- The Metro is world-class—clean, safe, and the best way to escape the traffic.
- Old Delhi (Chandni Chowk) is intense chaos; take a cycle rickshaw to survive it.
- The food is arguably the best in India—Butter Chicken was invented here.
- Pollution can be severe in winter (November-January).
- Don't try to see everything; pick a few key monuments.
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When to go: Spring or Autumn
February-March and October-November are best. The weather is pleasant.
Summer (April-June) is dangerously hot (45°C). Winter (December-January) is cold and often choked with smog/pollution. Avoid if you have respiratory issues.
- Spring/Autumn: Best weather.
- Summer: Extreme heat.
- Winter: Smog and fog.
Getting there: Airport Express Metro
Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is connected by the Airport Express Metro Line. It takes 20 minutes to New Delhi Railway Station. It's fast, cheap, and air-conditioned.
Uber and Ola are also available and reliable. Prepaid taxis exist but can be hassle-prone.
- Airport Express: Fast and safe.
- Uber/Ola: Convenient app-based rides.
- Prepaid Taxi: Old school option.
Where to stay: South Delhi or Central
South Delhi (Hauz Khas, Green Park, Saket) is greener, cleaner, and more upscale. It's great for cafes and boutiques.
Central Delhi (Connaught Place) is convenient for transport and history. Paharganj is the backpacker hub—cheap, chaotic, and gritty (not for everyone).
- South Delhi: Posh, green, relaxed.
- Connaught Place: Central, colonial hub.
- Paharganj: Budget, intense, backpacker.
What to see: Forts and Tombs
The Red Fort is iconic, but Humayun's Tomb is more beautiful (it inspired the Taj Mahal). Qutub Minar is a stunning ancient tower complex.
India Gate and the Lotus Temple are must-sees. For a spiritual experience, visit the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib (Sikh temple) and see the community kitchen.
- Red Fort: Mughal power.
- Humayun's Tomb: Garden tomb masterpiece.
- Qutub Minar: Ancient victory tower.
- Lotus Temple: Bahá'í house of worship.
- Akshardham: Massive modern temple complex.
Food: Chaat and Kebabs
Delhi is the food capital. Eat 'Chaat' (street snacks) like Golgappa and Aloo Tikki. Karim's in Old Delhi is famous for Mughlai meat dishes.
Moti Mahal claims to have invented Butter Chicken. Paranthe Wali Gali is a lane famous for fried stuffed breads.
- Chaat: Spicy, tangy street snacks.
- Butter Chicken: Rich and creamy.
- Kebabs: Best in Old Delhi.
- Chole Bhature: Spicy chickpeas and fried bread.
Getting around: Metro and Auto
The Delhi Metro is a lifesaver. It connects almost every tourist spot. Use it.
Auto-rickshaws are great for short distances—always ask to use the meter or negotiate the price hard before getting in. Uber/Ola is safer for night travel.
- Metro: Efficient, cheap, AC.
- Auto-rickshaw: Fun but haggle hard.
- Uber: Reliable.
Budget: Very Cheap
Delhi is very affordable. Street food is pennies, and entry fees for monuments are reasonable (though higher for foreigners).
You can find luxury hotels for a fraction of Western prices.
- Food: Incredible value.
- Transport: Metro is very cheap.
- Shopping: Bargain everywhere.
2 Days in Delhi
Day 1: Old Delhi. Red Fort, Jama Masjid (Mosque), and a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk. Lunch at Karim's. Visit Raj Ghat (Gandhi memorial).
Day 2: New Delhi. Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar, and Lotus Temple. Evening at India Gate or Hauz Khas Village for dinner/drinks.
- Day 1: Chaos and history.
- Day 2: Gardens and monuments.
- Evening: Modern vibes.
FAQ
Is it safe for women?
Delhi has a bad reputation. It's generally safe during the day, but avoid walking alone at night. Use the 'Women Only' coach in the Metro (first car).
Can I drink the water?
No. Never. Bottled water only. Avoid ice in street drinks.
Is the 'Delhi Belly' real?
Yes. Be careful with street food hygiene. Eat where it's busy and cooked fresh in front of you. Avoid cut fruits.