Delhi Unveiled: A Weekend in India's Historic Capital
From Mughal Monuments to Modern Marvels
Trip Overview
Experience the captivating contrasts of New Delhi in this immersive two-day journey through India's vibrant capital. This carefully crafted itinerary balances the grandeur of UNESCO World Heritage Sites with serene gardens and spiritual sanctuaries. You'll explore magnificent Mughal architecture at Red Fort and Humayun's Tomb, marvel at the engineering brilliance of Qutb Minar, and find tranquility at the stunning Lotus Temple. The pace allows time to absorb the rich history while experiencing local culture through traditional markets and authentic cuisine. From the colonial elegance of India Gate to the medieval majesty of Purana Quila, each site tells a unique story of Delhi's layered past. This weekend getaway offers a perfect introduction to India's capital, combining must-see landmarks with moments of peaceful reflection in beautiful gardens.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Mughal Grandeur & Colonial Elegance
Where to Stay Tonight
Connaught Place or Paharganj (Mid-range hotel or guesthouse in central Delhi)
Central location provides easy access to both Old Delhi attractions and South Delhi monuments, with excellent metro connectivity and dining options nearby
Ancient Wonders & Garden Retreats
Where to Stay Tonight
Near airport if departing next morning, or Connaught Place for late departure (Comfortable hotel with easy transport access)
Strategic location for convenient departure while remaining accessible to any last-minute sightseeing or shopping
Practical Information
Getting Around
Delhi Metro is the most efficient way to travel between attractions, with stations near all major sites. Purchase a tourist card for unlimited travel. Auto-rickshaws and app-based cabs work well for shorter distances or areas without metro access. Avoid traveling during rush hours (8-10 AM, 5-8 PM). The hop-on-hop-off bus is another option for covering major tourist sites. Walking is pleasant in garden areas and within monument complexes, but distances between sites require transport.
Book Ahead
No advance bookings required for most monuments. Book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season (October-March) and holidays. Reserve any guided tours or special experiences ahead. Consider booking a reputable local guide for deeper historical insights.
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes, sun hat and sunscreen, modest clothing for religious sites (covering shoulders and knees), light scarf for temple visits, reusable water bottle, hand sanitizer, power bank for phone, camera, and light jacket for early mornings and evenings in winter months
Total Budget
$115-160 for 2 days (excluding flights and accommodation)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in budget hostels or guesthouses in Paharganj ($10-20/night), eat at local dhabas and street food stalls ($5-10/day), use only metro and shared auto-rickshaws, skip paid guides and use audio guides or apps, visit free attractions like Lodhi Garden and India Gate lawns extensively, pack your own snacks and water. Total daily budget can be reduced to $30-40 including basic accommodation.
Luxury Upgrade
Stay at heritage hotels like those in Lutyens' Delhi or luxury properties near Diplomatic Enclave ($150-300/night), hire a private car with driver for the entire weekend, book expert historians as personal guides, dine at award-winning restaurants featuring regional Indian cuisine and rooftop fine dining, add a spa experience, arrange exclusive after-hours access to select monuments, include a cooking class or cultural performance. Daily budget $250-400.
Family-Friendly
Start days later to accommodate children's schedules, add National Zoological Park and National Rail Museum for interactive learning, reduce walking with more frequent transport breaks, choose family-friendly restaurants with diverse menus, stay in hotels with pools, incorporate Garden of Five Senses for sensory exploration, allow more free time at gardens for play, bring stroller for younger children, pack plenty of snacks and entertainment for travel time between sites.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in New Delhi