Delhi Travel Guide
Delhi is India's sprawling, layered capital, where Mughal forts and colonial boulevards give way to chaotic bazaars and gleaming metro lines. It rewards the curious and the patient with some of the subcontinent's greatest monuments and its most intoxicating street food.
Delhi — Highlights in photos
Top things to do
Red Fort (Lal Qila)
The massive red sandstone fortress built by Shah Jahan in the 1600s served as the seat of Mughal power for two centuries. Wander its palaces, marble halls and gardens; the site remains central to India's Independence Day celebrations. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Qutub Minar
A soaring 73-metre victory tower of intricately carved sandstone from the early 13th century, the tallest brick minaret in the world. The surrounding complex holds ancient ruins and the mysterious rust-resistant Iron Pillar.
Humayun's Tomb
A breathtaking Mughal garden tomb from 1570 that inspired the Taj Mahal, set within symmetrical charbagh gardens. Its red sandstone and white marble domes are especially beautiful in soft morning light. A UNESCO site.
India Gate
A 42-metre war memorial arch honouring soldiers of the British Indian Army, standing at the end of the ceremonial Rajpath. The surrounding lawns fill with families and food vendors in the cool of the evening.
Jama Masjid
India's largest mosque, another Shah Jahan masterpiece, with a vast courtyard holding tens of thousands of worshippers. Climb the southern minaret for sweeping views over Old Delhi's rooftops.
Chandni Chowk and Old Delhi
The frenetic heart of Old Delhi, a labyrinth of narrow lanes selling spices, textiles, sweets and silver. Best explored on a cycle-rickshaw or a guided food walk to navigate the delicious chaos.
Lotus Temple and Akshardham
The serene, flower-shaped Bahá'í Lotus Temple welcomes visitors of all faiths for quiet meditation, while the vast Akshardham complex dazzles with intricate carvings and evening fountain shows.
Lodhi Gardens and Gandhi Smriti
A tranquil park dotted with 15th-century tombs is perfect for a morning stroll, while Gandhi Smriti marks the house where Mahatma Gandhi spent his final days.
Museums & entry info
National Museum
India's premier museum spans 5,000 years, from Indus Valley artefacts to Mughal miniatures and Buddhist relics. Foreign-visitor admission is around ₹650 (often including an audio guide); typically closed Mondays. Check the official site for hours.
National Gallery of Modern Art
A rich collection of modern Indian art housed in a former princely residence. Foreign-visitor admission is roughly ₹500; usually closed Mondays. Verify online.
Gandhi Smriti
The moving memorial museum in the house where Gandhi was assassinated in 1948, tracing his life and final steps. Admission is free; typically closed Mondays. Confirm hours before visiting.
National Rail Museum
An outdoor and indoor collection of vintage locomotives and royal carriages, with a fun toy-train ride, ideal for families. Admission is modest (around ₹100–300); usually closed Mondays. Check online.
National Crafts Museum
A celebration of India's living crafts and folk art, with artisans often at work and a beloved café. Admission is low-cost; verify current days and hours on the official site.
Signature experiences
Old Delhi Rickshaw and Street Food Walk
A guided cycle-rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk's lanes, stopping for parathas, jalebis and chaat with a knowledgeable local. Tours typically run ₹1,500–3,500 per person including tastings, an unmissable Delhi experience.
Old and New Delhi Full-Day Tour
A guided day covering the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, Humayun's Tomb and India Gate, often with transport and guide included. Prices range widely from around ₹2,000–5,000 per person.
Day Trip to the Taj Mahal, Agra
A long but rewarding day trip, increasingly done via the fast Gatimaan or Vande Bharat trains, to see one of the world's great wonders. Organised tours run roughly ₹6,000–15,000 depending on transport and inclusions.
Spiritual and Sound Experience at a Sikh Gurdwara
Visiting Gurudwara Bangla Sahib to witness the communal kitchen (langar) and devotional music is free and deeply moving; guided cultural tours add context for a modest fee.
What to eat
Delhi is a paradise for street food and rich Mughlai cuisine, from butter-soaked curries to crisp fried snacks. Eat where it is busy and freshly cooked, and be cautious with tap water and raw items.
October to March offers the most comfortable weather, with pleasant days and cool nights, though December mornings can be foggy. Summers from April to June are brutally hot, and the monsoon brings humidity and downpours from July.
The clean, extensive Delhi Metro is the fastest way around and avoids traffic; app-based cabs and auto-rickshaws fill the gaps. Indira Gandhi International Airport connects to the centre via the Airport Express metro line in about 20 minutes.
Traveler tips
- Drink only bottled or filtered water and favour busy, freshly cooked food stalls.
- Agree on auto-rickshaw fares in advance or insist on the meter, and prefer app-based cabs.
- Dress modestly at religious sites and cover your head at gurdwaras and mosques.
- Air quality can be poor in winter, so consider a mask if you are sensitive.