One Day Itinerary for Exploring India

  • 9:00AM: Red Fort
    30 minutes drive from your hotel

    The impressive Red Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit attraction in Delhi. Built in the 17th century, this historic fort served as the residence of Mughal emperors. The Red Fort is noted for its stunning architecture and its significant place in Indian history.

  • 10:30AM: Jama Masjid
    10 minutes drive from Red Fort

    One of the largest and most famous mosques in India, Jama Masjid is known for its magnificent architecture and design. It has a capacity of over 25,000 people at once and was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. Take a guided tour of the mosque to learn about its history and significance.

  • 12:00PM: Raj Ghat
    20 minutes drive from Jama Masjid

    Raj Ghat is a memorial that honors the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi. A black marble platform marks the spot where Gandhi was cremated after his assassination in 1948. Visitors can observe a moment of silence and pay their respects to Gandhi and his contributions to India's freedom.

  • 1:00PM: Lunch at Karim's
    10 minutes drive from Raj Ghat

    A popular restaurant in Delhi, Karim's is renowned for its delicious Mughlai cuisine. The restaurant has a rich history dating back to 1913 and is located near Jama Masjid. Try their signature dishes, like mutton stew and fragrant biryanis, at an affordable price.

  • 2:00PM: Qutub Minar
    45 minutes drive from Karim's

    The Qutub Minar is a towering masterpiece of Mughal architecture and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the heart of Delhi, it is the world's tallest brick minaret and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and historic buildings. Climb to the top of the tower for a panoramic view of the city.

  • 3:30PM: Lotus Temple
    30 minutes drive from Qutub Minar

    The Lotus Temple is a unique and intriguing piece of architecture in Delhi. Its shape resembles a blooming lotus flower, and it is a Bah'ai House of Worship. The temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere and lush gardens, which provide a calm oasis in the midst of Delhi's bustling city streets.

  • 5:00PM: India Gate
    30 minutes drive from Lotus Temple

    The India Gate is a national monument and war memorial located in the heart of Delhi. It is a prominent landmark of Delhi and a symbol of India's rich history and culture. Take a leisurely stroll around the monument or enjoy a picnic in the gardens surrounding it.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Red Fort (1 hour, INR 500)
  • Jama Masjid (45 minutes, free entry)
  • Raj Ghat (30 minutes, free entry)
  • Lunch at Karim's (1 hour, INR 400)
  • Qutub Minar (1.5 hours, INR 500)
  • Lotus Temple (1 hour, free entry)
  • India Gate (1 hour, free entry)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 1900 ($25)

Transportation

Delhi is well-connected by public transport including buses, metro, and taxis. The best way to explore the city in a day is by hiring a taxi or private car with a local driver. The cost of a private car hire for a day starts at around INR 2500 ($35), and travel time from one attraction to another can vary from 10-45 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider exploring other popular attractions like Humayun's Tomb, Chandni Chowk, or Akshardham temple. If you're short on time, you can skip one or two destinations from this itinerary. Wear comfortable shoes, carry a water bottle, and avoid visiting during summers (April to June) as temperatures can soar up to 45 degrees Celsius (113 Fahrenheit).

Airports

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is the primary airport serving Delhi and it is located about 16 km (10 miles) from the city center. The airport is well-connected to the city by metro, airport shuttle buses, and taxis. It is the busiest airport in India and serves both domestic and international flights.

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