Know Before You Go
-
Practice your haggling skills. If you're going to any of the local markets, it's expected to negotiate the final price. A good rule of thumb is to cut the first quote in half and go from there.
-
Only drink bottled water to avoid New Delhi's many waterborne diseases. It's also a good idea to stay away from ice cubes made from tap water.
-
It's risky to pet or feed stray dogs in the city. While it's sad to see so many on the street, most of the animals carry a high risk of rabies.
-
Make sure you have dressed appropriately. At some of the tourist attractions and shrines, tourists are expected to follow a strict dress code and show respect for the local culture.
-
Keep diarrhoea medicine in your bag. Delhi Belly is a real thing that most first-time visitors experience. If you don't have any on you, eating bananas and curd rice will help settle your stomach.
Getting Around New Delhi
-
Take the metro. It's one of the best ways to get around the city with fares ranging from INR 8-30. If you want to avoid waiting in line for tokens at the stations, buy a smart card and load it with credit.
-
Hop on board one of the local buses. Fares cost between INR 5-15 and buses run every 15-20 minutes. But while it's a cheap transportation option, it is crowded so expect your personal space to be invaded.
-
If you're only in New Delhi for a short time, use the Hop On Hop Off bus. The route goes past 20 major attractions in the city, and it's staffed with a knowledgeable English speaking guide. Prices start at INR 500.
-
Go on a tuk-tuk ride around the city. Expect to pay between INR 30-40 for a short journey and make sure to negotiate the final price before you start your trip.
-
Request a ride with one of the city's many taxi providers. Travellers can choose from Uber, Ola, Meru or the women-only operators such as ForShe Cabs and Sakha Cabs for Women.
When is The Best Time to Visit New Delhi?
The best time to visit New Delhi, India is between October and March. The temperatures are mild, and the city celebrates some of it's biggest cultural events such as Diwali and Holi. But if you're planning a trip during these months, it's best to book your flights and accommodations well in advance to avoid the steep price increases.
If you're travelling to India on a budget, head to New Delhi in the summer months when the heat keeps most tourists away. You'll have better luck finding hotel deals, and the city's top attractions will be yours to explore. Just make sure to drink plenty of water, pack enough sunscreen and wear light, breathable clothes.
Another budget-friendly option is the city's monsoon season. If you don't mind planning your day around the occasional downpour, you'll save on airfare, and the inner city parks and gardens will be at their finest.
Airports in New Delhi
Indira Gandhi International Airport
Indira Gandhi International Airport is one of the busiest airports in South Asia. It has one of the largest terminal buildings in the world and won Best Airport in Central Asia during the 2015 Skytrax World Airport Awards.
Getting to and from Indira Gandhi International
Take the Metro Express from the airport into New Delhi. The train has a journey time of 25 minutes and runs from 4:45 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Fares cost between INR 10-60.
Use one of the local buses. Several operators operate routes from the airport into the city. Most run on a schedule of 30-minutes, and there are a few that come with air conditioning.
There are only three official taxi operators at the airport. You'll find the cabs waiting outside of the arrivals terminal, and all cars are fitted with a GPS system to ensure the fare is tracked.
