Delhi, India: A Whirlwind of Flavors, Culture, and Chaos

Aerial view of the iconic Lotus Temple in Delhi, India, surrounded by lush greenery, with its white petal-like structure prominently rising against the blue sky
The magnificent Lotus Temple in Delhi, a symbol of unity and peace, stands as a marvel of modern architecture amidst serene gardens

How to get there

Getting around

Things to do

Where to eat

Best time to visit

Where to stay

Ah, Delhi! The city where ancient history shakes hands with modern mayhem, and where every street corner has a story juicier than a ripe mango. As the heart and soul of India, Delhi is a sprawling tapestry woven with threads of rich heritage, diverse cultures, and an energy that could power a small planet.

Walking through Delhi is like flipping through the pages of a history book while riding a roller coaster. One moment you’re gazing up at the majestic Red Fort, imagining Mughal emperors strolling by, and the next, you’re dodging rickshaws in the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk, enticed by the aroma of sizzling street food.

But don’t be fooled by its historical gravitas; Delhi knows how to party in the present. The city effortlessly blends its illustrious past with hip cafes, swanky malls, and nightlife that can keep even the most energetic night owl entertained till the wee hours.

In essence, Delhi is not just a city—it’s an experience. An exuberant, chaotic, and utterly enchanting experience that leaves you simultaneously exhausted and exhilarated, craving both a nap and an encore.

If you’re short on time, here are some of the most popular tours:

Popular Tours in

Delhi

Explore the City Palace with a private guide and take a boat ride on this tour .

Enjoy a sunset boat ride on this tour .

Enjoy a cooking class to learn how to cook local dishes .

Enjoy the best local dishes on street food tour with a local guide .

How to get there

Reaching Delhi is as easy as finding chai in India—virtually impossible to miss!

By Air: Indira Gandhi International Airport is your magic carpet landing spot, connecting Delhi to major cities across the globe. The airport is a modern marvel, complete with all the amenities you’d need to recover from that cramped economy seat and prepare for the adventure ahead.

By Train: For those who prefer their travel with a side of scenic vistas and rhythmic clatter, India’s extensive railway network has you covered. New Delhi Railway Station is the main hub, and arriving here is an adventure in itself—think platform chaos meets Bollywood drama.

By Road: If you’re a road trip aficionado with a penchant for honking symphonies and unpredictable traffic patterns, buses and taxis connect Delhi to neighboring cities. Just remember, in India, lane discipline is more of a suggestion than a rule, so buckle up and embrace the journey!

By Metro: Wait, what? Yes, Delhi’s Metro even connects to nearby cities like Gurgaon and Noida. It’s clean, efficient, and air-conditioned—a trifecta that’s nothing short of miraculous in the Indian summer.

No matter how you choose to arrive, Delhi welcomes you with open arms, a cacophony of sounds, and perhaps a curious cow or two blocking your path.

Where to eat

Delhi’s culinary scene is as diverse as its population, offering a feast for the senses and the stomach. Here’s where you can fill your belly without emptying your wallet.

1. Karim’s, Jama Masjid

  • Cuisine: Mughlai
  • Average Price for Two: ₹800
  • Vibe: Timeless, historic, and carnivorous. Karim’s is where you’ll find the city’s best kebabs and curries, served with a side of history.

2. Indian Accent, Lodhi Road

  • Cuisine: Contemporary Indian
  • Average Price for Two: ₹5,000
  • Vibe: Sophisticated and innovative. Indian Accent reimagines traditional Indian dishes with a modern twist. Perfect for a special night out.

3. Paranthe Wali Gali, Chandni Chowk

  • Cuisine: North Indian (Street Food)
  • Average Price for Two: ₹300
  • Vibe: Chaotic, vibrant, and utterly delicious. This narrow alley is a pilgrimage site for lovers of stuffed parathas.

4. Bukhara, ITC Maurya

  • Cuisine: North-West Frontier
  • Average Price for Two: ₹7,000
  • Vibe: Rustic luxury. Bukhara’s legendary dal and kebabs have been savored by heads of state and foodies alike.

5. Saravana Bhavan, Connaught Place

  • Cuisine: South Indian
  • Average Price for Two: ₹600
  • Vibe: Simple, no-frills, and deliciously authentic. The dosas here are crispy, the sambhar is spicy, and the coffee is strong.

6. Khan Chacha, Khan Market

  • Cuisine: North Indian (Street Food)
  • Average Price for Two: ₹800
  • Vibe: Modern meets traditional. Khan Chacha’s rolls are the stuff of legend, perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal.

7. Social, Hauz Khas Village

  • Cuisine: Fusion
  • Average Price for Two: ₹2,000
  • Vibe: Hip and happening. Social offers innovative cocktails and fusion dishes with a backdrop of ancient ruins.

8. Sitaram Diwan Chand, Paharganj

  • Cuisine: North Indian (Street Food)
  • Average Price for Two: ₹400
  • Vibe: Unpretentious and utterly addictive. Their chole bhature is a spicy, flavorful delight that draws crowds daily.

9. Delhi Haat, INA

  • Cuisine: Multi-cuisine (Regional Indian)
  • Average Price for Two: ₹500
  • Vibe: Cultural and diverse. Delhi Haat is a food lover’s paradise, offering dishes from every corner of India in one vibrant marketplace.

10. Moti Mahal, Daryaganj

  • Cuisine: Mughlai
  • Average Price for Two: ₹2,500
  • Vibe: Historic and hearty. Moti Mahal is credited with inventing butter chicken, and their creamy, tomatoey version is a must-try.

In Delhi, every meal is a journey through the city’s rich culinary landscape. Whether you’re feasting in a five-star restaurant or savoring street food, your taste buds are in for an adventure.

Getting Around

Navigating Delhi is a bit like playing a video game—full of challenges, surprises, and the occasional detour.

Delhi Metro:

  • Cost: ₹10 to ₹60 per trip
  • Experience: The metro is the backbone of Delhi’s public transport system—fast, reliable, and blessedly air-conditioned. It’s the best way to avoid traffic and explore the city’s vast expanse.

Auto-Rickshaws:

  • Cost: ₹30 to ₹150 depending on distance and haggling skills
  • Experience: These three-wheeled wonders are everywhere, offering a quick and exhilarating way to get around. Just make sure to negotiate the fare before hopping in.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing:

  • Cost: ₹100 to ₹500 depending on distance
  • Experience: Uber and Ola are the go-to options for comfortable and convenient travel. They’re more expensive than autos but offer the luxury of AC and a set fare.

Buses:

  • Cost: ₹10 to ₹50 per trip
  • Experience: Delhi’s buses cover extensive routes and are the most budget-friendly option. However, they can get crowded, so hold on tight and enjoy the ride.

Cycle Rickshaws:

  • Cost: ₹20 to ₹50 for short distances
  • Experience: These eco-friendly rides are perfect for exploring narrow lanes and markets at a leisurely pace. They’re slow, but that’s part of the charm.

Rental Bikes and Scooters:

  • Cost: ₹300 to ₹500 per day
  • Experience: For the adventurous, renting a bike or scooter is a fun way to explore the city. Just make sure you’re comfortable with Delhi’s traffic dynamics.

Getting around Delhi can be an adventure in itself. Whether you’re zipping through traffic on a scooter or gliding smoothly on the metro, each mode of transport offers a unique perspective of the city.

Best time To visit

Timing your visit to Delhi can significantly enhance your experience, especially when you pair it with the right accommodation.

Best Time to Visit:

  • October to March is the sweet spot for Delhi travel. The weather is pleasant, ranging from cool to mildly chilly, making it ideal for sightseeing. The city also comes alive with festivals like Diwali and Holi during these months, adding extra vibrancy to your visit.

Things To Do

Delhi is a treasure trove of experiences, offering everything from historical exploration to modern-day adventures.

1. Explore the Red Fort

  • Experience: Wander through the majestic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and imagine life during the Mughal Empire. The evening light and sound show adds an extra layer of magic.

2. Visit Qutub Minar

  • Experience: Marvel at the soaring Qutub Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world, and delve into the history of the Delhi Sultanate. The surrounding complex is a blend of Islamic and Hindu architecture.

3. Stroll Through Lodhi Gardens

  • Experience: Escape the hustle and bustle in this peaceful garden, dotted with ancient tombs and beautiful flora. It’s a favorite spot for picnics, yoga, and leisurely walks.

4. Shop at Dilli Haat

  • Experience: This open-air market offers handicrafts, textiles, and foods from across India. It’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs while sampling regional cuisines.

5. Visit Humayun’s Tomb

  • Experience: A precursor to the Taj Mahal, this stunning tomb is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. The symmetry and gardens are breathtaking, especially at sunrise or sunset.

6. Experience the Chaos of Chandni Chowk

  • Experience: Dive into the madness of Chandni Chowk, one of the oldest markets in India. From spices to saris, this is where you’ll find everything under the sun. Don’t miss the legendary jalebis and parathas.

7. Tour the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple

  • Experience: This modern architectural marvel is a blend of spirituality, culture, and art. The evening water show is a spectacular fusion of lights, sound, and water.

8. Enjoy a Meal at a Rooftop Café in Hauz Khas Village

  • Experience: Overlooking ancient ruins and a serene lake, the rooftop cafes here are perfect for a relaxed meal. It’s where history meets hipster, with a side of stunning views.

9. Attend a Cultural Show at India Habitat Centre

  • Experience: From theater to music to art exhibitions, the India Habitat Centre is a hub for Delhi’s cultural scene. Check their schedule for events during your visit.

10. Ride a Rickshaw Through Old Delhi

  • Experience: No trip to Delhi is complete without a rickshaw ride through the narrow, bustling lanes of Old Delhi. It’s chaotic, it’s loud, and it’s absolutely thrilling.

In Delhi, every experience is a story waiting to be told. Whether you’re delving into history, shopping till you drop, or savoring local delicacies, this city promises a journey unlike any other.

Where To stay

Hotel Suggestions:

3-Star Category:

1. Bloomrooms @ Janpath

  • Average Price: ₹3,000 per night
  • Vibe: Bright, modern, and budget-friendly. Bloomrooms offers clean, comfortable rooms with a focus on minimalistic design and great service.

2. Hotel Bright, Connaught Place

  • Average Price: ₹4,000 per night
  • Vibe: Centrally located and charming, Hotel Bright is a perfect budget option for those who want to be in the heart of the city without breaking the bank.

4-Star Category:

1. The Park, Connaught Place

  • Average Price: ₹7,000 per night
  • Vibe: Stylish and centrally located, The Park offers a blend of modern luxury and traditional hospitality, with excellent dining options and a lively atmosphere.

2. Haveli Dharampura, Chandni Chowk

  • Average Price: ₹9,000 per night
  • Vibe: A heritage hotel that takes you back in time. Haveli Dharampura is a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion offering an authentic Mughal-era experience.

5-Star Category:

1. The Oberoi, New Delhi

  • Average Price: ₹20,000 per night
  • Vibe: The epitome of luxury, The Oberoi offers world-class service, stunning views, and a serene ambiance amidst the city’s chaos.

2. Taj Palace, Chanakyapuri

  • Average Price: ₹18,000 per night
  • Vibe: Nestled in the diplomatic enclave, Taj Palace is an iconic hotel that combines opulence with a rich history. The service here is impeccable, and the gardens are a lush escape from the city.

Whether you’re looking for budget comfort or lavish luxury, Delhi has accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs.