Essential Travel Guide: What to Know Before Visiting Delhi

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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; r

Delhi Travel Questions & Answers

Essential Travel Guide: What to Know Before Visiting Delhi

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