New Delhi

Introducing New Delhi

New Delhi, the capital of India, is located in northwestern India, on the west bank of the Jumunal River, a tributary of the Ganges. New Delhi is sometimes referred to as "Delhi." This is because Delhi was originally an ancient capital, but a new city was later built next to it, and this new city was named New Delhi. In fact, Old Delhi and New Delhi are now completely connected, and Indians generally refer to the capital as "Delhi" rather than "New Delhi."

New Delhi is the political, economic, and cultural center of the country. The Yamuna River, a tributary of the Ganges, flows gently east of the city, with the vast Gangetic Plains on the other side. As the Union Territory of Delhi, it also governs the vicissitudes of old Delhi. New Delhi is a city that is both ancient and young.

This is a garden city draped in greenery, with wide, neat streets and flower beds and lawns everywhere. It rivals some of the world's greatest capitals in its splendor. In the heart of the city, perched on Dunshina Hill, stands a magnificent palace, formerly known as Victoria Palace, now the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Dozens of other magnificent royal palaces are also located here. The environment is beautiful, with lush greenery, verdant grass, and year-round flowers, creating a tranquil and elegant atmosphere.

On the streets of New Delhi, people can also see sacred cows walking with their heads held high, and elephants with people riding on them leisurely looking around. This is New Delhi, a modern city that has not lost its traditions.

Climate and best time to travel

New Delhi has a tropical monsoon climate, divided into the cool season (October to March), the hot season (April to June), and the rainy season (July to September). The average temperature in the cool season is around 14 degrees Celsius, making it the best time to visit.

New Delhi is home to numerous gardens, and several tourist festivals are held there every year from February to March. The gardens are ablaze with color, creating a feast for the eyes. October also marks India's Diwali festival, also known as the Festival of Lights. It's the most important festival of the year in India, and the nationwide celebration is as lively as the Chinese New Year.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The city of Delhi has a strong religious atmosphere and is home to numerous ancient buildings. The Red Fort, the Mughal palace built with red sandstone, the Ashoka Pillar built by Ashoka of the Maurya Dynasty more than 200 years BC, the Qutab Minar, the tallest ancient tower in India, and the Jama Temple, the largest mosque in India, are all world-famous scenic spots and historical sites.

Recommended play time: 2-3 days

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Most Popular FAQs for New Delhi

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

New Delhi is the capital of India, designed by British architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker in the early 20th century. It is the seat of the Indian government and home to major political, cultural, and historical landmarks. The city represents a blend of Mughal and colonial architecture alongside modern infrastructure.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

New Delhi is located in northern India within the Delhi metropolitan area. It is accessible via Indira Gandhi International Airport (15–20 km away), major railway stations, metro lines, taxis, auto-rickshaws, buses, and rideshare services. Many landmarks in central areas can be explored on foot or via short auto-rickshaw rides.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Most historical sites and museums: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
• Best time to visit: October to March for pleasant weather and outdoor activities.
• Some temples like Akshardham: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM, closed on Mondays for maintenance.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Red Fort: ₹35–₹500 (foreigners), tickets available online or at the gate.
• Qutub Minar: ₹30–₹500 (foreigners), online booking recommended.
• Humayun’s Tomb: ₹30–₹500 (foreigners), tickets at entry or online.
• Lotus Temple and Akshardham Temple: free entry (Akshardham charges for exhibitions), tickets onsite.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

• For major attractions like Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Humayun’s Tomb, online booking is recommended to avoid long queues.
• Book at least 1–3 days in advance, especially during peak tourist season.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

• Red Fort: 2–3 hours
• Qutub Minar: 1–2 hours
• Humayun’s Tomb: 1–2 hours
• Lotus Temple & Akshardham: 1–2 hours each
• Old Delhi markets: 3–4 hours

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Red Fort: Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, and Lahori Gate
• Qutub Minar: Alai Darwaza, Iron Pillar, Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque
• Humayun’s Tomb: Charbagh gardens, main tomb structure
• Akshardham: Exhibitions, Yagnapurush Mandapam, musical fountain show
• Lotus Temple: Central prayer hall, serene gardens

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

• Guided tours available at major monuments in English, Hindi, and some regional languages.
• Audio guides or smartphone apps can be rented at Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, and Qutub Minar.
• Some temples provide multilingual brochures for self-guided exploration.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Red Fort ramparts overlooking Chandni Chowk
• Qutub Minar complex for wide-angle shots
• Humayun’s Tomb gardens for symmetry photography
• India Gate at sunset for dramatic lighting
• Lotus Temple exterior for architectural symmetry

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start with a guided tour of the main monument entrance.
• Explore gardens and side chambers, following signage to key areas.
• Conclude with photography at designated viewpoints.
• For large complexes like Red Fort, follow a clockwise route to avoid backtracking.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

• Sound and light shows at Red Fort in the evenings.
• Akshardham features evening musical fountain shows.
• India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan are illuminated at night, suitable for evening walks and photography.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

• Peak tourist season: October–March and weekends.
• Least crowded: Weekdays, early morning opening hours, and monsoon season (July–September).
• Major monuments like Red Fort and Qutub Minar are busiest from 10:00 AM–1:00 PM.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Most major monuments have public toilets, water fountains, and benches.
• Food stalls available near Red Fort and Qutub Minar.
• Souvenir and handicraft shops located near major attractions.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

• Red Fort and Qutub Minar have some accessibility limitations due to stairs.
• Humayun’s Tomb and Akshardham are mostly wheelchair accessible.
• Temples like Lotus Temple provide ramps and accessible paths.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

• Major attractions accept digital payments, credit/debit cards, and UPI.
• Street markets and small vendors usually require cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Connaught Place offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and street food.
• Near Red Fort: Karim’s for Mughlai cuisine, small cafes in Chandni Chowk.
• Near Akshardham: Food court serving vegetarian Indian meals.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

• Vegetarian options widely available in temples and food courts.
• Halal food available in Old Delhi markets, especially Karim’s and other Mughlai eateries.
• Vegan-friendly restaurants present in Connaught Place and Hauz Khas Village.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Connaught Place: Taj Palace, The Imperial, Hotel Ajanta
• Near Red Fort/Chandni Chowk: Haveli Dharampura, Hotel Broadway
• Near Akshardham: Radisson Blu, Hotel Ista

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Raj Ghat (Gandhi Memorial)
• Jama Masjid
• National Museum
• Rashtrapati Bhavan and India Gate
• Lodhi Gardens

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Souvenir shops near Red Fort and Chandni Chowk offer handicrafts, miniature paintings, jewelry, and textiles.
• Akshardham has a gift shop with spiritual items, Indian crafts, and apparel.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Delhi Metro for efficient travel across the city.
• Taxis and app-based rideshares (Ola, Uber).
• Bus services for nearby attractions and day trips.
• Private car rentals or guided tours for convenience in multiple stops.