The Ultimate Delhi Guide
Few places in the world stimulate the senses quite like Delhi. From the moment you exit the airport, you are immersed in a sensory overload of sights, sounds and smells. I’m not going to lie, it can and likely will be overwhelming at first, but if you embrace the inevitable chaos, I promise exploring India will be magical.
The first stop on any India trip should be Delhi. The capital city of over 19 million people is the perfect place to get a taste of what India has to offer. Every corner is a juxtaposition: modern vs traditional; wealth vs poverty; old vs new.
Being born in Delhi, but having never truly lived there, it has been fascinating to see how things have changed over the years. Regardless of how the city may have evolved, these remain the things I most look forward to doing. It is a mix of local favorites as well as more touristy attractions that create a perfect blend of what Delhi has to offer.
1. Eat, Eat, Eat
Without a doubt, my favorite thing to do in India is eat. The variety of food is as extensive and diverse as anything else in the country boasting differences in cuisine from North India and South India, including many regional variations on dishes. What I love most, though, are the overwhelming amount of vegetarian options available! Nowhere else in the world (that I have been) does the vegetarian food compare to that in India in terms of sheer options. I could write a whole book on all the foods you should try, but no trip to Delhi is complete without tasting local favorites like chaat, gol gappa and chole bhatura– to name a few! Don’t forget to sample some Indian Sweets or try out the ever popular Indian-Chinese food.
2. Enjoy a Cultural Experience
Whether you go to a dance show, concert or go see a Bollywood movie, I highly encourage you to immerse yourself in the culture. On a recent trip, I was introduced to the India Habitat Centre where events, concerts, dances and an art gallery are frequently rotated. It is a great way to discover local artists in Delhi. If you want to experience something off the beaten path, this is it!
3. Admire the Architecture
You are sure to get a sense of India’s complicated and rich history by visiting some of Delhi’s beautiful architectural sites. It is awe-inspiring to see how the intricate designs have stood the test of time.
4. Drink Chai and Enjoy High Tea
If you think chai at Starbucks is good, wait until you try it in the land where it originated. Delicious black tea, boiled with milk and aromatic spices- need I say more? If you really want to get local, make sure to enjoy your chai with a side of tea rusks or samosas!
Alternatively, escape to a quiet oasis at a luxury hotel and enjoy an afternoon High Tea. High tea in India? What? Yes, it was a British colony after all.
Either way, the importance of tea to Indian culture cannot be overlooked!
5. Visit the Markets
Whether you are on the hunt for jewelry, hand-crafts, clothing or anything in-between, you are bound to find it in one of the many markets all around Delhi. Dilli Haat Bazaar is an outdoor bazaar with tons of local handicrafts as well as food stalls. If you are on the hunt for affordable finds, Jaanpath is the place for you. It is also a great place to pick up souvenirs or gifts for others. Don’t be afraid to bargain and walk away- it is not uncommon for vendors to price-gouge tourists. Check out Khan Market, Connaught place or Cottage Emporium for higher-end items.
6. Take a ride in an Auto or Rickshaw
Because when in Rome! And it is just fun, albeit, slightly terrifying at times. You’ll see both modes of transportation in abundance throughout the city. If you choose to partake, make sure to arrange the cost beforehand.
7. Try an Ayurvedic Spa Treatment
Ayurveda is a traditional Hindu system of medicine which is rooted in utilizing natural remedies and emphasizing meditation and breathing. The holistic philosophy aims to create balance between the mind, body and spirit. Revitalize your senses and melt away your stress away by getting one of these popular treatments based on Ayurveda principles. There are many more, but these are my personal favorites. The Espa at the Leela Palace is a great place to go.
- Shirodhara: warm oil is rhythmically dripped on your forehead or your “third eye”
- Abhyanga: massage with warm oils and herbs
- Shiroabhyanga: scalp massage with warm oils
8. Have Mehndi done
If you don’t get henna done, did you even visit India? You’ll find mehndi artists at most of the big markets. Just walk up to an open spot! While the artists will have books to choose a design from, it is likely they’ll do whatever design regardless of what you choose! It’ll be beautiful though!
9. Visit Chandni Chowk
You haven’t experienced chaos until you’ve witnessed Chandni Chowk. An old market known for beautiful wholesale fabrics and textiles. It is also the location of the famous Paranthe Wali Gali.
10. Visit the Taj Mahal
There may not be anything more synonymous with India as the Taj Mahal. While touristy, it is a world wonder for a reason and absolutely warrants a visit. The journey to Agra used to be long and painstaking when I was a child. Luckily, with the new(ish) Taj/Yamuna Express highway, it is only 3.5 hours by car. There are many companies through which you can rent a car with a driver and take a day trip, that too quite affordably. If you have more time, stay the night and see some other nearby sights, however, if you’re short on time I highly recommend squeezing at least this day-trip in.
Do you have a favorite activity in Delhi? We would love to hear!
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