Delhi NCR

Intro to Delhi NCR

Local Expert

Delhi NCR at a Glance

Know Before You Go

Meet Our Local Expert

Punita Malhotra

Punita Malhotra is an entrepreneur with 25+ years of experience in writing, editing and publishing. She is a passionate traveller, writer, blogger and content strategist, with expertise in travel, art, food, history, heritage and culture. She has written over 200 commissioned articles for select print and digital platforms, including National Geographic Traveller India, The Independent, Lonely Planet, Travel & Leisure, Outlook Traveller, Business Class, Matador Network, A Small World and several inflight magazines.
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Delhi NCR at a Glance

Delhi is memorable for its history and heritage, food experiences and shopping. There is also a lively and energetic night life scene that’s fast emerging as one of the best in Asia.

History and Heritage:

As Delhi has been the capital city of India for many hundreds of years there are many wonderful places for a visitor interested in history and culture. Our guide has a section devoted to heritage but we recommend the following:

Take a guided tour- the stories behind the monuments are as much fun as the buildings themselves.
For anyone with a desire to learn about culture you can get exposure to very significant shrines of Hinduism, Islam and Sikhism- some of the major religions in India. Great guided tours of these places.
There are some wonderful evening shows- the shows at the Red Fort and Akshardham Temple are very popular

Food

The food in Delhi is a medley of all the flavours of India. From great grills, to really flavourful vegetarian food to the ubiquitous curry, Delhi has it all. We cover the multi course meals, deserts local beverages and the street food. There are sections on the food in Delhi in the guide – we would strongly recommend the following: · Take a food tour, or if you are a cooking enthusiast a cooking class · Try a full Indian meal · Don’t forget the street food and desserts · The desserts

Shopping

Ethnic Indian wear and handicrafts are a big hit – you can buy them at flea markets or at more upmarket boutiques. We bring you both options. For upmarket ethnic experiences try the Khan market and the ethic boutiques at Mehrauli gardens slotted under luxury shopping. We have a full list of flea markets – they are all fun.

There are personalised shopping tours (some by women for women) that can be really useful if you are new to Delhi.

Nightlife

Over the last few years Delhi has picked up a very high energy nightlife scene. WE cover the most popular pubs, nightclubs and discotheques. A good idea is to pick one particular nightlife hot spot and then go pub hopping there!

Know Before You Go

Here are few quick tips and some critical info to make this a memorable trip

Getting Around

Local Transport Options

Delhi Metro : Fast, affordable (INR 10-60), and covers most tourist areas. Peak hours can be crowded but it's generally safe and reliable.
Buses : Run by DTC; very cheap (INR 10-25) but can be overcrowded. Air-conditioned buses cost slightly more.
Auto-rickshaws & amp; Taxis : Autos use meters but negotiate or insist on metered fare. Taxis (app-based or radio taxis) can be more expensive but convenient.

Travel Cards

Delhi Metro Cards : Delhi Metro Card: Offers discounted fares and hassle-free travel on the Metro. Can be purchased and recharged at any Metro station.

Ride Hailing Apps

Uber, Ola are most popular; expect INR 100–300 for short to medium trips. Surge pricing applies during peak hours.

Google Maps

Generally reliable for driving and walking directions. Public transport routes (especially Metro) are well-integrated.

Payments

Credit Cards: Accepted at hotels, malls, upscale restaurants. Smaller shops and street vendors may insist on cash.
Cash: Essential for rickshaws, local eateries, markets. Keep smaller denominations (INR 50/100/200) handy.
ATMs / Money Exchanges: Widely available in commercial areas and malls. Always use reputable money exchangers or ATMs in safe locations.

Tipping

In restaurants, 5–10% if service charge isn’t included.
Rounding up taxi/auto fares is common. Porters/staff in hotels may expect INR 50–100.

Safety

Crowded areas can attract pickpockets—keep belongings secure.
Avoid venturing into isolated areas at night.
Stick to known, licensed taxis or app-based cabs.

Local Etiquettes

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites—cover shoulders, legs.
Shoes are often removed at temples and some shops.
Seek permission before photographing people, especially in traditional attire.

Weather

October–March (Cool & Pleasant): Best time to visit; pack light woollens for chilly mornings/evenings.
April–June (Hot & Dry): Temperatures can exceed 40°C; carry sunscreen, hats, and light cotton clothing.
July–September (Monsoon): High humidity with occasional heavy downpours; bring an umbrella or raincoat.

Connectivity

SIM Cards: Easy to get from Airtel, Jio, Vi; require ID proof. Plans from INR 200+ with data.
Wi-Fi: Common in hotels/cafés; public hotspots in select areas. Speeds can vary.

Health

Drink bottled or purified water.
Be cautious with street food—choose busy stalls with high turnover.
Carry basic medication and a small first-aid kit.

Scams

Tourist traps: Overpriced ‘guides’ or taxi drivers pushing specific shops/markets.
Fake Items: Watch out for knockoff goods in street markets.
Gemstone Scams: Avoid any unsolicited “too good to be true” deals.