Delhi Travel Guide: Best Places, Things to Do & Tips

Delhi Travel Guide: Best Places to Visit, Things to Do & Tips

Planning to explore Delhi, the national capital of India? If yes, then this blog Delhi Travel Guide is specially designed to assist you to explore famous landmarks, rich history, local culture, delicious food, and, vibrant markets of Delhi and turn your entire journey lifelong remarkable and celebrated!

Delhi, the capital and heart of India, presents an unmatched blend of ancient history and sparking modernity included several other experiences and adventures. It is the land who have lived in every era till now, whether it was the rule of Rajput, Mughals or Britishers, as now showcases the iconic site of history, culture, tradition, festival and taste. Delhi is one of the three destinations of Golden Triangle India (one of the most famous travel circuits of India) which attracts thousands of tourists every year across the world. Doesn’t matter what kind of tourist taste you want, with family, friends, partner of even solo, this place grant you whatever you are looking for! But as if you are newbie and visiting here at first time or even again you must have comprehensive details of Delhi to explore everything without missing out any attraction while in this blog of Delhi Travel Guide, I’ll cover every single point in this travel guide including when to visit Delhi, best place to visit in Delhi, things to do, how to get here and many more others that you can embark on the most celebrating Delhi Tour. Therefore, keep reading my encompass blog on Delhi Travel Guide to explore the depth of heart of India – Delhi!

Why Visit Delhi ?

If you are about to explore Delhi, then the question “why visit Delhi” must be arise, and it’s obvious whenever you plan trip. Delhi, the National Capital of India is one of the most premier destinations cherished with iconic attractions including historical magnificence, ancient heritage, marvelous architecture, landmark and colorful market.

Delhi is connected with the great historical significance as it is witness of rise and fall of several kings and their kingdom including the Mughals. Mughal charms can be seen through various attractions, architecture and landmark such as Red Fort, Chandni Chowk, Humayun’s Tomb, and various others. While Delhi gets spotlight for its diverse foods especially street foods like Chhole Bhature, Samosa, Momos, etc. as well as for shopaholic, Delhi showcase countless markets including Chandni Chowk, Sarojni Market, Lajpat Nagar and others.

Another reason to visit Delhi is also due to its accessibility, being situated in the core of India, you can explore any destination from here and begin your memorable Delhi Tour.

Places to Visit in Delhi

Delhi is the city which has numerous places to visit and perfect destination to satisfy the travel hunger of every type of tourist, from history to heritage, culture to tradition and festivals to food. If you ask me then I would suggest Delhi tourist attractions – Red Fort (best for photoshoot stop), India Gate (to spend some leisure time with loved ones), Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, Rashtrapati Bhavan / President’s residence, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple, Bangla Sahib, and, Jama Masjid.

India Gate

India Gate is the grand 42-meter-high war memorial which was built to tribute 70,000 soldiers who were died during World War I and Afghan War. This iconic landmark is one of the magnificent works designed by renowned Edwin Lutyens.

Entry Fees : Free
Visiting Time : 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM
Ideal Duration : 1 to 2 Hrs
Best Time to visit : Early morning or evening

Red Fort

Red Fort, the iconic protype of the Mughal architecture which was built in the year between 1639 and 1648 by the mighty Mughal ruler – Shah Jahan. This historic marvel served as the royal residency for the Mughal for 200 years and now it is designated as the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Entry Fees : INR 35 for Indians, INR 500-550 for foreigner, and, free for kids (<15yrs)
Visiting Time : 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (close on Mondays)
Ideal Duration : 2 to 3 Hrs
Best Time to visit : Morning

Qutub Minar

Designated as the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Qutub Minar, the victory tower is the tallest minaret tower of the world (72.5-meter) with 5 stories. Built with the red & buff sandstones, it was commissioned by the Qutb-ud-din Aibak in the year of 1199, but completed by his successor.

Entry Fees : INR 35-50 for Indians, INR 550-600 for foreigner, free for kids (<15yrs), and, INR 25 for camera
Visiting Time : 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Ideal Duration : 1 to 2 Hrs
Best Time to visit : Early Morning

Humayun’s Tomb

Humayun’s Tomb, the jewel of Delhi is the first Indian grand garden-tomb which was built in the year of 1570 by the Empress Bega Begum dedicated to her husband, Humayun. Counting in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning architecture is the inspiration of Taj Mahal, as it was designed by the renowned architect – Mirak Mirza Ghiyas.

Entry Fees : INR 40 for Indians, INR 600 for foreigner, and, free for kids (<15yrs)
Visiting Time : 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Ideal Duration : 5 to 2 Hrs.
Best Time to visit : Early morning

Lotus Temple

Also called as the Bahá’í Lotus Temple, is one of the top tourist destinations to visit in Delhi known for its stunning architecture style in the lotus shape with 27 white marble petals. This blooming lotus like destination is open for every religion, caste, or race, as anyone can visit, pray and meditate here.

Entry Fees : Free
Visiting Time : 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Summer), and, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Winter)
Ideal Duration : 1 to 2 Hrs
Best Time to visit : Early morning, and, late afternoon

Akshardham Temple

One of the most fascinating & gorgeous temples of India, Akshardham Temple is the cultural complex built by the renowned organization, BAPS. This iconic temple holds Guinness World Record for being world’s largest comprehensive Hindu temple as it is constructed by pink sandstone without structural steel as well as featured with 234 carved pillars, 9 domes, and, 20,000 statues. While Akshardham Temple is highlighted with various attractions including Main Temple, Sahaj Anand Water Show, Exhibitions, Gardens, and, Stepwell.

Entry Fees : Free
Visiting Time : 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM (Close on Mondays)
Ideal Duration : 4 to 5 Hrs.
Best Time to visit : Early morning and late evening

For the comprehensive details read my recent blog : Complete Tour Guide to Akshardham Temple

Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid, entitled as the Masjid-i-Jehan-Numa is one of the most renowned and largest mosques of India built in the regime of Mughal ruler, Shah Jahan, between 1644 and 1656. Situated in the heart of Old Delhi, Jama Masjid is featured with red sandstones, and, white marvel which holds space for about 25k people.

Entry Fees : Free for entre, while have to pay INR 300 for camera, and, INR 100 to climb minaret
Visiting Time : 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and, 1:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Ideal Duration : 1 to 1.5 Hrs.
Best Time to visit : Early morning

Chandni Chowk

It is the most famous and oldest market street of Delhi, situated in the Old Delhi phase, established in the year of 1650 by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, and, designed by Jahanara (Shah Jahan’s daughter). This market is well-famous throughout the nation for wholesale items, street foods, crafts, and its rich history & heritage.

Entry Fees : Free
Visiting Time : 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM
Ideal Duration : 2 to 4 Hrs. (Close on Sundays)
Best Time to visit : Morning

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

It is one of the most famous, and, revered Sikh houses of worship dedicated to the honorable eighth Sikh Guru – Guru Har Krishan, who helped during smallpox epidemic in the year of 1664. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is famous for its marvelous architecture as it is featured with white marble, golden domes, and, holy water pool (Sarovar).

Entry Fees : Free
Visiting Time : 4:00 AM to 7:00 AM, and, 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Ideal Duration : 1 to 2 Hrs.
Best Time to visit : Early morning, and, evening

Lodhi Garden

Lodhi Garden is the serene historic garden of city, situated between Khan Market, and, Safdarjung’s Tomb featured with marvelous tomb architecture, lush lawns, walking tracks, and, a lake.

Entry Fees : Free
Visiting Time : 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Ideal Duration : 1 to 3 Hrs.
Best Time to visit : Early morning, and, late evening

As Delhi is divided into totally to segments, one is New Delhi and other is Old Delhi, and both have their own uniqueness, following is their significance :

New Delhi Tour

New Delhi, one of the two halves of Delhi, which presents the charms of history, culture, tradition but along with contemporary, modern architecture, markets and much more. All the New Delhi’s charm can be glimpse through destinations including, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, India Gate, Akshardham Temple, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Lotus Temple, and, Purana Qila (Old Fort).

Old Delhi Tour

Old Delhi is the true façade of the national capital that show the real glamor of Delhi as here you immerse into the aged charms of Indian sub-continent enveloped with ancient history, architecture and much more. Here you can explore highlights like Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, and, Khari Baoli.

Things to do in Delhi

As entire national capital is enriched with unparallel attractions, there are lots of things to do such as :

Explore the historical and cultural sites of Delhi such as Red Fort, India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb, and, others
Taste the street food
Stroll through the narrow bustling lanes
Shop in the vibrant markets of Delhi
Be the witness of the colorful festivals such as Holi, Diwali and others
Offer prayers in the temples like Akshardham Temple, Bangla Sahib and so on

Best Time to visit Delhi : Essential of Delhi Travel Guide

Delhi is the kind of evergreen destination that welcome travelers all around the year, and tourist all across the globe visits too, here is the simple breakdown to pick the perfect time to visit Delhi :

Winters (October to March): Delhi is kind of city which always get ready to be explored but the best time to visit Delhi is in the months from October to March in winters as at this period of time climate turns pleasant, several festivals like Diwali, Holi etc. falls and night glitters with the décors of Christmas and New Year.

Monsoon (July to September): Monsoon also can be considered as a good time to visit Delhi as in this period of time, rain pours its glamour to everyone especially perfect for nature lovers and photographers. In this beautiful weather you may taste savory street food such as India Samosa, Chaat, Kachori etc. as well as visit cafés to sip hot coffee in front of drizzling rainfalls.

Summer (April to June): You may also choose summers to explore Delhi with great benefits as at this time the prices of accommodation and other hospitalities get falls which can be an ideal time for budget friendly tourists. It is recommended that explore sites in early in the morning or late afternoon to get rid of Delhi heat.

Ideal Duration for Delhi Tour

The trip duration directly influences your entire travel experience as here is the breakdown to pick the best Delhi Travel duration :

1 Day Delhi : If you are a bag packer then, one day tour is Ok, but you have to hurry to glimpse at all the attractions, and there is high chances to missing spots.

2 Days Delhi : Two days are significant time period to explore entire national capital without being hustled.

3 Days in Delhi : It is the most leisure duration to explore Delhi as you can sightseeing each-n-every destination of Old and New Delhi.

Curated Delhi Tour Itinerary

If you ask me to plan trip duration so, I personally recommend you three days Delhi Tour Itinerary as I have also pick the same, following is the I had followed and suggest you as well :

Day 01 : Explore the Soul of Old Delhi

Morning : On the first day of your tour, explore the historic, bustling heart of city as start you enchanting morning with Jama Masjid and Red fort.

Afternoon : Post exploration, move to taste the true flavors of Delhi at Chandni Chowk, enjoy your lunch here, after energetic food, head to explore Spice Market & revered Raj Ghat.

Evening : Glimpse the Georgian-style circular, Connaught Place where you can get some souvenir.

Day 2 : Glance at the Glory of New Delhi

Morning : Begin you day with India gate exploration, then sightsee President House, and late morning, visit revered Gurudwara Bangla Sahib.

Afternoon : for the lunch break you can stop at Khan Market, filled with high-quality cafes, trendy boutiques, and, bookstores, then move forward.

Evening : Explore Humayun’s Tomb and Lodhi Garden.

Day 3 : Discover the Ancient Roots with Modern Attractions

Morning : On the third day start your day with Qutub Minar Complex exploration.

Afternoon : Enjoy lunch at Dilli Haat also get some memorable stuffs, then head to Lotus Temple visit.

Evening : At the end of the day and trip indulge within the beauty of marvelous Akshardham Temple, and enjoy Light & Sound show.

How to Reach Delhi

You can pick air, train or roadways to get here as Delhi is well-connected with all of them

By Air : Delhi has International Airport which is connected with the major Indian as well as world cities.

By Train : In this place Northern Indian railways are well-spread which makes easy to get around by train.

By Road : As being capital city, it is linked with several National Highways that connect every destination to Delhi.

How to Get Around in Delhi

Delhi is the metro city featured with all the resources you need to enjoy an unforgettable trip as, the way to get around in the city is also important, here are the ways that you can choose to explore destinations within the National Capital :

Delhi Metro : Delhi metro is the simplest & most convenient way of transportation in Delhi and believe me, there is no other option better than this one, it is connected from head to toe of the city.

Taxis/Cabs : If you are in hurry and want to visit place directly, without roaming around then must book a taxi or cab.

Auto-rickshaws : Auto-rickshaws are also comfortable to visit, but may chance high, I recommend them to visit nearby destinations.

Where to Stay in Delhi

While choosing the place to stay in Delhi, must checkout your plan for excursions then, move towards to pick the stays

Connaught Place : Perfect area to stay for the first-time visitor as here you can find restaurants, shops, and, easy Metro access.

South Delhi : If you are wishing for the peaceful atmosphere, then South Delhi is the best area for you to stay.

Old Delhi : For the travelers, who are about to explore historic façade of Delhi, I prefer Old Delhi to them.

New Delhi Railway Station Area : It is one of the most convenient options for stays if you are planning to explore other destination like Agra & Jaipur after Delhi Tour.

Popular Food of Delhi : Know within Delhi Travel Guide

This place is well-known for its aromatic food as it has a wide verity of food – Street food, tradition food, Veg, Non-Veg, Sweets and much more. Try to taste everything as each dish has its own taste and flavor. In main course & cuisines have Paneer Curry / Shahi Paneer, Butter Chicken, Kebab, and Biryani; in street food (the soul of Delhi) try Indian Samosa, Chhole Bhature, Gol Gappa, Chaat, Paratha, Momos, and, Kachori; in sweets & refreshing drinks taste Jalebi, Kulfi, Rabri-Falooda, and, Lassi. Each dish is just Wow and I can bet, you would never forget taste of any cuisines.

Famous Markets of Delhi

Delhi is widely famous for various reasons, and one of the greatest reasons is its vast diverse markets that attracts a large number of people in Delhi. Usually, small trader, merchants pick items in bulk within low rate and sell them in their city in very reasonable prices. Delhi is no less than any heaven for shopaholics, here one can find anything from small pin to expensive accessories. Following are some of the most famous markets of Delhi to explore on Delhi tour :

Chandni Chowk
Sarojni Nagar Market
Janpath Market
Dilli Haat
Lajpat Nagar Market
Khan Market

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Delhi

Humayun’s Tomb: A magnificent architecture of Mughal era which is now counted as a UNESCO world heritage site. It is a first garden Tomb which was built by the Empress Bega Begum in 16^th century for her beloved husband, Humayun. It is constructed in a great architectural combination of Persian and Indian styles surrounded by Charbagh (Four-Quartered Garden) along with water Channels which seems really fascinating.

Red Fort: It was commissioned by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan in the year of 1639, which symbolize the power of Mughal Empire and at present it is in the list of UNESCO world heritage sites. It is built-up with the blended architectural style of Persian, Timurid, and Hindu which is featured with elegant pavilions, irregular octagon along with grand imposing red sandstone walls. It also consists other lavish structures such as Lahore Gate, Chhatta Chowk, Diwan-i-Aam, Pearl Mosque and Rang Mahal.

Qutub Minar: Qutub Minar, India’s tallest brick tower with 73 meters, five stories, and a UNESCO designated world heritage site at present. It was commissioned by the first ruler of Delhi Sultanate, Qutb-ud-din Aibak in 1192 AD with red sandstones and marbles, later it was complete by Iltutmish showcasing Indo-Islamic architecture style and modern balconies. The complex has several monuments including Quwwatu’l-Islam Mosque (the oldest mosque of North India), Alai Darwaza, Iron Pillar, Madrasa and Tomb.

Top Delhi Travel Tips to know along Delhi Travel Guide

Here are some useful top tips to know before visiting here, that you can enjoy such celebrating journey in Delhi :

Stay alert while you are in crowded area
Keep your personal belongings close
Don’t communicate with any stranger
Avoid strolling alone at night
Don’t act like you are new here
Try not to flex money in a public place
Keep cash as everyone don’t accept online transactions

Delhi to Agra and Jaipur (Golden Triangle India)

As Delhi is one of the major destinations of Golden Triangle India, as well as it is the initial point of it, so if you get some extra couple of days then I would like to suggest you to explore Agra and Jaipur as well along Delhi.

From Delhi to Agra : Roadways are the best option for to reach Agra; you can directly enter in Agra by Yamuna Expressway as it takes about 3.5 hrs.

From Agra to Jaipur : To reach Jaipur, you can book car or train as it is the most convenient way to get into the pink city

From Jaipur to Delhi : After Jaipur visit and Golden Triangle India completion, you can take flight, car, train or bus to directly return to the capital city, Delhi.

Planning to explore Delhi, Agra and Jaipur all together? If yes, then read our exclusive Golden Triangle India Travel Guide to organize a seamless journey.

Delhi is Safe for Tourists ?

Delhi is safe destination for tourists as the people of here are really generous and kind towards everyone especially foreigners. If you are needed anything you may ask to anyone in the public definitely someone stand for you to help. But I really want to recommend that try to be alert with pickpockets and late-night wandering alone, avoid exploration in night, being bold and over explorer may cause major issues.

Final Thoughts on Delhi Travel Guide

India’s national capital, Delhi is the city which is beyond every timeline whether it’s about history, medieval or even contemporary. It shows the open sight of every dynasty that raise and fall here (and there were numerous dynasties who absorbed in history). As situating at the center of the country, showcases something for every tourist from history to heritage, culture to tradition and festivals to food. It alone tempts millions of visitors throughout the year including first time visitor as well as regular one. Due to presenting multiply experiences it get really hectic to know what to do, when to do and where to do, to resolve these kinds of dilemmas this blog of – Delhi Travel Guide that you may explore Delhi effortlessly. So, after reading this in-detailed Delhi Travel Guide, rid of your confusion, book your tickets, pack up your suitcases and embark the trip to heart of India – Delhi !

Frequently Asked Questions about Delhi Travel Guide

Q. Is Delhi worth to visit ?

Ans. Indeed, Delhi is one of the great tourist places as it speculates a vibrant combination of ancient history, vivid culture, mouthwatering taste, architectural marvels and many more.

Q. What is the best time to visit Delhi ?

Ans. October to March (Winters) is the best time period to explore the charms of Delhi as the weather remains blooming for exploration, sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Q. What are the best places to visit in Delhi ?

Ans. Red Fort, India Gate, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, Lotus Temple, and Akshardham Temple are some of the most popular places to visit in Delhi.

Q. Are there UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Delhi ?

Ans. Delhi has total three UNESCO world Heritage sites : Red Fort, Qutub Minar and Humayun’s Tomb.

Q. What is the most convenient way to move within Delhi as per Delhi Travel Guide ?

Ans. Delhi Metro is the most comfortable and convenient to explore Delhi.

Q. Can we explore Agra and Jaipur after Delhi ?

Ans. Indeed, Delhi is the perfect place to depart for Agra and Jaipur as it forms popular Golden Triangle India.

Q. Which is the best area to stay in Delhi ?

Ans. Connaught Place is the perfect place to stay in Delhi as here you can find central location, shopping hub, high-standard restaurant, and, best metro connectivity.

Q. How many days are enough a Delhi Tour ?

Ans. To explore authentic Delhi 2 to 3 days are sufficient including sightseeing, activities and explorations.

Q. How to plan Delhi trip as foreigner ?

Ans. In this blog we’ve offer every detail to plan Delhi trip seamlessly, or the simplest way to plan it is to pick a reliable travel agent to curate your Delhi Tour.

Q. Is Delhi safe for solo travelers ?

Ans. Yeah, Delhi is a safe country for Indian, foreigner or solo travelers however, it is advised to mind on cautions while visiting / exploring.