Delhi, India

Delhi Travel Guide

Welcome to Delhi, the vibrant capital city of India! Delhi is a treasure trove of history, culture, and entertainment, offering something for everyone. From ancient monuments to bustling markets, and from delicious street food to luxurious shopping malls, Delhi will leave you spellbound.

Places to Visit

Historic Monuments

  • Red Fort (Lal Qila): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort is a must-visit attraction in Delhi. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1648, it showcases stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
  • Qutub Minar: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Qutub Minar is the tallest minaret in India, built in 1193 AD by Qutb-ud-din Aibak. Explore the surrounding complex, which includes several other historical structures.
  • Humayun’s Tomb: A beautiful example of Mughal architecture, Humayun’s Tomb was built in 1565 AD for the second Mughal emperor.

Cultural and Entertainment Venues

  • India Gate: A iconic war memorial, India Gate is a popular spot for photos, picnics, and people-watching.
  • National Museum: One of the largest museums in India, the National Museum showcases a vast collection of art, artifacts, and cultural relics from across the country.
  • Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Palace): Take a guided tour of the official residence of the President of India.

Markets and Shopping

  • Chandni Chowk: One of the oldest and busiest markets in Delhi, Chandni Chowk offers everything from traditional handicrafts to modern electronics.
  • Palika Bazaar: A large underground market, Palika Bazaar is a treasure trove for shoppers looking for affordable fashion items and souvenirs.
  • Sarojini Nagar Market: This bustling market is a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide range of clothes, accessories, and home decor items.

Parks and Gardens

  • Lodi Gardens: A beautiful park in the heart of the city, Lodi Gardens is a peaceful oasis amidst Delhi’s chaos.
  • Tilak Lane Park: Another popular park in Delhi, Tilak Lane Park offers stunning views of the surrounding area and plenty of walking space.

Activities

Adventure Activities

  • Skydiving: Take the leap of faith with skydiving in Delhi. Experience the thrill of free-falling from a great height.
  • Indoor Rock Climbing: Challenge yourself at one of Delhi’s many indoor rock climbing walls.
  • Paintball: Engage in an adrenaline-pumping game of paintball.

Cultural and Educational Activities

  • Cooking Classes: Learn the art of Indian cooking with a hands-on cooking class.
  • Yoga and Meditation: Find inner peace with yoga and meditation classes.
  • Language Courses: Improve your language skills with courses offered by the British Council or other institutions.

Where to Eat

Street Food

  • Nihari: A popular street food joint, Nihari serves mouth-watering dishes like kebabs and rolls.
  • Alba: Savor the flavors of authentic Italian cuisine at Alba’s street-side outlets.
  • Bikanervala: Enjoy a wide range of Indian snacks and sweets at this iconic street food stall.

Fine Dining

  • Karim’s: This legendary restaurant has been serving traditional Mughlai cuisine since 1919.
  • The Oberoi Hotel’s Zafraan: Savor exquisite Indian cuisine in an elegant setting at the Oberoi Hotel’s fine dining restaurant.
  • The Taj Palace Hotel’s Wasabi: Enjoy modern Japanese cuisine with a touch of Indian flair.

Where to Stay

Luxury Hotels

  • The Taj Palace Hotel: A 5-star hotel offering luxurious rooms and excellent service.
  • The Oberoi Hotel: Another 5-star hotel, The Oberoi is known for its impeccable service and stunning architecture.
  • The ITC Hotel: This 4-star hotel offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities.

Budget-Friendly Options

  • YHA New Delhi: A popular hostel offering affordable rooms and dorms.
  • Savoy Hotel: A budget-friendly option with simple, clean rooms.
  • Hotel Grand Plaza: Another affordable hotel with basic amenities.

Things to Know

  • Language: Hindi is the official language of Delhi, but English is widely spoken. Many locals also speak Punjabi and other regional languages.
  • Currency: The Indian rupee (INR) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted at most hotels and restaurants.
  • Weather: Delhi has a hot and humid climate during summer months (April to June). Winters are mild, while monsoons bring heavy rainfall from July to September.

Transportation

Metro

  • Delhi Metro: A convenient and efficient way to travel across the city. The metro operates on three lines: Blue, Yellow, and Red.
  • Metro Cards: Buy a rechargeable metro card for easy travel.

Auto-Rickshaws

  • Auto-Rickshaws: These three-wheeled vehicles are a popular mode of transportation in Delhi. Agree on the fare before starting your journey.
  • Taxis: Available at most hotels and taxi stands, taxis offer a convenient way to get around the city.

Tips and Essentials

  • Be Respectful: Delhi is a conservative city; dress modestly and be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during summer months.
  • Tip Your Driver: Show appreciation for your driver’s services with a small tip.
  • Carry Snacks: Munch on snacks to keep your energy levels up while exploring the city.

Health and Safety

Medical Facilities

  • Apollo Hospital: A reputable hospital offering excellent medical facilities and 24/7 emergency care.
  • Sir Ganga Ram Hospital: Another well-known hospital, Sir Ganga Ram offers quality medical services.
  • AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences): A premier medical institution, AIIMS provides top-notch medical care.

Safety Precautions

  • Be Aware: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Keep Valuables Safe: Secure your valuables and be mindful of pickpocketing.
  • Avoid Travel at Night: If possible, avoid traveling during night hours when possible.

Emergency Contact Numbers

Police

  • Dial 100: Call the police emergency number (100) for urgent assistance.

Ambulance

  • Dial 102: Dial this number to reach an ambulance service.

Enjoy your stay in Delhi!