Delhi Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors to India
Most first-time visitors need two days in Delhi: one for Old Delhi (Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk and the Red Fort) and one for New Delhi (Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar and India Gate). Delhi is also where most North India trips begin, with Agra 3.5–4 hours away by road or around 2 hours by express train.
Old Delhi vs New Delhi
Delhi is really several cities layered on top of each other. Old Delhi (Shahjahanabad) was built by Shah Jahan, the emperor of the Taj Mahal, in the 17th century: a walled city of mosques, bazaars and narrow lanes around the Red Fort. New Delhi was laid out by the British in the early 20th century, with wide avenues, government buildings and green roundabouts. Further south are older Sultanate-era sites such as the Qutub Minar. Seeing both halves is what makes Delhi make sense.
Red Fort
The great red sandstone fort of the Mughal emperors faces Chandni Chowk. Its walls and Lahori Gate are impressive from outside; inside are audience halls, palaces and museums. The Red Fort complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is closed on Mondays. Allow 1–1.5 hours if you go in.
Chandni Chowk and Jama Masjid
Chandni Chowk is Old Delhi's main bazaar street and the best introduction to the old city's energy. A cycle-rickshaw ride through the lanes, with stops for spice markets and street food, is a highlight of most visits. Nearby, the Jama Masjid is one of India's largest mosques, with a vast courtyard and views from its minaret. Dress modestly, remove your shoes, and avoid visiting during prayer times.
Humayun's Tomb
Built in the 16th century for the second Mughal emperor, Humayun's Tomb is the garden tomb that set the pattern later perfected at the Taj Mahal. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most peaceful places in the city, especially in the late afternoon light. Allow about an hour.
Qutub Minar
In south Delhi, the soaring red and buff sandstone Qutub Minar dates from the late 12th and early 13th centuries, surrounded by ruins of mosques, tombs and an ancient iron pillar. It is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and is usually visited on the New Delhi day.
India Gate and New Delhi
India Gate is a war memorial at the end of Kartavya Path, the ceremonial avenue leading to the President's House (Rashtrapati Bhavan) and the government buildings. It is a pleasant place to stop in the evening, when the monument is lit and local families come out. Nearby are the National War Memorial and, for a quieter walk, the Lodhi Garden.
Other Sights Worth Considering
- Gurudwara Bangla Sahib: a welcoming Sikh temple with a community kitchen open to all.
- Raj Ghat: the memorial to Mahatma Gandhi.
- Lodhi Garden: 15th-century tombs in a city park.
- Akshardham: a large modern Hindu temple complex; check opening days before you go.
How Many Days in Delhi?
- 1 day: a combined tour of Old and New Delhi's highlights. Busy but possible.
- 2 days: our recommendation for first-time visitors. Old Delhi one day, New Delhi the next.
- 3 days: time for museums, markets and a slower pace, or to recover from a long flight.
If you arrive on a long-haul flight, keep the first afternoon light; jet lag and Delhi traffic are a tiring combination.
Practical Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Use the Delhi Metro or a private car rather than negotiating with unmetered taxis.
- Many monuments close one day a week (the Red Fort on Mondays, for example), so check before you plan.
- October to March is the best season; winter mornings can be smoggy and foggy, and April to June is very hot.
- Carry a scarf for mosques and temples and wear comfortable shoes you can slip off.
- Politely decline anyone who approaches you to redirect you to a "better" office or shop.
Delhi as the Start of the Golden Triangle
Delhi is the natural starting point for the Golden Triangle: Delhi, then Agra for the Taj Mahal, then Jaipur, and back. If you have only one extra day, you can see the Taj on a day trip; read how to plan a Taj Mahal day trip from Delhi, or book our day trip by train or by private car. For a longer journey, see our North India travel guide and the 3-day Golden Triangle tour, which starts with Delhi sightseeing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Two days is ideal for first-time visitors: one for Old Delhi and one for New Delhi. One day is possible if you focus on the highlights.
Humayun's Tomb, the Qutub Minar, the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk and India Gate.
No. The Red Fort is closed on Mondays.
About 230 km: roughly 3.5–4 hours by road on the Yamuna Expressway, or around 2 hours by express train.
October to March. Winter mornings can be foggy and smoggy, and April to June is very hot.
