Start your trip by immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of Old Delhi. In the morning, visit the iconic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore its majestic architecture. Afterward, head to Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, and take in the serene atmosphere. In the afternoon, stroll through the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk, a vibrant market known for its street food and traditional wares. As the evening sets in, enjoy a rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of the market, experiencing the authentic charm of Old Delhi.
Red Fort: Entrance fee - ₹500 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours (estimated time spent)
Jama Masjid: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Chandni Chowk: No entry fee, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Start your day at Karim's, a legendary restaurant known for its Mughlai cuisine. Indulge in their mouthwatering kebabs and biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Lunch: For a delicious lunch, head to Paranthe Wali Gali. This narrow street is famous for its variety of parathas, stuffed Indian bread. Don't miss the opportunity to try their decadent sweet parathas. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Dinner: Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at Gulati Restaurant. Known for its delectable Indian curries and kebabs, this restaurant offers a range of options to satisfy your taste buds. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, September 26: Exploring New Delhi
Discover the modern side of Delhi in New Delhi. Start your morning by visiting India Gate, a monumental arch dedicated to Indian soldiers. Enjoy a leisurely walk in the surrounding gardens. In the afternoon, explore the grandeur of Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India. Visit the nearby National Museum to delve into India's rich history and heritage through its extensive collection. In the evening, explore the vibrant markets of Connaught Place, perfect for shopping and dining.
India Gate: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Rashtrapati Bhavan: No public entry, exterior visit only, 1-2 hours
National Museum: Entrance fee - ₹20 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours
Connaught Place: No entry fee, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Lota, where you can enjoy a variety of traditional Indian dishes like idli, dosa, and pohe. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Savor a delightful lunch at The Big Chill, known for its extensive menu of Italian and American comfort food. Try their wood-fired pizzas and creamy pasta dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
For dinner, head to Karim's, a legendary restaurant serving mouthwatering Mughlai cuisine. Indulge in their flavorful kebabs, biryanis, and rich curries. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Wednesday, September 27: A Spiritual Journey
Dedicate this day to spiritual exploration. Start your morning by visiting the tranquil Lotus Temple, renowned for its distinctive lotus-shaped architecture. Proceed to the magnificent Akshardham Temple, where you can marvel at its intricate carvings and stunning architecture. In the afternoon, visit the serene Lodhi Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. End the day with a visit to the beautiful Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, a prominent Sikh house of worship.
Lotus Temple: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Akshardham Temple: No entry fee, 2-3 hours
Lodhi Gardens: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Cafe Lota located near the Lodhi Gardens. They offer a variety of traditional Indian dishes with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For lunch, try Garam Dharam, a popular restaurant known for its Bollywood-themed decor and mouthwatering North Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
For dinner, visit The Big Chill located near the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. Indulge in their extensive menu of Italian and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
Thursday, September 28: Exploring Museums
Delve into the art and history of Delhi by exploring its fascinating museums. Begin your day at the National Gandhi Museum, dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi's life and teachings. Next, visit the National Rail Museum, where you can admire vintage trains and explore the history of Indian railways. In the afternoon, head to the National Handicrafts and Handlooms Museum to appreciate India's traditional arts and crafts. Conclude the day by visiting the National Science Centre, a fun and interactive museum for the whole family.
Cafe Lota: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Cafe Lota, known for its traditional Indian dishes infused with modern flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
The Big Chill: For a satisfying lunch, head to The Big Chill, a popular restaurant serving a wide range of international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 900 INR per person.
Bukhara: Indulge in a delectable dinner at Bukhara, renowned for its mouthwatering North Indian cuisine and grilled meats. Average cost for a meal is about 3000 INR per person.
Friday, September 29: Day Trip to Agra
Embark on an exciting day trip to Agra to witness the iconic Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Marvel at the mesmerizing white marble mausoleum and explore its beautiful gardens. Afterward, visit the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and discover its fascinating history and architecture. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before heading back to Delhi in the evening.
Taj Mahal: Entrance fee - ₹1,100 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours
Spend your last day in Delhi indulging in some shopping and cultural experiences. Begin your morning at Dilli Haat, a vibrant open-air market showcasing handicrafts from all over India. Explore the market stalls and grab some unique souvenirs. In the afternoon, visit the National Crafts Museum, where you can learn about traditional Indian crafts and watch artisans at work. End your trip with a visit to Kingdom of Dreams, an entertainment complex offering live shows, Bollywood performances, and delicious cuisine.
Dilli Haat: Entrance fee - ₹30 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours
Kingdom of Dreams: Show ticket prices vary, 3-4 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, consider visiting the National Zoological Park, home to a wide variety of animals and a perfect outing for families. Another hidden gem is the Delhi Book Fair, held annually in September, where you can explore a vast collection of books and literary events. Don't miss the opportunity to try street food delicacies in Chandni Chowk, such as parathas, kebabs, and jalebis. These off-the-beaten-path attractions and local experiences will make your trip to Delhi even more memorable.