New Delhi Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Top things to do in New Delhi

Delhi's sights span many centuries, from the lanes of Old Delhi to the broad avenues of New Delhi.

• Humayun's Tomb — A magnificent Mughal garden tomb and UNESCO World Heritage Site, often seen as a forerunner of the Taj Mahal.
• Qutub Minar — A soaring medieval minaret surrounded by ruins, also listed by UNESCO.
• Red Fort and Chandni Chowk — The Mughal emperors' fortress and the bustling bazaar street of Old Delhi.
• Jama Masjid — One of India's largest mosques, with a vast courtyard and views over the old city.
• India Gate and Kartavya Path — A war memorial arch on the ceremonial boulevard, lively in the evenings.
• Lotus Temple — A striking lotus-shaped Bahá'í house of worship open to all.
• Day trip to Agra — Visit the Taj Mahal by train or road from Delhi.

Best time to visit New Delhi

Delhi has an extreme climate. The best time to visit is from October to March, when days are warm and sunny and evenings cool, ideal for exploring monuments and markets. December and January can be chilly at night, and winter air quality can be poor on some days.

April to June is very hot, and the monsoon from about July to September brings humidity and heavy showers. Major festivals include Diwali, the festival of lights in October or November, and Holi, the festival of colours in March.

Getting from the airport

Indira Gandhi International Airport lies about 16 kilometres south-west of central New Delhi, and the drive usually takes around 30 to 60 minutes depending on traffic.

The Delhi Metro Airport Express Line runs from Terminal 3 to New Delhi railway station, connecting with the wider metro network. Prepaid taxis can be booked at official counters in arrivals, and ride-hailing apps have dedicated pick-up points. Many hotels also offer airport transfers, which can be convenient for late-night arrivals.

Where to stay

Delhi is vast, so staying near a metro line makes getting around much easier.

• Connaught Place — The central commercial hub with restaurants and metro links, ideal for first-time visitors.
• Aerocity — A hotel district next to the airport, convenient for short stays and early flights.
• South Delhi — Areas such as Hauz Khas and Defence Colony offer cafés, boutiques and a residential feel.
• Paharganj — Busy and budget-friendly, near New Delhi railway station, popular with backpackers.

Travel tips

• Money: Cards and mobile payments are common in cities, but carry cash for markets, rickshaws and small shops.
• Getting around: The metro is clean and efficient; use ride-hailing apps or prepaid taxis to avoid fare disputes.
• Etiquette: Dress modestly, remove shoes at temples, mosques and gurdwaras, and cover your head where required.
• Health: Drink bottled or filtered water, choose freshly cooked food and check air-quality forecasts in winter.
• Language: English is widely used in business and tourism, alongside Hindi.