Delhi Hôtels

Delhi is the capital and largest metropolitan area of India. Known for its historical and cultural richness, Delhi is one of the political, commercial, and cultural centers of the country. The city has two distinct aspects and offers a unique contrast with its old and modern parts. Delhi is a vibrant and dynamic city that offers a perfect blend of history and modernity. It provides visitors with a plethora of places and experiences to explore, each promising a unique Indian experience.

Things to Know Before Going to Delhi

• Delhi is an extremely crowded city, so be prepared for crowded streets, public transportation, markets, and tourist places.
• Pickpocketing is a major issue in Delhi’s crowded streets. Make sure to keep your belongings safe.
• Tap water in Delhi is not drinkable most of the time; it is advisable to opt for bottled water for drinking.
• If you are a non-Indian person visiting Delhi, locals may show interest in you at certain places and may even ask for a selfie.
• Delhi’s air quality is very poor and can make you sick, so wearing a mask is a good choice for visitors.
• Toilet paper rolls are not available in most public toilets in Delhi. It is advisable to carry one when you travel to Delhi's public places.

Delhi Tips From Locals

• Follow basic traffic rules when driving. Consider using ride-sharing services like Uber or Ola instead of local autos, which may overcharge.
• Many people opt for bike services such as Rapido for convenient travel.
• Use a metro card for efficient commuting whenever possible.
• For safety, avoid traveling in Delhi after 9 PM.
• Visitors may encounter inflated prices if assumed to be foreign. It's advisable to consult locals for price guidance and negotiate accordingly.
• Take precautions with street food, especially upon arrival. Local immunity may differ from outsiders', so consider trying street food later in your trip.

Where is Delhi?

Delhi is located in northern India, on the banks of the Yamuna River. It borders the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh on the east and Haryana on the west, south and north.

Where to Stay in Delhi?

Here’s a quick table of which areas in Delhi are great for tourists:

Best Hotels in Delhi 

Delhi hotels offer a blend of luxury and convenience, providing exceptional services and amenities for your trip to be more comfortable. Even though luxury hotels in Delhi may make you break the bank, they will be worth every penny thanks to their services. However, there are always mid-range and budget hotels in Delhi to enhance your days and make your city tour seamless. Tailored for everyone, finding what kind of accommodation you want won’t be as hard as you think. Now, here are some of the best hotels in Delhi we recommend and why:

Find best hotels in Delhi here!

Best Delhi Attractions

Here are the must-see attraction in Delhi:

• Red Fort: A historic fort and UNESCO World Heritage site, home to several museums and the site of the Indian Prime Minister's Independence Day address.
• Jama Masjid: One of the largest mosques in India, known for its impressive red sandstone architecture.
• Chandni Chowk: A bustling historic market area in Old Delhi, famous for its street food, shops, and cultural vibrancy.
• Qutub Minar: A towering 73-meter tall minaret, the tallest in India and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Humayun's Tomb: A stunning 16th century mausoleum that is considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal.
• Lotus Temple: A modern Bahá'í House of Worship known for its distinctive lotus-shaped architecture.
• Akshardham Temple: A massive Hindu temple complex known for its intricate stone carvings and cultural exhibits.
• Agrasen Ki Baoli: A 60-meter long historical stepwell with 103 stone steps, a unique architectural landmark.

Is Delhi Safe for Tourists?

Delhi can be a challenging destination for tourists, especially solo female travelers. With proper precautions and awareness, it is possible to visit safely, but the city's high crime rates and safety risks should be carefully considered when planning a trip.

Is Delhi Expensive to Visit?

Delhi is an accessible destination for both budget and luxury travelers. With proper planning, it is possible to visit Delhi without breaking the bank.

Currency & Exchange in Delhi

• In Delhi, India, the official currency is the Indian Rupee (INR, ₹). 
• Use banks or authorized money changers for fair rates.
•  Major credit cards are accepted, but smaller places prefer cash. ATMs dispense rupees and accept international cards, but notify your bank before traveling.
• Carry smaller rupee denominations for local transactions and tips.

Spoken Languages in Delhi

Hindi is the official language of Delhi, India. However, there are other languages and dialects by spoken minority of city here are the most spoken languages in Delhi, India:

• Punjabi: Widely spoken, especially in areas with a significant Punjabi-speaking population.
• Urdu: Commonly used, particularly in Old Delhi and among the Muslim community.
• English: Widely understood and used for official and business purposes.
• Haryanvi: Spoken by people originating from Haryana, often found in areas around Delhi.
• Bengali: Spoken by a significant Bengali-speaking community in certain parts of Delhi.

How Many Days Are Enough to Visit Delhi?

2-3 days is the ideal duration for first-time visitors to Delhi, but you can easily spend 4-7 days in the city and surrounding areas if you have the time.

What to Do in Delhi?

• Visit the iconic Red Fort, a massive red sandstone fort built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan.
• Explore Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site and precursor to the Taj Mahal.
• Marvel at the 73-meter tall Qutub Minar, a UNESCO-listed victory tower from the 13th century.
• Tour the Akshardham Temple, a grand Hindu temple complex known for its intricate stone carvings.
• Wander through the bustling Chandni Chowk market in Old Delhi, famous for its street food and shops.
• Bargain for crafts and clothes at the Dilli Haat open-air market in South Delhi.
• Shop for bargains at the Sarojini Nagar flea market.
• Relax in the serene Lodhi Gardens, home to historical tombs and picturesque landscapes.
• Explore the themed Garden of Five Senses, with sculptures, fountains and areas to stimulate the senses.
• Visit the National Rail Museum to see vintage locomotives and railway memorabilia.
• Pray at the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, one of Delhi's most important Sikh houses of worship.
• Marvel at the white lotus-shaped Bahai Lotus Temple, a modern House of Worship.
• Tour the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India known for its red sandstone architecture.

When is the Best Time to Stay in Delhi?

The best time to visit Delhi is from October to March when the weather is at its best. 

What to Pack for Delhi Trip?

• Summer (March to June):
  • Lightweight and breathable clothing (cotton is ideal)
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection
  • Comfortable sandals or walking shoes
  • Light rain jacket or umbrella for occasional summer showers
  • Personal hygiene items including hand sanitizer
  • Portable fan or mini misting fan for outdoor excursions
  • Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
• Monsoon (July to September):
  • Light, quick-dry clothing
  • Waterproof jacket or poncho
  • Waterproof footwear or sandals that can get wet
  • Umbrella or raincoat for heavy downpours
  • Insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes
  • Plastic bags or waterproof pouches for electronics and documents
• Post-Monsoon (October to November):
  • Light layers for cooler mornings and evenings
  • Comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses as the weather can still be sunny
  • Hat or cap for sun protection
  • Light scarf or shawl for cooler evenings
• Winter (December to February):
  • Warm clothing layers such as sweaters, jackets, and scarves
  • Long pants and closed-toe shoes or boots
  • Gloves and a warm hat or earmuffs for chilly mornings and evenings
  • Lip balm and moisturizer to combat dry air
  • Portable charger for electronic devices, as batteries drain faster in cold weather

What to Eat in Delhi?

Here are the most popular Delhi foods to satisfy your appetite:

• Chole Bhature: Spicy chickpea curry served with fried bread (bhature).
• Pani Puri/Golgappa: Hollow crispy balls filled with flavored water, tamarind chutney, and spices.
• Aloo Tikki: Fried potato patties served with chutneys and yogurt.
• Parathas: Stuffed flatbreads (like aloo paratha or paneer paratha) served with yogurt, pickles, and butter.
• Butter Chicken: Creamy and rich chicken curry in a tomato-based sauce.
• Dal Makhani: Slow-cooked lentils with butter and cream.
• Naan or Roti: Oven-baked bread served with curries and dishes.
• Dahi Bhalla: Lentil dumplings soaked in yogurt and topped with chutneys and spices.
• Kebabs: Try varieties like Seekh Kebab (spiced minced meat skewers) or Tandoori Chicken (marinated grilled chicken).
• Jalebi: Deep-fried batter soaked in sugar syrup, crispy and sweet.
• Rabri: Thickened sweetened milk garnished with nuts and saffron.
• Gulab Jamun: Deep-fried milk solids soaked in sugar syrup, served warm.
• Dahi Puri: Small crispy puris filled with yogurt, chutneys, and spices.
• Masala Chai: Spiced Indian tea with milk and aromatic spices.
• Lassi: Yogurt-based drink, either sweet (with sugar and fruits) or salty (with salt and spices).

Delhi Nightlife

Some of the top nightlife destinations in Delhi include:

• Kitty Su: Upscale nightclub in The Lalit Hotel, known for its energetic parties and DJ nights.
• The Piano Man Jazz Club: Popular jazz club with live music performances.
• Playgue Club & Lounge: Trendy club and lounge in Rajouri Garden.
• Key Nightclub: High-end nightclub in Chanakyapuri.