DELHI
Delhi is a city of layers, a vibrant metropolis where ancient empires have risen and fallen, leaving behind a breathtaking tapestry of culture and history. It seamlessly blends the chaotic charm of Old Delhi with the stately elegance of New Delhi.
This is where the past meets the present. From towering Mughal monuments and bustling, centuries-old bazaars to grand colonial avenues and modern spiritual marvels, Delhi serves as the political and cultural heart of India.
Most Popular Attractions
Mughal & Old City Core:
Red Fort (Lal Qila): A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the majestic, red sandstone seat of the Mughal Empire for over 200 years.
Jama Masjid (Masjid e Jahan Numa): The largest and one of the most magnificent mosques in India, built by Emperor Shah Jahan.
Chandni Chowk: Asia’s largest wholesale market, a sensory overload of narrow lanes, street food, and vibrant, specialized bazaars.
Fatehpuri Masjid: A 17th-century mosque located at the western end of Chandni Chowk, built by one of Shah Jahan’s wives.
Khari Baoli Spice Market: Asia’s largest spice market, where the air is thick with the aroma of exotic spices.
Karim’s: A legendary, over 100-year-old restaurant famous for its traditional Mughlai cuisine.
Lutyens’ Delhi & Memorials:
India Gate: A solemn war memorial reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe, dedicated to soldiers of the British Indian Army.
Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s House): The official residence of the President of India, a grand, colonial-era architectural marvel.
Parliament House (Sansad Bhavan): The circular structure housing the two houses of the Parliament of India.
Raj Ghat: A peaceful, black marble platform marking the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated.
National Museum: India’s largest museum, housing a diverse collection of artifacts from prehistoric to modern art.
Ancient & Indo-Islamic Heritage (South/Central Delhi):
Qutub Minar: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 73-meter tall minaret is the tallest brick minaret in the world, surrounded by ancient ruins.
Humayun’s Tomb: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun, a stunning precursor to the Taj Mahal.
Purana Qila (Old Fort): One of Delhi’s oldest forts, standing on the ancient site of Indraprastha.
Lodhi Gardens: A serene city park dotted with 15th and 16th-century tombs of the Lodhi and Sayyid dynasties.
Hauz Khas Village: A trendy urban village built around the ruins of a historic water tank and medieval tombs.
Tughlaqabad Fort: A massive, ruined 14th-century fortress, offering a haunting glimpse into the Tughlaq dynasty.
Agrasen ki Baoli: A spectacular, protected 14th-century historical stepwell of 103 steps.
Modern & Spiritual Marvels:
Lotus Temple (Baháʼí House of Worship): A striking, modern architectural wonder shaped like a blooming lotus flower, open to all faiths.
Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple: A sprawling, modern Hindu temple complex showcasing traditional Indian art, culture, and spirituality.
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib: One of the most prominent Sikh houses of worship in Delhi, famous for its golden dome and community kitchen (langar).
Nizamuddin Dargah: The shrine of the Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya, a hub of cultural life and Qawwali music, especially on Thursday evenings.
Dilli Haat: An open-air food plaza and craft bazaar that offers a showcase of different regional foods and handicrafts from all over India.
Activities & Experiences
Take a Heritage Walk through Old Delhi: Hire a local guide for an immersive tour or take a fascinating cycle-rickshaw ride through the narrow, bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk, taking in historical sights like Jama Masjid and the spice market (Khari Baoli).
Explore the Mughal Marvels: Spend time at Humayun’s Tomb (a precursor to the Taj Mahal) and the Red Fort (Lal Qila). Attend the Sound and Light Show at the Red Fort in the evening for a historical overview.
Go on a Street Food Crawl: Indulge in Delhi’s legendary street food. Head to Old Delhi for famous spots like Paranthe Wali Gali (stuffed flatbreads) or to Chandni Chowk for savory chaat (snacks).
Visit the Lotus Temple: Experience the architectural serenity of the Baháʼí House of Worship, known for its stunning lotus flower design and peaceful surroundings, welcoming all faiths.
Explore the Lodi Garden Tombs: Enjoy a quiet morning or evening stroll through Lodhi Garden, a beautiful park dotted with 15th-century Lodi-era tombs and mosques.
Experience a Community Kitchen at a Gurudwara: Visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, a prominent Sikh temple, and witness or even volunteer at the Langar (community kitchen) that serves thousands of free meals daily.
Discover India’s History in Museums: Spend a day exploring the city’s rich past at the National Museum or the National Rail Museum.
Shop at Dilli Haat: Visit this vibrant permanent market offering handicrafts, ethnic clothing, and authentic cuisine from different states across India.
Step Well Photography at Agrasen Ki Baoli: Visit this stunning ancient stepwell in the heart of the city, a quiet, atmospheric spot popular for photography.
Take a Yoga and Meditation Class: Find tranquility by joining a morning yoga or meditation session, often offered in serene parks like Lodhi Garden, to experience India’s spiritual traditions.
Wander through a Quirky Urban Village: Explore the vibrant lanes of Hauz Khas Village or Shahpur Jat, known for their mix of traditional architecture, designer boutiques, cafes, and art galleries.
Local Tips & Transport
Delhi Metro is Your Best Friend: The Delhi Metro is the most efficient, clean, and air-conditioned way to navigate the city, covering most major tourist sites. Purchase a Metro Card for easy, queue-free travel. Note that most trains have a ‘Women Only’ carriage at the front.
Ride-Sharing Apps (Uber/Ola): For comfortable door-to-door service, especially late at night or for longer distances, use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Ola. This avoids having to negotiate fares with local taxi or auto-rickshaw drivers.
Auto-Rickshaws (Tuk-Tuks): A quintessential Delhi experience. Always agree on the fare before you start the journey, as drivers often refuse to use the meter for tourists. For quick reference, use a ride-sharing app to gauge the fair price for your journey.
Getting to/from the Airport: The Airport Express Metro Line (Orange Line) is the fastest and most reliable way to travel between Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and the city center (New Delhi Metro Station). Pre-paid taxis are also available but the metro is generally preferred.
Cycle-Rickshaws in Old Delhi: In the narrow lanes of Old Delhi (like Chandni Chowk), the cycle-rickshaw is the traditional and best mode of transport. Again, agree on a price beforehand.
Dress Modestly: Especially when visiting religious sites (temples, mosques, gurudwaras) and in crowded areas, it is respectful to dress modestly. This generally means covering your shoulders and knees. Always remove your shoes before entering any place of worship or someone’s home.
The Right Hand Rule: In India, the left hand is traditionally considered unclean. Always use your right hand to give or receive items, handle money, or eat.
Tipping and Bargaining:
- Tipping is appreciated in restaurants (5-10% is standard if no service charge is included) and for services like guides and drivers.
- Bargaining is common in local markets, street stalls, and with auto-rickshaws, but less so in fixed-price stores and malls. Bargain politely and with a smile.
Stay Hydrated and Safe with Food: Do not drink tap water; only use bottled water and ensure the seal is intact. Be cautious with ice. While Delhi’s street food is world-famous, it is safest to choose stalls that are busy and appear clean, or join a reputable street food tour.
Avoid the Summer Heat: The months of April to June can be extremely hot. If you must visit then, plan outdoor sightseeing for the early morning or late evening. The most pleasant weather is typically October to March.
Greetings: A traditional “Namaste” (palms pressed together at the chest) is a respectful and widely accepted greeting. Avoid public displays of affection (PDA), such as kissing or hugging, which are generally frowned upon in public.
Hidden Gems & Insider Spots:
- Sunder Nursery: A beautifully restored heritage park near Humayun’s Tomb, often quieter than Lodhi Garden and perfect for a picnic.
- Lodhi Art District: Explore the vibrant, large-scale street art and murals covering the walls of the Lodhi Colony, created by national and international artists.
- Nizamuddin Dargah: Visit the tomb of the famous Sufi saint Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, especially on a Thursday evening for a truly spiritual and mesmerizing experience with live Qawwali (Sufi devotional music).
Top Restaurants
Karim’s [$10-$20] – An iconic Mughlai institution near Jama Masjid, famed for its rich, traditional curries, succulent kebabs (like Seekh and Shami), and Nahari.
Al Jawahar [$10-$20] – Located right next to Karim’s, this is another historic spot near Jama Masjid, often preferred by locals for its excellent Butter Chicken and Mutton Korma.
Bukhara [$80-$150] – While high-end and popular, this ITC Maurya hotel restaurant is a global benchmark for Northwest Frontier cuisine. It’s truly worthy for its signature Dal Bukhara and massive kebabs cooked in clay ovens.
Moti Mahal [$25-$45] – The restaurant in Daryaganj is credited with inventing Butter Chicken and Dal Makhani. It offers a taste of culinary history with a classic, robust North Indian menu.
Rajinder Da Dhaba [$10-$20] – A legendary South Delhi “dhaba” (roadside eatery) that has expanded across the market, famous for its late-night, perfectly charred Tandoori Chicken and spicy curries.
Kake Di Hatti [$5-$15] – Located in Old Delhi, this pure vegetarian spot is renowned for its gigantic and delicious Naans and rich Punjabi vegetable curries like Dal Makhani and Chole.
Giani’s di Hatti [$5-$10] – A Chandni Chowk legend for cooling desserts, famous for its rich, creamy Rabri Falooda and various Kulfi (traditional Indian ice cream).
Natraj Dahi Bhalle Wala [$3-$7] – A small, famous stall in Chandni Chowk (near the fountain) serving arguably the best Dahi Bhalle (lentil fritters with yogurt and chutneys) and Aloo Tikki Chaat.
Paranthe Wali Gali [$5-$15] – A historic lane in Chandni Chowk dedicated to various kinds of stuffed, deep-fried Parathas (flatbreads), offering a unique and very local experience.
Old Famous Jalebi Wala [$3-$7] – Located at the corner of Dariba Kalan in Chandni Chowk, this spot is famous for its thick, syrupy-sweet Jalebis (fried swirls) and Samosas.
Khandani Pakodewala [$5-$10] – Near Sarojini Nagar, this is a local’s go-to for a huge variety of crispy Pakoras (fritters) with different vegetables, served with delicious chutneys.
Pandara Road Restaurants (Gulati, Pindi, etc.) [$25-$50] – A street famous for its concentration of traditional, slightly upscale North Indian restaurants, with Gulati being particularly popular for its buffet and Butter Chicken.
Indian Accent [$100-$200+] – A globally acclaimed, fine-dining restaurant in The Lodhi hotel, known for its highly innovative, progressive Indian tasting menus (The most “touristic” on this list, but an essential experience).
Comorin [$40-$70] – This restaurant offers modern Indian comfort food, focusing on regional specialties and creative small plates with a fantastic bar program. (Note: Located in Gurugram, technically NCR, but a Delhi favorite).
The Grammar Room [$30-$50] – Tucked away in a beautiful garden setting near Qutub Minar, this place is known for its excellent modern cafe fare, sophisticated drinks, and lovely ambiance.
Plats [$50-$80] – A hidden gem offering a seasonal, contemporary menu with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and modern European techniques with subtle Indian touches.
Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra [$70-$120] – Located in Janpath, this restaurant is known for its ‘Progressive Indian’ cuisine, offering a culinary journey through molecular gastronomy and updated regional dishes.
Jamun [$30-$60] – A charming spot in Lodhi Colony known for its focus on regional Indian cuisine from across the country, served in a beautiful, aesthetically pleasing purple setting.
Rooh [$70-$100] – Located in Mehrauli, it offers a contemporary take on South Asian cuisine with stunning views, often focusing on a chef-driven tasting menu.
Bhawan [$20-$40] – Specializing in regional Indian street food and snacks with a gourmet touch, offering elevated versions of classics like chaat and vada pav in a fun setting. (Note: Located in Gurugram, technically NCR, but a Delhi favorite).
Daryaganj [$25-$50] – Multiple locations, this restaurant is a tribute to the original creators of Butter Chicken and Dal Makhani, aiming to replicate the authentic, original 1947 recipes.
Olive Bar & Kitchen [$60-$90] – An iconic Mediterranean restaurant near the Qutub Minar, famous for its rustic white decor, courtyard seating under a banyan tree, and excellent European cuisine.
Cafe Lota [$15-$30] – Located inside the National Crafts Museum, this popular cafe serves regional Indian dishes with a modern, inventive twist and a fantastic, relaxed ambiance.
Burma Burma [$25-$45] – A very popular vegetarian restaurant specializing in authentic Burmese cuisine, known for its Khao Suey (Burmese noodle soup) and Tea Leaf Salad.
The Big Chill Cafe [$20-$40] – Multiple locations, this cafe is a local favorite for its classic Italian-American comfort food, including famous pasta, pizzas, and legendary desserts.
Perch Wine & Coffee Bar [$30-$50] – A chic and minimalist cafe in Khan Market, highly regarded for its excellent coffee, light European fare, and curated selection of wines.
Yum Yum Cha [$20-$40] – Known for its vibrant ambiance and delectable Pan-Asian fare, particularly its sushi, dim sum, and “funky” bao.
Guppy [$40-$70] – A colorful, modern Japanese bistro in Lodhi Colony, known for its artful sushi, ramen, and quirky Japanese-inspired cocktails.
Leo’s Pizzeria [$20-$40] – Highly rated for its authentic, Neapolitan-style wood-fired pizzas with minimal, high-quality toppings.
Carnatic Cafe [$10-$20] – A simple, unassuming South Indian restaurant known for serving some of the most authentic and delicious Dosai and Idli in Delhi.
Diggin Cafe [$20-$35] – Multiple locations, known for its beautiful, vine-covered, picturesque setting and popular for its casual Italian and Continental food.
Cafe Dori [$20-$35] – A European-style cafe with a calm, aesthetically pleasing atmosphere, famous for its pastries, coffee, and simple, delicious European mains.
Kake Da Hotel (Original name: Kaka Ka Dhaba) [$15-$25] – A legendary no-frills spot in Connaught Place (CP) known for rich, North Indian, Punjabi food and robust flavors, popular with locals for decades.
Ghalib Kabab Corner [$5-$15] – Located near Nizamuddin Dargah, this small, unassuming place is famous among locals for its melt-in-your-mouth Seekh Kebabs and Shami Kebabs.
Ashok & Ashok Meat Dhaba [$10-$25] – A very famous, no-fuss spot in Sadar Bazaar (near Jama Masjid) known for its incredible, rustic Mutton Curry and Chicken Curry.
Noora Nihari [$5-$15] – An Old Delhi fixture, highly sought after for its exceptional Nihari (slow-cooked mutton stew) for breakfast, often eaten with Khamiri Roti.
Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi Wale [$3-$7] – Located in Sitaram Bazar, Old Delhi, this is a legendary shop famous for its unique, fruit-stuffed Kulfi (Indian frozen dessert) where the kulfi is frozen inside the actual fruit shell.
Khan Chacha [$10-$20] – While now a chain, the original Khan Market shop is still legendary for its simple, delicious Kathi Rolls (skewered meat/veg wrapped in a paratha).
The Kathi Roll Wala (Original) [$5-$10] – A small, famous street stall in Connaught Place (CP) known for its quick, delicious, and classic Kathi Rolls.
Dolma Aunty Momos [$5-$10] – A famous street vendor (now also a small shop) in Lajpat Nagar market that is an institution for its spicy, flavorful, and incredibly popular Tibetan-style Momos (dumplings).
Moolchand Parantha [$3-$7] – A late-night, roadside stall under the Moolchand Metro Station known for its fantastic, buttery, stuffed Parathas served with curds and pickle.
Juggernaut [$10-$20] – A South Indian restaurant in Kailash Colony known for its fantastic, authentic South Indian breakfast and meals, a local alternative to bigger chains.
The Potbelly Rooftop Cafe [$20-$35] – Located in Shahpur Jat, this cafe is one of the few places specializing in authentic Bihari cuisine (Eastern Indian), known for its Litti Chokha and unique Thalis.
Dum Pukht [$70-$120] – Located in ITC Maurya, this restaurant is renowned for its slow-cooked Awadhi (Lucknowi) cuisine, offering a taste of regal Indian dining.
Wasabi by Morimoto [$100-$200+] – Located in the Taj Mahal Hotel, this spot is considered one of Delhi’s premier Japanese fine dining experiences, known for its authentic, high-quality sushi and tempura.
Le Cirque [$100-$200+] – A luxurious European (French/Italian) dining restaurant at The Leela Palace, known for its impeccable service and opulent ambiance.
Orient Express [$120-$250+] – A uniquely themed restaurant at the Taj Palace that recreates the ambiance of the famous train, serving a classic, refined European menu.
MEGU [$80-$150] – Located at The Leela Palace, this is a top-tier Japanese restaurant with a striking ambiance, known for its creative sushi and grilled dishes.
Artusi Ristorante [$60-$90] – Known for authentic, non-fussy Italian food with a focus on ingredients from the Emilia-Romagna region, popular with local expats and discerning diners.
House of Ming [$40-$70] – A long-standing, classic Chinese restaurant at The Taj Mahal Hotel, renowned for its Szechuan and Cantonese cuisine.
Tian – Asian Cuisine Studio [$70-$120] – Located at The Lodhi, this restaurant offers a sophisticated take on modern Asian cuisine with panoramic views.
Akira Back [$80-$150] – A modern Japanese restaurant at The JW Marriott Aerocity, blending Japanese techniques with Korean flavors.
Sidecar [$40-$70] – Not a restaurant, but an internationally-ranked, high-end cocktail bar in Greater Kailash (GK) that also serves a refined menu of small plates and bar food, a local favorite for its quality and atmosphere.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Sidecar: Found in Greater Kailash – 2 (GK-2) in South Delhi, this internationally acclaimed bar (listed among The 50 Best Discovery) is renowned for its expertly crafted, innovative cocktails, many of which are made with in-house ingredients. The ambiance is sophisticated yet relaxed.
PCO (Pass Code Only): Located in Vasant Vihar, this bar is famous for introducing the speakeasy concept to Delhi. Guests must know the password for entry, adding to the clandestine charm. Known for its perfect renditions of classic cocktails and bespoke drinks.
The Blue Bar: Situated within the Taj Palace in Chanakyapuri, this high-end bar boasts a striking red and black interior and an emphasis on fresh ingredients and global flavors, offering a sophisticated and luxurious cocktail experience.
Home: A sophisticated, art deco-style, members-only club in Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj, that offers an exclusive feel. It features an experimental, eco-conscious cocktail program, live music, and multiple lounges, including a plush rooftop.
Ditas: A chic hotspot in the Ambawatta One Complex, Mehrauli, known for its modern, luxe interiors and crafting signature cocktails. It’s a stylish destination for a memorable drinking and dining experience with a view of the Qutub Minar.
Perch Wine & Coffee Bar: With locations in Khan Market and Vasant Vihar, this is an all-day space popular for its unique beverages. The vibe is casual-chic, and their selection of wine cocktails and elderflower-infused drinks is highly regarded.
Khi Khi: A gourmet kitchen and bar in Vasant Vihar that’s relatively new to the cocktail scene but is gaining attention for its smashing contemporary cocktails and a vibrant, meticulously curated atmosphere.
Grappa: Located at the Shangri-La’s Eros Hotel in Janpath, Connaught Place, this bar is known for its inventive, wooden-barrel-aged cocktails and extensive gin & tonic menu, featuring both subtle indoor and appealing outdoor seating.
Juniper: An all-day bar at the Andaz Hotel in Aerocity that celebrates gin with as many as 40 home-infused varieties. Guests can create bespoke cocktails, making it a casual-chic spot for gin aficionados.
The Piano Man Jazz Club: Found in Safdarjung Enclave, this is the ‘it’ spot for music and cocktail lovers, featuring a live artist every night of the week. The unique jazz club atmosphere is matched by an interesting menu of signature cocktails.
Cirrus 9: A high-end bar in The Oberoi hotel near Zakir Hussain Marg, known for its luxury and sophistication. It’s the perfect spot for innovative, handcrafted cocktails with a stunning view from its rooftop perch.
Olive Bar & Kitchen: Nestled in Mehrauli, this spot offers a Mediterranean escape with pristine white decor. It is part of a renowned group, offering a sophisticated setting with a focus on fresh ingredients and curated drinks.
Lord of the Drinks: A popular spot in Connaught Place (CP) known for its large outdoor terrace, extensive drink offerings, and lively atmosphere, often featuring live music events.
The Vault Cafe: Located in a busy part of Connaught Place, this café-turned-bar has unique décor inspired by an old bank vault and is known for its interactive events and lively atmosphere.
Summer House Cafe: Located in Hauz Khas, this cocktail bar and restaurant has a laid-back, low-lit ambiance with a big terrace. It’s known for hosting live gigs and lets patrons craft custom cocktails with a variety of house-made syrups.
Kitty Su: Undisputedly one of the hottest nightclubs in Delhi, located at The Lalit Hotel in Connaught Place. It’s known for its luxurious décor, inclusive atmosphere, and hosting international DJs with an unbelievable range of genres from EDM to Bollywood.
Privee: Situated at the Shangri-La’s Eros Hotel in Connaught Place, this is a club with a stylish ambiance, a huge dance floor, and a modern sound system. It’s known for its high-energy Bollywood and house music nights.
The Electric Room: Housed within The Lodhi Hotel on Sardar Patel Marg, this intimate and sophisticated club offers an upscale vibe, an impressive cocktail menu, and often features live rock/pop bands and DJ sets.
Toy Room: Located in the Aloft Hotel in Aerocity, this club is an easy win for a dance-heavy night, with a music policy that centers on hip-hop but often includes Bollywood flips. It is known for its flashy lights and get-on-the-floor vibe.
Imperfecto Shor: Found in the Hotel Pride Plaza in Aerocity, this club is known for its fun, playful vibe, sing-along Bollywood drops, and big visuals. It works well for pre-dinner hangs that turn into post-midnight clubbing.
Keya: Dominating the South Delhi scene for years, this club in DLF Promenade Mall, Vasant Kunj offers both outdoor seating and a classic indoor nightclub setting. It’s known for its intense nightclub vibe and excellent signature cocktails.
Hauz Khas Social: Located in the trendy Hauz Khas Village, this multi-level lounge draws a younger crowd. It’s a co-working space by day that transforms into a buzzing bar lounge at night, known for its industrial-chic design and creative cocktails served in unique glassware.
Diablo: Found near the Qutub Minar, Mehrauli, this lavish spot often features a mix of great food, inventive drinks, and a party atmosphere, attracting a high-end crowd.
RSVP: Located within The Royal Plaza Hotel in Connaught Place, this club is known for its classy décor, vast dance floor, and a preferred choice for party revelers, playing a mix of House, Electronic, and Bollywood music.
Gallery Club: A trendy, high-energy nightclub located in Connaught Place that is known for its modern ambiance and often features electronic and commercial music, popular with a young, fashionable crowd.