Things to Do in New Delhi

About New Delhi

New Delhi pulses with an intoxicating rhythm where ancient empires whisper through crumbling ruins while modern India charges boldly forward. This sprawling metropolis wraps you in a sensory embrace of saffron-scented air, the melodic chaos of auto-rickshaw horns, and the warm glow of street food stalls illuminating centuries-old alleyways. Here, Mughal tombs stand sentinel beside gleaming government buildings, and vendors selling marigold garlands share space with tech entrepreneurs in glass towers. The city reveals itself in layers—from the labyrinthine bazaars of Old Delhi where time seems suspended, to the wide, tree-lined avenues of New Delhi where power brokers shape a nation's destiny. Every corner tells a story: the Red Fort's weathered walls echo with imperial grandeur, while India Gate stands as a solemn reminder of sacrifice. Delhi doesn't simply welcome visitors; it transforms them, leaving indelible impressions of a civilization that has mastered the art of embracing both tradition and progress in one magnificent, overwhelming dance.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use the Delhi Metro for efficient, air-conditioned travel between major attractions—buy a smart card for convenience. For short distances, negotiate auto-rickshaw fares beforehand or use app-based services like Uber/Ola. Avoid peak hours (8-10 AM, 6-8 PM) when possible.

Money: Carry cash in small denominations (₹10, ₹20, ₹50 notes) for street vendors and local transport. Use UPI apps like Paytm or PhonePe widely accepted everywhere. ATMs are abundant, but notify your bank before travel to avoid card blocks.

Cultural Respect: Remove shoes before entering temples and mosques. Dress modestly covering shoulders and knees, especially at religious sites. Avoid pointing feet toward people or religious objects. Use your right hand for eating and greeting—the left is considered unclean.

Food Safety: Stick to busy street food stalls with high turnover and avoid raw salads at local eateries. Drink only bottled or boiled water. Try Karim's (Old Delhi) for authentic Mughlai cuisine and Paranthe Wali Gali for traditional stuffed breads.

When to Visit

New Delhi's climate dramatically shapes the travel experience across distinct seasons. October to March offers the most comfortable weather, with temperatures ranging from 10-25°C (50-77°F). November through February brings crisp, clear days perfect for sightseeing, though December-January nights can drop to 5°C (41°F). This peak season sees 40-60% higher accommodation prices and crowded attractions. April-June brings scorching heat with temperatures soaring to 45°C (113°F), making outdoor exploration challenging but offering 30-50% discounts on hotels. The monsoon season (July-September) brings relief with temperatures of 25-35°C (77-95°F) and 200-300mm monthly rainfall, creating lush green spaces but potential travel disruptions. Major festivals significantly impact pricing and crowds: Diwali (October/November), Holi (March), and Dussehra (September/October) create vibrant celebrations but book accommodation well in advance. Budget travelers should consider late monsoon (August-September) for the best deals. Photography enthusiasts will love the post-monsoon clarity (October-November), while culture seekers should time visits around festival seasons despite premium pricing. Winter months offer perfect weather for walking tours of Old Delhi's markets and outdoor dining experiences.