Delhi on a Shoestring Budget: A 5-Day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Chandni Chowk
   30 minutes (6.2 km) from Indira Gandhi International Airport

   Start your day with a visit to the iconic Red Fort for a glimpse of Mughal-era architecture and history. Take a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk to see the bustling markets and try some local street food. In the afternoon, visit Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, and climb the minaret for a panoramic view of the city. End your day with a visit to Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib to learn about Sikhism and enjoy a free meal at the community kitchen.

2. Day 2: Qutub Minar Complex
   40 minutes (15.7 km) from Chandni Chowk

   Start your day with a visit to the Qutub Minar Complex to see the tallest brick minaret in the world and other historical structures. In the afternoon, explore the calm and peaceful Lotus Temple, a Bahai House of Worship. End your day with a visit to the Hauz Khas Village for some street shopping and to see the vibrant street art.

3. Day 3: Humayun's Tomb
   20 minutes (7.9 km) from Qutub Minar Complex

   Start your day with a visit to Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see the beautiful Mughal-era architecture and gardens. In the afternoon, visit the India Gate, a war memorial and picnic spot, and take a stroll in the surrounding parks. End your day with a visit to the Raj Ghat, a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, and pay your respects to the Father of the Nation.

4. Day 4: Akshardham Temple
   40 minutes (15.6 km) from Humayun's Tomb

   Start your day with a visit to the Akshardham Temple, a stunning Hindu temple complex known for its intricate carvings and exhibitions. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum to see the diverse collection of artifacts and art from India's history. End your day with a visit to the Connaught Place for some shopping and street food.

5. Day 5: Haveli Dharampura
   20 minutes (3.1 km) from Akshardham Temple

   Start your day with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the 16th-century Mughal-era monument, Fatehpuri Mosque. In the afternoon, visit the Haveli Dharampura to see the beautiful restored heritage property and enjoy a cup of tea at their rooftop cafe. End your day with a visit to the Chandni Chowk for some last-minute shopping and street food.

Recommendations

If time permits, consider visiting the National Handicrafts and Handlooms Museum, the Swaminarayan Akshardham Water Show, and the Dilli Haat for some local handicrafts. You can also take a day trip to Agra to see the stunning Taj Mahal. To maximize your fun, try to travel by metro, bus or walk to save on transportation costs. Don't forget to bargain while shopping and try out different street food items.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Red Fort (2 hours, INR 35)
• Jama Masjid (1 hour, Free)
• Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib (1 hour, Free)
• Qutub Minar Complex (2-3 hours, INR 35)
• Lotus Temple (1 hour, Free)
• Hauz Khas Village (2 hours, Free)
• Humayun's Tomb (2-3 hours, INR 35)
• India Gate (1 hour, Free)
• Raj Ghat (1 hour, Free)
• Akshardham Temple (2-3 hours, Free)
• National Museum (2-3 hours, INR 50)
• Connaught Place (2 hours, Free)
• Fatehpuri Mosque (1 hour, Free)
• Haveli Dharampura (1 hour, INR 350)

Total Estimated Costs: INR 515 (~USD 7) per person excluding food and transportation.