Discover Delhi – Your Ultimate Travel Guide to India’s Vibrant Capital

Delhi is often the first stop for most travelers visiting India. While it is one of the busiest and most polluted cities in the world, it also boasts numerous excellent restaurants, fascinating sites, and diverse neighborhoods worth exploring. In this Delhi travel guide, we’ll take you through some of the highlights of Delhi, showcasing that this city is much more than just a transit hub. We spent a few days immersed in Delhi’s chaos and cuisine and came away with unforgettable experiences.

How to get to Delhi

Indira Gandhi International Airport is the main gateway to New Delhi, connecting to major cities around the world. From the airport, you have several options to reach the city center:

🚄 Metro: The Delhi Metro’s Airport Express line connects the airport to the city center in about 20-25 minutes, costing around INR 60-100 (€0.50 – €1.20). This is an efficient option to avoid traffic and experience Delhi’s modern metro system.
🚖 Taxi: Readily available at the airport, taxis take about 30-45 minutes to the city center, costing approximately INR 500-800 (€6 – €10). Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
🚗 Uber/Ola: These ride-sharing apps offer convenient rides to the city center for around INR 300-500 (€3 – €5). The fare is determined by distance and time and can be paid using cash or card.

What to do in Delhi

India Gate

The India Gate, also known as the All India War Memorial, is a significant attraction located in the heart of New Delhi. Built to commemorate Indian soldiers who died during World War I, the names of over ten thousand soldiers are engraved on this monumental arch. The site is free to visit and surrounded by a tranquil park, ideal for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing afternoon. At night, the gate is beautifully illuminated, making it a picturesque spot.

Red Fort

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort is a must-visit in New Delhi. This historic fort served as the residence of Mughal emperors for centuries. Visitors can explore the impressive red sandstone walls, palaces, halls, and gardens within the complex. The entrance fee for Indian citizens is INR 35 (about €0.40), while foreigners pay INR 600 (about €7). Adjacent to the fort is the Old Delhi area, where you can shop for jewelry and clothes or simply wander through the vibrant streets.

Old Delhi: Shopping, Mahatma Gandhi and Asia’s largest spice market

Old Delhi is a bustling area known for its vibrant markets and historical landmarks. Chandni Chowk, one of the oldest markets, offers a rich cultural experience with its array of jewelry, clothes, and street food. Despite the crowds and noise, the narrow lanes and bazaars are full of life and energy.

When in Old Delhi, visit Rajghat, the site of Mahatma Gandhi’s cremation, and Khari Baoli, Asia’s largest spice market, where you can witness the wholesale spice trade.

Tempted by the delicious street food, we avoided it for fear of Delhi belly but enjoyed some amazing local sweets. Intrigued by tailor-made clothes, we explored Chandni Chowk, bargained, and chose a tailor. The process required weeks and fittings, so we ordered duplicate shirts in various colors. After leaving measurements and a deposit, we continued our trip. Returning at the end, we found our shirts ready, fitting perfectly with impressive quality. Delighted with our purchase, we left with a unique memory of Old Delhi.

Shopping and Drinks at Connaught Place

Connaught Place is a bustling shopping district with a mix of international brands and local favorites. Our favorite spot here was Biggie Beer Cafe, which offers a great selection of beers in a cozy atmosphere. Connaught Place is also home to historical landmarks like the Jantar Mantar observatory and the iconic Connaught Place market, blending modern shopping with historic charm. If you want to have a quality souvenir of Indian clothing, then Fabindia is a reputable brand.

At Biggie, you can find a great selection of beers from both India and around the world. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day of shopping, and we highly recommend it based on our personal experience. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly. Be sure to shop here for a pint or two of your favorige brew, we promise you won’t be disappointed.

Travel around like a local

Delhi’s extensive metro system is a convenient way to navigate the city. However, it can get extremely crowded during rush hours, so it’s best to avoid traveling during these times if possible. If you do use the metro, remember that there are women-only carriages at the front of the trains. For mixed couples or men, this can be a bit of a hassle during peak times, but it’s manageable during the rest of the day. During our trip, we accidentally ended up in the women-only carriage and were met with a few moments of shy laughter from the women around us before we realized our mistake and moved to the correct carriage at the next stop. Fortunately, the women were understanding and seemed amused by our foreigner blunder.

Tuk-tuks and Ubers are also popular options for getting around Delhi. Tuk-tuks are affordable, with prices varying depending on the distance and your bargaining skills. A short ride typically costs around INR 50-100 (approximately €0.60-€1.20), while a longer ride can be around INR 200-300 (approximately €2.40-€3.60). Uber and Ola provide a more comfortable ride but are generally pricier than tuk-tuks. They can be a good option if you want a hassle-free journey, but be mindful of traffic, especially during peak hours.

Overall, while the metro system can be very busy, it remains the most efficient way to travel around Delhi. Embrace the local transportation options and experience the city like a true local!

Where to eat in Delhi

Delhi, a haven for food enthusiasts, boasts a rich culinary tapestry woven with diverse cultural influences. The city’s cuisine is a symphony of flavors and spices that promises to tantalize even the most discerning taste buds. During our exploration of Delhi’s vibrant food scene, we discovered some hidden gems and culinary delights that are a must-try for any visitor.

Gulati on Pandara Road: Our Favorite Restaurant in Delhi

If you’re in search of an unforgettable dining experience in New Delhi, look no further than Gulati on Pandara Road. Nestled just a stone’s throw away from India Gate, this charming restaurant captured our hearts from the moment we stepped inside. Renowned for its authentic North Indian fare, Gulati offers a tantalizing array of dishes, including succulent kebabs, aromatic tandoori chicken, and rich butter chicken. However, what truly stole the show for us was their delectable pork belly—a rare gem amidst the city’s culinary landscape dominated by mutton and chicken. Coupled with its cozy ambiance and attentive service, Gulati promises a dining experience that’s as unforgettable as it is delightful. With prices ranging from 500-700 INR (approximately €8 – €11) per dish, it’s no wonder that Gulati remains a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Exploring Pandara Road: A Gastronomic Odyssey

While our culinary adventures led us to Gulati, Pandara Road is teeming with other gastronomic treasures waiting to be discovered. Although time constraints prevented us from exploring every nook and cranny, we’ve heard rave reviews about Pindi—a rustic eatery celebrated for its mouth-watering kebabs and inviting ambiance. With prices averaging around 500-700 INR (approximately €8-€11) per dish, Pindi offers an authentic dining experience that’s easy on the wallet.

For aficionados of Japanese cuisine, Ichiban beckons with its delectable sushi and warm hospitality. While slightly pricier compared to its counterparts on Pandara Road, with dishes ranging from 1,000-1,500 INR (approximately €12 – €17), Ichiban promises an exquisite dining experience that’s worth every penny.

Jamun Restaurant in Lodhi Colony: A Fusion of Flavors

For those willing to venture off the beaten path, Jamun Restaurant in Lodhi Colony offers a culinary journey like no other. Combining Indian flavors with innovative fusion cuisine, Jamun tantalizes the palate with dishes like smoked eggplant bharta and chicken tikka poutine. While prices hover around 700-1,000 INR (approximately €9- €13) per dish, the exceptional quality and unique flavors make it a worthwhile excursion. And with Delhi’s affordable and convenient transportation options, including tuk-tuks and Ubers, embarking on a culinary adventure to Jamun is both effortless and rewarding.

In conclusion, Delhi’s culinary landscape is a treasure trove of flavors waiting to be savored. Whether you’re indulging in authentic North Indian cuisine at Gulati, exploring the culinary delights of Pandara Road, or embarking on a fusion journey at Jamun Restaurant, Delhi promises an unforgettable gastronomic experience that will leave you craving for more. So, don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore Delhi’s vibrant food scene and embark on a culinary adventure of a lifetime!

Where to stay in Delhi

Choosing the right accommodation can significantly enhance your experience in Delhi. Here are some popular neighborhoods and accommodation options to consider:

Neighborhoods

• Paharganj: Located near the New Delhi Railway Station, Paharganj is a popular spot for budget travelers with numerous cheap hotels and guesthouses.
• Karol Bagh: Another favorite among budget travelers, Karol Bagh is centrally located and renowned for its shopping and food.
• Laxmi Nagar: A bustling neighborhood in East Delhi, Laxmi Nagar offers vibrant street markets and affordable accommodations. It’s a popular area for budget travelers, with many guesthouses and hostels at reasonable prices, conveniently located near the metro station.
• Connaught Place: As a commercial and financial hub, Connaught Place offers many upscale hotels and restaurants, making it a good option for those seeking more luxurious accommodations.

Accommodation Options

Low Budget

• Zostel Delhi: Located in Paharganj, offering dorms starting at INR 600 (~€6) and double rooms from INR 3,500 (~€34).
• Moustache Hostel: Another great option with dorm beds from INR 700 (~€7) and double rooms from INR 3,500 (~€34).

Mid-Range Accommodations

• Hotel Ritz: Located in Paharganj, offering airport pick-up services and double rooms starting at INR 3,400 (~€33).

Luxury Accommodations

• The Oberoi: A top 5-star hotel in the heart of the city, with rates starting at INR 20,000 (~€225) per night.
• Shangri-La Eros Hotel: Offers rooms starting at INR 9,000 (~€100) per night, with excellent service and amenities.