New Delhi India 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Old Delhi

Morning

  • Arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)
  • Take a taxi or metro to your hotel in Old Delhi ( approx. 30-40 minutes, ₹500-700)

Afternoon

  • Visit Red Fort (Lal Qila) - a majestic Mughal-era fort (entry fee: ₹50, open from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm)
  • Explore the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk, one of India’s oldest and busiest markets
  • Stop by Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques

Evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Indian dinner at Karim’s (budget-friendly, try their famous butter chicken)
  • Stay overnight at Hotel Broadway or similar in Old Delhi (approx. ₹2,000 per night)

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowded streets and aggressive vendors
  • Haggle while shopping at Chandni Chowk
  • Try to avoid eating from street vendors

Day 2: New Delhi’s Iconic Landmarks

Morning

  • Visit India Gate, a war memorial and iconic landmark (free entry, open 24/7)
  • Take a short stroll to the nearby Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Presidential Palace of India
  • Explore the beautiful gardens at Lodhi Gardens (free entry, open from 6 am to 8 pm)

Afternoon

  • Visit the National Museum (entry fee: ₹50, open from 10 am to 5 pm)
  • Stop by Connaught Place, a popular shopping and dining hub

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Saravana Bhavan (budget-friendly, try their South Indian cuisine)
  • Stay overnight at Hotel Le Meridien or similar in Central Delhi (approx. ₹4,000 per night)

Tips

  • India Gate is best visited during sunset or sunrise for stunning views
  • Be respectful of the Presidential Palace’s security protocols

Day 3: Spiritual and Cultural Experiences

Morning

  • Visit Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and India’s tallest minaret (entry fee: ₹50, open from 7 am to 5 pm)
  • Explore the nearby Mehrauli Archaeological Park (free entry, open from 6 am to 8 pm)

Afternoon

  • Visit Humayun’s Tomb, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and precursor to the Taj Mahal (entry fee: ₹50, open from 7 am to 5 pm)
  • Stop by Nizamuddin Dargah, a Sufi shrine and cultural hub

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Haveli Dharampura (mid-range, try their Mughlai cuisine)
  • Stay overnight at Hotel Diplomat or similar in South Delhi (approx. ₹3,000 per night)

Tips

  • Dress modestly while visiting religious sites
  • Be respectful of the monuments’ rules and regulations

Day 4: Modern Delhi and Street Food

Morning

  • Visit Dilli Haat, an open-air marketplace showcasing Indian handicrafts (entry fee: ₹20, open from 10 am to 6 pm)
  • Explore the trendy neighborhood of Hauz Khas Village

Afternoon

  • Try some street food at Nagpal Street in Karol Bagh (budget-friendly, try their chaat and kebabs)
  • Visit Janpath Market, a popular shopping destination for souvenirs and local goods

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Pind Balluchi (mid-range, try their North Indian cuisine)
  • Stay overnight at Hotel Suryaa or similar in Central Delhi (approx. ₹2,500 per night)

Tips

  • Be cautious while trying street food
  • Haggle while shopping at Janpath Market

Day 5: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning relaxing at your hotel or exploring a local market
  • Check-out from your hotel and head to the airport (approx. 30-40 minutes, ₹500-700)

Transportation

  • Delhi Metro is an efficient and affordable way to travel within the city (₹20-50 per ride)
  • Taxis and autorickshaws are also available, but be prepared for haggling
  • Private car rentals or drivers can be arranged through your hotel or a local tour operator

Things to Know

  • Delhi is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and delicious food
  • Be respectful of the city’s monuments, religious sites, and cultural norms
  • Stay hydrated and take breaks in shaded areas or air-conditioned spaces during summer months
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular tourist spots

Other Things of Interest

  • Take a day trip to Agra to visit the Taj Mahal (approx. 4 hours by car, ₹5,000-7,000 per person)
  • Explore Delhi’s vibrant nightlife at Connaught Place or Hauz Khas Village
  • Visit Sunder Nursery, a beautiful botanical garden with over 300 species of plants

Remember to stay safe, respect local customs, and enjoy the beauty and chaos of New Delhi!