How many days in new Delhi is enough! Do you know?
Delhi, India’s bustling capital, is a perfect starting point for any traveler, whether you’re coming from abroad or looking for a quick getaway before exploring the iconic Taj Mahal or Rajasthan. How many days in new Delhi is enough! Do you know? Delhi’s rich history, vibrant bazaars, and diverse attractions make it an ideal destination for a short visit. If you’re only here for a few days, our 3-day itinerary will help you explore the city’s top sights and even take a nearby day trip.
What’s there to see in Delhi?
Delhi has a lot to offer, and although it’s impossible to cover everything in just three days, you can certainly explore its highlights:
UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Delhi boasts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites:
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- Qutub Minar: A towering structure dating back to the 12th century.
- Humayun’s Tomb: A beautiful Mughal garden tomb and inspiration for the Taj Mahal.
- Red Fort: A magnificent symbol of India’s rich history.
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National Monuments: The city is home to 174 National Monuments, offering a deep dive into India’s past. Some must-visit landmarks include:
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- India Gate: A memorial dedicated to Indian soldiers.
- Rashtrapati Bhavan: The grand residence of India’s president.
Museums: With over 30 museums, you can discover everything from modern art at the National Gallery of Modern Art to ancient artifacts at the National Museum.
Temples: Delhi has 20 major temples, including:
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- Lotus Temple: A stunning flower-shaped Baháʼí House of Worship.
- Akshardham Temple: A modern marvel of architecture with intricate carvings.
Hidden Treasures: There are hundreds of lesser-known gems, from ancient ruins to peaceful spots like Lodhi Gardens.
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Markets and Street Food
Don’t forget to explore Delhi’s lively markets like:
- Chandni Chowk: Famous for its bustling streets, vibrant shops, and delicious street food.
- Dilli Haat: A great place for shopping local handicrafts and tasting regional dishes.
Street food is a huge part of the Delhi experience. Make sure to try some local favorites like chaat, parathas, and jalebi.
Day Trips from Delhi
If you want to see places beyond the city, there are several day trips you can take:
- Agra: Visit the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, just a few hours from Delhi.
- Jaipur: Known as the Pink City, it’s a short drive away and offers majestic palaces and forts.
- Mathura & Vrindavan: The birthplace of Lord Krishna, full of temples and cultural heritage.
- Haridwar & Rishikesh: The birth place of Yoga and Meditation , full of temples and cultural heritage.
How many days in new Delhi is enough?
1 to 3 days is typically enough to enjoy the top activities in Delhi. Here’s a breakdown based on how much time you have:
- 1 Day: See the highlights quickly, perfect for those short on time.
- 2 Days: Ideal for most travelers, with one day for arrival and another for sightseeing.
- 3 Days: Enjoy the city at a relaxed pace and possibly explore areas just outside Delhi.
If you have more than 3 days, consider a trip to Agra to see the Taj Mahal or Jaipur for more sightseeing.
Classic Delhi Itinerary: 1–3 Days
2 days is usually enough to get a feel for Delhi, but 3 days will allow you to cover even more. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival How many days in new Delhi
- Arrive and settle in. You can either rest and recover from jet lag or take a light exploration around your hotel to adjust to the city’s vibe.
Day 2: Exploring Delhi’s Highlights
- Red Fort: A stunning example of Mughal architecture.
- Jama Masjid Mosque: India’s largest mosque, full of history and grandeur.
- Rickshaw Ride through Chandni Chowk: Dive into Delhi’s bustling market life.
- Qutub Minar: Marvel at this towering UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Humayun’s Tomb: Another UNESCO site that was a precursor to the Taj Mahal.
Day 3: Cultural and Temple Visits (or Tailor to Interests)
- Lotus Temple: An architectural marvel and a serene place of worship for Bahá’í followers.
- Gurudwara Bangla Sahib: Visit this beautiful Sikh temple known for its tranquil atmosphere.
- Laxminarayan Temple: A grand Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- With Kids: Consider fun spots like Adventure Island or the quirky Museum of Toilets for an educational experience.
A Delhi and Nearby Cities Itinerary: 4–7 Days
If you have more time to explore beyond Delhi, visiting nearby cities like Agra and Jaipur is a must. Together, these cities form the ‘Indian Golden Triangle’, a popular route for first-time travelers in India. Here’s a detailed itinerary for 4 to 7 days:
Days 1–2: Delhi Exploration
Day 1: Explore the iconic attractions of Delhi. Visit:
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- Red Fort (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Qutub Minar (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Humayun’s Tomb (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Take a rickshaw ride through the vibrant Chandni Chowk market.
- Visit Jama Masjid Mosque.
Day 2: Discover more of Delhi’s cultural and historical gems. Consider:
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- Lotus Temple How many days in new Delhi
- India Gate How many days in new Delhi
- Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
Days 3–4: Agra Discovery
- Day 3: Drive from Delhi to Agra (around 5 hours).
- Visit the Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb (also known as Baby Taj).
- Relax at the Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden) for serene views of the Taj Mahal at sunset.
- Day 4: Explore Agra’s famous landmarks:
- Visit the stunning Taj Mahal (best to visit early in the morning).
- Tour the Agra Fort, a majestic red sandstone fort.
Days 5–6: Jaipur Experience
- Day 5: Travel from Agra to Jaipur (about 5 hours by car).
- Visit the City Palace, the residence of the Jaipur royal family.
- Admire the stunning architecture of Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds).
- Day 6: Continue your Jaipur exploration:
- Tour the magnificent Amber Fort.
- Engage in an Indian cooking class for a fun cultural experience.
Day 7: Return to Delhi How many days in new Delhi
- Day 7: Return to Delhi (about 6 hours by car) for your departure. Alternatively, you can catch a flight or train depending on your schedule.
For an even more luxurious experience, consider the 7-Day Maharajas’ Express Luxury Train Tour, which offers a royal journey across the Golden Triangle.
This itinerary provides a perfect blend of cultural landmarks, historical marvels, and local experiences, ensuring you make the most of your time in India! If you wish to customize the trip based on your preferences, feel free to reach out.
Where to Stay in Delhi
Delhi is split into two main districts: New Delhi and Old Delhi, and where you stay can greatly impact your experience.
New Delhi (Recommended Area)
- Why stay here? New Delhi is cleaner, more organized, and has a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury hotels. It’s also more modern and closer to major attractions like India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb, and Qutub Minar.
- Best for: First-time visitors, families, and tourists wanting easy access to landmarks.
Top hotels: How many days in new Delhi
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- The Oberoi (luxury) How many days in new Delhi
- Taj Palace (luxury) How many days in new Delhi
- The Metropolitan Hotel & Spa (mid-range)
- Bloomrooms @ Janpath (budget)
Old Delhi How many days in new Delhi
- Why avoid? Old Delhi showcases the traditional and historic side of the city with its narrow, bustling streets and vibrant markets, but it’s less convenient and more chaotic. Hotel choices are limited, and it’s less comfortable for tourists.
- Best for: Travelers looking for an authentic, immersive experience of traditional India.
- Top hotels: Limited options, but Hotel Tara Palace Chandni Chowk is a decent budget choice.
Aerocity (Near Airport)
- Why stay here? Ideal for business travelers or those with early or late flights. Aerocity is just 10–20 minutes from the airport and has a variety of international standard hotels.
- Best for: Business travelers and transit passengers.
- Top hotels:
- JW Marriott Aerocity (luxury)
- Holiday Inn New Delhi International Airport (mid-range)
- Aloft New Delhi Aerocity (budget)
Best Times to Visit Delhi
- October to March: The best time to visit, with cooler, dry weather that’s ideal for sightseeing.
- April to June: Extremely hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F).
- July to September: Monsoon season, with hot, humid weather and occasional heavy rains. However, fewer crowds and discounted hotel rates can make it an appealing time to visit.
For a detailed guide, check out Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Delhi.
How to Get Around Delhi
- Metro: The Delhi Metro is modern, efficient, and connects most major attractions. It’s a fast and affordable way to get around the city.
- Taxi: You can easily book taxis via apps like Uber or Ola. It’s convenient for tourists who prefer more comfort and direct routes.
- Auto Rickshaw (Tuk-Tuk): A fun and affordable way to travel shorter distances, but always negotiate the fare before the ride.
- Buses: Not recommended for tourists due to lack of English instructions and bus stop announcements.
- Private Transfers: For visiting nearby cities like Agra or Jaipur, private transfers are the most comfortable and flexible option. You can book a car with a driver who can also act as a guide.
Delhi Travel Tips
Visa Requirements:
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- Most tourists need to apply for a tourist e-visa before entering India. Citizens of neighboring countries like Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives can enter without a visa. Make sure to apply in advance as the process can take a few days.
Safety in Delhi: How many days in new Delhi
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- Delhi is generally safe for tourists, but it’s important to be cautious:
- Keep valuables secure: Use a money belt or a secure bag for items like wallets, passports, and phones.
- Watch out for scams: Avoid unofficial guides or overly friendly strangers offering help at tourist spots.
- Avoid isolated areas: Especially at night, it’s safer to travel in groups and stick to well-lit, busy areas.
- Is Delhi Safe for Tourists?: While Delhi has its challenges, with awareness and precautions, it can be a rewarding destination. For more details, you can explore specific safety advice in guides like Is India Safe to Visit?
- Delhi is generally safe for tourists, but it’s important to be cautious:
Tipping Etiquette: How many days in new Delhi
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- Tipping is expected in most services. Even a small amount like 10–50 rupees for a porter, waiter, or driver is appreciated. In restaurants, a 10% tip is common if it’s not included in the bill.
Customs and Etiquette: How many days in new Delhi
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- Religious Customs: When visiting temples, you’ll need to follow local customs:
- Remove your shoes before entering.
- Dress modestly: Cover your shoulders, knees, and torso. In some temples, women may need to cover their heads with a scarf.
- Hand etiquette: Avoid shaking hands with your left hand or using it to give or take objects, as it’s considered unclean in Indian culture.
- Respect personal space: Avoid touching someone’s head as it is considered sacred, and be mindful of local customs, especially in religious or traditional settings.
- Religious Customs: When visiting temples, you’ll need to follow local customs:
Food in Delhi: How many days in new Delhi
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- Meat dishes: Mutton and chicken are the primary meats, as 60% of Indians are vegetarians.
- Vegetarian options: You’ll find a wide variety of vegetarian food in most restaurants, including North Indian staples like paneer dishes, dal, and biryani.
- Alcohol: While Delhi has bars and restaurants that serve alcohol, many places (especially vegetarian restaurants) do not offer alcoholic beverages due to cultural and religious norms.
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