Explore New Delhi, India: A 1-Day Cultural Excursion

New Delhi, India

1 days

India Gate
Lotus Temple
Entrance gates to the presidential palace (Rashtrapati Bhavan)
The Canopy and the India Gate, view from the National War Memorial
Humayun's Tomb

About New Delhi, India

Explore the vibrant city of New Delhi, India's capital, a fusion of ancient history and modern life. Visit iconic landmarks like the Qutub Minar, Humayun's Tomb, and the majestic Red Fort, reflecting the city's rich cultural heritage. Wander through the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk, a shopper's paradise offering a variety of traditional Indian goods. Experience the tranquility of Lotus Temple and the grandeur of India Gate. Savor the flavors of authentic Indian cuisine, from spicy street food to gourmet dining. New Delhi is not just a city, but a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the past, present, and future of India. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a shopaholic, New Delhi has something for everyone.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Rich Heritage and Vibrant Culture of New Delhi

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the iconic India Gate, a war memorial located astride the Rajpath. It's a great place to soak in the early morning atmosphere of the city.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Indian lunch at a local restaurant. Try some of the local delicacies like 'Chole Bhature', 'Biryani', or 'Butter Chicken'.

Afternoon

Post lunch, head to the National Museum which houses a vast collection of artifacts showcasing the rich cultural heritage of India. Spend your afternoon exploring the various exhibits.

Dinner

For dinner, indulge in some street food at a Local Market. Try 'Pani Puri', 'Aloo Tikki', or 'Kebabs' for a true taste of Delhi's street food culture.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Swaminarayan Akshardham, a beautiful temple complex known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. Enjoy the evening light and water show before heading back to your hotel.

Attractions in Itinerary (4)

India Gate

1
India Gate

India Gate is a war memorial located astride the Rajpath. It is a prominent landmark in Delhi and commemorates the 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during World War I.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Parks
National Museum

2
National Museum

The National Museum in New Delhi is one of the largest museums in India. It holds a variety of articles ranging from pre-historic era to modern works of art.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Local Market

3
Local Market

Local markets in New Delhi are a bustling colourful affair. They offer a wide range of goods, from textiles and garments, to electronics and fresh produce. Some of the popular local markets include Chandni Chowk, Sarojini Nagar, and Lajpat Nagar.

Shopping
Swaminarayan Akshardham

4
Swaminarayan Akshardham

Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi epitomizes 10,000 years of Indian culture in its breathtaking grandeur, beauty, wisdom and bliss. It brilliantly showcases the essence of India’s ancient architecture, traditions and timeless spiritual messages.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Cultural Experiences
Architecture

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Chole Bhature

Chole Bhature

A popular dish in New Delhi, Chole Bhature is a combination of spicy chickpeas (chole) and fried bread called bhature. It is often served with pickles and yogurt.

Parantha

Parantha

Parantha is a type of Indian bread that is typically stuffed with various fillings like potato, paneer, or radish. It's a staple breakfast item in New Delhi.

Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken is a creamy and rich dish made with marinated chicken cooked in a buttery tomato sauce. It's a must-try dish in New Delhi, often served with naan or rice.

Rajma Chawal

Rajma Chawal

Rajma Chawal is a comforting dish of red kidney beans in a thick gravy, served with rice. It's a popular lunch option in New Delhi.

Gol Gappa

Gol Gappa

Also known as Pani Puri, Gol Gappa is a popular street food in New Delhi. It consists of a round, hollow puri filled with a mixture of flavored water, tamarind chutney, chili, chaat masala, potato, onion, and chickpeas.

Aloo Tikki

Aloo Tikki

Aloo Tikki is a popular snack in New Delhi. It's a spiced potato patty that's often served with various chutneys.

Biryani

Biryani

Biryani is a flavorful rice dish cooked with aromatic spices and meat (chicken, mutton, or fish). It's a popular dish in New Delhi, with many regional variations.

Masala Chai

Masala Chai

Masala Chai is a spiced tea beverage made by brewing black tea with a mixture of aromatic Indian spices and herbs. It's a staple drink in New Delhi, often enjoyed with snacks or breakfast.

Jalebi

Jalebi

Jalebi is a popular sweet in New Delhi. It's made by deep-frying a wheat flour batter in pretzel or circular shapes, which are then soaked in sugar syrup.

Kulfi

Kulfi

Kulfi is a traditional Indian ice cream. It's a popular dessert in New Delhi, available in various flavors like mango, pistachio, and saffron.

Momos

Originating from Tibet, Momos have become a popular street food in New Delhi. They are dumplings filled with vegetables or meat, and are usually served with a spicy red chutney.

Lassi

Lassi

Lassi is a traditional Indian yogurt-based drink. It's a popular refreshment in New Delhi, especially during the hot summer months. It can be sweet or salty, and often flavored with fruits or spices.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit New Delhi, India is during the cooler months from October to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing. The monsoon season, which runs from July to September, can be avoided due to high humidity and frequent rains. Also, the summer months from April to June can be extremely hot, making outdoor activities uncomfortable. So, for the most enjoyable experience, plan your visit between October and March.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 13

Sat

Lohri

January 26

Fri

Republic Day

March 25

Mon

Dolyatra

March 25

Mon

Holi

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

April 11

Thu

Ramzan Id/Eid-ul-Fitar

April 17

Wed

Rama Navami

April 21

Sun

Mahavir Jayanti

May 23

Thu

Buddha Purnima/Vesak

June 17

Mon

Bakrid/Eid ul-Adha

July 17

Wed

Muharram/Ashura

August 15

Thu

Independence Day

August 26

Mon

Janmashtami

September 16

Mon

Milad un-Nabi/Id-e-Milad

October 2

Wed

Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti

October 12

Sat

Dussehra

October 31

Thu

Diwali/Deepavali

November 15

Fri

Guru Nanak Jayanti

December 25

Wed

Christmas

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

The Delhi Metro is a rapid transit system serving Delhi and its satellite cities. It is one of the fastest and most reliable ways to travel around the city. The metro system is well-connected, covering most of the city's major attractions, commercial hubs, and residential areas.

Auto Rickshaws are a common means of public transportation in New Delhi. They are ideal for short to medium distance travel. Always ensure to negotiate the fare before starting the journey or insist on using the meter.

Cycle Rickshaws and E-Rickshaws are eco-friendly modes of transport and are ideal for short distances. They are commonly used for travel in the narrow lanes of the old city.

Taxis are available throughout the city. They can be hailed on the street or booked through various taxi booking services. They are comfortable and ideal for longer distances.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Ola are widely available in New Delhi. They offer convenient and cost-effective travel options. These services can be booked through their respective mobile apps.

Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) operates the world's largest fleet of CNG-powered buses. The network covers all parts of the city and is a cheap way of traveling, though it can be crowded during peak hours.

The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Service is a sightseeing service that allows tourists to explore the city at their own pace. The buses cover most of the major tourist attractions in the city.

Private cars with drivers can be hired for the day or for a specific trip. This is a good option if you prefer a more comfortable and flexible mode of transport.

Motorcycle taxis are a quick and inexpensive way to get around the city, especially during traffic jams. Services like Rapido offer motorcycle taxi services in the city.

New Delhi has a public bicycle sharing system called Yulu. Users can rent bicycles for short trips using the Yulu app.

Many of the tourist attractions in New Delhi are located close to each other, especially in the old city area, making walking a viable option.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency₹ INR

Time zoneUTC+5.5

Driving sideLeft

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 102; Fire: 101; Police: 100, 103 (traffic accident)

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type DPower socket type M

Voltage230 V

Things to know about New Delhi, India as a first time visitor

1

New Delhi is the capital city of India, known for its rich history, culture, and architecture.

2

The official language is Hindi, but English is widely spoken and understood.

3

The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's always handy to have some cash.

4

New Delhi has a hot semi-arid climate. Summers (April to June) can be extremely hot with temperatures reaching up to 113°F (45°C). Winters (December to February) are cool with temperatures ranging from 45°F (7°C) to 77°F (25°C).

5

It's advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should carry a scarf for covering their heads.

6

Tipping is customary in India. A 10% tip is generally acceptable in restaurants and for taxi drivers.

7

Street food is a big part of Delhi's culture. However, be cautious about hygiene and avoid tap water.

8

Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and cycle rickshaws are common modes of transport. There's also the Delhi Metro, which is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city.

9

Bargaining is common in local markets. Don't be afraid to negotiate prices.

10

Be aware of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded places.

11

It's recommended to buy a local SIM card for easy communication. They're readily available at the airport or local shops.

12

Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, especially in more traditional areas.

13

The city can be quite polluted, so it might be a good idea to carry a pollution mask.

14

It's advisable to avoid traveling alone at night, especially for women.

15

Indian Standard Time (IST) is 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+5:30).

16

It's important to respect local customs and traditions. For example, it's customary to remove your shoes before entering a religious site.

17

Alcohol is available but not widely consumed due to cultural and religious beliefs. Drinking in public is prohibited.

18

Smoking in public places is banned in Delhi. Violators can be fined.

19

It's recommended to get travel insurance that covers theft, loss, and medical problems.

20

It's advisable to get vaccinated for diseases like Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Tetanus before traveling to India.

Basic Hindi to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Namaste

na-mas-te

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Alvida

al-vee-da

Leaving someone

Thank you

Dhanyavaad

dhan-ya-vaad

Expressing gratitude

Please

Kripya

kri-pya

Making a polite request

Yes

Haan

haan

Agreeing with someone

No

Nahi

na-hee

Disagreeing with someone

Excuse me

Maaf kijiye

maaf ki-ji-ye

Getting someone's attention

I'm sorry

Mujhe maaf kijiye

mujhe maaf ki-ji-ye

Apologizing

I don't understand

Mujhe samajh nahi aaya

mujhe sa-majh na-hi aaya

When you don't understand something

Do you speak English?

Kya aap angrezi bolte hain?

kya aap an-gre-zi bol-te hain

Asking if someone speaks English

How much does this cost?

Yeh kitne ka hai?

yeh kit-ne ka hai

Asking for the price of something

Where is the bathroom?

Shauchalaya kahan hai?

shau-cha-laya ka-han hai

Looking for a bathroom

I need help

Mujhe madad chahiye

mujhe ma-dad cha-hi-ye

When you need assistance

Call the police

Police ko bulao

po-lice ko bu-lao

In case of an emergency

I am lost

Mai kho gaya hoon

mai kho ga-ya hoon

When you are lost

Can I use your phone?

Kya main aapka phone istemaal kar sakta hoon?

kya main aap-ka phone is-te-maal kar sak-ta hoon

When you need to make a call

Water

Paani

pa-ni

When you want to order water

Food

Khana

kha-na

When you want to order food

Help!

Madad!

ma-dad

In case of an emergency

Good night

Shubh ratri

shubh ra-tri

Before going to bed

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Hat or cap for sun protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Scarf or shawl for visiting religious sites

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size toothpaste and toothbrush

  • Travel-size shampoo and conditioner

  • Deodorant

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Face mask

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Visa

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel booking confirmation

  • Local currency (Indian Rupees)

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Camera

  • Headphones

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Travel guidebook for New Delhi

  • Map of New Delhi

  • Travel pillow

Weather Conditions

New Delhi, the capital city of India, experiences a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year. It's important to plan your visit according to the season to make the most of your trip. The city experiences a hot, dry summer from April to June, with temperatures often soaring above 104°F (40°C). If you're planning to visit during this time, it's advisable to stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing. Don't forget to apply sunscreen and wear a hat when stepping out during the day. The monsoon season follows the summer, typically from July to September. The city receives moderate to heavy rainfall during this period. If you're visiting during the monsoon, it's a good idea to carry an umbrella or raincoat. The temperatures during this season range from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C). Winter in New Delhi starts in November and lasts till February. The city experiences chilly weather with dense fog, especially in the mornings. The temperatures can drop to as low as 41°F (5°C) during the peak winter months of December and January. If you're visiting during the winter, it's advisable to pack warm clothing, including sweaters, jackets, and scarves. The post-monsoon autumn season, which is from October to November, and the spring season, from February to March, are considered the best times to visit New Delhi. The weather during these periods is pleasant with temperatures ranging between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C). These are also the times when the city hosts various cultural and festive events. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip to pack accordingly. Enjoy your visit to New Delhi!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

21° / 7°

January is the coldest month in New Delhi, with temperatures often dropping to 7°C at night. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

February

26° / 10°

February sees a slight increase in temperature, but it's still relatively cool. It's a great time to explore the city without the intense heat.

March

33° / 15°

March marks the beginning of the hot season, with temperatures reaching up to 33°C. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy warmer weather.

April

39° / 21°

April is quite hot in New Delhi, with temperatures often reaching 39°C. Make sure to stay hydrated and avoid the midday sun.

May

42° / 26°

May is the hottest month in New Delhi, with temperatures reaching up to 42°C. It's a good time to visit if you can handle the intense heat.

June

40° / 28°

June sees the beginning of the monsoon season, with high humidity and temperatures around 40°C. It's a good time to visit if you don't mind the rain.

July

35° / 27°

July is in the middle of the monsoon season, with high humidity and frequent rain. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy the rain.

August

34° / 26°

August is also part of the monsoon season, with high humidity and frequent rain. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy the rain.

September

34° / 24°

September marks the end of the monsoon season, with temperatures starting to decrease. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

October

33° / 18°

October is a pleasant month in New Delhi, with moderate temperatures and less rain. It's a great time to explore the city.

November

28° / 12°

November sees a significant drop in temperature, with nights becoming quite cool. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

December

22° / 8°

December is a cool month in New Delhi, with temperatures often dropping to 8°C at night. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

Did you know?

Did you know that New Delhi is the capital city of India and one of its oldest cities, with a history dating back to at least the 6th century BC?

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