The capital of India, Delhi is undoubtedly one of the most bustling metropolises in the nation. Delhi is a vibrant and dynamic city with a rich cultural heritage worth experiencing. If you are planning to visit Delhi and wondering how to plan, where to stay, what places to explore and all, then we have got you covered.
Delhi experiences extreme temperatures, with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit Delhi is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing
While exploring every nook and cranny of Delhi, you will see legions of ruins, tombs and monuments that tell you of the bygone times when Delhi didn’t even come into being.
On the other end, the flamboyant clubs, snazzy cafés and bars dispersed all across Delhi are sure to make your day.
Visiting Delhi means indulging in the most satiating trip ever.
Visiting Delhi for the first time?
Before you arrive in Delhi, make sure you have a good idea of what you want to see and do during your trip. Research the city’s top attractions, such as the Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, and the Lotus Temple, and plan your itinerary accordingly.
Delhi is a large city with heavy traffic, so it’s important to plan your transportation in advance. You can choose from a variety of options, including taxis, auto-rickshaws, and the Delhi Metro. The Metro is a convenient and affordable option for getting around the city, especially during rush hour.
Here’s the complete guide on how to visit Delhi and make the most of your trip:
Places to explore in Delhi
Primarily Delhi is divided into two locales, old Delhi and New Delhi. Nonetheless, there are quite a few destinations in both these parts that you are sure to fall for.
Delhi has a rich history and culture that is reflected in its architecture, food, and traditions. Take a tour of the city’s historic monuments, such as the Red Fort and the Jama Masjid, and explore its vibrant markets, such as Chandni Chowk and Connaught Place.
These are some of the most popular places to visit in Delhi
- Rastrapati Bhavan-Located near Central Secretariat (New Delhi)
- National Rail Museum-Situated primarily in Dhaula Kuan (New Delhi)
- Cyber Hub-Located within the Cyber City Rapid Metro Station, Gurgaon (Delhi-NCR)
- Damdama Lake-Gurgaon, (Delhi-NCR)
- Appu Ghar-Huda City Center, Gurgaon (Delhi-NCR)
- Lotus Temple-Kalkaji Mandir
- Humayun’s Tomb-Jor Bagh (New Delhi)
- Qutub Minar-Situated close to the Qutub Minar Metro Station
- Snow World-Sector-Section 18 Noida (Delhi-NCR)
- Fun N Food Village-Dwarka Sector 21, New Delhi
Apart from just these places, Delhi is also the hub of many other enthralling points of attraction. The most prominent amongst them are the Akhsharadham Temple, Hauz Khas, Red Fort, Dilli Haat, Kingdom of Dreams and Connaught Place to name only a few.
Where to stay in Delhi?
You are never short of choices when it comes to staying in Delhi. Delhi has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose from a variety of options. It’s best to book your accommodation in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Take a peek at this checklist of great luxurious hotels in Delhi.
Taj Palace, New Delhi
Nestling in the heart of Delhi, Taj Palace is comprised of a deluxe spa, multi-cuisine restaurants and an array of ritzy suites and rooms. Their high-end air filtration system also lets you inhale the freshest air ever. So, indulge in a pampering sojourn in this striking hotel while enjoying the panoramic views of the lush green blocks spread all across the city.
Hotel Novotel, New Delhi Aerocity
Novotel New Delhi Aerocity is an amazing option for travellers who long for a luxurious stay while getting access to the most modern-day amenities needed to live comfortably. Its proximity to destinations like Manekshaw Center, Mangal Mahadev Birla Kanan and Delhi Cantt. (2.3 miles) makes it one of the most tourist-friendly hotels in Delhi.
The Lalit New Delhi
The Lalit Hotels in Delhi is located amidst the most notable commercial and business district of Delhi, i.e. Connaught Place. Surrounded by resplendent streets, exuberant shopping centres and revered office buildings, the ambience of this hotel is simply spellbinding. In fact, the international Delhi airport is just 24 km away from there. In a word, it is one of the most convenient hotels wherein you can stay during your Delhi trip.
Best Shopping Destinations in Delhi
Delhi is a shopper’s paradise, with a variety of markets and malls offering everything from traditional handicrafts to designer clothing. Some of the popular shopping destinations include Chandni Chowk, Sarojini Nagar, and Dilli Haat.
Well, if you are an outright shopaholic, then a trip to Delhi is a must. Wondering why? This is because with time Delhi has become the most vivacious shopping hub so far. Some of the must-try shopping destinations out here are:
- Chandni Chowk: Famous for Bridal Lehengas, footwear, embroidered handbags, imitated pieces of jewellery, electronics, and silk and cotton clothes.
- Sarojini Market: This multifaceted market in Delhi is meant for shoppers of all kinds. Whether it’s electronic appliances, kitchenware, household items, tableware, sweets or fashion accessories, you will get almost everything here.
- Khan Market: Khan Market is also quite versatile in the sense that it sells some of the choicest fashion jewellery, eatables, music gadgets, sports accessories and ethnic designer outfits to its customers.
- Connaught Place: Starting from branded clothes, electronics, perfumes, and Indian handicrafts to that interesting books to read, shop for anything in Connaught Place according to your choice.
Aside from these shopping centres, Delhi is also the home to many other ebullient places where you can buy whatever you feel like. Lajpat Nagar, Karol Bagh Market, Paharganj Bazaar and Dilli Haat are the most prominent of them.
Enjoy the Delhi nightlife during your trip
Delhi has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants open until late. Some of the popular areas for nightlife include Hauz Khas Village, Connaught Place, and Khan Market. Make sure to check out the local events and concerts taking place during your visit.
Gorge onto mouthwatering sweets in Delhi
Delhi is known for its delicious street food, such as chaat, chole bhature, and paranthas. Make sure to try some of the local specialities during your trip. You can also explore the city’s fine dining options, which offer a variety of cuisines from around the world.
And if you want to taste the true flavours of Indian desserts then Delhi awaits you with an array of famous sweet shops located in every nook and cranny of the city.
Check them out below.
Kamala Sweets
Located in Chittaranjan Park, the sweets out here are made predominantly of desi Ghee. You will get the signature essence of pure clarified butter, the moment you will enter this sweet shop. Interestingly, they sell some of the quintessential sweets of Kolkata too like Sandesh, Raj Bhog and Chhanar Jilipi which are a must-try.
Chaina Ram
To nosh the typical flavours of Indian sweets and the traditional desserts of Delhi, pay a visit to Chaina Ram this time for sure. Besides, it is chiefly famous for the dal ka halwa, an eminent sweet that finds its way into every big fat Indian wedding across the city.
Nathu’s Sweets
This sweet shop is the most famous in Delhi, recognized easily by people who know even the least about this city. Try out their Dodha Barfis for sure as they are primarily known for this specialty.
Evergreen Sweet House
One of the most immaculate and hygienic sweet-selling brands of Delhi, you can’t afford to miss out on their lip-smacking Rasmalai and that’s for sure. The delectable Lassi and Jalebi they sell are also something you must chow down.
Old Famous Jalebi Wala
The exceptionally crispy and fat Jalebis that they sell out to their customers set them apart from the other sweet shops of Delhi. So, tucking into this palatable dessert means sweetening up the rest of your day. Interestingly, why their Jalebis are so thick and flaky is a mystery that many tourists have failed to unravel so far.
How to reach Delhi?
Reaching Delhi is not a hassle at all. So, before embarking on your Delhi journey, let’s explore some easy-going ways to turn up in the city.
By Road
Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) operates the biggest fleet of CNG buses. Besides, there is the Inter-State Bus Terminus, Anand Vihar Terminus and Sarai Kale-Khan Bus Terminus from where you will get buses for the various itineraries of Delhi. Alternatively, you can opt for private and governmental transport services as well according to your varying needs.
By Rail
Sarai Rohilla, New Delhi Railway Station, Anand Vihar Railway Terminal and Nizamuddin Railway Station are some of the major railway stations that you can resort to for reaching various parts of the city. Apart from that, the Delhi Metro Railway Corporation (DMRC) renders railway services via which you can reach to the prominent adjoining areas of the city like Ghaziabad, Noida and Gurgaon.
By Air
The Indira Gandhi International Airport facilitates several national and international itineraries like Dubai to Delhi flights, New York to Delhi, Chennai to Delhi and Pune to Delhi etc. You can opt for any of these flights and commute to and from Delhi as per your needs.
Have a whale of a time in Delhi!
While Delhi is generally a safe city, it’s important to take precautions to avoid any unpleasant incidents. Avoid travelling alone at night, especially in deserted areas, and keep your valuables safe. Stay aware of your surroundings, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your trip to Delhi and enjoy all that the city has to offer. Have a great trip!