Start with a relaxed breakfast at Khan Market (The Big Chill / SodaBottleOpenerWala) — a short drive from Rashtrapati Bhavan and a reliable choice for pastries, eggs or Parsi/Indian breakfasts.
Book the official Rashtrapati Bhavan visitor tour online in advance; the guided tour covers the grounds and the museum inside the presidential estate — must-see for architecture, state rooms and history. Check the official site for exact entry slots and ID requirements.
Modern and contemporary Indian art housed in a colonial-era building; a compact visit (1–2 hours) to see major works and rotating exhibitions. NGMA typically opens mid-morning — confirm hours (often 10:00–17:00) and closed day(s) before you go.
Return to Khan Market or nearby Lodhi for lunch — SodaBottleOpenerWala for Irani/Persian-style plates or Indian Accent/Indian bistro options in the Lodhi area for a more upscale meal. Good selection to suit your budget.
Walk the Rajpath promenade to India Gate and the adjacent National War Memorial — great for photos, monuments, and a calm stroll; open to public (monuments accessible throughout the day and evening).
For a memorable evening meal try Indian Accent (reservations recommended) or choose more casual options in Connaught Place like Wenger's or Saravana Bhavan for South Indian fare; check restaurant opening hours and book ahead for popular spots.
Begin early in Old Delhi with a classic breakfast in Paranthe Wali Gali — try a stuffed paratha or other local specialties to fuel a busy day of exploring narrow lanes and markets.
Explore the Red Fort complex and its museums to appreciate Mughal architecture and history; the monument typically opens in the morning (confirm exact opening and closure times in advance).
Wander the bustling lanes — visit spice markets, jewelry shops, and small temples; this is where Old Delhi’s atmosphere is strongest. Keep an eye on personal belongings in crowds.
Taste historic Mughlai dishes at Karim's (near Jama Masjid) or Al Jawahar — both are iconic and close by, known for kebabs, biryani and rich curries. They are casual but can be busy — expect lines at peak times.
Try jalebi, rabri and kulfi from well-known sweet shops, or visit the spice/sitaram/laddu sellers — a great time to shop for spices or souvenirs; shops usually remain open through late afternoon.
If you want a more relaxed dinner after Old Delhi’s intensity, choose a hotel restaurant or a popular spot in Connaught Place/Hauz Khas; alternatives in central Delhi include Haldiram’s or local South Indian eateries for lighter fare.
Have a relaxed breakfast at your hotel or return to Khan Market cafés if you prefer a familiar, reliable start before a day visiting south Delhi monuments.
A UNESCO World Heritage site and precursor to the Taj Mahal’s garden-tomb design; morning is ideal for softer light and cooler temperatures. Typical opening hours start early in the morning — verify current hours before you go.
Drive to the Qutub Minar complex in Mehrauli — the tallest brick minaret and a layered site of ruins and tombs; plan 1–1.5 hours inside the archaeological area. Confirm seasonal opening hours (often 7:00–17:00).
Choose a nearby café or mall in Saket (Select Citywalk has many options) for a range of cuisine; practical for a break before heading to Sarojini Nagar for shopping.
One of Delhi’s most popular budget-fashion markets — great for bargain clothing, accessories and export-surplus finds; arrive mid-afternoon when stalls are lively. Haggle and check fittings before buying.
For evening vibes, try Hauz Khas Village for trendy cafés and bars (e.g., Social, Yeti) or head to Connaught Place for tried-and-true restaurants and street food. Reservations recommended for popular places.
Have breakfast at your hotel or pick a café en route to Akshardham to arrive ready for the morning crowd; Akshardham has in-complex eateries but external cafés are also fine.
Visit the modern, ornate Akshardham complex — note strict security: no cameras/phones inside the main complex, and many visitors book the timed entry and exhibition (IMAX/boat/Exhibition) in advance. Typical visiting windows run through the day; check show times for the ‘Water Show’ or exhibitions.
The Akshardham complex has vegetarian food courts and cafes suitable for a quick, hygienic meal; or drive to nearby restaurants in the Noida/Mayur Vihar corridor if preferred.
Use the afternoon for any last-minute shopping (CP or DLF place) or to visit the Crafts Museum/National Museum if you missed them earlier — check hours and proximity to your departure point.
If your schedule permits, enjoy a final Delhi meal — choose a favorite from earlier in the trip or try a classic such as Bukhara (advance reservation recommended) or a modern twist at Farzi Café.