Delhi, one of the most famous cities in India, is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an enriching travel experience. This bustling city is a perfect blend of the past and the present, where ancient monuments coexist with modern infrastructure. Delhi offers a diverse range of attractions, from historic landmarks to vibrant markets and delicious cuisine.
One of the main reasons to visit Delhi is to explore its rich history and culture. Delhi is home to several ancient monuments, including the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Humayun’s Tomb, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. These monuments showcase the architectural brilliance of India’s Mughal era and are a treat for history buffs.
Another highlight of Delhi is its bustling markets, where you can shop for everything from traditional Indian textiles to modern gadgets. The city’s most famous market, Chandni Chowk, is a maze of narrow lanes that offers an unforgettable shopping experience.
Delhi is also known for its mouth-watering cuisine, which is a blend of various Indian flavors. From street food to fine dining, Delhi has it all. Some must-try dishes include chole bhature, butter chicken, and biryani. Delhi’s street food scene is particularly famous and offers a plethora of options for foodies.
Apart from these attractions, Delhi is also a great base to explore other nearby destinations like Agra, Jaipur, and the hill stations of Uttarakhand. Delhi is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it easy to travel to other parts of India.
In conclusion, Delhi is a vibrant and historic city that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, food, or shopping, Delhi has it all. So pack your bags and head to Delhi for an unforgettable travel experience.
Spending 3 days in Delhi
If you’re planning to spend three days in Delhi, you’ll have plenty of time to explore some of the city’s top attractions and get a taste of its unique culture and cuisine. Here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your three days in Delhi:
Day 1
- Start your day at the Red Fort, one of Delhi’s most iconic landmarks. This 17th-century fort was the residence of Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Be sure to check out the fort’s impressive architecture and intricate details.
- After the Red Fort, head to Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. This stunning mosque was also built by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, and is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture. Take a walk around the mosque’s expansive courtyard and soak in its serene atmosphere.
- Next, make your way to Chandni Chowk, Delhi’s famous market. This bustling market is a sensory overload, with vendors selling everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and electronics. Take a rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk to fully experience its energy and vibrancy.
- End your day with a visit to India Gate, a war memorial and popular hangout spot. Take a stroll around the grounds and enjoy the beautiful views of the city.
Day 2
- Start your day at Humayun’s Tomb, another UNESCO World Heritage site. This stunning mausoleum was built in the 16th century and is the final resting place of the Mughal emperor, Humayun. Take a guided tour to learn more about its history and architecture.
- After Humayun’s Tomb, head to Lotus Temple, a beautiful Bahá’í House of Worship that resembles a lotus flower. This peaceful temple is open to people of all religions and is a great place to meditate and reflect.
- Next, visit the Akshardham Temple, a massive Hindu temple complex that showcases the best of Indian art, culture, and spirituality. The temple’s intricate carvings, stunning gardens, and captivating water show are a must-see.
- End your day with a visit to Hauz Khas Village, a trendy neighbourhood known for its eclectic mix of cafes, boutiques, and art galleries. Grab dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area and soak in its bohemian vibe.
Day 3
- Start your day at Raj Ghat, a peaceful memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. This serene spot is a great place to reflect on Gandhi’s legacy and pay your respects.
- After Raj Ghat, head to the National Museum, which houses a vast collection of artefacts that tell the story of India’s rich history and culture. Be sure to check out the museum’s impressive collection of sculptures, paintings, and textiles.
- Next, visit the Swaminarayan Akshardham, a Hindu temple that’s famous for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings. Take a guided tour to learn more about its history and spiritual significance.
- End your day with a food tour of Old Delhi. Sample some of the city’s best street food, including chaat, kebabs, and jalebis. A food tour is a great way to experience the city’s vibrant culinary scene and get a taste of its unique flavours.
How to get to and around Delhi
Delhi is well-connected to other parts of India and the world, making it easy to get to and around the city. Here are some of the main transportation options to consider:
By Air
Indira Gandhi International Airport is the main airport in Delhi and is well-connected to cities across India and the world. You can take a taxi or metro from the airport to your hotel or other destination in the city.
By Train
Delhi has several major train stations, including New Delhi Railway Station, Old Delhi Railway Station, and Nizamuddin Railway Station. Trains connect Delhi to other major cities in India, and it’s a convenient and affordable way to travel.
By Bus
Delhi has several bus terminals that connect the city to other parts of India. You can take a state-run or private bus to destinations across North India.
By Metro
Delhi has a well-developed metro system that’s efficient and affordable. The metro connects major parts of the city, and it’s a great way to avoid traffic and travel quickly.
By Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Delhi, and you can hire them for a full day or for specific trips. You can also book taxis through popular ride-hailing apps like Ola and Uber.
By Auto-rickshaw
Auto-rickshaws are a popular mode of transport in Delhi, especially for short distances. They’re affordable and easy to find, but make sure to negotiate the fare before getting in.
By Bicycle
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly and healthy way to explore the city, you can rent a bicycle from several rental companies in Delhi. Cycling tours are also available, which allow you to explore the city’s landmarks and hidden gems.
Where to stay in Delhi
Delhi is a sprawling city, and there are several neighbourhoods that offer great accommodation options for travellers. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Delhi, depending on your interests and budget:
Connaught Place
This central business district is a great option if you want to be close to major attractions like the Red Fort, India Gate, and the National Museum. It’s also well-connected by metro and bus, making it easy to get around the city. Connaught Place has a wide range of hotels, from budget to luxury, as well as several restaurants and cafes.
Paharganj
This neighbourhood is a popular option for budget travellers, as it has several guesthouses, hostels, and budget hotels. Paharganj is also close to the New Delhi Railway Station, making it a convenient location for travellers arriving by train.
Karol Bagh
This bustling neighbourhood has several mid-range hotels and guesthouses, as well as a variety of shops, restaurants, and street food vendors. Karol Bagh is a good option if you want to experience the city’s local culture and explore its markets.
South Delhi
This upscale neighbourhood is home to several luxury hotels and serviced apartments. It’s also a great option if you want to explore Delhi’s nightlife, as it has several bars, clubs, and restaurants. South Delhi is well-connected by metro, and its proximity to the airport makes it a convenient option for travellers arriving or departing by air.
Hauz Khas
This trendy neighbourhood is a popular option for young travellers, as it has several boutique hotels, cafes, and bars. Hauz Khas is also close to several major attractions, including the Qutub Minar and Humayun’s Tomb.
Where to eat in Delhi
Delhi is a food lover’s paradise, with a rich culinary heritage and a variety of dishes that reflect the city’s diverse culture and history. Here are some of the best places to eat in Delhi:
- Paranthe Wali Gali: Located in Old Delhi, this narrow alleyway is famous for its parathas, a type of stuffed flatbread. Choose from a variety of fillings, from paneer and potato to onion and cauliflower.
- Karim’s: This iconic restaurant in Old Delhi has been serving delicious Mughlai cuisine since 1913. Be sure to try their mutton seekh kebab, butter chicken, and biryani.
- Chor Bizarre: Located in the heart of Connaught Place, Chor Bizarre is known for its Kashmiri cuisine. Try their signature dish, the wazwan thali, which includes several traditional dishes from Kashmir.
- Indian Accent: This upscale restaurant in The Lodhi hotel serves modern Indian cuisine with a creative twist. Try their butter chicken kulcha, pumpkin coconut shorba, and tandoori bacon prawns.
- Karim’s, Jama Masjid: This branch of Karim’s is located near Jama Masjid and serves some of the best kebabs and biryanis in the city.
- Sita Ram Diwan Chand: This popular eatery in Paharganj is famous for its chole bhature, a spicy chickpea curry served with deep-fried bread.
- Bukhara: This award-winning restaurant in the ITC Maurya hotel is known for its North Indian cuisine, including tandoori meats and dal Bukhara.
- Andhra Bhavan: This government-run canteen serves delicious South Indian food at affordable prices. Try their dosas, idlis, and vadas.
- Kulcha King: This small eatery in Karol Bagh serves delicious stuffed kulchas, a type of bread that’s similar to a paratha.
- Gali Paranthe Wali: Another famous spot in Old Delhi, this street is lined with shops that sell different varieties of parathas.
20 must see sights in Delhi
Delhi is a city with a rich cultural heritage and fascinating history. From ancient monuments to modern architectural marvels, Delhi has something for everyone. Here are 20 must-see sights in Delhi:
- Red Fort
- Qutub Minar
- India Gate
- Lotus Temple
- Humayun’s Tomb
- Jama Masjid
- Akshardham Temple
- Raj Ghat
- Rashtrapati Bhavan
- Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
- Chandni Chowk
- Hauz Khas Village
- National Museum
- National Gallery of Modern Art
- Jantar Mantar
- ISKCON Temple
- Chhatarpur Temple
- Dilli Haat
- Nehru Planetarium
- Tughlaqabad Fort
These landmarks offer a glimpse into Delhi’s rich cultural heritage and history. Whether you’re interested in ancient architecture, spiritual places, or modern art, Delhi has something to offer.
Coworking spaces in Delhi
There are many coworking spaces in Delhi that cater to different needs and preferences. Here are some popular coworking spaces in Delhi:
- 91springboard – This is one of the largest coworking chains in India with multiple locations in Delhi. They offer a variety of workspaces, including private cabins, open workstations, and meeting rooms.
- CoworkIn – CoworkIn has multiple locations in Delhi, including Connaught Place, Nehru Place, and Saket. They offer flexible membership plans and a range of facilities, including high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and printing services.
- Innov8 – Innov8 has several locations in Delhi, including CP, Saket, and Netaji Subhash Place. They offer a range of workspaces, including private cabins, dedicated workstations, and hot desks.
- Awfis – Awfis has multiple locations in Delhi, including Janakpuri, Nehru Place, and Aerocity. They offer a range of facilities, including high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and event spaces.
- WeWork – WeWork has several locations in Delhi, including Connaught Place, Gurgaon, and Nehru Place. They offer a range of workspace solutions, including private offices, hot desks, and virtual offices.