New Delhi, the capital city of India, is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends rich historical heritage with modern urban charm. Known for its iconic landmarks, bustling markets, and diverse cuisine, New Delhi offers a plethora of experiences for every kind of traveller. Enjoy my city guide for New Delhi.

Firstly, I love India, and everything Indian.  From the food, to the history to the incredible forts and buildings.  You are slapped with senses, from the smell, to the colours and of course to the absolute mayhem in a city!  This mayhem is charming and you will enjoy every minute of it.  Enjoy my top and best attractions, places to visit, food to eat and so much more. Here is city guide for New Delhi.

Let’s explore my city guide for New Dehli :

Top Attractions:

Red Fort (Lal Qila)

Description: A UNESCO World Heritage site symbolizing India’s rich Mughal heritage.

Activities: Exploring the fort’s stunning architecture and attending the evening sound and light show.

Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and beat the heat. Please wear comfortable shoes as it’s a long walk around the beautiful fort.  Make sure your battery is full and you have your tripod.

India Gate

Description: A war memorial dedicated to Indian soldiers who died in World War I.

Activities: Evening strolls, picnics, and boating in the nearby pond.

Tips: The area is beautifully lit up at night, making it a great time for a visit. Be very careful of pickpocketers and lots of scammers.  Keep your camera, purse, and brain close to your body!  It does get busy and there are opportunities ready to take advantage of a typical tourist!  Don’t be scared to say NO!

Qutub Minar

Description: The tallest brick minaret in the world, also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Activities: Exploring the surrounding complex including the Iron Pillar and Alai Darwaza.

Tips: Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Mehrauli Archaeological Park. Look out for the green parrots against the tall brick walls of the Qutub Minar.  They are beautiful to see against the red rock.

Humayun’s Tomb

Description: A stunning garden tomb that inspired the design of the Taj Mahal.

Activities: Walking through the gardens and admiring the intricate Mughal architecture.

Tips: Visit during the late afternoon for the best light for photography—more of my top city guide for New Delhi.

Lotus Temple

Description: A Bahá’í House of Worship known for its unique lotus-shaped structure.

Activities: Meditating and enjoying the serene ambiance.

Tips: Silence is observed inside the temple, making it a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle. It’s a special place.  Go there when you have enough time to meditate and enjoy your surroundings.

I love Markets, indoor, outdoor, anything and everything!  If you walk through a local market in a country you will get to know much more about its culture!  Here are the best markets included in my city guide of New Dehli.

Chandni Chowk

Description: One of the oldest and busiest markets in New Delhi.

Activities: Shopping for textiles, jewelry, spices, and street food.

To explain, wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for crowds. Try the local delicacies like parathas and jalebis. Do not be scared of the food!  Yes, there is such a thing called Dehli belly, and of course, be careful.  But take charcoal tablets and choose wisely!  We ate throughout our trip to India and never got sick once!

Dilli Haat

Description: An open-air market showcasing crafts and cuisines from across India.

Activities: Shopping for handicrafts, enjoying regional foods, and attending cultural performances.

No doubt, a great place for buying souvenirs and experiencing Indian culture in one spot. Don’t forget to bargain.  But don’t bargain too much, as everyone is trying to make a living.

Sarojini Nagar Market

Description: Famous for its affordable fashion and accessories.

Activities: Bargain shopping for clothes, shoes, and bags.

Tips: Bargaining is essential; start at about half the quoted price.

In brief, when traveling to any city, you will want to experience culture!  Here is my city guide to New Delhi’s top Cultural Experiences

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

Description: A prominent Sikh temple known for its beautiful architecture and the Sarovar (holy pond).

Activities: Participating in the langar (community kitchen) and exploring the museum.

To point out, please remember to cover your head and remove your shoes before entering.

Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple

Description: A modern temple complex known for its intricate carvings and spiritual exhibits.

Activities: Temple tours, boat rides, and the evening water show.

Tips: Photography is not allowed inside; allow at least 3-4 hours to explore the entire complex.

National Museum

Description: Home to a vast collection of art, artifacts, and antiquities from India’s history.

Activities: Exploring exhibits ranging from the Indus Valley Civilization to modern Indian art.

Tips: Allocate a few hours to fully appreciate the museum’s extensive collection.

Generally speaking, is there anything better than getting stuck in the food of a new country?  Well, you won’t be disappointed in New Delhi! You will enjoy everything.   Above all, New Dehli doesn’t disappoint when it comes to food!

Local Cuisine

Recommended Dishes: Butter chicken, chole bhature, kebabs, and biryani.

Restaurants:

Karim’s: Famous for its Mughal cuisine, especially the mutton dishes.

Paranthe Wali Gali: For a variety of stuffed parathas.

Bukhara: Renowned for its dal Bukhara and kebabs.

Street Food must-try Items: Golgappas, aloo chaat, dahi bhalla, and kachori.

Chandni Chowk: For authentic and diverse street food.

Connaught Place: For a mix of traditional and modern street food stalls.

Cafés and Lounges

Here, are my best places to enjoy the nightlife of New Dehli.

Hauz Khas Village: Known for its trendy cafes and nightlife.

Khan Market: For upscale cafes and bookstores.

For one thing, I can assure you, here are some awesome Outdoor Activities, that I have included in my city guide to New Delhi:

Lodhi Garden

Description: A historical garden with tombs dating back to the 15th century.

Activities: Walking, jogging, picnicking, and photography.

Important to note that, the best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon for a peaceful experience.

Rajpath and Rashtrapati Bhavan

Description: The ceremonial boulevard and the official residence of the President of India.

Activities: Strolling along the Rajpath, visiting the Rashtrapati Bhavan (with prior permission), and exploring the Mughal Gardens.

To summarize, check the visiting hours and any required permissions for Rashtrapati Bhavan tours.

Given these points, here are my Practical Tips while visiting New Dehli :

Best Time to Visit

Winter (October to March): Ideal for sightseeing with pleasant weather.

Summer (April to June): Very hot; indoor activities recommended.

Monsoon (July to September): Can be humid and wet, but also lush and green.

Transportation

Delhi Metro: Efficient and affordable for getting around the city.

Auto Rickshaws and Taxis: Convenient for short distances; always negotiate or ensure the meter is used.

App-Based Ride Services: Ola and Uber are widely available.

Safety Tips

In addition, remember to be cautious with your belongings, especially in crowded places.

Generally speaking, in all countries it’s important to avoid isolated areas after dark. It’s no different in India. Stay clear of dark lonely roads and be vigilant. Also as a woman, dress modestly.  India is not a modern country in many respects, so respect it.

To emphasize, use only bottled or filtered water to avoid waterborne illnesses.

Language

It’s important to note, Hindi is the primary language, but English is widely understood and spoken, especially in tourist areas.

Lastly, New Delhi is a city that offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from its historical monuments and cultural landmarks. To its vibrant markets and diverse culinary scene. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, New Delhi has something to offer for everyone. I hope you enjoy my city guide of New Delhi.