5 ways to enjoy New Delhi

The city is peppered with enchanting architecture, spellbinding forts, historic mosques, and monuments you really should take the time to explore. Of course, the Red Fort is most definitely Delhi’s most famous monument.

The fort serves as a powerful reminder of the Mughal era India and the struggle for freedom that followed. The fort is steeped in history, including the capture by the Sikhs and the British. Visit the fort and take your imagination back to the ancient era for just 500 rupees. If you visit in the late afternoon, it’s worth sticking around for the hour-long sound and light show held each evening.

The fort is open from sunrise until sunset Tuesday to Sunday.

The Humayun Tomb, which was built in 1570 is another must-see on the list. If you think it has an uncanny resemblance to the Taj Mahal, you would be correct.

The tomb was the first of its type of Mughal architecture to be built in India, with the rulers going on to build similar edifices all over the country. The tomb is part of a greater complex that is home to some beautiful gardens offering a surprisingly calm oasis in the busy city.

The price of entry to the Tomb is 500 rupees and it is open from sunset to sunrise, daily. The best time to visit is during the late afternoon.

The 137-foot-high stone memorial archway in the very heart of New Delhi is most definitely worth a visit. The arch was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens back in 1921 and it pays tribute to around 90,000 Indian Army soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the First World War.

Not only will you experience the moving history of the memorial, but you will also witness the constant buzz of tourists, locals, and street sellers that surround the area.

From flea markets and moving carts to streetside boutiques and luxury shopping malls, you will find every possible shopping experience in New Delhi. If you want to shop for souvenirs and traditional Indian keepsakes, head to Janpath Market. The market is home to a whole host of small boutique stores selling jewellery, home décor products, and charming knick-knacks.

One of Delhi’s favourite flea markets is the Sarojini Nagar, home to stylish clothing and accessories, budget-friendly shopping and aesthetic homeware pieces. The market can be quite congested and somewhat disorganised, so you’ll need some patience when searching for those hidden gems.

Although flea markets and streetside boutiques are an experience in themselves, during the height of summer, walking the streets of Delhi can be tricky. If you’re looking for an indoor activity, retreat to one of the upmarket shopping malls.

Select Citywalk offers an array of stores, restaurants, and cafes so you could easily spend a day here. What’s more, nearby you will find DLF place. This mall is worlds away from the streets of Delhi, here you can expect to find designer stores, upmarket restaurants and coffee shops. If you fancy a little luxury, this is the place for you.

One thing you won’t be short of in New Delhi is dining options. Whether you’re in search of budget-friendly street food or a lavish meal, you’ll be spoilt for choice here.

Many travellers are apprehensive about eating street food, however, more often than not, these are the vendors serving the freshest food. While you’re in Delhi, you must try:

Stuffed paratha: a staple in Indian households, often packed with a spicy vegetable filling topped with lashings of butter
Samosa chaat: little triangles of golden pastry served with a generous helping of chickpea curry
Butter chicken: an indulgent and creamy dish made with succulent chicken

If you’re looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, then Chandni Chowk isn’t the place for you. However, if you’re ready to throw yourself into the congested yet captivating streets of Delhi, this is one to visit.

Chandni Chowk, the main street of old Delhi is a far cry from the wide, orderly streets you’ll come across in New Delhi. Here you can find cars, rickshaws, carts, pedestrians and occasional animals all competing for space. If you wish to visit one of India’s oldest and busiest markets boasting inexpensive jewellery, fabrics, and gadgets, then it’s worth taking on the chaos for a slice of market life in India.

In New Delhi you’ll encounter unique people and experiences, and will form memories to last a lifetime.