7 DaysIndia
Delhi
Your 7-day travel guide
The best time to visit Delhi is from October to March, during the winter and early spring. October and November offer pl...
Delhi•7D•All
Delhi, India
Duration:7 Days
Activities:21
Best for:All travelers
From Mughal Majesty to Modern Markets
Delhi, India's capital, is a city where history lives in layers. It's not just one city but several, from the medieval lanes of Old Delhi to the grand avenues of New Delhi. Here, you'll find Mughal-era forts and tombs standing alongside British colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers. The city's energy is palpable in its crowded bazaars, serene gardens, and diverse neighborhoods. This itinerary guides you through Delhi's most significant sites, culinary highlights, and local experiences, offering a balanced mix of must-see monuments and authentic discoveries. Prepare for sensory overload and profound historical immersion.
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1
Mughal Heritage and Old Delhi
Day 1 of your journey
The Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the main residence of Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. Built from red sandstone in the 17th century, its impressive walls enclose palaces, halls, and gardens. Visitors walk through the Lahore Gate, see the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), and explore the marble pavilions. The sound and light show in the evening is popular. Allow at least 2-3 hours. It's best visited in the morning to avoid afternoon heat and crowds. Entry tickets cost around 500 INR for foreigners.
Red Fort (Lal Qila)
Why Visit
This is one of India's most iconic monuments, symbolizing Mughal power and architectural brilliance. Walking through its gates and courtyards gives a tangible sense of the empire's scale and sophistication. The fort's history is central to Delhi's story, and its preservation makes it a must-see for understanding the city's layered past.
Hire an official guide at the entrance for detailed historical context; they're licensed and provide valuable insights. Address: Netaji Subhash Marg, Chandni Chowk.
2
Colonial History and Government Quarter
Day 2 of your journey
3
Tombs, Gardens, and Spiritual Sites
Day 3 of your journey
4
Markets, Crafts, and Local Flavors
Day 4 of your journey
5
Art, Culture, and Modern Delhi
Day 5 of your journey
6
Spiritual Delhi and Local Life
Day 6 of your journey
7
Relaxation and Final Discoveries
Day 7 of your journey
Before You Go
Essential Travel Tips
Use the Delhi Metro for efficient, affordable travel across the city; it's clean and connects major attractions.
Carry cash (Indian Rupees) as many smaller shops and rickshaws don't accept cards; ATMs are widely available.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; cover shoulders and knees, and remove shoes where required.
Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues; avoid tap water and street ice.
Be cautious with street food; choose busy stalls with high turnover, and consider starting with milder options.
Use prepaid taxi counters at the airport or metro stations to avoid overcharging; ride-sharing apps like Uber are reliable.
Learn basic Hindi phrases like 'namaste' (hello), 'dhanyavad' (thank you), and 'kitna hua?' (how much?) for better interactions.
Delhi's traffic is heavy; allow extra travel time, especially during peak hours (09:00-11:00 and 17:00-20:00).
When to Go
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Delhi is from October to March, during the winter and early spring. October and November offer pleasant, mild weather with clear skies, ideal for sightseeing. December and January are cooler, with temperatures sometimes dropping to 5°C (41°F) at night, but days are sunny and comfortable. February and March are warm and dry before the heat sets in. Avoid the summer months (April to June), when temperatures often exceed 40°C (104°F), and the monsoon season (July to September), which brings high humidity and heavy rainfall, though it can be less crowded.
Local Insights & Tips
Delhi is a city of contrasts, where ancient traditions coexist with rapid modernization. Respect local customs by dressing conservatively in religious places and using your right hand for eating and greetings. The city operates on 'Indian Standard Time' – things may start later than scheduled, so patience is key. Neighborhoods have distinct characters: Old Delhi is chaotic and historic, New Delhi is orderly and colonial, South Delhi is leafy and affluent. Street food is a big part of the culture; try it cautiously from reputable vendors. Haggling is common in markets but not in fixed-price stores. Delhiites are generally helpful if approached politely, though be aware of touts at tourist sites.