Delhi on a Shoestring Budget: One-day Itinerary in May 2023

  1. 8:00 AM: India Gate
    15 minutes (2.4 km) from New Delhi Railway Station

    Start your day walking around India Gate, one of the most famous landmarks in the city. This war memorial honors the Indian soldiers who were martyred during WWI. Take a stroll around Rajpath, the ceremonial boulevard that leads up to the Gate, and on to the Lawns for a picnic breakfast.

  2. 10:00 AM: Red Fort
    20 minutes (4.1 km) from India Gate

    Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort is a towering structure made of red sandstone that served as the residence of the Mughal emperors for more than two centuries. Here you can explore several museums and galleries, stroll through the gardens, or watch sound and light shows.

  3. 12:30 PM: Chandni Chowk
    20 minutes (5.2 km) from Red Fort

    Get a taste of the traditional Indian bazaar at Chandni Chowk, one of the oldest markets in the city. With numerous shops selling everything from spices to jewelry, you can shop to your heart's content, while street vendors offer authentic Indian snacks and sweets.

  4. 2:30 PM: Jama Masjid
    5 minutes (1.1 km) from Chandni Chowk

    After navigating your way through Chandni Chowk, take a few steps to reach Jama Masjid, one of India's largest mosques. Admire the impressive red sandstone structure and climb the minaret for panoramic views of the city. Don't forget to remove your shoes before you enter!

  5. 4:00 PM: Lotus Temple
    45 minutes (13 km) from Jama Masjid

    The Bahá'í House of Worship, commonly known as the Lotus Temple, is a beautiful structure in the shape of a lotus flower. It offers a serene atmosphere for meditation and prayer, regardless of your religion. The temple is surrounded by nine tranquil ponds, and you can sit in quiet meditation for as long as you please.

  6. 6:00 PM: Hauz Khas Village
    30 minutes (15 km) from Lotus Temple

    Take a break and relax at Hauz Khas Village, a trendy, hip part of the city lined up with various restaurants, cafes, and pubs. You can indulge in good food, shop for souvenirs, or grab a drink and dance the night away.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • India Gate (1 hour, FREE)
  • Red Fort (2 hours, INR 500)
  • Chandni Chowk (2 hours, depends on purchases)
  • Jama Masjid (1.5 hours, FREE)
  • Lotus Temple (1.5 hours, FREE)
  • Hauz Khas Village (2 hours, depends on purchases)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 500

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, don't miss out on Raj Ghat, a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, or the impressive Qutub Minar.

If you don't have enough time to visit all the places, you can skip Chandni Chowk and head straight to Jama Masjid. Alternatively, if you want to see more of Delhi's markets, you can visit Dilli Haat instead.

The best way to explore Delhi is by using the metro, as it's cheap and efficient. You can easily rent a bike or use public transport if you prefer. Don't forget to carry a bottle of water and stay hydrated throughout the day.

0