The brilliant capital of India, Delhi, is the harmonious bridge between the ancient world and modernity. One finds a blend of captivating Mughal architecture, pulsating bazaars, lush greenery, and modern buildings in the city. It is an ideal paradise for food lovers, historians, and shopping freaks. Tourists from all over the world make it a point to visit the city. Be it visiting the amazing Red Fort, the street food of Chandni Chowk, or the marvels of the Lotus Temple, This Delhi travel guide is sure to tell you a travel story diverse in nature and rich in experience.
Location
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Delhi, located in the northern part of India, is divided into two parts: Old Delhi and New Delhi; the waters of the Yamuna River frame the eastern boundary. New Delhi acts as the capital of India, being the seat of the government, while Old Delhi is rich in historical spots dating centuries back. Well-connected with other parts of India, it also serves as a major travel hub.
How To Reach
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By Air: Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi connects it with major domestic and international destinations. All the details are given in this Delhi travel guide.
By Rail: New Delhi Railway Station, Old Delhi Railway Station, and Hazrat Nizamuddin serve the city.
By Road: The well-connected road of the city draws great interstate bus services from ISBT Kashmere Gate, Anand Vihar, and Sarai Kale Khan.
By Metro: If you want to travel within Delhi and to nearby places, the Delhi Metro is your final and most affordable option.
Places To Visit In And Around Delhi
1. Red Fort
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The UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Red Fort is a historic marvel constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1648. Its thick red sandstone walls extend over 2.5 km while enclosing exquisite Mughal architecture and lush gardens. You can get to know Munira’s history as you explore Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, and Rang Mahal. The evening light and sound show narrates the glorious history of the fort. As it lies in Old Delhi, it is open from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Entry fees are approximately ₹430 for foreigners and ₹50 for Indians.
Things To Do: Check the architecture and learn about India’s history
2. India Gate
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Rising tall and proud in New Delhi, 42m above ground, the India Gate is a magnificent war memorial dedicated to soldiers who died fighting in World War I. Though designed by Edwin Lutyens, this is one of the distinct physical features of the arch, with the names of 13,000 dead soldiers inscribed within it. The eternal flame beneath the arch honours the many soldiers. Laid out in sprawling lawns, this venue is a favourite picnic and evening stroll area. The monument is lit beautifully at night, giving a serene ambience.
Things To Do: See the Rajpath Bhavan, enjoy eating local cuisine and snack
3. Humayun’s Tomb
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Constructed in 1572, Humayun’s Tomb is the masterpiece of Mughal architecture and an initiator of the Taj Mahal, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is designed with a fabulous Persian-style garden layout and intricate attention to detail in marble and red sandstone. The tomb contains the remains of Emperor Humayun and exudes pure Mughal grandeur. You can take peaceful strolls amid symmetrical gardens and the quiet running water channels. Near Nizamuddin, it is open from sunrise to sunset. The entry fee for foreigners is around ₹600 and for Indian nationals around ₹30.
Things To Do: See the carvings of the tomb and walk in Charbagh Gardens
4. Chandni Chowk
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Chandni Chowk is a bustling market for Old Delhi, a feast for all the senses. Always bustling, it is a heady blend of history, culture, and cuisine; with narrow lanes lined with shops selling everything from fabrics to jewels, spices, and foods. Key attractions are Jama Masjid, Paranthe Wali Gali, and Karim’s. A rickshaw ride through the maze is an eye-opener! Chandni Chowk is a paradise for shoppers and food lovers, immersing tourists in Delhi’s heritage. The best time to visit is during the day between 10 AM to 8 PM, when the hustle and bustle is in full swing.
Things To Do: Jewellery and clothes shopping, try street food
5. Lotus Temple
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An amazing marvel in architecture, the Lotus Temple embodies the ideas of unity and peace. Shaped like a lotus flower, this Bahá’í House of Worship calls millions of tourists each year. It is open to all religions, providing a peaceful environment for meditation and reflection. The temple is surrounded by gardens and pools of water; it is an oasis of tranquillity. Situated in South Delhi, Monday is closed and operates from 9 AM to 5 PM. Its magnificent structure and religious harmony are a must-visit, combining modern architecture with universal values.
Things To Do: Visit the prayer hall, See the beautiful architecture
Where To Stay
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Delhi offers many lodging choices for all kinds of tourists. For luxury, The Oberoi or The Leela Palace would be good options since they provide gorgeous stays with world-class service. Mid-range hotels include boutique hotels like Bloomrooms and FabHotels that combine comfortable amenities at reasonable rates. Budget tourists can find budget guesthouses and hostels in the likes of Paharganj and Karol Bagh. For a cultural experience, you can opt for heritage stays in Old Delhi to take a good look at the deep-rooted history of the city itself.
Where To Eat
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A gourmand’s delight, Delhi allows a great culinary experience. Mughal cuisine in Karim’s in Old Delhi, or lauded North India specials in Bukharia, particularly its dal and kebabs. Street food enthusiasts should visit Chandni Chowk for chaats, parathas, and jalebis. Chic cafes like Diggin and Social in Hauz Khas cater to contemporary tastes. Saravana Bhavan offers vegetarian South Indian fare. Elite establishments like Indian Accent mix up culinary innovation with tradition. Do not miss global cuisines in Connaught Place or DLF CyberHub. All about the food is suggested in this Delhi travel guide that brings joy to every tongue and budget.
Other Factors To Consider
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Tips For Travellers
- Cultural attire: Dress modestly, especially when visiting a religious site.
- Traffic: Traffic in Delhi can be busy; make sure to allow yourself enough time.
- Safety: Take precautions in crowded areas; safeguard personal belongings.
- Local Transport: Travel by underground and app-based taxis for a smooth journey.
- Currency: Though credit cards are widely accepted, carry cash for your small purchases.
Delhi is a city that will go on building a lifetime of experiences for every tourist. From places of local landmarks like the Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb to busy bazaars like Chandni Chowk, Delhi has a feast for sightseeing. With the amazing food culture, good stay, and rich heritage, you can know about it all in this Delhi travel guide. Plan a trip with TripXL and have a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Cover Photo: Jan Gemerle / Unsplash