metro Station is the nearest stop (Yellow Line). Distance 0.55 km, 8 minute walk.

The famous Georgian buildings of Connaught Place circle Delhi’s Central Park, an instagrammable spot with an enormous Indian flag. Now renamed Rajiv Chowk, it was originally designed as a commercial and leisure hub in 1929, by British architect John Wood. The wealthy statesmen from across India with regal residences nearby, would shop in Connaught Place or visit the cinema theatres when motion movies first came out.

Not surprisingly, CP became a popular place for the elite to dine out. Some of the traditional establishments are still trading today although many of the premises are now classy restaurants, some with exclusive roof terraces overlooking the park.

Seven of the old city’s radial roads lead to Connaught Place so it is a huge focal point and easy to reach. Connaught Circus is the Outer Circle that rings the whole area. Several luxury hotels can be found in the vicinity, as well as pocket friendly eateries (both Indian and international cuisine) which are good choice for dinner on your Delhi itinerary. I recommend: ‘Sarvana Bhavan’ for South Indian cuisine, ‘Nizam’s’ for Mughlai food, ‘Bercos’ for Chinese and ‘Desi Vibes’ for some tasty North Indian cuisine.

Opening Times Delhi Central Park: Free entrance. Opens sunrise to sunset (later if concerts are taking place, when there may be a fee to attend). Restaurants and Retail Outlets: Check individual websites, but generally restaurant opening hours are from 11 am to 11 pm, with some after hours; stores from 10.30 am to 8 pm (closed Sundays). *At Palika Bazaar underground flea market tourists should beware of pickpockets. How to Get to Connaught Place Rajiv Chowk metro station on the Yellow Line and Blue Line.

Day Two in Delhi Itinerary

1. Akshardham Temple 2. Humayun’s Tomb (World Heritage Site) 3. Lotus Temple 4. Qutub Minar (World Heritage Site) 5. Rashtrapati Bhavan 6. Cabinet Secretariat 7. Rajpath 8. India Gate

Akshardham Temple is the perfect place to start day 2 of your Delhi itinerary, to spend an entertaining morning in the Hindu sanctuary. Early afternoon, it’s time to see Humayun’s Tomb World Heritage Site, then take a short trip to Delhi Lotus Temple for a few minutes of peace. The towering minaret of ancient Qutub Minar is the last UNESCO site on today’s itinerary, before turning back for a walk down the Rajpath , past the monumental Rashtrapati Bhavan and Cabinet Secretariat buildings, towards India Gate at sunset.

Akshardham Temple

The intricately carved pink sandstone and white marble Akshardham Mandir is the biggest temple in Delhi. Surprisingly, the ornate traditionally sculpted complex was built this century and opened doors in 2005. One of the city’s most popular attractions, the Akshardham Temple is a Hindu spiritual sanctuary which highlights the beauty of India’s ancient art, architecture and culture. Enter through the Welcome Gates, visit the Mandir Temple and Inner Sanctum, get blessed with ritual waters and then enjoy the entertaining exhibitions if you have time.

Two thematic gardens are designed to inspire wisdom – the Yogi Hriday Kamal garden is laid out to resemble a huge lotus flower while the ornamental Bharat Upavannd gardens feature a series of emblematic bronze statues which depict strength. The on-site food court serves Indian and international vegetarian meals and snacks in a hall that is fashioned after the ancient Cave Temples of Ellora .

Morning is the best time to visit Akshardham Temple, as soon as it opens to avoid the queues. Afternoons are also good, as this gives you a chance to see the magic fountain water show at sunset.

What to see:

• Swagatam Welcome Gates, Visitor Centre and Holy Footprints
• Akshardham Mandir Temple and Inner Sanctum Mandir Deities
• Abhishek Mandap and Ritual Blessing, Narayan Sarovar Holy Waters
• Hall of Values (Sahajanand Darshan) – 55 minutes
• Giant Screen Film (Neelkanth Darshan) – 45 minutes
• Cultural Boat Ride (Sanskruti Darshan) – 15 minutes
• Tematic Gardens
• Sunset Water Show

Tip Entrance cannot be pre-booked, the Akshardham Complex is popular with families so avoid public holidays as there will be queues waiting to get inside.

Opening Times Akshardham Temple Complex is open 10 am to 6.30 pm; Entrance to exhibitions 10 am to 5 pm; Musical Fountain water show at sunset (seasonal times). Closed Mondays. Entrance Fee Free entry to the Temple Complex; adult ticket to see the 3 Exhibitions costs ₹ 250, Musical Fountain water show ₹ 90; Donate ₹ 50 to take part in the Abhishek Ritual. * Photography is forbidden inside the temple (free facility to store mobile phones & cameras). Dress Code Modest clothing below the knees, covering upper arms, shoulders, chest and navel. Free saris available upon deposit. How to Get Here Akshardham Metro Station on the Blue Line – Distance 0.3 km, a 5 minute walk.

Humayun’s Tomb

Humayun’s Tomb is one of Delhi’s World Heritage Sites. A special place to visit on the banks of River Yamuna in south east Delhi, this palatial mausoleum surrounded by gardens later inspired the creation of the Taj Majal. Dating to 1570, the grand memorial was commissioned by a grieving Persian Queen on the death of her husband, the Mughal Emperor Humayun.

The first ‘tomb cum paradise garden’ to be built in India, it’s the resting place of the couple’s mortal remains along with many members of the royal family. The well preserved Mughal architecture combines Delhi’s typical red sandstone walls with marble panels and colonnaded interior, topped with a huge dome.

Opening Times Open everyday from sunrise to sunset. Entry Fees Entrance costs ₹ 40 Indian nationals, ₹ 600 foreigners. How to Get Here Humayun’s Tomb is located on Mathura Road (opposite Dargah Nizamuddin). Jangpura metro station on the Violet Line is the nearest stop. Distance 0.7 km, 35 minute walk.

Lotus Temple , Delhi

Delhi’s Lotus Temple is astonishing, whichever way you look at it. Twenty-seven petals covered with pure white marble panels are clustered to form a giant lotus flower bud. This is a Bahá’í House of Worship where people of all faiths and ethnicity are welcome. Enter through one of the nine doorways into the circular central hall. Nine is the symbolic number which inspires the Lotus Temple’s award winning 9-sided design. Nine pools encircle the temple which is set out in peaceful gardens.

This modern day complex, built in 1986 and powered by solar panels, is a contrast to the city’s other heritage sites.

Opening Times Open 8 am to 5 pm in winter, to 7 pm summertime, closed on Mondays. Entry Fee Free to enter. How to Get to Delhi Lotus Temple Okhla NSIC Metro Station is the nearest stop (Magenta Line). Distance 0.7 km, 8 minute walk. Alternatively, Kalkaji Mandir metro station (Magenta Line and Violet Line).

Qutub Minar

Qutub Minar is another emblematic site in Delhi that you have to see. This is Delhi’s oldest UNESCO heritage site, an ancient mosque dating to the end of the 12th century. The landmark minaret is a tiered fluted shaft which is ornately engraved with decorative motifs and Islamic inscriptions, and one of the earliest of its kind in South Asia.

The grey and red sandstone 5-storey ‘victory tower’ is a top tourist site, and the tallest brick minaret in the world (72.5 m). Visitors could once climb the 379 step spiral staircase to the top, however it now remains closed to the public for safety reasons.

There are more unique points of historical interest in the Qutb complex , including the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and Iron Pillar.

Opening Times Opens daily from sunrise to sunset, and evenings. Entrance Fee Indian residents ₹ 40, foreign visitors ₹ 600 (book online). How to Get to Qutab Minar Located in Mehrauli area (South Delhi). Qutab Minar metro station on the Yellow Line is the nearest stop. Distance 1.7 km, 25 minute walk.

Rashtrapati Bhavan and Central Secretariat

India’s most important presidential and government buildings can be seen on Raisina Hill in the centre of New Delhi, at the top of the Rajpath boulevard and facing down to India Gate.

Rashtrapati Bhavan is the nation’s grand Presidential Mansion, a huge palace of Edwardian Baroque design with decorative Indian detail. Dating to 1929, the estate is surrounded by 330 acres of landscaped gardens and park. A monumental four storey residence with 340 rooms grouped around inner courtyards with water features, it’s an imposing landmark on Delhi’s cityscape. The huge main dome of the President of India’s official residence and the monumental Jaipur Column standing out front, are major focal points which can be seen from afar.

Central Secretariat is the name of the 2 identical grandiose buildings each side of the Presidential Residence on Rajpath. This is where the Indian Government sits, and where the majority of Government Ministries have office. Together with Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Secretariat Building was part of the New Delhi development scheme which transformed the city centre in the 1900s. Of Indo-Saracenic design, you’ll notice the colonnaded façade and central dome.

Opening times and ticket prices to tour Rashtrapati Bhavan can be seen on the official site . Central Secretariat Metro Station is the nearest stop (Yellow Line). Distance 0.9 km, 13 minute walk.

The Rajpath Kingsway

Stroll along the Rajpath boulevard which connects the Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate, a ceremonial avenue once known as the Kingsway. It’s a 30 minute stroll through a city green belt of tree shaded lawns and waterways, surrounded by parks and gardens. Alternatively, watch the sites as you drive by in a rickshaw.

End your day at India Gate just before sundown, and watch Delhi’s most emblematic landmark light up at night.

India Gate is an imposing structure, a triumphal archway 45 metres high. Built in 1921 by the Imperial War Graves Commission to honour the Indian and British soldiers who lost their lives during World War 1 and the Anglo-Afghan war, there are 13,516 names inscribed on it.

Move closer to Delhi Memorial and you will see 4 eternal burning flames on a black marble podium known as Amar Jawan Jyoti. These remain constantly alight as a gesture of respect towards the martyrs.

Opening Times Always open. Free entrance How to Get to India Gate Central Secretariat metro station on the Yellow Line is the nearest stop. Distance 0.9 km – it’s a 10 minute walk along the Rajpath boulevard from the station.

Day 3 in Delhi Itinerary – Day Trips to Places of Interest Near Delhi

Make the most of a 3 day trip to Delhi with an outing to one best places to visit nearby. There are wonderful nature parks and historical sites to see within a 200 km radius which you can do on a day trip by road or train.

Day trips from Delhi to include in a 3 day itinerary.

Other fabulous destinations that you can do, but which really merit an overnight stay or weekend away include the Hill Stations of Uttarakhand or the UNESCO ‘pink city’ of Jaipur.

Here’s our choice of 2 separate day trips from Delhi that you’ll never forget.

A day trip to the Taj Mahal is entirely possible from Delhi, if you start off early. The epic way is to arrive on the Taj Express train.

By far the most famous site in India, Taj Majal is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World . While many tourists include it on a longer tour of the country, you can easily visit Agra to see the Taj Mahal on a day trip from Delhi. An organised tour takes around 2 hours but if you’re coming here independently, spend the whole morning or afternoon depending on the entrance ticket time.

Taj Majal is magnificently set beside River Yamuna as it passes through Agra, a city some 200 kilometres from Delhi in the Indian State of Uttar Pradesh. An iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most photographed monuments on the planet, millions of people visit the Taj Majal every year, and most of them travel here from Delhi!

The Taj Majal complex is protected by towering red sandstone walls, in a similar way to Agra Fort (1.6 km to the west along the riverbank). Walk through the outer courtyard and through the main gateway and you’ll be stunned by the sight… the beautiful white marble dome shimmers in the sunlight, standing behind landscaped gardens of water features and lawns, a mosque guarding each side of the structure. This is the famous scene where the Taj reflects on the cypress fringed watercourse, a picture perfect moment to capture, special place to visit once in a lifetime.

Influenced by Persian, Islamic and Indian design, the Taj Majal was created in 1631 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahān as a mausoleum for his beloved wife who tragically died in childbirth. The couple rest side by side eternally in the exquisitely embellished tomb chamber which you can contemplate under the immense marble cupola.

Opening Times CLOSED FRIDAYS. Open 6 days a week from sunrise to sunset. Entrance Fee Morning entrance ticket valid until 12 noon or afternoons valid from 12 – 6 pm. India nationals ₹ 245 (₹ 145 Taj Majal ticket + ₹ 200 Mausoleum); Foreign visitors ₹ 1250 (₹ 1050 Taj Majal ticket + ₹ 200 Mausoleum); Free entrance for all children under 15 years of age. * Prices checked June 2022. * Tickets not currently available at the gates, should be booked online due to covid normatives. More information and online tickets on the Indian Ministry of Culture web site .

Best ways to get to the Taj Majal from Delhi for a one day trip

• The Gatimaan Express is the quickest and easiest way to reach Agra from Delhi. Leaves Hazrat Nizamuddin station at 8.10 am and arrives Agra 9.50 am. Get a prepaid taxi to/from the station at each end). Book train tickets in advance online from Indian Railways or at the OFFICIAL International Tourist Bureau at New Delhi railway station. One-way fare costs ₹ 755 or ₹ 1485. *Other trains travel this route, check timings and prices.
• Hiring a chauffeur driven car is the most expensive option but you can tailor your tour from Delhi to Agra, to include stops at the ancient cities of Mathura and Vrindavan on the way.
• Coaches typically depart from Delhi at 6 am and return around 10.30 pm. Guided tours generally stop at the Taj Majal for 2 hours, and visit other sites of interest in Agra and places of interest along the way. *Prices may not include entrance tickets.
• The fastest bus takes at least 3 hours to reach Agra from Delhi, depending on traffic conditions.
• Drive for Delhi to Agra along the Yamuna Expressway or National Highway 2 (distance 204 km). Check for road closures.

Useful info for visiting the Taj Majal on a day trip from Delhi

Make sure you have your ticket printout and passport (foreigners) or Indian identity card. Avoid carrying a large bag, a small backpack is sufficient. Food, snacks, drinks, cigarettes, and anything that may cause litter, are not allowed inside the Taj Mahal (you may bring a bottle of water). Other prohibited items include electronic devices include phone chargers (just bring your mobile phone and camera). You must wear shoe covers or enter barefoot.

Tip Weekends and public holidays are the busiest days, Mondays tend to be quieter.

Keoladeo National Park aka Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is a beautiful getaway from Delhi. Located in Rajasthan state, Bharatpur is 182 kilometres away from Delhi which makes it a doable day trip by train or by road. Listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, Keoladeo National Park is one of India’s top bird sanctuaries and a breeding ground for an important population of native birds and waterfowl, as well as a large number of migratory species.

Originally a royal duck hunting ground in the 1800s, the park is now a protected haven with more than 20,000 nesting birds. An ecosystem of wetlands surrounded by fresh water swamps, woods and grassland, this is the habitat of some 375 species which includes pelicans, ibis, spoonbills, storks, cormorants and herons. An authentic haven for birdwatchers, the best months to observe migratory birds is the winter season, October through to February.

Open every day from sunrise to sunset, you can walk along the paths at leisure or enjoy a guided tour of the reserve in a rickshaw. Follow this with a visit to nearby Bharatpur city, where you can see Bharatpur Palace and Museum, Ganga Mandir Temple, and Lohagarh Fort.

How to get to Bharatpur from Delhi By rail: This is the quickest and easiest way to travel between Delhi and Bharatpur. Express trains depart Delhi Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station and reach Bharatpur in roughly 2 hours. Catch an early train if you want to see the bird sanctuary at dawn, otherwise get the 7 o’clock morning express to be there by nine-thirty. Prices vary enormously but expect to pay ₹ 1255 for a seat in a 1 st class A/C carriage. From Bharatpur Junction, hire an auto rickshaw or taxi to Keoladeo National Park which is 5 km away. By road: Driving from Delhi to Bharatpur takes over 4 hours. Fastest route along the Yamuna Expressway (243 km), although there are other routes. Check for road closures. Ideally, add Bharatpur to a 3-day road trip itinerary from Delhi to include Agra and Jaipur, either self-drive, car hire with private driver, or organised coach tour.

Useful Information for a New Delhi Itinerary

Always check any specific entry regulations on the official websites, as well as timings which tend to be seasonal according to daylight hours. Attractions may be closed on certain dates, and prices mentioned in this guide subject to variation. Verify train routes, or road distances and conditions in advance.

Typical Food in Delhi

Delhi has a good selection of international eateries but do try the local cuisine while you’re here. The most popular street foods are chole bhature, kebabs, rolls, gol gappa, and samosa. For an authentic Mughlai meal order butter chicken or biryani served with parantha flatbread, and Kulfi for a sweet dessert.

How to Get to Delhi

Travelling by train is a great way of getting to Delhi from other parts of the country. India has an excellent rail network which reaches the cities, small towns, sometimes even villages. Railway stations can be bit chaotic but rail journey is comfortable. Go for air-conditioned compartments, particularly if you’re contemplating an overnight journey. Shatabdi and Rajdhani are premium trains to look out for, if they are on your route. Do book train travel in advance, closer to the date they may be fully booked and there are high chances of getting wait-listed.

Alternatively, those who live within easy reach of the city can drive here in their own car or arrive by coach. A road trip is a good idea for holidaymakers combining Delhi with a trip to nearby destinations such as Jaipur, Agra or the hill stations in Himachal Pradesh – car rental is an idea if you’re confident driving, otherwise hire a vehicle with a professional driver to take you around.

Getting to Central Delhi from Delhi International Airport (CCU)

The modern Delhi Airport Metro Express runs on the Orange Line between city centre New Delhi Metro Station and IGI Airport Terminal 3. This is the fastest way to do the journey taking only 20 minutes. Maximum fare for a single journey is ₹ 60, less depending where you wish to stop. First train leaves the airport at 4.45 am, last train at 11.30 pm either way, frequency 10 to 15 minutes. Ticket counters at Metro Stations, and ticket machines in Terminal 3, or outside Terminal 1 Arrivals Hall. Terminal 2 is a 5 minute walk from T3.

Delhi Metro Magenta Line stops at IGI Airport Terminal 1 (domestic low cost carriers). From New Delhi Metro Station, take the Yellow Line and change lines at Hauz Khas Metro Station for T1.

Tip Bear in mind commuter rush hours are between 8.30 and 10.30 mornings, or 5.30 and 8 pm evenings, when planning transport options.

Pre-Paid Metered Taxi The pre-paid taxi booths are located inside the airport – purchase tickets from the official government controlled, around-the-clock taxi service. Journey from IGI Airport takes approx. 30 minutes to central Delhi but can be longer depending on traffic.

Rideshares Uber and Ola Cabs are available at Delhi Airport through their respective apps.

Getting around Delhi

Delhi’s transport is one of the best in the world! Name a transport, we have it! Rickshaws, autos, local taxis, Uber, car rental for a day, metro and public bus. Delhi Tourism also operates the HoHo Hop On Hop Off tourist bus.

Best Areas to Stay in Delhi

There is a huge selection of accommodation in Delhi to suit and prices vary wildly. If you are on a shoe-string budget Paharganj area, near the Main Bazaar and New Delhi Station, is a good choice. Those with reasonable budgets can go with Karol Bagh, a residential area which is close to Old Delhi, great for shopping and restaurants, and conveniently close to major metro stations. If luxury is your style, then choose a central hotel near Connaught Place, or South Delhi which is one of the posher neighbourhoods.

The best times to visit Delhi are the months from September to early November and then from late January to March.

• Autumn: October and November is the best time to visit Delhi, when the weather is warm with cooler nights.
• Winter: December to February are warm during the day and cold at night. It’s the worst time for smog.
• Spring: in Februray and March the weather is pleasantly warm with cooler evenings.
• Summer: April and May are the hottest months with temperatures reaching 45ºC
• Monsoon: June to September, expect heavy rain which moderates the temperature.

Currency: Indian Rupees commonly written as INR or with the symbol ₹.

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1 day visit to Agra to see the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World! I caught the Taj Express, the superfast train from Delhi to Agra which leaves Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station first thing in the morning, for an overnight trip.

2 days in Jaipur – What to see in Pink City

Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan, the famous Pink City in North India. So, what can you see on a 2 day trip to this UNESCO World Heritage City? The Wind Palace and Amber Fort are extraordinary, and I just love those silk saris in the bazaar…

2 days in Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Discovering Jodhpur – What to see if you are staying for 2 days in Blue City, Rajasthan.

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Udaipur – what to see in a 2 day visit to this stunning Lake City in Rajasthan, India. I planned to get an overnight train from Jodhpur travelling south through Rajasthan province to Udaipur but there wasn’t a rail connection. However, the sleeper bus was really comfortable and a convenient alternative, quite luxurious…

2 days in Mumbai – What to see in India’s mega city

Formerly known as Bombay, Mumbai is the financial capital of India.

Although you can see the main sites in a day, it’s worth spending 2 or 3 days in India’s mega city! 

Yes, the traffic is horrific and the air pollution high, it is also extremely hot but even so, Mumbai is just magical…

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8 Comments:

I hadn’t realized just how much there was to do in Delhi. What a fantastic itinerary you’ve put together. I wonder where the name Connaught came from. My Irish ancestors were Connaughts.

Lovely! I spent some time in Delhi on a trip to India about 15 years ago, so this blog brings back some memories.

Wow, I had no idea Delhi had so much to see – and the Lotus Temple looks AMAZING! definitely adding this to my bucket list.

I love it when a post makes me want to travel to a new place. I’ve never been to India and now I have to add it to my list this is a super helpful guide.

What a great itinerary, I haven’t been to Delhi but my husband has. I hope we can return together one day.

Delhi is a beautiful city. I have lived in Delhi for a couple of years (around 13 years ago), and Connaught place is one place that makes me nostalgic even today.

Wow – these buildings are all so epic in scale and beautiful in their detail. I’ve only seen a couple of these in picture before. I always wonder what it must be like to live someplace like this and how long it takes to get used to seeing these daily.

Awesome I enjoyed reading your blog post. The places listed here on this blog are too good. Good job,

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3 Days in Delhi: The Perfect Travel Itinerary to Explore India’s Capital

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New Delhi, India’s amazing capital city, has a lot of offer for all types of travellers from across the globe. Having travelled to Delhi multiple times, we thought of composing this blog post about Delhi Travel Itinerary and show you the best way to explore Delhi.

In this post you will find -

Delhi, a city with a ‘heart’

It is very prevalently said, ‘ Dilli hai Dilwaalon ki ’, implying that Delhi belongs to people with a heart!! Tourism thrives here merely due to this; incredible but true ; everyone is enthusiastically ready at all times and willingly give out their helping hand. And even after being a large cosmopolitan city, Delhi has beautifully embraced all cultures, traditions, religions and customs with open arms and made them their own. Due to these numerous factors, Delhi is today a lovely union of all. Though for a tourist exploring around this beautiful green city, the city can be pretty diverse and exhilarating.

Brief History of Delhi

A very strategically located city, Delhi has always held a position of political importance and, has witnessed the rise and fall of numerous empires. Believed to be in existence as an ancient city in the 6th century, but, detailed reporting is available only since the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate of the 12th century. It is alleged to be a City built, destroyed and rebuilt, innumerable times. Thus, Delhi has numerous monumental remains all around the city, sweet and sour reminders of our past.

Delhi’s pride lies in the many beautiful historical monuments , which are immeasurable in all aspects.

How to reach Delhi

Air : Delhi is very well connected by Air. Being the capital city of the country, all major International and Domestic destinations have flights operating from the two airports located here

Rail : Domestically, India boasts of the world’s largest network of railways connects. Delhi is well linked to the whole country. It has three important railway stations

Road : A well-planned network of National Highways link Delhi to all destinations. Both Private and Public transport is also readily available in forms of buses, taxis, Ola, Uber etc.

ALSO READ: Top 11 Weekend Road Trips from Delhi

Within the city : Delhi also has a very well laid out transport system within the city – Metro train service/ taxi service/ bus/ auto-rickshaw etc are all easily assessable.

Best time to visit Delhi

Usually the first City stopover on a trip to India, Delhi is a much-visited destination both by Sightseeing and Corporate travellers. The corporate travellers are there throughout the year but, the ideal or the best season for a tourist is before and after winters. The weather gets extreme both too hot in summer and too cold in winter, thus September to mid-December and mid-January to early April are perfect to plan out a Delhi Travel Itinerary and, enjoy the majestic historical city and merge in its beauty and cultural diversity.

Top 10 Travel Tips for Delhi

• Always carry drinking water
• Local Markets are always fun to bargain while shopping
• Be alert and careful of personal belonging
• Bargain and Pre agree to prices with Taxis, auto rickshaws
• Dress appropriately, as summers can be scorching hot and winters harsh. If visiting any Holy Shrine, please cover your heads with a scarf.
• Try local Indian Food
• Carry Hand Sanitizer, Face Masks and Tissues
• Carry smaller denominations of local cash
• Reside in a centrally located hotel
• Avoid to travel alone late at night

Planning an Ideal trip to Delhi

It would be being completely unfair if we specify a set time frame to see this beautiful city. I have been living here since birth, but still amazingly get to experience new treasures, very often.

Delhi is encircled by a diverse history and is culturally rich; we get to see an ultra-modern city, as well as an ancient city, through its well-preserved monuments. We find plenty of wide roads and beautifully manicured parks and gardens. There is an extreme end of pollution, traffic and congested market places; to the other end are the most beautifully laid out farmhouse and bungalows. It has fancy apartments and skyscrapers too…. Delhi has it all and, more.

To get the best of this beautiful city, we need to spend at least three days in Delhi . Keeping in mind that as a tourist one gets the optimum exposure and the feel of the city, it is suggested to follow the ideal itinerary below, which also lists out places of interest, which of course, can be managed as per own convenience too.

The optimum way to travel locally and around Delhi is best on your own, please as far as possible avoid set tour operators. Public transport in Delhi is very cheap, convenient and very easily assessable. Do not forget to try the world famous Auto rickshaw ride around the city.

A Perfect 3-Day Delhi Travel Itinerary

To get the best of the local sightseeing and the city, in the least amount of time, it is best to opt for the ‘Delhi Darshan’ trip on the HOHO bus. It is a Delhi Tourism Hop On, Hop Off, AC Tour Bus. This single/ two day tour takes one around the city covering over 25 of the major tourist attractions like monuments, museums and markets. They also drive pass some of the important buildings and offices. In this very economical, convenient mode, one has the comfort and liberty, and is not bound to anyone.

The Must Visit Stopovers should be:

Raj Ghat – a black stone platform is a memorial built to honour Mahatma Gandhi, father of the nation. Gandhiji or Bapu, as he is fondly referred to, was cremated here and today this peaceful complex is maintained with beautiful and manicured parks surrounding the cenotaph. Open: All days; Timing: 5 am – 7.30 pm; Entry free

Lotus Temple – an architectural marvel, beautifully built in the shape of a blooming lotus flower, comprises of 27 free-standing marble-clad petals arranged in clusters of three to form nine sides. It is an All Baha’i Houses place of worship, and has no pictures, statues or images, as per their scriptures. Open: Tuesday – Sun; Timing: 9 am – 5.30 pm; Entry free

And, for those interested in museums, do visit the Doll, National Rail, Crafts and Hastkala Academy, Archaeological, Natural History, Modern Art, Air Force, Philatelic, National Science Centre, Nehru Memorial and National Museum.

The Drive Pass will take us through the regal Rajpath in Lutyens Delhi [the ceremonial boulevard of Delhi], India Gate [often compared to Arc de Triomphe, it is a war memorial], National War Memorial, Rashtrapati Bhawan [the President of India’s residence], The Parliament House, different Government of India’s Ministry buildings, AIIMS, the Embassy Road in Chanakyapuri. An early riser can witness the Rajpath with morning joggers, countless cycling enthusiasts. A private Segway Tour around that area can also be taken. A one hour trip will cost around Rs. 1000.

The HOHO tours start at 7.30 am daily and are priced as below

• 1 day tour Rs 499 Rs 999
• 2 day tour Rs 599 Rs 1199

Start the day early in the morning and, seek blessings with a visit to the holy Gurudwara Bangla Shahib ’, and if possible have a bite at the ‘Langar’ a 24-hour kitchen serving the worlds simple yet tastiest meal, as it is made with extreme love and devotion of volunteers. Within a walking distance in the centre of Delhi, Connaught Place , where there are the rows of the numerous State Emporia, which are ideal to shop arts and crafts of each Indian State exclusively.

To explore for souvenirs, search the Janpath market and for the top variety original Khadi check out the famed Gandhi Khadi Emporium, a govt of India enterprise selling and promoting hand-woven natural fibre cloth and natural cosmetics… a must buy from Delhi.

Visit the famed Birla House or Birla Bhavan , where Mahatma Gandhi had breathed his last.

Later, by the evening spent time in the old majestic lanes of Chandni Chowk area of Old Delhi. You will find here a separate market each to buy Silks, Precious Jewellery, Exotic Indian spices, dry fruits etc.

ALSO READ: Delhi’s Delicious Street Food Culture – Amazing Places for Mouthwatering Delicacies!

Visit the Holy Jama Masjid and do not forget to savour some local delicacies like Mutton Kebabs, the Kormas, the juicy Fried Chicken or the wide variety of Biryani, all very famous and scrumptious, only found around this area. Do try the Mughlai Sweet Bread ‘Sheermaal’ and the sweet soft textured ‘Rasmalai’ of Sheeren Bhawan. A must-have is a plate of Alu with Bedmi Kachoris with a glass of Sweet Lassi, a local refreshing sweetened flavoured curd smoothie. Once tired of walking around, do not miss out on the opportunity to take a Cycle Rickshaw ride in the narrow lanes, it’s an amazing, exhilarating experience to be zipped around these heavily crowded narrow lanes.

Ideal Souvenirs to be bought in Delhi

The Janpath Lane in Connaught Place is the perfect place to pick them up on a short trip to Delhi. Be ready to bargain and get a good deal.

• Silk and Pashmina Scarfs
• Ethnic Mirror work bags, purses, wall hangings and spreads
• Vibrant coloured Madhubani paintings
• Sandalwood and Brass items
• Jewellery boxes in metal, wood and stone
• Ethnic Custom Jewellery
• T-Shirts and Cotton Apparel
• Fridge magnets ( our personal favourites )

The final day to be spent in visiting Dilli Haat , a shoppers haven, it is an open-air food plaza and crafts bazaar, which beautifully highlights the Indian Art and Heritage and closely located are the Lajpat Nagar market, the high-end South Extension and Greater Kailash markets.

Finally, some time can be spent in visiting the National Crafts Museum at Pragati Maidan; it is the largest crafts museum in India , run by the Ministry of Textiles. One can witness and participate in live demonstrations of craft programmes and interact with craftsperson. Sale, as well as an exhibition of handicrafts and handloom products, is always there.

A ten minutes drive, from the museum, is the Swaminarayan Akshardham temple , a Hindu house of worship and also a spiritual, cultural campus, and is built from intricately carved sandstone and marble.

If you have little more time, do visit the Lodhi Gardens , a 16th-century architectural wonder dotted with monuments and tombs from that period and close to the gardens is the Agrasen Ki Baoli , a 60 meter long and 15-meter wide ‘Stepwell’ with 103 steps, believed to be rebuilt around the 14th century. The Baoli is open daily from 9 am to 5.30 pm and posh and classy Khan Market located nearby, a favourite of the diplomatic community and lined with upscale food joints.

Why visit Delhi?

Very simply explained, Delhi is big and beautiful; outstretched and charming; as well as equally dirty and noisy. From being the country’s political power seat to its historically rich past; from being a shopper’s paradise to its diversified food haven; from narrow bustling bazaars lanes to and wide green sprawling city. Delhi magnificently maintains itself as the country’s representation of a rich past and a prosperous present. It can be extraordinarily overwhelming but, it gives all a true taste to India.

This blog-post was co-authored by Anuradha Nag. An ex-marketing professional, Anuradha hails from NCR (National Capital Region). She loves to travel, especially going on road trips with her son.

2 thoughts on “3 days in delhi: the perfect travel itinerary to explore india’s capital”.

Very informative!!!

Thanks a lot, Prerna.

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4 Days in Delhi: An Exciting + Complete Itinerary

As the capital of India, Delhi is the first place where most foreign tourists land and often included in the classic tours to India . They usually visit a couple of popular attractions before moving onto other touristy areas. However, Delhi has far more to offer if you are willing to explore and have enough time at hand. It is an ancient city that has seen numerous invasions and every dynasty, as well as the colonial British rulers, have left their imprint in the form of thousands of monuments. New markets, restaurants, cafes, and shopping malls coexist here seamlessly with centuries-old crumbling edifices, offering a contrasting yet intriguing melange of views.

Before you start

• I am assuming that you are roaming around using public transport, especially Delhi Metro, which connects almost all corners of the city. In fact, it is far more convenient than personal vehicles that are bound to get stuck in heavy traffic. If you need, cab services, as well as auto-rickshaws, are available too.
• You can stay anywhere in Delhi but for the sake of convenience, I am assuming that you are staying in South Delhi, near Hauz Khas Village, just because I like the area, you can find great Delhi hotels , and it offers an interesting mix of past and present.
• It is not mandatory but I believe winter months (late October to early March) are the best to roam around in Delhi because summers can be frighteningly harsh. Check out our guide to the best time to visit India for more info on when to plan your trip to Delhi .

Table of Contents

4 Days In Delhi – An Easy + Complete Itinerary

Day 1 in delhi – a walk through the tombs.

You’ll start the first day of your 4-day Delhi itinerary with an unusual morning walk through the city’s spiritual core. I have packed some museum visits as well as an informative light & sound show for the first day, as they teach you about Delhi’s history so that you can better appreciate the places you will visit in the next few days. The day may seem a bit packed, but this will prepare you well for the next few days.

Lodhi Garden

Wake up as early as possible to make the most of the day. Your first stop of the day is Lodhi Gardens, which is a cluster of early medieval tombs from the 15th century. However, a garden was developed later covering the entire area and now it is the favourite jogging spot for the locals. That is why it opens as early as 5 AM while other monuments open much later. So, enjoy a brisk walk through the beautiful park while observing the monuments scattered all over. Give it around a couple of hours for the best experience.

Safderjung’s Tomb

This monument is located nearby, on the other side of the road. It is a comparatively newer, 18th-century tomb, probably one of the last great constructions from the Mughal era. It is well-maintained, and photogenic, and will give you some lovely frames and it should not consume more than 30 minutes.

Lodhi Colony & India Habitat Center (IHC)

As you started early, you will be done by 9 AM. Walk towards the India Habitat Center (IHC). As you walk past Lodhi Colony, you will notice a lot of interesting street art too, as this area has been developed as an art district. Once you reach IHC, finally have a well-deserved, classy breakfast at All American Diner. IHC is an interesting space that has been developed as a blend of office spaces, art galleries, auditoriums, and a spot for eclectic socialization. If you want, you can visit the art galleries (there is always some exhibition going on).

Nizamuddin Basti

Post-breakfast, move quickly to Nizamuddin Basti, a medieval village that has refused to change even as the metropolis grew around it. The heart of it is the Mausoleum and shrine of Khwaja Nizamuddin Auliya (1238 – 1325 CE), the most revered Sufi saint of Delhi. In western parlance, he can be called the patron saint of Delhi. There are other tombs inside, the most prominent one being that of Amir Khusrau, a poet, musician, and his most famous disciple. If you are new to India, it may be a bit hard to navigate these congested lanes. However, you can hire a guide who can show you around. There are many who organize heritage walks around this area. Maybe you can pre-book them.

Humayun’s Tomb and Sunder Nursery

From Nizamuddin, move to nearby Humayun’s Tomb. One of the places to visit in Delhi , this is a massive structure similar to Taj Mahal but it predates it. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site . You can also visit the nearby Sunder Nursery, which is actually a nursery, but with some medieval tombs inside, which gives it a unique aura.

Khan Market

Khan Market is a posh commercial district with many boutique shops, book stores, and of course, many cool restaurants. So, this is where you can have your lunch and then you can take a brisk tour of the market and shop a bit if you are so inclined.

NGMA/National Museum

In the afternoon, you have two options. Doing both would have been great but sadly you may not have time for both. The National Museum will give you an idea about the entire history and heritage of India, while the National Gallery of Modern Arts (NGMA) will introduce you to India’s best artists and sculptors. The choice will be purely based on your taste and interests.

Purana Qila Light & Sound Show

In the evening, you will move towards Purana Qila. It is one of the major monuments in Delhi. The fort is from medieval times but some prehistoric remains have been excavated in the nearby areas, which points to the antiquity of the site. However, I have kept it for the night because there is a daily light and sound show after dark where it tells the entire history of Delhi through laser, voiceover, and music. Both Hindi and English voiceovers are available at different time slots. Post the show, you will be tired. So just get back to HKV, have dinner at one of the restaurants and retire for the day.

Day 2 – Old Delhi & More

The primary attraction of the second of your four days in Delhi is the so-called “Old Delhi”, the 17th-century walled city of Shahjahanabad, where the past seamlessly merges with the present. You may have heard of it already, but here is a fun fact, this is NOT the oldest part of Delhi (You will get there on the 4th day of your Delhi itinerary).

Old Delhi is fascinating but can be crowded and confusing. There is a backstory to every narrow lane here and it is a treasure trove for photographers but if you are new, you may get lost. That is why, I suggest that you start early in the morning, and if possible, sign up for a heritage walk to take you through this maze. Walk around Chandni Chowk, Fatehpuri Masjid, Khari Baoli Spice Market, Gurudwara Sheeshganj and of course, the massive Jama Masjid. You can also visit Ghalib ki Haveli, the mansion of the iconic 19th-century poet Mirza Ghalib. Old Delhi is also a heaven for Indian food lovers and you can fill yourself up for the day by trying various things even as you walk around the place.

You should be done with Old Delhi by noon. Have something for lunch and then cross the street and enter Red Fort (Lal Qila). This is a massive fortress built around the same time as Old Delhi. The Mughal royals used to live here at one point, so there are palaces and other buildings inside the Fort. You will also find a small museum inside along with a baoli (stepwell).

After Red Fort, quickly move to nearby Raj Ghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. Memorials of many other important Indian leaders can also be found nearby. This should not take much time to pay your respect and move on.

Your next stop will be the Akshardham Temple. It is not a historical site but a new architectural marvel. It is a bit far off, on the other side of the Yamuna River. You can spend the afternoon here, walking around the gardens. There is a food court too if needed.

Majnu ka Tila

After dark, return and start moving to Majnu Ka Tila, in the northern part of Delhi. This is a unique area where a lot of Tibetan refugees were settled decades ago. So, here, you will find a Tibetan monastery and dozens of restaurants selling Tibetan and Nepali cuisine! So, you will suddenly be transported to a different world here and will be able to try some new cuisines. My personal favourite is the Nepali Thali at Ama Thakali Kitchen, but this is a strictly personal choice.

After the meal, take the long road back to your hotel. However, by that time it will be night and roads will be empty.

Day 3 – Lutyens’ Delhi & Beyond

This day will come to some more major monuments of Delhi (Yes, the list is never-ending!), including some famous and some offbeat ones. Have a quick breakfast at the hotel because the first stop will be a slightly non-touristy area.

Tughlaqabad

Tughlaqabad is not visited by many as it is located a bit far off, in the outskirts of Delhi. Nevertheless, it is a massive complex that was built as a city in the early 14th century. However, it was soon abandoned due to various reasons (you can read up the interesting backstory). Now it is a mysterious necropolis with ruins of the ancient fort, palaces, and tombs. Spend a couple of hours there, soak in the antiquity.

Lotus Temple

Come back to the city and reach the iconic Lotus Temple. It is another modern architectural marvel that has been designed like a lotus flower. It is a house of worship for the Bahai Faith, an intriguing religion formed in 19th-century Persia. Post the visit, you can have lunch at any restaurant at Nehru Place, which is a busy commercial district.

Feroz Shah Kotla

Post lunch, move northwards to reach Feroz Shah Kotla , another relic of a 14th-century city, which was built a few decades after Tughlaqabad. It has a few unique structures including a pyramidal structure and a 2200-year-old pillar of Ashoka the Great, which was later brought here by Feroz Shah Tughlaq.

Agrasen ki Baoli

After Kotla, you will visit the Agrasen ki Baoli, an interesting monument. Baolis are step-wells that were built all over India in ancient times for water supply. Delhi itself has many of them but this is the best-known of them all, now surrounded by skyscrapers on all sides.

Lutyens Delhi

Move towards India Gate in the afternoon and walk around New Delhi. This area is often called Lutyens’ Delhi after the architect who designed it. The British built it as the new capital complex of India and even now it houses all the major government buildings and institutions in India. This is a good area to hang out and even locals arrive here in the evening.

Connaught Place

Later on, move towards Connaught Place (CP). It is another colonial construction, an attractive commercial district that is practically the center of Delhi. This circular market contains scores of high-end stores as well as restaurants. It generally gets a bit too crowded, but you can find a nice place to have dinner and then return to your place for the night.

Day 4 – Delights of South Delhi

This is the final day. You will focus mostly on South Delhi. So, less time spent on commutation and more on exploration!

HKV & Green Park

So, you have been staying around HKV since Day 1 but have not had the time to explore it. Hauz Khas is actually a part of Siri, a 13th-century city. The modern hippie joint has been built on the peripheries of those ancient monuments and walls by the side of a massive lake. So, spend this morning enjoying the delights of Siri, that has been hosting you. You can walk till nearby Green Park Market and you will see many small monuments along the way. Have breakfast at one of the restaurants at Greenpark.

Qutub Minar

After breakfast, drive towards Mehrauli. As mentioned earlier, Mehrauli, on the southern edge of Delhi is the Oldest Part of Delhi, originally built by Rajput rulers more than a thousand years ago. Conquests of Sultans from Afghanistan destroyed the original settlements but parts of the original fortress walls can still be seen. Here, the first stop will be Qutub Minar, the 73-meter tall minaret from the 12th century, built by the earliest sultans of India. The complex has many other interesting structures and it is another UNESCO World Heritage Site of Delhi.

Mehrauli Archaeological Park

Post Qutub, just move to the adjacent Mehrauli Archaeological Park. It is a massive area of almost 200 acres, with many medieval monuments scattered all over it. Explore the likes of Rajjon ki Baoli, Gandhak ki Baoli, Balban’s Tomb, and many more. Try to find out the unexpected homoerotic backstory in one of the tombs at Jamali Kamali and also visit the Sufi Shrine of Bakhtiyar Kaki, practically the oldest such shrine in Delhi.

Shopping for Handicrafts

Mehrauli and Chattarpur areas have many boutique stores and markets to shop for Indian handicrafts, traditional tools and other items. When packing for India , you should definitely leave some room for the local shopping as you will find plenty of gifts to bring home to friends and family. You can have lunch somewhere in this area and explore these options for a while.

Champa Gali

This is your last evening in Delhi, so make it relaxed and delightful at Chamba Gali in Saket, which is not far from Mehrauli. This is one of the newly developed, coolest, hippiest hangouts in Delhi full of chic cafes and restaurants. You can spend the rest of the evening here, have your coffees followed by dinner and then return to your room at night.

Beyond Delhi

Once you are done with Delhi, you will naturally move on to other places. Delhi is centrally located and well connected with dozens of other exciting destinations. Most people yearn to visit Agra and Jaipur as they are the most famous ones. However, my personal favourite is the Himalayan states like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand . I would also encourage everyone to explore more of the unexplored gems of India for more unique experiences.

Author Bio: Jitaditya Narzary is the writer and editor behind the travel blog The Travelling Slacker focused on India beyond the obvious.

I'm Angela Corrias, an Italian journalist, photographer, and travel writer located in the heart of Italy's capital. Welcome to my website, your comprehensive source for your travels and expert guidance for crafting your dream travel experience.

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1 Day Delhi Tour Packages with Price & Itinerary

By offering an unforgettable amalgamation of past with present and of history with modernity, the city of Delhi has become a place that every traveller must visit at least once in his or her lifetime. Our 1 Day Delhi Tour Packages promises a holiday filled with experiences that are worth cherishing.

From its rich historical significance to present grandeur, from UNESCO recognized heritage sites to magnificent buildings of modern India, from haggling at the local market for prices to pampering yourself with best of modern amenities.

From enjoying a culinary treat at various fine dining restaurants of every possible cuisine to savouring street food, a 1 day tour to Delhi by private car is full of pleasant contrast and colourful surprises.

An ideal destination for every travel lover, Delhi attracts hordes of tourists from all over the world. The city of Delhi has something to offer each and every one. Whether you are travelling with family or friends, with kid or just spouse, with colleagues from office or a college group, you will find many suitable holidaying options in Delhi.

With our 1 Day Delhi Tour Packages by car travellers can experience this city in a much more comfortable and organised manner. Delhi tourism along with the help of various Delhi tour organizers designed the best 1 day tours in the city. The listed tour organizers here make all the arrangements for your local sightseeing tour so that you can visit the most popular sightseeing places in the Delhi without any hassle.

Although to explore Delhi extensively one needs at least a few days in hand but if you are visiting for just a day or two, you can explore the city through the extensive range of 1 Day Delhi Tour Packages that we have designed by keeping varied needs and preferences in consideration.

At Delhi Tourism , a division of Holidays DNA , we ensure that you get the most out of your Delhi tour through our shortlisted tour packages which we gathered from multiple tour operators in Delhi.

We not only offer you the opportunity to choose the most suitable 1 day Delhi tour packages by car from some of the best Delhi car rental companies and tour organizers but also offer assistance if you need customised 1 day tour packages.

There are many top places to visit in Delhi that you can plan through these 1 day tour packages. Guests can select from the pre-designed day tours or request the tour organizers to customize a package for you as per your preferences of sightseeing places like start your delhi day tour from airport itself and provide you with detail itinerary and transparent pricing.

List of Top Rated Places to Visit with Delhi 1 Day Tour Packages

1. red fort.

No Delhi Local Sightseeing Tour Packages can be completed without a visit to Red Fort, which is a UNESCO world Heritage Site. Red Fort located on the bank of Yamuna River and in front of the Chandni Chowk, was built from 1639 to 1648. Also known as Lal Qila, this structure of red sandstone, allures everyone with its magnificent architectural beauty and historical importance.

The monument of Red Fort consists of various significant sections such as Naubat khana, Rang Mahal, Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, Mumtaz Mahal, Nahr-i-Bihisht, Khas Mahal, Hammam, Moti Masjid and Hayat Baksh Garden.

2. Akshardham Temple

Dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, Akshardham Temple is another prominent tourist attraction in Delhi. Constructed in 2005 by Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), this temple complex presents an aesthetically designed architecture with an equally spiritual atmosphere. Built with sandstone and marble which have been carved beautifully, this temple boasts of an impressive structure which also comprises of various water bodies, open lush green gardens and courtyard.

3. Lotus Temple

Built with a whopping cost 10 million dollars, Lotus Temple is dedicated to Bahai faith, which believes in oneness and unity of all religions. This temple, located near the Lajpat Nagar Flyover, was opened to public in the 1986 and since then it has been attracting tourists from everywhere. Its unique structure of a lotus flower mesmerizes everyone.

4. Qutub Minar

A UNESCO world heritage site, no Delhi tour is complete without a visit to Qutub Minar, even if you are on a 1 Day Delhi Tour Package. Built by Qutub-ud-din Aibak as the tower of victory with a height of 73 meters and a diameter of 14.3 meter.Later, Iltutmish completed the construction of this five storeyed Minar. The top floor of the Qutub Minar was later rebuild by Firoz Shah Tughlaq. One can find Quran verses on the stones on the minar.

5. India Gate

India Gate is one of the defining monument of any of Delhi tour. Designed by Edwin Lutyens, the foundation stone of India gate was laid out in 1921 by the then Duke of Connaught. It was built in the memory of 70,000 soldiers of British Indian Army, who had lost their lives during the World War I.

In 1972, Amar Jawan Jyoti (flame of the immortal soldier) was inaugurated by the then Prime minister of India Indira Gandhi, serving as the tribute to the Indian Soldier who had lost their lives during the war of 1971 for the Liberation of Bangladesh. It is now a popular tourist spots, where locals and visitors come for a stroll in evening and morning to remember the soldiers.

6. Rashtrapati Bhavan

Home to the President of India, Rashtrapati Bhawan presents a beautiful amalgamation of present and past. This historical building was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker. Its construction which took seventeen years was completed in 1929.

Spread over an area of 330 acres of land, this building comprises of mesmerising gardens bosting of rich flora, a state-of the art-museum complex (RBMC), 340 rooms which are located on four floors of the main building, clock tower, etc. It attracts tourists with its impressive structure that brings the past alive.

7. Jama Masjid

Built during the reign of Shah Jahan, Jama Masjid is another popular place to visit in Delhi. Located only 500 meters away from the famous Red Fort, a visit to both the places can be clubbed together. Built with white marble and sandstone, this monument presents an alluring architecture which attracts very visitor, irrespective of their religious inclinations. This mosque can be entered through north and south gates.

8. Humayun's Tomb

This ancient mausoleum with a height of 42.5 meters, which is considered as one among the first Mughal structures was built in 1565-1572. It was built by Hamida Banu Begum in the memory of her husband Mughal ruler Humayun. A UNESCO world heritage site, Humayun’s tomb presents an astounding structure which has been built in Persian and Indian style of architecture.

The double dome mausoleum is located in the centre of beautifully laid our gardens which also consist of water pathways. A visit to this place is sure to take you back into era of Mughal reign.

Not only these, city has many more interesting places to visit. If interested our travel experts can offer information on the most suitable all-inclusive Delhi 1 day tour packages too. You can choose from various tourism places in city including ISKCON Temple, Laxminarayan Temple, Nizamuddin Dargah, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, museums like National Zoological Park, National Museum and National Rail Museum as well as shopping places such as Janpath market, Sarojini Nagar Market and Chandni Chowk.

With a few more days in the city, you can explore tourist attractions such as Raj Ghat, Sansad Bhavan, Jantar Mantar, Safdarjung's Tomb, Lodhi Gardens, Sikandar Lodi's tomb, Purana Quila, Bara Gumbad, Iron Pillar, Sheesh Gumbad and, Shanti Vana.

To explore further you can visit our Delhi tour packages page where you will find listing of various kinds of tour itineraries for the city of Delhi and surrounding places while for ease of commutation and transportation you can reach out to one of these top cab operators in Delhi .

Best way to reach Delhi

Delhi enjoys well connectivity, allowing visitors to travel in an easy and comfortable manner. Most of the major international airlines and all the major domestic airlines operate from Delhi airport. Hence, travels can reach Delhi from any part of the world without much trouble.

With major rail stations such as Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station, Old Delhi Railway Station and New Delhi Railway Station, it is absolutely convenient for travellers to reach Delhi via railways too.

Roadways in Delhi is equally hassle free. The three major bus stands- Sarai Kale-Khan Bus Terminus, Anand Vihar Bus Terminus and Inter State Bus Terminus (ISBT) receive buses from nearby cities and towns.

For commuting within the city, there are city buses, auto rickshaws and taxis. If you prefer to travel at your own pace, you can book a cab from the list of top rental car companies in Delhi .

Excited About Delhi?

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Holiday Packages

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Popular Tourist Places to Visit in Delhi

• Qutub Minar Delhi
• Red Fort / Lal Kila Delhi
• India Gate Delhi
• Iron Pillar Delhi
• Lotus Bahai Temple Delhi
• Akshardham Temple Delhi
• Humayun's Tomb Delhi
• Lodhi Gardens Delhi
• Rajghat Delhi
• Jantar Mantar Delhi
• Rashtrapati Bhavan Delhi
• Jama Masjid Delhi
• Nizamuddin Dargah Delhi
• National Rail Museum Delhi
• Gandhi Smriti Delhi
• Nehru Planetarium Delhi
• Chandni Chowk Delhi
• Connaught Place Delhi
• Hauz Khas Delhi
• National Zoological Park Delhi
• Purana Qila Delhi
• Agrasen ki Baoli Delhi
• Garden of Five Senses Delhi
• Hauz Khas Fort Delhi
• ISKCON Temple Delhi
• Paharganj Delhi
• Dilli Haat Delhi
• Lajpat Nagar market Delhi
• Sarojini Nagar Market Delhi
• Bangla Sahib Gurudwara Delhi
• Safdarjung's Tomb Delhi
• Tomb of Balban Delhi
• Sacred Heart Cathedral Delhi
• Khirki Mosque Delhi
• Fatehpuri Masjid Delhi
• Kalka Ji Mandir Delhi
• Shanti Vana Delhi
• Khan market Delhi
• Adventure Island Delhi
• Fun N Food Village Delhi
• Just Chill Water Park Delhi
• Splash The Water Park Delhi
• Scary House Delhi
• Entertainment City Noida
• KidZania Delhi NCR
• Millennium Park Delhi
• Wet N Wild Resort & Water Park Gurugram
• Jurassic Park Inn Sonipat
• Delhi Rides Amusement Park
• The Atlantic Water World Delhi
• Guru Tegh Bahadur Memorial Delhi
• Delhi Eye / Kalindi Kunj Park Delhi
• National Museum of India Delhi
• Surajkund Mela Delhi
• Karol Bagh Market Delhi
• Kingdom of Dreams Delhi
• 32nd Milestone Gurugram
• MoJoLand Water Park Murthal
• Laxminarayan Temple / Birla Mandir Delhi
• Club Platinum Resort & Water Park Delhi
• Oyster Water Park / Appu Ghar Gurugram
• Shankar's International Dolls Museum Delhi
• Aapno Ghar Water & Amusement Park Gurugram
• Parliament House / Sansad Bhavan Delhi
• Cathedral Church of the Redemption Delhi
• Worlds of Wonder Amusement & Water Park Noida
• Waste to Wonder / Seven Wonders Park New Delhi
• Drizzling Land Water & Amusement Park Ghaziabad
• Fun Town Amusement and Water Park Bahadurgarh
• FFUNMAX Amusement Park and Water Park Faridabad
• Gauri Shankar Temple Delhi
• National Craft Museum and Hastkala Academy Delhi
• Shree Adya Katyayani Shaktipeeth Mandir Delhi
• National Science Centre Delhi
• Janpath Market Delhi
• Sis Ganj Gurudwara Delhi
• Digambar Jain Temple Delhi
• Pracheen Hanuman Mandir Delhi

1 Day in Delhi Itinerary: The City’s Highlights (2024)

Delhi, India’s crazy capital is the place where most travellers will start their journey in the country. This city is home to some of the most famous landmarks in India , and it’s definitely worth spending a day or two. This itinerary for 1 day in Delhi is perfect for first-timers who want to see the city’s highlights before heading to the Taj Mahal, Rajasthan or somewhere else.

This one-day Delhi itinerary will take you to some of the city’s most spectacular landmarks like Humayun’s Tomb, the famous Red Fort and the beautiful Lotus Temple. It will give you a taste of what Delhi is all about even if you’re short on time.

>> Related: Is Delhi Safe? A Solo Female Traveller’s Perspective

Travel itinerary for one day in Delhi

Note that this itinerary is quite packed. It’s perfectly doable and will allow you to see the best of Delhi in 1 day, but if you like to take things a little slower, I would recommend keeping your least favourite place for your next visit.

India is part of the famous Golden Triangle tourist route which also includes Agra (home to the Taj Mahal) and Jaipur . Check out my Golden Triangle itinerary if you’re visiting Delhi as a part of this route.

8:45 am: Jama Masjid

Let’s kick off this Delhi itinerary by heading to Jama Masjid. This mosque was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1650 and 1656 and it’s one of India’s largest and most famous ones. It’s here that the Muslim population of Delhi gathers for the Friday communal prayer every week.

It’s good to know that you will have to dress conservatively to enter this mosque. Your shoulders and legs should be covered. I’d recommend bringing a scarf to cover up too because there have been reports of women being forced to pay for a robe. They tried to make me pay for one too, but they let me in when I showed them I brought a scarf with me.

Tip : Bring socks if you’re visiting the mosque on a hot day. You will have to take off your shoes and when I visited this mosque in July, I was running/jumping all around the place because my feet were burning on the ground.

>> Read next: India Packing List: What to Pack for Women

9:30 am: Red Fort

Next, head to Delhi’s famous Red Fort, which is a 15-minute walk from the Jama Masjid. If you don’t want to walk, it’s good to know that you can easily find a rickshaw that can take you there.

The Red Fort once served as the residence of the Mughal Emperors. It was built in the 17th century and it’s famous for its huge fortification walls made of red sandstone.

You will find beautiful gardens here, as well as the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) and the Diwan-i-Amn (Hall of Audience), two impressive halls that will give you an idea of what the fort looked like in the olden days.

There is also a bazaar full of souvenirs inside the fort, as well as a museum containing paintings and artefacts dating from the Mughal era.

Note that the Red Fort only opens its doors at 9:30 a.m. , which is why it’s second on this list.

12:00 am: Lunch at Chandni Chowk

Chandni Chowk is located behind the Jama Masjid, and it’s one of Delhi’s oldest and busiest markets. This is a great place to look around and absorb the atmosphere. You will find plenty of shops selling saris, spices, silverware and more here. So, you may find some nice Indian souvenirs while you’re there.

This market is also a nice place to try some delicious Indian food. There are many places to eat at Chandni Chowk and you will love this place if you enjoy tasting new food!

1:00 pm: India Gate

After lunch, it’s time to take the metro or a rickshaw to India Gate, which is located 5,5 km (3.8 mi) from Chandni Chowk.

Formerly known as the All India War Memorial , this is another one of Delhi’s most famous landmarks. The India Gate is a war memorial dedicated to the 84,000 soldiers of the British Indian Army who died during WWI. The gate was inaugurated in 1931 and its architecture is often compared to the Gateway of India in Mumbai and the Arch de Triomphe in Paris.

Under the archway, you will find another, smaller memorial called  Amar Jawan Jyoti  (Flame of the Immortal Soldier). This structure was built in the 1970s to commemorate the Bangladesh Liberation War.

You will also find a canopy about 150 m (490 ft) behind the gate. There used to be a statue of King Emperor George V in it, but it was removed in the 1960s when the government decided to remove all British statues from Delhi. Since 2022, however, a statue of Indian nationalist Subhas Chandra Bose can be found in the canopy.

2:00 pm: Humayun’s Tomb

Humayun’s Tomb is 6,6 km (4.1 mi) from the India Gate, and the easiest way to get there is by taking a rickshaw. The nearest metro station to Humayun’s Tomb is Jangpura Metro Station, but it’s still a 3 km (1.1 mi) walk from this tomb.

Built in 1570, Humayun’s Tomb was the first garden tomb in the Indian subcontinent and it inspired the construction of the famous Taj Mahal . This enormous mausoleum was built in Persian style and, at the time, it was grander than any tomb that was ever built in the Islamic world.

Don’t forget to visit the other beautiful garden tombs while you’re there. These include the tombs of Nila Gumbad ,  Isa Khan , Bu Halima and Afsarwala . Another monument to see at the Humayun’s Tomb complex is the Arab Serai . This is where the people who built the tomb stayed.

Humayun’s Tomb is one of my favourite places in Delhi and one that cannot be missed during a visit to this city!

4:00 pm: Lotus Temple

This is another one of my favourite places in the city and one that cannot be missed on any Delhi itinerary!

The Lotus Temple can easily be reached either by rickshaw or by metro. It’s just a 10-minute walk from the Kalkaji Metro Station.

This temple was built in 1986 and it’s also called the Bahá’í House of Worship . The Baha’i faith teaches the essential worth of all religions and the unity of all people. There are 7 major Baha’i temples in the world . The other ones are located in the United States, Australia, Uganda, Germany, Panama and Samoa.

It’s interesting to note that this architectural marvel has won numerous architectural awards. It consists of 27 marble petals that are arranged in groups of three. Inside the Lotus Temple, you will find a large meditation room where visitors of all religions are welcome.

6:00 pm: Dinner at Connaught Place

Next, take the metro to Connaught Place, one of Delhi’s largest commercial, financial and business centres. This place is famous for its Georgian-style architecture with white buildings that house plenty of shops.

You will find many great restaurants at Connaught Place too, so this is the perfect place to stroll around and have dinner after a busy day exploring the city.

Things to see in Delhi if you have more time

There are many, many more things to do in Delhi if you have more time! From temples to gardens, here are some of the other best places to visit:

• Qutub Minar : The Qutub Minar is a minaret believed to be the first building that marked the arrival of Muslim rulers in India. It was built in 1192 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak after the defeat of Delhi’s last Hindu kingdom.
• Akshardham : This beautiful Hindu temple opened its doors in 2005 and it houses over a whopping 20,000 figurines from Indian mythology!
• National Gandhi Museum : Delhi’s Gandhi Museum is the perfect place to learn more about the late Mahatma Gandhi, India’s most famous freedom fighter. It houses many books, documents, photographs and other artefacts about his life.
• Lodhi Gardens: If you’re looking for lush greenery in the middle of the Indian capital, then Lodhi Gardens is the place for you. It’s the perfect place to head to if you’re looking to escape from the chaos of the city for a while.
• Gurudwara Bangla Sahib : Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is one of Delhi’s most famous Sikh temples and it’s located close to Connaught Place.

Delhi 1-day itinerary: Map and schedule

You will find a map and schedule for this itinerary below. You can click the location on the map to get a little bit more information about the place.

8:45 am: See the Jama Masjid 9:30 am:  Visit the Red Fort 12:00 am: Have lunch at Chandni Chowk 1:00 pm: Head to India Gate 2:00 pm: Admire Humayun’s Tomb 4:00 pm: See the Lotus Temple 6:00 pm: Dinner at Connaught Place

How to get to Delhi

As Delhi is the capital of India, it’s very well-connected. It depends where you’re coming from but you can easily reach it by air , bus and train .

The Indira Gandhi International Airport is about 17 km (10.5 mi) from the centre of the city, and you can take a taxi, bus or metro from here.

Make sure to book your bus or train tickets in advance if you’re coming to Delhi from another place in India. The only website I could find where you can do this that accepts international credit cards is 12GoAsia .

How to get around in Delhi

Delhi is a huge city and most tourist attractions are located pretty far away from each other. So, the best ways to get around are the following:

• Metro : Delhi has a great metro system (with AC) that connects most parts of the city. This is a cheap and efficient way of getting around as there tends to be lots of traffic in the streets. Click on the link to download the Delhi metro plan .
• Rickshaw : There are many rickshaws in Delhi but you have to be willing to negotiate hard if you want to get a fair price as a foreigner. Beware of rickshaw drivers trying to get you into shops or tourist agencies too, they will get a commission if you buy something.
• Ola : Instead of negotiating the price with a rickshaw driver, I love using Ola in India. It works like Uber and will allow you to book a car, rickshaw or bike that will come pick you up for a fair price.
• Taxi : The taxi is probably the most comfortable way to get around but it’s also the most expensive one.

Best time to visit Delhi

The best time to visit Delhi is  from October to March , during Winter. At this time of the year, the weather will be most pleasant. You will find an overview of the seasons below:

• Winter (October to March): Winter is the best time of the year to visit Delhi. While December and January can be pretty cool (5°C to 25°C / 41°F to 77°F), in February and March, the weather is great in Delhi (20°C to 25°C / 68°F to 77°F).
• Summer (April to June): Indian summers are scorching hot. Temperatures in Delhi will be between 25°C and 45°C (77°F to 113°F) with May being the hottest month. This is not a good time of the year to visit this city unless you don’t mind boiling-hot weather.
• Monsoon (July to September): Although the monsoon season is better than the summer, it will still be pretty hot and humid at this time of the year and there will be some rainfall too. You can expect temperatures between 30°C and 35°C (86°F and 95°F) during the monsoon.

I visited Delhi in April and July, and (although it was manageable) it was very, very hot and humid, so I was happy that the metro had AC. My last visit to Delhi was in February and the weather was perfect at this time of the year!

Delhi itinerary F.A.Q.’s

How many days are enough for delhi.

Delhi is a very big city and you would need at least three to four full days to cover its most famous sights. If you’re short on time, however, it is possible to visit some of Delhi’s absolute highlights in just one day.

Is Delhi a safe city?

Just like any city, Delhi is safe as long as you use your common sense. There are, however, many scams, so it’s good to be aware of that. I visited Delhi by myself four times and I’ve never felt unsafe. Check out my posts about safety in Delhi and scams in Delhi to learn more about the topic.

Can Delhi belly be avoided?

There are some things you can do to avoid food poisoning in Delhi . You can avoid eating raw vegetables and fruits that cannot be peeled, for example. It’s also safer to not eat any meat or fish while you’re there. I did eat raw vegetables and all types of fruit in Delhi and I didn’t get sick, but I was travelling in Asia for a few months already when I got here.

Tips for visiting Delhi

• Be aware of scams: Please don’t let this stop you from interacting with the locals, but it’s important to know that Delhi has MANY scams… It already starts at the airport, unfortunately. Make sure to read about the most common scams in Delhi prior to your trip , it really is better to be prepared.
• Dress appropriately: Be mindful of the culture and dress modestly. India is conservative, and although it is okay for women to wear Western clothes, this is not the right place for hot pants and spaghetti tops. I’ve written a detailed post about what to wear as a woman in India , check it out to prepare yourself.
• Use the metro: I’m a big fan of the metro system in Delhi. It’s quick, safe and easy to use and it has AC!
• Buy a local sim: This will allow you to look things up at any time. You can buy one at the airport and it doesn’t cost much.

>> Read: How to AVOID Getting Sick in India: 10 Tips You Need

One Day in Delhi itinerary – Final Thoughts

After hearing so many horror stories about Delhi, I was expecting to hate this city when I first went there… After all, isn’t this that city that’s so polluted, dirty, overpopulated and full of scams? Let’s face it – Delhi just doesn’t have the best reputation.

However… I did not hate it and I think Delhi is worth visiting !

I was surprised to see how many incredible landmarks this city boasts, even some of my new favourites (the Lotus Temple and Humayun’s Tomb).

Although Delhi might not be a city everyone will love, and it’s true that there are many scams, I hope this itinerary encourages you to give it a chance and discover some of its most spectacular landmarks!

Are you planning to visit Delhi soon? Or have you visited it already? Let me know what you think about it in the comments!

Are you planning a trip to India? Check out my itineraries!

Read more about Delhi

• Is Delhi Worth Visiting? 9 Reasons to Visit Delhi + 3 Not To
• 11 Tourist Scams in Delhi to Avoid
• Is Delhi Safe? A Solo Female Traveller’s Perspective
• What is Delhi Famous for? 20 Interesting Facts

India Travel Planning Guide

🛫 Find the cheapest flights to India on  Skyscanner . 🏨 Find the best accommodation via  Booking  or  Hostelworld . 🛺 Download the  Ola app  to order a rickshaw or a taxi. 🚃 Use  12GoAsia  to book trains and buses in India. 🚗 Rent a car with  Discover Cars  to get the best rates. 💰 Get travel insurance via  VisitorsCoverage , one of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies. 👘 Check out my  complete India packing list for females . 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa   to visit India.

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Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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This sounds good but visiting all of these sites in one day will be very exhausting 🙂 People also worry too much about Delhi Belly, but if someone has eaten streetfood in countries like Thailand or Vietnam, it will be pretty much the same ( I think, cuz I had streetfood almost everyday with no issues).

It will definitely be a busy day haha! It’s good if you only have one day and want to see as much as you can. :p

Ahh it’s the same for me! The worst food poisonings I’ve ever had were actually in Myanmar and Dharamshala (India), not in Delhi (and I went there 3 times).

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One Day Itinerary

But remember visitors can move inside the building only if they have special permission. Admiring the beauty of the arterial roads like the Rajpath, you may now visit the National Museum - the largest museum in India by walking or using an auto.

The distnce is about 2kms. The next stop on this art-filled journey is the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) at Jaipur House. You may again walk down throgh Rajpath via India Gate or by auto. The distance is about 2kms. The gallery showcases the changing Indian art forms through the passage of more than 150 years. Standing in front of NGMA, you can see India Gate, the 42-metre-high monument erected as a memorial in honour of the Indian and British soldiers martyred at the North-West Frontier during World War I and Afghan Wars in 1919.

About 4Kms from India Gate is Teen Murti, the official residence of Late Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru, the first prime minister of India.You can take local bus or auto. From there you can then head to the Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum that houses her personal effects and other belongings.

Rest a while, before moving on to Connaught Place for a wholesome lunch. Use local bus, auto/taxi.

Eat: Connaught Place is a hub for speciality and multi-cuisine restaurants and fast-food joints. You will find good places for any budget and preference.

Shop: While at Connaught Place, go shopping. You can either buy branded stuff or collect souvenirs from the Central Cottage Industries Emporium or the Emporia Complex on Baba Kharak Singh Marg. Those looking for cheaper thrills can shop at Janpath.

Late Afternoon/Evening

Visit: Relish your evening with a slice of history in the bylanes of Old Delhi. Take a metro from Rajiv Chowck to Chandni Chowck which is about 5kms. The best way to explore this area is on a cycle-rickshaw or on foot. Start with Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. From there, go to the Digambar Jain Temple and the bird hospital in it. Next visit the Gauri Shankar Temple, Bhagirath Palace, Central Baptist Church, Gurudwara Sisganj, Sunehri Masjid, Fatehpuri Mosque, Khari Baoli, Ghalib's Haveli and Chunnamal ki Haveli.

Red Fort The majesty of the Republic End the day with a trip to Red Fort, the most spectacular piece of Mughal architecture in Delhi. To explore the Fort completely it will take at least two hours. So plan accordingly.

Thereafter you must attend the "Sound and Light Show" held in the evenings here, which will take you through the key phases of history.

Eat: After the tour, you can head to Chandni Chowk for snacks and/or an early dinner. Famous for mouth-watering street food - Chaat, Chholey Bhature, Parantha - it even has an alley called Paranthewali Gali, popular for deep-fried, delicious Paranthas. You will also find the city's best lassi here. And do we forget to mention the sweets? Go for the Jalebis, Sohan Halwa and Pinni. And, if street food is not your type, there are the usual restaurants and some fast-food outlets.

Shop: Chandni Chowk is the Old City's famous shopping street, the main wholesale market in Delhi. There are many things that you can pick up from this market.

While at CP, if you have the time and energy, take a short walk from the Patel Chowk metro station to Jantar Mantar, one of the world's oldest astronomical observatories. A short walk from Jantar Mantar, off Hailey Road, in a lane just before the Consulate General of Malta, is Agrasen ki Baoli, a 14thcentury step-well. From there drive on to the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart near Gole Dak Khana, Connaught Place.

Behind it is the Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, a Sikh pilgrimage site. Further on, near Gole Market is the Birla Mandir, also known as Laxmi Narain Temple

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The capital city of India, Delhi is a commercial hub dotted by numerous places to visit and tourist attractions. Every year, thousands of tourists from all over the world opt for Delhi tour packages to explore the various colourful dimensions of this historical city.

By booking this 2 Nights 3 Days Delhi tour, take a journey through the glorious history of Delhi from the Sultanate era, the Mughal reign to the Colonial rule as you go around sightseeing. On the first day of your Delhi tour package, take a visit to the magnificent Akshardham Temple and roam around the colorful Connaught Place market. The sightseeing tour of Delhi will include the visit to the popular monuments and tourist places including the Red Fort, Raj Ghat, Indira Gandhi Museum, India Gate, President house as well as the Lodhi Gardens, Humayun Tomb and Qutub Minar. A Delhi tour is incomplete without a shopping spree at its popular yet cheap markets. Some of the markets you can visit in Delhi are Connaught Place market, Chandni Chowk market, and many others. Enjoy your visit to this sensational City and get to know the capital of India.

Book your 2 Night 3 Days Delhi tour package today from TravelTriangle and avail amazing offers on your trip. Explore the simple and vibrant life of Delhi with your loved ones!

Delhi: Arrival

Other Benefits (On Arrival)

Kickstart you Delhi tour today!

As you arrive in Delhi, you will be greeted by our agent's representative. After the customs formalities, you will be transferred to your hotel in Delhi. Spend some time relaxing and prepare for an exciting evening on this day of your Delhi tour package. Visit the sacred Akshardham temple and enjoy the spectacular water and light show. Afterward, take a walk at the Connaught Place market and shop for anything and everything at dirt-cheap prices. Return to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

Delhi: Sightseeing Tour

• Sightseeing
• Qutub Minar

Embark on a Delhi sightseeing tour! After a delectable breakfast at your hotel, the second day of your Delhi tour package will take you around the city to visit historical monuments and popular tourist attractions. Begin with a visit to the magnificent Red Fort, followed by a visit to the Rajghat and then to Indira Gandhi Museum. Afterward, proceed to India Gate and the President house. Re-energize yourself with a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant. Continue your sightseeing tour as you visit the Lodhi Gardens, Humayun Tomb, and the renowned Qutub Minar. In the evening, explore the colourful market of Chandni Chowk and shop for souvenirs to take back home for your loved ones. Get back to your hotel after the tiring day and enjoy a cozy sleep.

Delhi: Departure

• Airport Transfers

Prepare to leave Delhi on the last day of your Delhi day tour!

Relish a hearty breakfast at the hotel and check out. Get transferred to the airport/railway station. Leave Delhi with unforgettable memories in the capital of India.

Note: Our agents will provide you these or similar hotels depending on availability

Ibis new delhi aerocity

Asset No Hospitality 9 | IGI Airport, New Delhi 110002, India

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FAQs for Delhi

What is the best time to visit delhi.

The best time to visit Delhi is between October to March. This is the time when the weather is pleasant and amazing for sightseeing. During these months, flowers are at their blooming best, which is an incredible experience.

What are the ratings of the property included in this package?

This package includes a 3 star property but you can always upgrade to a better property by talking to your agent, accordingly the prices may vary.

What are some must buy products in Delhi?

Some must buy products in Delhi are elegant handicrafts, wooden furniture items gorgeous bags and footwears, traditional or junk jewellery, designer clothes and all kinds of books.

What are some of the best places to eat in Delhi?

Some of the best places in Delhi for food are Satya Niketan, North Campus, GTB Nagar, Old Delhi and Jama Masjid.

What should one pack while travelling to Delhi?

Remember to pack some extra layers to avoid the cold in winters and scarves, sunscreen and shades if travelling in summers.

What are the best historical places to visit in Delhi?

Delhi has a lot of historical places for travelers to explore, some of which are:

• Humayun's Tomb

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UEFA Euro 2024｜Belgium vs Romania (Group Stage) | Cologne Stadium

The UEFA Euro 2024 match between Romania and Belgium (Group Stage) is set to take place at the prestigious Cologne Stadium in Cologne. This event is scheduled for June 22, 2024 at 21:00. Football enthusiasts and fans alike can expect to witnessing this captivating clash between two formidable teams. The atmosphere will be charged with excitement as the players showcase their skills and compete for victory. Don't miss out on this remarkable sporting spectacle that promises to deliver an unforgettable experience.

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MUST VISIT PLACES OF DELHI

ITINERARY SUMMARY

Day 1 : national museum - red fort - akshardham temple day 2 : qutub complex - lotus temple - humayun tomb, trip starts from: delhi, mode of travel: car (or cab), trip ends at: delhi, total places visited: 15, trip starting point: new delhi railway station, total distance (round trip):, travel time (round trip):, trip duration: 2 days, ideal start time: 10 am (day 1) & 8 am (day 2), sightseeing time: %%itinerary_sightseeing_time%%.

DAY 1 : NATIONAL MUSEUM - RED FORT - AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE

Travel from to, 1 jantar mantar.

At a distance of 3 km from Delhi Junction Railway Station, Jantar Mantar is one of the best historical places in Delhi situated in Parliament Street near Connaught Place. Jantar Mantar was declared a national monument in 1948. The Jantar Mantar is among the best places to visit in Delhi and is a great place for astronomy lovers. Jantar Mantar, also known as the Delhi Observatory was built in 1724 AD. It is one of five astronomical observatories in India that was designed by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur . The other four observatories are situated at Jaipur, Varanasi, Ujjain and Mathura . The essential purpose of the Jantar Mantar was to accumulate astronomical tables which in turn would help predict the time and movement of the celestial bodies such as the sun, moon and other planets. The task was given to Raja Jai Singh by the Mughal emperor Muhammad Shah. It houses .....

2 Birla Mandir / Laksminarayan Temple

At a distance of 4 km from New Delhi Railway Station and 2.5 Km from Jantar Mantar, Lakshmi Narayan Temple also known as the Birla Mandir is situated at Mandir Marg near Connaught Place in New Delhi. It is one of the first temples built by the Birlas in India and one of the major Delhi tourist attractions. This temple was built by the famous industrialist and philanthropist, Baldeo Das Birla and his son Jugal Kishore Birla of Birla family. The construction of temple was started in 1933 and completed in 1939. The foundation stone of temple was laid by Maharaja Udaybhanu Singh. The temple was built under guidance of Pandit Vishwanath Shastri and the architect was Sri Chandra Chatterjee. Birla Mandir was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1939. At that time, Mahatma Gandhi kept a condition that the temple should allow people from all the castes. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. The three storeyed temple was built in the Nagara style of Hindu temple architecture. .....

3 Jama Masjid

At a distance of 3.5 km from New Delhi Railway Station, Jama Masjid or Masjid-i-jahan-Numa is located in the center of old Delhi near the famous Red Fort. This is one of the largest mosques in India and one of the last monuments built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It is one of the top places to visit in Delhi city and also among the top historical sites in Delhi. Jama Masjid was commissioned by Shah Jahan between 1644 and 1656 at a cost of 1 million rupees. This mosque was constructed with the efforts of more than 5,000 workers. The Masjid was completed under the supervision of Saadullah Khan, the Prime Minister of Shah Jahan and was inaugurated by an imam from Bukhara, present-day Uzbekistan. After the British victory in Revolt of 1857, they occupied the mosque and stationed their soldiers here. The mosque has three large gates, four towers and two 40 m high minarets constructed using red sandstone and white marble. The mosque is built on a red sandstone porch, which is about .....

At a distance of 4 km from New Delhi Railway Station, The Red Fort or the Lal Qila is one of the best historical places in Delhi situated on the western bank of the River Yamuna. This grand fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Delhi, from where the prime minister addresses the nation every year on Independence Day (15 August). It is located in the center of Delhi and houses a number of museums. It is one of the best places to visit in Delhi and also one of the top attractions you must include in Golden Triangle tour . The Red Fort was built by Shah Jahan between 1638 and 1648. The Fort was built when Shah Jahan transferred his capital from Agra to Delhi. The fort is better planned than the Agra Fort and was the residence of the Mughal emperor of India for nearly 200 years, until 1857. It was originally called as Quila-i-Mubarak, meaning the blessed fort, as it was the royal .....

At a distance of 5 km from New Delhi Railway Station, Raj Ghat is a memorial dedicated to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi located on the banks of Yamuna River in Old Delhi. Raj Ghat is the last resting place of Mahatma Gandhi. The cremation of Mahatma Gandhi took place at the Raj Ghat on 31st January 1948, a day after his assassination. The memorial was designed by Vanu G. Bhuta, who intended it to reflect the simplicity of the Mahatma's life. It has won several awards for its architectural design. The memorial stone of Mahatma Gandhi placed on a simple square platform made of black stone, with the words Hey Ram inscribed on it. It is left open to the sky while an eternal flame burns perpetually at one end. The road on which it is located is also known as the Mahatma Gandhi Road. It is situated amidst a well maintained garden with fountains and numerous trees that give the area a serene atmosphere. Near the memorial, there are labeled trees planted by visiting .....

6 Akshardham Temple / Swaminarayan Temple

At a distance of 10 km from New Delhi Railway Station, Akshardham Temple or Swaminarayan Temple is located on the banks of River Yamuna near Nizamuddin Bridge in Delhi. The temple is included in the list of Seven Wonders of the 21st Century by the prestigious Reader's Digest magazine. It is one of best built temples in India and among must visit tourist places in Delhi. It also has been listed in the 2009 edition of the Guinness World Records book as the largest Hindu temple in the world. Akshardham Temple is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan. Akshardham means the adobe of the supreme lord and the temple is a fine example of the Hindu architecture. The complex is the second Akshardham complex in the country after the one at Gandhinagar in Gujarat. The building was inspired and moderated by Pramukh Swami Maharaj who was the spiritual leader BAPS community. It was inaugurated in November 2005 by the President, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. Spread over 100 acres, the temple complex is .....

Overnight Stay in Delhi City

Day 2 : qutub complex - lotus temple - humayun tomb, resume delhi city sightseeing, 1 qutub minar.

At a distance of 15 km from New Delhi Railway Station, Qutub Minar is the magnificent tower of victory stands in the Qutub Complex located at Aurabindo Marg near Mehrauli in Delhi. Qutub is the highest tower in India and is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is among the must visit Delhi tourist places and one of the best heritage sites in Delhi city. It is also commonly featured in the promotion of Delhi Tourism. Qutub-ud-Din Aibak laid the foundation of Minar in 1199 AD for the use of the Mu'zzin (crier) to give calls for prayer and raised the first storey, to which three more storeys were added by his successor and son-in-law, Shamsud-Din Iltutmish (AD 1211-36). Numerous inscriptions in Arabic and Nagari characters in different places of the Minar reveal the history of Delhi. According to the inscriptions on its surface it was repaired by Firoz Shah Tughlaq (AD 1351-88) and Sikandar Lodi (AD 1489-1517). Major R. Smith also repaired and restored the Minar in 1829. It is an .....

2 Alai Minar

At a distance of 15 km from New Delhi Railway Station, Alai Minar is an incomplete monument stands just north of Qutub Minar in the Qutub Complex. The Alai Minar is a massive structure which was started by Aladdin Khilji in 1311 AD. Sultan Aladdin Khilji, an over ambitious Sultan of the Khilji dynasty, wanted to build a structure that would be double the height of Qutub Minar to commemorate his victory over one of his Deccan campaigns. He also executed the plan and increased the size of the enclosures of the Quwwat-Ul-Islam Masjid by four times its original size to provide a ceremonial entrance gateway on either sides of the mosque. He wanted the Alai Minar to match up with the size of the increased height of the mosque and also wanted a second tower of victory under his name and hence the Alai Minar was initiated. The construction was completed up to the first storey but unfortunately, the construction was abandoned after the death of Sultan Ala-ud-din Khalji in 1316 AD and .....

3 Alai Darwaza

At a distance of 15 km from New Delhi Railway Station, Alai Darwaza is a magnificent gateway situated north of Qutub Minar in the Qutub Complex. The Alai Darwaza was built by Aladdin Khilji in 1311 AD with exquisite inlaid marble decorations and latticed stone panels. The Alai Darwaza was a part of Aladdin Khilji's extension of the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque. It was one of the four grand gateways built by the Sultan; the other three could not be completed because of the death of Ala-ud-din in AD 1316. This is the main gateway from southern side of the Mosque. It highlights the remarkable skills of Turkish and local artisans who worked on it. It is considered to be one of the most important buildings built during Delhi Sultanate period. Alai Darwaza is follows the traditional Islamic architectural style. It was built using red sandstone while white marble was used on the exterior walls. Square in plan and with a large dome on top, Alai Darwaza follows principles of symmetrical .....

4 Alauddin Khilji Tomb And Madrasa

At a distance of 15 km from New Delhi Railway Station, Alauddin Khilji Tomb and Madrasa are situated in the Qutub Complex. It was the first structure in India with a tomb standing alongside a Madrasa. Ala-ud-din's Madrasa is located to the south-west of the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque. It was established by Ala-ud-din Khilji, as a college for education on Islamic scriptures and theology. It consists of rooms and halls built around a quadrangular court. Screened walls were originally present on the eastern and western sides of the quadrangular court. On the western side, a group of seven small, cell-like structures are present, which are believed to have served as residents of the teachers and staff. The entry on the north side consists of an elaborately carved doorway. The central room of the Madrasa, which has Aladdin tomb, has now lost its dome, though many rooms of the structure are intact. Alauddin Khilji was the second Sultan of Delhi from Khilji dynasty, who ruled from 1296 .....

5 Tomb Of Iltutmish

At a distance of 15 km from New Delhi Railway Station, The Iron Pillar is standing at the center of the Quwwat-ul-Mosque in the Qutub Complex. The Iron Pillar dates back to around 4th century, which was erected for honouring Lord Vishnu and in remembrance of Chandragupta II Vikramaditya (375-413). Based on inscriptions and archaeological evidence, the Iron Pillar of Delhi was originally located in Udayagiri near Vidisha in Madhya Pradesh. It was brought to its current location in 1233 AD by Shams-ud-din Iltutmish during his invasion of Malwa. It was erected as a flag pole and it is still a mystery that how this pillar moved to the present location in Qutub Minar. The pillar also highlights ancient India's achievements in metallurgy. This pillar is about 7.3 m tall and is made of 98% wrought iron, which has not rusted or decomposed for more than 1600 years. The decorative bell at the top end of the Iron Pillar presents a marvelous design. The next part of the structure is the .....

6 Iron Pillar

7 Lotus Temple / Bahai Temple

At a distance of 15 km from New Delhi Railway Station 2.5 km from Okhla Railway Station, The Lotus Temple is located at Bahapur Hill. Also called Bahai Temple or the Bahai House of worship, the Lotus Temple is one of the major landmarks and among the most visited places of sightseeing in Delhi. Lotus Temple was found by the believers of the Bahai Faith, an independent world religion, which was founded by Baha'ullah. This temple is an ideal place of meditation which is open to all other faiths. Lotus Temple is so named because of the lotus like structure of the temple. It is one of seven Bahai Houses of Worship in the world and is one of the most visited sites in the world with an average of three and a half million visitors each year. The temple was designed by Fariborz Shaba, a Canadian architect of Iranian origin. He took 10 years in designing the structure. The construction of the building began in 1980 and was completed in 1986 at a cost of Rs. 10 million and was opened .....

8 Humayun's Tomb

At a distance of 8 km from New Delhi Railway Station and 3 km from Hazrat Nizamuddin Station, Humayun's Tomb is one of the prime tourist places to visit in Delhi and one of the top historical places in Delhi city. The tomb is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the final resting place of Humayun, the second Mughal Emperor and father of Akbar. The construction of this tomb was commissioned by Humayun's wife, Hamida Banu Begum or Haji Begum in 1562. It was designed by Mirak Mirza Ghiyath, a Persian architect. Humayun's tomb was based on Gur-e Amir, the tomb of Mughal ancestor Timur in Samarkand. The tomb was completed in 1572 AD and is believed to have costed 15 lakh rupees at the time of its completion. The entire structure is built using red sandstone. Humayun's tomb is a fine specimen of the great Mughal architecture, which was inspired by Persian architecture. The tomb was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent. Its unique beauty is said to have inspired several .....

9 Safdarjung Tomb

At a distance of 7.5 km from New Delhi Railway Station and 7 km from Hazrat Nizamuddin Station, Safdarjung Tomb is located near the Safdarjung Airport at the T-junction of Lodi Road and Aurobindo Marg. It is located at a distance of 1 km from the Lodi Garden. It was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993. Safdarjung Tomb was built by his son Shujaud Daula in 1754. It is among the best tourist places in Delhi and also among the top historical places in Delhi city. This Tomb is dedicated to Mirza Muqeem Abdul-Mansur Khan, who was also known as Safdarjung. He was the viceroy of Oudh under Muhammad Shah and prime minister under Ahmad Shah. The tomb is the last example of the pattern which began with Humayun's tomb. The Tomb was built in distinct Mughal architecture. Constructed in the center of a large garden, the compound is decorated with ponds and fountains. Crafted out of red sandstone with a white marble dome, the Tomb is built on a raised platform. The tomb has .....

END OF THE TOUR

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Air India Express To Expand Operations In Delhi-NCR – India Report

Bulbul Dhawan , Skift

June 5th, 2024 at 11:00 PM EDT

Air India Express has become the first airline to operate from two airports in the national capital region. The airline is aiming to use the Hindon airport to connect with the smaller cities in western Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Haryana. It is not yet known if the airport will serve as another hub - but would it make sense if it were to become one?

Bulbul Dhawan

The Skift India Newsletter is your go-to platform for all news related to travel, tourism, airlines, and hospitality in India.

Budget airline Air India Express has announced that it will be commencing operations from the Hindon airport in the national capital region (NCR), in addition to its ongoing operations from the Delhi airport. With this, it has become the first airline to operate from two airports in the NCR. 

Starting August 1, 2024, the airline will operate 28 weekly direct flights to Bengaluru, Goa, and Kolkata. The move aims to enhance connectivity from cities in western Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Haryana. 

Air India Express managing director Aloke Singh said, “Our network expansion is focused on enhancing connectivity across the rapidly growing domestic and short-haul international market, particularly the new and underserved routes. The maturity and size of major metropolitan areas in India can support secondary airports.”

The Hindon airport was meant to serve the smaller towns bordering Delhi in Uttar Pradesh as part of the government’s regional connectivity scheme. However, only two airlines – FlyBig and Star Air – currently operate from there, with Air India Express set to be the third airline. 

A New Hub? Air India Express’ primary hub is located in Kochi, while it has secondary hubs in nine cities, including Delhi. The airline operates 280 weekly flights from Delhi, and flights from Hindon are meant to complement Air India Express’ Delhi operations. 

It is not yet clear if Hindon will be another hub for the airline, as it currently only plans to operate direct flights to three destinations from the airport. 

However, it is possible for the airport to serve as a hub for the budget airline’s regional operations, especially as it prepares for its merger with AIX Connect, formerly known as AirAsia India. 

In an interview with Skift , IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers had said that multiple hubs for airlines in a country of the size and population of India would be justified. “IndiGo serves different markets from different hubs. The geographical size of India is a fantastic opportunity for us,” he said. 

While Air India Express is currently the only airline to operate from two airports in NCR, India’s largest airline IndiGo is also ready to operate from the upcoming international airport in Noida in the NCR region. For this, the airline has also signed an agreement with the airport to become its launch carrier. 

Ixigo IPO To Open Next Week

Le Travenues Technology, the parent company of Indian travel aggregator Ixigo, will be launching its initial public offering (IPO) next week . The company is looking to raise INR 7.4 billion ($89 million) from the IPO, including fresh issuance of equity shares worth INR 1.2 billion ($14.4 million). 

The company received the regulatory approval for its IPO in May. 

Ixigo is planning to use the proceeds from the IPO to partially fund its capital requirements, invest in cloud infrastructure and technology, and fund inorganic growth through acquisitions and other strategic initiatives, Skift has learnt from its draft prospectus

“Our strategy focuses on expanding our user base, particularly targeting the ‘next billion user’ market segment. We emphasize customer acquisition through robust sales and marketing activities,” the company stated in the draft papers.

Air India To Facilitate Check-In At Delhi Metro Stations

Full-service carrier Air India has partnered with Delhi Metro and Delhi airport to facilitate check-in and baggage drop for international passengers at the New Delhi and Shivaji Stadium metro stations. The facility would allow outstation travelers to check in their baggage at the metro station and explore the city baggage-free, the airline said. 

Until now, this facility was only available for domestic passengers of the airline. Travelers can avail this facility between 7 am and 9 pm. Air India has said that passengers can check in between 12 hours and 2 hours before the departure of domestic flights, while for international schedules, check-in can be done between 4 hours and 2 hours before the departure. 

The initiative will also help control congestion at the airport, said Air India chief customer experience officer Rajesh Dogra. 

Air India has also introduced a ‘Fare Lock’ feature to its ticket booking flow on the airline’s website. The feature allows customers to lock in or reserve a selected fare for 48 hours for a fixed, nominal fee so that they can finalize their travel itineraries. 

Skyscanner Signs Partnership Agreement With Akasa Air

Online travel agency Skycanner has signed a partnership agreement with budget carrier Akasa Air. As part of the agreement, Skyscanner customers would be able to access domestic and international fares offered by Akasa Air on all platforms of the travel agency. 

Skyscanner provides travelers with different fare options for their air travel. As Akasa Air is rapidly expanding its network, it is increasing its market share in the country. 

“It is critical that we connect travelers with every travel option available to them, and adding Akasa to our offering is a significant step in better serving Indian travelers,” said Hugh Aitken, VP strategic relations and development at Skyscanner. 

Spree Hospitality Signs Hotel in Nagpur

Spree Hospitality, a subsidiary of online travel agency EaseMyTrip, has signed a new property in Nagpur, marking its ninth property in the state of Maharashtra. The 42-key ZiP by Spree Hotels Orient is set to open by the end of July. 

Spree Hospitality operates in the boutique and mid-market segment in India and currently has more than 30 properties across India. The company was acquired by EaseMyTrip in 2021. At the time of the acquisition, the company was looking to reach the 200 mark over a period of five years. 

Recently, the company has opened hotels in Dehradun, McLeod Ganj, and Surat, and signed a hotel in Gurgaon. 

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Tags: air india , Air India Express , airfares , airlines , airport , airports , akasa air , baggage handling , budget hotels , check-in , check-ins , checked bags , checked luggage , delhi , delhi airport , easemytrip , hotels , india outbound , india travel , indian airlines , indigo airlines , IPOs , ixigo , online booking , online booking tools , online travel agencies , online travel companies , regional airlines , regional carriers , skift india report , skyscanner , tourism , Travel Trends

Photo credit: Fights from Hindon airport are meant to complement Air India Express’ Delhi operations. Air India Express