What should I know before visiting Delhi?

Direct answer

Delhi is a bustling, historic, and diverse megacity. Plan for crowded streets, wide temperature swings, varied food, and heavy traffic — but also world-class monuments, markets, and food. Below are practical, up-to-date essentials to make your visit smooth and enjoyable.

Visa & entry requirements

• Check visa requirements: Most nationalities need an Indian visa or e-Visa. Apply through the official Government of India e-Visa portal well before travel. Transit visas may apply for short stays.
• Passport validity: Minimum 6 months validity from date of arrival is generally required.
• Arrival cards & customs: Complete any arrival/health forms as required. Declare cash or high-value items per customs rules.
• Vaccinations & health: Routine vaccines recommended; check requirements (e.g., yellow fever) based on travel history. Consider COVID/vaccine guidance current at travel time.

Best time to visit

• October to March: Ideal — cooler, dry weather and festival season; daytime temps 10–25°C (50–77°F).
• April to June: Hot pre-monsoon months; temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F).
• July to September: Monsoon season with humidity and occasional flooding; fewer tourists and lower prices.

Safety tips

• Stay aware of surroundings in crowded areas; pickpocketing can occur.
• Use registered taxis (app-based like Uber/Ola) or prepaid airport taxis; if using autorickshaws, insist on meter or agree on fare before starting.
• Avoid isolated areas at night; stick to well-lit main roads and trusted neighborhoods.
• Keep digital and physical copies of passport, visa, and important contacts.
• Drink bottled or filtered water; avoid ice and street water unless confident in sanitation.
• Emergency numbers: 112 is the pan-India emergency number; note local hospital and embassy contacts.

Local customs & etiquette

• Greetings: A simple "Namaste" with palms together is polite; handshakes are common in business contexts.
• Dress modestly at religious sites; remove shoes where required and women should cover shoulders/knees in some temples and gurdwaras.
• Public behavior: Avoid overt displays of affection; be respectful when photographing people—ask permission.
• Tipping: Common and expected in restaurants (5–10% if service not included), hotels, and for guides/drivers.

Currency & money matters

• Currency: Indian Rupee (INR). ATMs are widely available across the city; carry some cash for small vendors and markets.
• Cards & UPI: Major credit/debit cards accepted at hotels, malls, and restaurants. Mobile payments (UPI apps) are extremely popular locally but may require an Indian bank account.
• Exchange money at banks or authorized forex counters; avoid unlicensed money changers.

Transportation

• Metro: Delhi Metro is fast, safe, and covers most tourist spots; use token or smart cards. Peak hours are crowded.
• App taxis: Uber and Ola are convenient and recommended; verify car plate and driver details before boarding.
• Autorickshaws & cycle rickshaws: Good for short trips; negotiate fare in advance if meter not used.
• Driving: Traffic is heavy and rules are sometimes loosely followed; hire a driver rather than self-driving if unfamiliar.
• Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is well connected; allow extra time for traffic.

Must-know tips & local insights

• Plan sightseeing by neighborhood: Old Delhi (Chandni Chowk, Red Fort, Jama Masjid) for markets and heritage; New Delhi (India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, museums) for planned architecture.
• Start early to avoid heat and crowds at major monuments. Combine nearby sites into a single day.
• Food: Don’t miss street-food classics (parathas in Paranthe Wali Gali, chaat, kebabs) but choose busy, hygienic stalls. Try local restaurants recommended by locals or apps.
• Bargaining: Haggling is common in markets (e.g., Chandni Chowk, Janpath); be polite and ready to walk away.
• Air quality: Delhi can experience poor air quality (smog) especially in winter; check AQI and carry masks if you have respiratory issues.
• Cultural experiences: Visit a gurudwara (Langar at Bangla Sahib) for community kitchen experience, or a Kathak/bollywood show for art.
• Connectivity: Buy a local SIM at the airport or city shops (ID and biometric may be required); free Wi‑Fi available at many malls and metro stations.

Packing checklist highlights

• Lightweight clothing for summer; layers for winter mornings/evenings.
• Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, reusable water bottle with filter.
• Power adapter (India uses types C/D/M; 230V, 50Hz).

Final quick advice

Respect local norms, allow extra travel time for traffic, use trusted transport, and savor Delhi’s vibrant food, history, and markets. With basic precautions you’ll have a rich and memorable visit.