New Delhi is a vibrant, chaotic, and historically rich capital where Mughal-era grandeur meets colonial planning. It is best visited between October and March when the weather is cool and pleasant for exploring its sprawling markets and ancient monuments.
Top Things to Do in New Delhi
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Getting Around New Delhi
From the Airport
Metro. The Delhi Metro Airport Express Line connects Terminal 3 to the New Delhi Railway Station in about 20 minutes for a very affordable fare. Rideshare. Uber and Ola are the primary rideshare apps; follow signs for the designated pickup zones in the parking garage at Terminal 3.
Once You're There
Metro. The Delhi Metro is extensive, clean, and the most efficient way to navigate the city's traffic; use a Smart Card for easy travel. Rideshare. Uber and Ola are the standard for point-to-point travel; they are reliable and offer transparent pricing, avoiding the need to haggle with local auto-rickshaw drivers.
Where to Stay in New Delhi
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Where to Eat in New Delhi
Indian Accent★ 4.7 (7,839)The Lodhi, Lodhi Rd, CGO Complex, Pragati Vihar, New Delhi, Delhi 110003, IndiaThis fine-dining destination offers a sophisticated, modern take on traditional Indian flavors with an innovative tasting menu.
Big Chill Cafe★ 4.5 (9,728)B-40, Inner Cir, Block B, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, IndiaAn iconic Delhi hangout known for its massive portions of pasta and indulgent desserts like Mississippi Mud Pie.
Bukhara★ 4.5 (9,608)ITC MAURYA, Sardar Patel Marg, Akhaura Block, Diplomatic Enclave, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, Delhi 110021, IndiaRenowned globally for its Dal Bukhara, a lentil dish slow-cooked for 18 hours to achieve a creamy, smoky perfection.
Diggin★ 4.4 (17,123)Santushti Shopping Complex, 11, Lok Kalyan Marg, opp. to Samrat Hotel, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, Delhi, 110021, IndiaA favorite among local students and travelers for its whimsical garden decor and reliable thin-crust pizzas.
Gulati★ 4.3 (8,511)6, Pandara Road, Market, near India Gate, Pandara Flats, India Gate, New Delhi, Delhi 110003, IndiaLocated on Pandara Road, this restaurant is the go-to place for rich, authentic North Indian butter chicken.
Coast Cafe★ 4.3 (1,758)2nd & 3rd Floor, above OGAAN,H2, Hauz Khas Village, Deer Park, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, Delhi 110016, IndiaLocated in Hauz Khas Village, this charming spot is celebrated for its authentic Kerala-style seafood and coastal curries.
United Coffee House★ 4.2 (11,628)Inner Cir, E-15, Block E, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, IndiaA colonial-era landmark in Connaught Place that serves nostalgic continental classics and their famous Cona coffee.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in New Delhi
Old Delhi Heritage & Chaos
Morning. Start your journey at the massive red sandstone walls of the Red Fort, arriving early to beat the heat and the crowds. Walk through the Lahore Gate and explore the Diwan-i-Aam before heading out toward the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk. You will want to navigate the narrow alleys carefully, as the area is a sensory overload of spices, textiles, and rickshaws. Spend a few hours getting lost in the maze-like lanes, then make your way to the towering Jama Masjid. Climb the minaret for a breathtaking view over the rooftops of Old Delhi, which offers a stark contrast to the busy streets below.
Afternoon. After working up an appetite, head toward the famous Paranthe Wali Gali for an authentic lunch of stuffed flatbreads. Once refueled, take a cycle rickshaw ride through the chaotic wholesale markets of Khari Baoli, the largest spice market in Asia. The sheer volume of colors and scents here is unlike anywhere else in the city, so keep your camera ready. Afterward, take a short taxi ride to the Raj Ghat to pay your respects at the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. It is a peaceful, well-manicured park that provides a necessary moment of silence after the intensity of the morning.
Evening. Wind down your day at the colonial-era heart of the city, Connaught Place. Walk through the white-pillared corridors of the Inner Circle, which houses a blend of modern shops and historic cafes. Stop for a coffee at the vintage-styled United Coffee House to soak in the atmosphere of old-world Delhi. As the sun sets, the central park at Rajiv Chowk comes alive with locals and tourists alike, making it the perfect spot for people-watching. Finally, head to a nearby restaurant to enjoy a hearty North Indian dinner to round out your first day.
Mughal Grandeur & Imperial Delhi
Morning. Begin your second day at the magnificent Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site that served as the architectural precursor to the Taj Mahal. The symmetrical gardens and red sandstone structure are best viewed in the soft morning light, so aim to arrive right when it opens. Spend at least two hours wandering through the arched chambers and the surrounding Charbagh garden. From here, take a short drive toward the iconic India Gate, a war memorial standing tall at the end of the Rajpath. It is a highly photogenic spot where you can walk along the expansive lawns and admire the nearby government buildings.
Afternoon. Continue your imperial tour by visiting the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India, which you can view from the outside while strolling down the Kartavya Path. After taking in the grand scale of colonial architecture, head to the nearby National Museum, which houses an incredible collection of ancient Indian artifacts, including Indus Valley Civilization relics. The museum is vast, so focus your time on the galleries that interest you most. Afterward, enjoy a late lunch at a nearby upscale restaurant to relax before your final afternoon stop. Head to the serene Lodhi Garden, where you can walk among 15th-century tombs set within a beautifully landscaped city park.
Evening. For your evening, head to the Khan Market, one of the most upscale shopping districts in Delhi. Browse through the boutique bookstores and high-end lifestyle shops before settling in for a refined dinner. The market is known for its excellent dining scene, offering everything from contemporary Indian fusion to international cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely meal on one of the rooftop terraces that overlook the bustling market square below. It is the perfect way to experience the sophisticated side of modern Delhi after a day of historical exploration.
Ancient Towers & Modern Spirituality
Morning. Start your final day on the southern edge of the city at the Qutub Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world. The intricate carvings on the tower and the surrounding ruins of the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque are fascinating to explore in the cool morning air. Spend your time examining the Iron Pillar, which has remained rust-free for over 1,600 years, a testament to ancient metallurgical skills. After exploring the complex, take a taxi to the nearby Lotus Temple. This Baháʼí House of Worship is famous for its flower-like shape and the profound silence maintained inside its prayer hall.
Afternoon. Head to the Hauz Khas Village area for a mix of medieval history and modern bohemian vibes. Start by exploring the Hauz Khas Complex, which features a reservoir, a madrasa, and an ancient tomb overlooking the water. It is a favorite spot for local photographers and offers a unique perspective on Delhi's layers of history. After your walk, wander through the village's narrow streets, which are packed with independent art galleries, design studios, and chic cafes. Stop for a coastal-inspired lunch at one of the village's highly-rated eateries to experience a different regional flavor of India.
Evening. Conclude your Delhi trip with a visit to the Akshardham Temple, a massive complex showcasing traditional Indian culture and architecture. The temple is built entirely of pink sandstone and white marble, featuring elaborate carvings that are best seen as the lights come on at dusk. Spend your evening watching the spectacular musical fountain show, which narrates ancient stories through water, light, and sound. It is an awe-inspiring finale to your trip, highlighting the grandeur of modern Indian craftsmanship. After the show, head back to your accommodation for a final night of rest.