New Delhi – Itinerary
New Delhi, or “Dilli” to locals, is the capital and heart (“Dil”) of India. This city is full of government buildings, like Washington DC, but there’s more to see than that so bring your walking shoes! Please take note – pollution levels in New Delhi are very high and the city can be unsafe for female travelers, especially at night, so be aware of your surroundings. We brought N95 rated masks, which AB refused to wear in photos! Despite the dangers that may come with this city of 20+ million people, it is full of culture & life, and is a must visit city in India. After all it’s a key part of India’s Golden Triangle – Delhi, Jaipur, Agra..
New Delhi – Day 1
- Breakfast
- India Gate
- Rajpath
- Rashtrapati Bhavan
- Parliament Building
- Gurudwara Bangla Sahib / Lunch
- Cannaught Place or Janpath / Lunch
- Agrasen ki Baoli
- Bahai Lotus Temple
- Dinner
Transportation: Rental Car suggested for today or Use HoHo Bus (599 INR for 2 days)
Optional: If you wish to see Change of Guard Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, please check their schedule and switch its sequence with India gate.
India Gate
Visit: 9:00AM – 10:00AM
India Gate, a majestic war memorial in the heart of New Delhi, stands as a solemn tribute to the sacrifice of Indian soldiers who gave their lives during World War I.
Timings: 5:00AM to 12:00AM. Fees: Free
FaB Tips: If you are staying longer in Delhi – Plan your visit around sunset to witness this iconic monument in all its glory. The India Gate is stunningly illuminated in the evening, creating a picturesque atmosphere.
More about India Gate... Rajpath is a 2 km road that connects India gate and President’s house, so you can chose to walk or take a tuk tuk (100 INR) to drive you around from India gate to Parliament House via Rajpath and Rashtrapati Bhavan. Visit: 10:00AM – 10:30AM Rajpath, known as the “King’s Way,” is a majestic ceremonial boulevard, flanked by lush lawns & lined with iconic government buildings, serving as the grand stage for India’s Republic Day parade. Timings: open all times Fees: Free FaB Tips: Timing is Key: Visit Rajpath during the early morning or evening to enjoy a pleasant stroll as the cooler temperatures and illuminated monuments create a memorable experience. Stay Hydrated – There are plenty of stalls selling refreshments, but it’s always a good idea to have water on hand. More about Rajpath... Where Rajpath ends, Rashtrapati Bhavan starts. Visit: 10:30AM – 11:00AM Explore the grandeur of Rashtrapati Bhavan, a symbol of India’s rich history and modern democracy, nestled in the heart of New Delhi. Timings: 9:30AM to 5:30PM. Fees: Free FaB Tips: Try to catch Change of Guard Ceremony If you’re visiting during the right season (usually February to March), don’t miss the chance to explore the stunning Mughal Gardens, which are open to the public. The meticulously landscaped gardens are a visual treat and offer a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. More about Rashtrapati Bhavan... Parliament house is 1 km from here, so either walk or continue your tuk tuk ride. Visit: 11:00AM – 11:30AM Discover the Heartbeat of Indian Democracy: The Majestic Parliament Building in New Delhi. Timings: 10:00AM to 6:00PM. Fees: Free FaB Tips: If you are planning to visit – Plan Ahead – Check for any entry restrictions, and consider guided tours for a deeper understanding of its significance. Be prepared for thorough security checks before entering. Carry only essential items, as large bags and backpacks may not be allowed inside. More about Parliament Building... Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is 5 min drive from Parliament house. Visit: 11:30AM – 12:30PM A revered Sikh temple known for its serene ambiance, a free community kitchen, and its golden dome that glistens in the heart of India’s capital city. Timings: 9:00AM to 3:00PM. Fees: Free FaB Tips: If wish to stay for lunch here its call langar then skip Connaught place and stay here till 2. Modest Attire: Cover your head with a scarf or head covering, & avoid clothing that exposes your shoulders and legs as a sign of respect. Free Langar Meal: Don’t miss the opportunity to partake in the free langar meal offered at the Gurudwara. It’s a communal dining experience that reflects the Sikh principles of equality and selfless service. Respectful Behavior: Maintain a respectful demeanor, keep noise levels low, remove your shoes before entering, and refrain from photography in restricted areas. More about Gurudwara Bangla Sahib... Connaught Place is 5 min drive from Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. Visit: 12:30PM – 2:00PM Often referred to as CP, is New Delhi’s bustling commercial and cultural hub, known for its vibrant shopping, dining, and architectural charm. Timings: 10:00AM to 8:30PM. Fees: Free FaB Tips: Parking and Metro: When visiting CP, consider using the efficient Delhi Metro system, as parking can be quite challenging in the area. The Rajiv Chowk Metro Station connects directly to Connaught Place, making it a convenient option. Exploring the Inner Circle: Start your exploration in the inner circle of Connaught Place, where you’ll find a wide range of restaurants, shops, and cafes. It’s a great place to unwind, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a meal. Heritage Walk: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a heritage walk around Connaught Place to learn about its history and architectural significance. More about Connaught Place... Agrasen ki Baoli is 5 min drive from Connaught Place. Visit: 2:00PM – 3:00PM A stepwell marvel, steeped in history, offering a serene escape in the heart of the bustling city. Timings: 7:00AM to 6:00PM. Fees: Free FaB Tips: Its Bollywood movie location for “PK”. Timing Matters: Visit during daylight hours for the best experience, as it tends to get quieter and safer during the day. Mind Your Step: The Baoli has steep steps and narrow passages, so be cautious while exploring to avoid any accidents. Capture the Ambiance: Take lots of pictures. More about Agrasen ki Baoli... Lotus Temple is 25 min drive from Agrasen ki Baoli. Visit: 4:00PM – 6:00PM A breathtaking architectural marvel and a tranquil oasis where people of all faiths are welcome to meditate and reflect. Its a temple but there’s no Idol inside. Timings: 9:00AM to 6:00PM. Fees: Free FaB Tips: Arrive Early: If you wish to meditate, plan to arrive early in the morning when it opens to beat the crowds and experience the temple’s serene ambiance. This allows for a peaceful visit and better photo opportunities. Respectful Attire: Dress modestly covering your shoulders and knees. Wearing shoes inside the temple is not allowed, so be prepared to remove them at the entrance. Silence and Contemplation: Maintain a quiet and contemplative demeanor while inside the temple. It is a place of meditation and reflection, so be mindful of the peaceful environment and the spiritual experience it offers. More about Bahai Lotus Temple... Enjoy a nice sit down Dinner. Transportation: Taxi/Uber suggested for today as most of the day will be spent walking in old Delhi near Red Fort or Use HoHo Bus (599 INR for 2 days) Optional: If you are visiting Agra after Delhi, you may skip Red Fort as its similar to Agra Fort (which you must visit!). You can spend this extra time in Dilli Haat! Start your day with Breakfast & then head to Qutub Minar Visit: 8:30AM – 10:30AM A UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a magnificent 73-meter-tall sandstone tower, a testament to India’s rich history and architectural prowess. Timings: 7:00AM to 5:00PM. Fees: Locals – 30 INR, Foreigners – 500 INR FaB Tips: Arrive Early: Visit early in the morning to avoid large crowds and to enjoy the cooler weather. The soft morning light also makes for great photos. Explore the Surroundings: Don’t just limit your visit to Qutub Minar; explore the adjacent Qutub Complex, which includes fascinating historical monuments like the Iron Pillar and Alai Darwaza, to make the most of your trip. More about Qutub Minar... Dilli Haat is 15 min drive from Qutub Minar. Be ready to eat! Visit: 11:00AM – 1:00PM A vibrant open-air market offering a colorful tapestry of India’s diverse cultures, crafts, and cuisine under one lively roof. Timings: 10:30AM to 10:00PM. Fees: Locals – 30 INR, Foreigners – 100 INR FaB Tips: Sample Diverse Cuisines: Dilli Haat is a food lover’s paradise. Don’t miss the chance to savor dishes from various Indian states and indulge in street food delights. Each stall offers a culinary journey, so come hungry and explore different flavors. Bargain and Shop Wisely: While shopping for handicrafts, clothing, and jewelry, remember that haggling is common. Bargain politely, and you may score some great deals on unique, handcrafted items from all over India. Check for Cultural Events: Dilli Haat often hosts cultural events and performances. Before your visit, check the schedule to see if there are any special shows or exhibitions happening during your time there, adding an extra layer of cultural enrichment to your experience. More about Dilli Haat INA... Red Fort is 20 min drive from Dilli Haat Visit: 1:30PM – 3:30PM A UNESCO World Heritage site, is a stunning 17th-century fortress built of red sandstone, serving as a magnificent testament to India’s rich history & Mughal architectural prowess. Timings: 9:30AM to 4:30PM (Monday closed). Fees: Locals – 35 INR, Foreigners – 500 INR FaB Tips: If you are visiting Agra Fort, you can skip this. Guided Tour: Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your visit. They can provide fascinating historical insights and stories about the fort’s significance, making your experience richer and more informative. More about Red Fort... Jama Masjid is 5 min drive or 15 min walk from Red Fort Visit: 3:30PM – 4:30PM A grand & historically significant mosque, known for its stunning Mughal architecture, towering minarets, & the capacity to hold thousands of worshipers, making it a spiritual and architectural marvel in the heart of the city. Timings: 7:00AM to 12:00PM, 1:30PM – 6:30PM. Fees: Free, 300 INR for photography FaB Tips: Modest Dress Code: dress modestly, cover your shoulders & knees. Carry a scarf to cover your head as a sign of respect before entering the mosque. Climb the Minaret: Don’t miss the opportunity to climb one of the mosque’s minarets for a panoramic view of Old Delhi. The climb can be steep, but the breathtaking views of the city make it well worth the effort. Footwear and Entry Fee: Leave your shoes at the designated area before entering, and be prepared with the correct change to expedite your visit. More about Jama Masjid... Paranthe Wali Gali is 5 min drive or 15 min walk from Jama Masjid Visit: 5:00PM – 6:00PM A legendary narrow street famed for its mouthwatering array of stuffed parathas, a beloved Indian flatbread delicacy. This bustling culinary lane has been serving up delectable parathas for generations, offering a delightful journey through traditional flavors and a slice of Delhi’s culinary heritage. Timings: 9:30AM to 8:00PM. Fees: Around 150- 200 INR per person. FaB Tips: Sample Variety: Don’t settle for just one flavor. Explore the diverse range of parathas available, from sweet to savory fillings, and savor the unique taste of each. Cash on Hand: Many vendors here accept cash only, so be sure to carry some local currency to enjoy the delicious parathas to your heart’s content. More about Parathe wali Gali... Chandni Chowk is 5 min drive or rickshaw or 10 min walk from Paranthe Wali Gali Visit: 6:00PM – 8:30PM Located in the heart of Old Delhi, this bustling & historic market street pulsates with the vibrant energy of India. It’s a labyrinth of narrow lanes, teeming with shops, food stalls, & market vendors, offering an eclectic mix of spices, textiles, jewelry, and street food. A visit to Chandni Chowk is a sensory adventure through the flavors, aromas, and colorful chaos of Delhi’s bustling markets, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic Indian experience. Timings: 9:30AM to 8:00PM. Sunday Closed Fees: Shop till you drop!! FaB Tips: Test your negotiation skills! Everything is negotiable – start at 20% of the listing price and work from there…yes 20%. Don’t fall in love with the first item you see and be willing to walk away. You’ll leave with great souvenirs, fun banter, and memories of a lifetime. Try some spicy chaat & sweet jalebis. More about Chandni Chowk... Transportation: Uber/Taxi suggested for today as we are visiting just 2 spots. Optional: If you wish to spend less time (not ideal) at Akshardham, you may visit Raj Ghaat, Lodi Gardens, shop more at Sarogini nagar market or Lajpath nagar market. First stop, Humayun’s Tomb, opens at 6:00AM so you can start your day early and see all the above if you have the energy. Visit: 9:00AM – 11:00AM A splendid UNESCO World Heritage Site, a breathtaking Mughal architectural masterpiece, and a serene garden tomb that serves as a precursor to the renowned Taj Mahal. Built 60 years prior to Taj Mahal, to honor a queen’s deceased husband. Stone color is brilliant under the Indian sun. Timings: 6:00AM to 6:00PM. Fees: Locals – 30 INR, Foreigners – 500 INR FaB Tips: Early Morning Serenity: Visit early morning to enjoy a peaceful and less crowded experience. Guided Tour: Consider taking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and architecture of the monument. Knowledgeable guides can uncover fascinating stories and details you might otherwise miss. INR 500. Comfortable Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes because exploring the vast gardens and intricate pathways around the tomb can involve a fair amount of walking. More about Humayun's Tomb... Akshardham is 15 min drive from Humayun’s Tomb Visit: 12:00PM – 6:00PM A breathtaking masterpiece of art, spirituality, and culture, where time seems to stand still as you immerse yourself in its awe-inspiring beauty and tranquility. This marvel showcases intricately carved stone structures, serene gardens, and a captivating exhibition that celebrates India’s cultural and spiritual heritage, offering visitors a profound and immersive experience. Timings: 9:30AM to 6:30PM. Monday closed Fees: Locals/Foreigners – 170 INR for exhibition and 80 INR for musical fountain. FaB Tips: An absolute MUST see in Delhi. Please do not miss the musical fountain, it’s a MUST MUST watch. The attention to detail and sheer scale will have you wandering around for hours. No cameras or leather items are allowed inside so it is best to leave as much as possible in your car. You will go through metal detectors and schools like to visit, so go early. Food is available inside and we recommend buying the combo ticket for the water/light show and an “It’s a Small World” style boat ride attractions. Don’t miss the captivating evening aarti (ritual) at Akshardham, a spiritually uplifting experience. More about Akshardham...
Originally, a statue of George V, the then Emperor of India, stood under the now-vacant canopy in the front side of the monument as part of its structure, but it was later relocated to Coronation Park along with several other British Raj era statues. After India’s independence, India Gate became the site of the Indian Army’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, known as Amar Jawan Jyoti (“the flame of the immortal soldier”).
The area has a water-stream, an erstwhile boating spot, and sprawling green lawns, ideal for a stroll in the morning or evening. Ice-cream vendors, hawkers, and organizers of camel and elephant rides are abundant here, making India Gate a beloved picnic spot for Delhiites. Additionally, it hosts the grand Indian Republic Day Parade every year on 26 January. So, if you are planning a trip to Delhi during that time, don’t miss visiting this place.
RajPath / King’s way
Rashtrapati Bhavan
The main building itself occupies a 200,000 sq.ft area and has 4 floors encompassing 340 rooms in all. Needless to say, the overall splendor of this place is multi-dimensional. Only a handful of the residential premises of the Heads of State from all over the world can match this building’s size and magnificence. Sitting at the Eastern end of the King’s way or Rajpath, Rashtrapati Bhavan faces India Gate, which lies at the Western end of the road.
Two huge Central Secretariat buildings make up the North and South block on either side of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, comprising of various ministries under the Government of India. The Mughal Gardens, spanning over 250 acres, open to the public from 14 February to 14 March, are located behind the buildings. While all buildings remain closed to the public, you can still view the discussed features from Rajpath and the Mughal Gardens.
Parliament Building
This beautiful circular structure is a landmark example of the British architectural marvel. Designed by Herbert Baker, the circular colonnaded structure was originally known as the Circular House, when it was opened in 1927. In the immense structure, what catches the eye first are the pillars that seem to stand like sentinels. Wander around the voluminous corridor and you would find 247 of them.
If you are in Delhi around the Republic Day or New Year’s Eve, you will be awestruck to see this grandeur architectural building lit up in thousands of yellow halogen bulbs which adds to the glitter and bling of the capital city and attracts many photo-fanatics. Permits to visit the Parliament, so you can sit and view sessions in the public gallery, are available from the reception office on Raisina Road, but you will need a letter of introduction from your embassy.
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji, the 8th guru of the Sikhs, is believed to have stayed at this place in the year 1664. It is further said that at that time, people were suffering from an epidemic and they were given help by the guru. After the guru died, Raja Jai Singh built a tank in his memory. Water from this tank is believed to have medicinal properties and most of the devotees take back this water from the gurudwara. The Gurudwara Bangla Sahib complex houses a school, a library, a hospital and a museum also.
Connaught Place
Agrasen ki Baoli
Bahai Lotus Temple
Visitors can read or chant from holy scriptures of any religion, but playing musical instruments, giving sermons, or conducting religious ceremonies inside the hall is not permitted. You can experience calm like never before, for the main temple area prohibits visitors from making any noise whatsoever. This exemplifies the true nature of Buddhist traditions, which lays emphasis on meditation as a means to experience divinity.
Enjoy the lush green surroundings and maybe even lounge around for a picnic. Winner of a number of architectural awards, Lotus Temple is truly a sight to behold, especially in the night when it is all lit up in breathtaking splendor.
New Delhi – Day 2
Qutub Minar
Qutub Minar, made of red and buff sandstone is also the highest tower in India. Qutub-ud-din Aibak initially built the first storey of the minaret for giving calls to prayer (azaan). His successor and son-in-law, Iltutmish, subsequently added more storeys to the structure, each encircled by a balcony supported by stone brackets adorned with a honeycomb design. The entire monument contains numerous inscriptions in Arabic and Nagari. The same premises also house Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the earliest mosque constructed by the Delhi Sultans, along with other red sandstone buildings like Ala’i-Darwaza, Ala’i Minar, and the tomb of Iltutmish, all adorned with intricate engravings on their walls.
Dilli Haat INA
Only craftsmen registered with D.C. Handicrafts have the eligibility to set up their stalls. While some shops remain permanent, others receive allotted stalls on a rotational basis for a 15-day period at a nominal fee.
One sees a synthesis of crafts,food and cultural activity here. You could get an altogether delightful experience buying inimitable ethnic wares, savoring the delicacies of different states which could be momos from Sikkim, Bamboos hot chicken from Nagaland, Kahwa and Kebabs from Jammu, Pooranpoli from Maharastra or the Gujrati Dhokla or by simply relaxing in the evening with the entire family.
It is a popular attraction and shopping hub of the city. This colorful urban haat-style market is a great place to pick up interesting baubles and souvenirs, and try out local delicacies from different parts of India.
Red Fort
Shah Jahan built the Red Fort when he moved his capital from Agra to Delhi, creating a more meticulously designed fort than the Agra Fort, entirely encircled by a wall of rubble stone. It has 14 gates in all, out of which the most important ones are– Lahori, Mori, Ajmeri, Turkman, Delhi and Kashmir gates. The structure takes the form of an octagon with extended walls on the east and west. There are two main gates on the west and south. The Red Fort’s construction prominently features red sandstone, along with extensive use of marble in crafting the palaces within the fort.
As one enters the monument from the western gateway, one can locate the Naqqar Khana. Before the king entered, this small area hosted ceremonial music performances, setting the stage for the Diwan-i-Am, once the Hall of Public Audience where state administrative matters and public concerns were addressed. Just beyond the Diwan-i-Am stands the Diwan-i-Khass, also known as the Hall of Private Audience. This is where the king had his private soirées. These two important halls are flanked by the Tasbih-Khana and the Hammam on their sides.
Jama Masjid
Paranthe Wali Gali
Chandni Chowk
Try Dariba Kalan, the jewelry market that Nadir Shah plundered in 1739. It remains a much sought-out bazaar for silver jewelry. Gulab Singh Johri Mal near Katra Mohan is the oldest ittar shop in Chandni Chowk. Kinari Bazaar, off Dariba, is tinsel town for wedding finery. Katra Neel is a souk-like saris hub. The main lane of this bustling shopping destination divides into various bylanes, with the most famous being Paranthe Wale Gali, where you can step into any of the shops and indulge in tempting Paranthas in all flavors. Then there are Chandi Gali (for silver items), Duppatte Wali Gali (for colorful Duppattas) and Itar Wali Gali where you can find shops selling perfumes in their traditional forms, known as Ittar and surprisingly some modern ones too (including lime and musk). In short, an awesome place to indulge and enjoy the shopping experience.
New Delhi – Day 3
Humayun’s Tomb
History of Humayun’s Tomb
Delhi grew around this magnificent tomb. Fourteen years after his death, Humayun’s widow, Hamida Banu Begum, started the construction of the red sandstone tomb in 1569 CE. The impressive blue-domed tomb made with Persian tiles was designed by a Persian, Mirak Mirza Ghiyath. In the same compound, the mosque of Isa Khan, a noble of Humayun’s enemy Sher Shah, is quite distinctive in structure. The “Arab Serai” was built to accommodate the 200 Arabs brought by Hamida Banu from Mecca. The sombre mood is enhanced as this tomb sheltered Bahadur Shah Zafar in 1857.
Sunrise to Sunset. India – 30 Rs, US – 500 Rs <2 Hours
Architecture of the Tomb – Declared a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1993, Humayun’s Tomb Delhi, is more than just another historical marker of India at large.
In its arches, gateways, mihrab, courtyards, and garden, you can still trace the decline of the Mughal Dynasty and the rise of the British Empire. Initially established, the central chamber, where the tomb lies, featured rich furnishings such as Persian carpets, a shamiana with the cenotaph covered by a white sheet, and a copy of the Quran. Humayun’s sword and shoes were also prominently displayed in front of it. The complex surrounds itself with a garden divided by walkways and flowing water.
The Mughals originally designed this garden landscape, known as the Paradise garden or Charbagh. During the British rule in India, they altered the garden’s layout to a more Victorian style. Fortunately, Lord Curzon initiated the restoration to its original state in the early 20th century. However, during the turbulent times of Partition, when Muslims took refuge in Humayun’s Tomb and Purana Qila, the structures and the garden’s water channels suffered substantial damage. Regrettably, to this day, these features have not been fully restored to their original state.
Akshardham
The Monument – The unique feature in the architectural plan is the complete absence of steel. The temple contains 234 ornate pillars, 9 domes and 20,000 statues and sculptures. The main monument’s walls feature intricate carvings of dancers, deities, flora, and fauna from top to bottom.
The Central Dome – A huge statue of Swaminarayan stands under the central dome. Several other spiritual gurus of the sect, along with prominent Indian deities, surround the statue. Each statue comprises an amalgamation of 5 elements (Pancha dhatu). The Boat Ride – A 12 minute boat ride that takes you on a spectacular journey of 10,000 years of the Indian heritage. From ancient Vedic villages and bazaars to famous discoveries and inventions by Indian sages and scientists that changed the way we look at the world today, they have executed the entire journey beautifully.
Musical Fountain (Yagnapurush Kund) – A fascinating blend of Vedic Yagna Kund and a musical fountain, this stepwell features 108 miniature shrines and 2,870 steps. The design in the Akshardham Temple is in accordance with the geometric calculations of the Jayaakhya Samhita.
Hall of Values (Shahajanand Pradarshan) – This hall features a diorama portraying the life events of Swaminarayan and his message about the importance of humility, kindness, devotion to God and serving others. The Theater (Nilkanth Kalyan Yatra) – Here you can see a movie made of the pilgrimage of Nilkanth Varni, and 18th century child-yogi. We shot this film in 108 Indian locations – from the icy peaks of the Himalayas to the jungles and shores of South India.
