New Delhi India 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Historical & Cultural Sites

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Indian Coffee House, a historic and popular eatery located in Connaught Place.

  • Visit Humayun’s Tomb (30 minutes travel time, approx. Rs. 50 by auto-rickshaw), the tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun and an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Afternoon:

  • Head to Qutub Minar, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is just a short drive from Humayun’s Tomb (10 minutes travel time, approx. Rs. 50 by auto-rickshaw). Explore the intricate carvings and ancient architecture of this iconic tower.

  • Lunch at Dolls Cafe near Qutub Minar, a unique restaurant with dolls from various cultures adorning its walls.

Evening:

  • Visit Lotus Temple, a Bahá’í House of Worship located in Kalkaji (30 minutes travel time, approx. Rs. 100 by auto-rickshaw). Appreciate the serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture.

  • End your day with dinner at Gol Market in East Delhi, known for its variety of street food options.

Day 2: Discovering Modern & Local Delights

Morning:

  • Start your day with breakfast at a local chai shop or Paranthe Wali Gali in Chandni Chowk, famous for its variety of parathas (flatbreads).

  • Explore the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk, known for its vibrant markets and historical significance. Don’t forget to visit Red Fort and Jama Masjid.

Afternoon:

  • Head to Connaught Place (30 minutes travel time, approx. Rs. 100 by auto-rickshaw) for shopping, food, and leisure activities. Visit Khan Market nearby for more upscale shopping and dining options.

Evening:

  • Take a rickshaw ride through the lanes of Old Delhi (start from Chandni Chowk) to experience the local culture and life.

  • End your day with dinner at Karim’s, a famous Mughlai restaurant located in Old Delhi.

Things to Know:

  1. Always negotiate the price before hiring an auto-rickshaw or taxi, especially for tourists.
  2. Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like markets.
  3. Respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  4. Carry small denominations of cash as change might not always be available.
  5. Download a reliable map application for navigation, as GPS may not work everywhere.
  6. India is largely vegetarian; non-vegetarian food options are readily available but less common.
  7. English is widely spoken in most tourist areas, but learning a few basic Hindi phrases can be helpful.
  8. Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for services like auto-rickshaws and taxis.

Transportation: Auto-rickshaws are the most convenient mode of transportation within the city. You can also use app-based taxi services like Ola and Uber. The Delhi Metro is a quick and affordable way to travel between major areas. Always ensure the meter is running when using auto-rickshaws or taxis.

Tips:

  1. Carry water with you at all times as it can get very hot in Delhi.
  2. Visit during the winter months (October to March) for comfortable weather.
  3. Keep your hotel business card handy, especially when exploring, so you can show it to a taxi driver if needed.
  4. Enjoy the vibrant street food scene, but be cautious about hygiene and avoid consuming anything that doesn’t look fresh or clean.