New Delhi
New Delhi, the bustling capital of India, is a city that’s hard to forget. Located in the northern part of the country, it’s home to over 20 million people, making it one of the largest cities in the world. The weather here can be quite extreme, with temperatures ranging from a chilly 5°C (41°F) in winter to a sweltering 45°C (113°F) in summer.
Every year, millions of tourists flock to New Delhi to dive into its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant street life. There’s so much to see and do, from exploring ancient monuments to savoring local cuisine.
The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from October to March. The weather is more pleasant, making it easier to explore the city and enjoy everything it has to offer.
Agra Fort
Man charming a snake
Arriving to New Delhi
New Delhi, the bustling capital of India, is a must-visit if you’re looking for a city full of history and culture. Getting to New Delhi is easy with Indira Gandhi International Airport serving as a major hub. Once you land, you’ll find plenty of options to get into the city center, like taxis or the Airport Express Metro line, which is fast and convenient.
When it comes to where to stay, Connaught Place is a top pick. It’s a lively area with lots of restaurants, shops, and nightlife. For a more local feel, Paharganj offers budget-friendly accommodations and easy access to Delhi’s street food scene. If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, Chanakyapuri is known for its luxury hotels and diplomatic residences.
Getting around New Delhi is straightforward. The Delhi Metro is an efficient way to travel, connecting major spots across the city. Buses and auto-rickshaws are also common, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even rent a bike. For a unique experience, hop on a cycle-rickshaw to explore the narrow lanes of Old Delhi.
New Delhi is a food lover’s paradise. Don’t miss out on trying chaat (spicy street snacks) and butter chicken from local eateries. For something sweet, jalebi and gulab jamun are a must-try. The city’s street food is legendary, so make sure to explore various markets and food stalls.
There’s so much to see and do. The Red Fort and Qutub Minar are iconic landmarks that showcase the city’s rich history. If you’re into shopping, the bustling markets of Chandni Chowk are perfect for finding unique goods and souvenirs. And don’t forget to visit India Gate and the impressive Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India.
For a truly local experience, take a walk through the streets of Old Delhi, visit the beautiful Lotus Temple, or enjoy a quiet moment at Humayun’s Tomb. The city’s mix of old and new makes it an exciting place to explore.
Accomodation
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Currency: The official currency of New Delhi is Indian Rupees (INR) 1 INR is equivalent to US$ 0.011
Keep in mind before travelling to New Delhi
New Delhi is bursting with amazing festivals throughout the year. One of the biggest is Diwali, the festival of lights, usually celebrated in October or November. It’s all about bright lights, colorful decorations, and fireworks. Then there’s Holi, the festival of colors, where people throw colored powders at each other in March—totally fun and messy! Eid-ul-Fitr is another major celebration, marking the end of Ramadan with feasts and festivities. Navratri, a nine-night festival in September or October, is filled with dancing and traditional music.
The Republic Day parade on January 26th is a grand display of India’s military might and cultural diversity. Dussehra, which falls in September or October, is celebrated with dramatic performances and massive effigies burning. Lastly, Ganesh Chaturthi, usually in August or September, celebrates the elephant-headed god Ganesh with processions and lots of sweets.
For day trips from New Delhi, you can explore Agra to see the Taj Mahal, or visit Jaipur, the Pink City, known for its palaces. Rishikesh is perfect for some river rafting and yoga. Mathura is famous for its temples and being the birthplace of Krishna. Haridwar is a holy city with amazing riverfront views and religious ceremonies. And don’t miss Neemrana, home to a stunning 15th-century fort.
Tips to visit New Delhi
People usually have breakfast around 7-9 AM, lunch from 12-2 PM, and dinner between 7-9 PM. Business hours typically run from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday, though some places might open later. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated, with a general tip of about 10% being customary in restaurants.
The healthcare system in New Delhi is robust, with both public and private options available. Dress code tends to be casual but respectful—think smart casual for most settings. If someone says “Chalo”, it means “let’s go,” reflecting the city’s energetic pace.
