Delhi in 4 Days: The Ultimate Itinerary
Delhi, India’s bustling capital, is a city where the ancient meets the modern. Known for its historical monuments, diverse culture, and delicious food, Delhi offers a plethora of experiences for travelers. This comprehensive 4-day itinerary will help you explore the best of Delhi, ensuring you capture the essence of this vibrant metropolis.
Table of Contents
- Day 1: Historical Landmarks and Cultural Insights
- Day 2: Markets, Museums, and Street Food
- Day 3: Parks, Temples, and Modern Attractions
- Day 4: Exploring Old Delhi
- Transportation Tips
- Accommodation Suggestions
- Budget Breakdown
- Local Etiquette
Day 1: Historical Landmarks and Cultural Insights
Morning: Red Fort & Jama Masjid
Start your day at the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of India’s rich history. Explore its magnificent architecture and gardens.
- Time to Spend: 1.5 – 2 hours
- Entry Fee: INR 50 for Indian citizens, INR 600 for foreigners
Afterward, take a short walk to Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. Climb the southern minaret for stunning views of Old Delhi.
- Time to Spend: 1 hour
- Entry Fee: Free (small fee for camera)
Late Morning: Chandni Chowk
Next, head to Chandni Chowk, one of the oldest and busiest markets in Delhi. Explore the vibrant streets filled with shops selling everything from textiles to spices.
- Tip: Don’t miss the chance to taste local delicacies such as parathas at Paranthe Wali Gali.
Afternoon: Lunch and Raj Ghat
After your market visit, enjoy lunch at Kareem’s, famous for its Mughlai cuisine. Post-lunch, visit Raj Ghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. Take a moment to reflect in the peaceful surroundings.
- Time to Spend: 1 hour
Evening: India Gate and Connaught Place
End your day at India Gate, an iconic war memorial. Enjoy a leisurely stroll in the surrounding gardens and, if you like, indulge in local snacks from the vendors. Then, head to Connaught Place, a popular shopping and dining hub.
- Time to Spend: 2-3 hours
- Suggested Dinner: Saravana Bhavan or Cafe Coffee Day.
Day 2: Markets, Museums, and Street Food
Morning: National Museum
Start your day at the National Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts from different eras of Indian history.
- Time to Spend: 2 – 3 hours
- Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indian citizens, INR 650 for foreigners
Afternoon: Lunch and Dilli Haat
For lunch, head to Dilli Haat, an open-air market offering a variety of regional crafts and cuisines from across India.
- Lunch Options: Try different dishes from various states, like Madhya Pradesh’s poha or Bihar’s litti chokha.
Evening: Lotus Temple and Akshardham Temple
Visit the serene Lotus Temple, known for its flower-like shape and tranquil atmosphere. Later, head to Akshardham Temple to enjoy the evening light and sound show.
- Time to Spend: 3 – 4 hours
- Entry Fee: Free (fees for exhibition)
Day 3: Parks, Temples, and Modern Attractions
Morning: Lodi Gardens
Begin your day with a peaceful walk in Lodi Gardens, a sprawling park dotted with historical tombs and lush greenery.
- Time to Spend: 1 – 2 hours
Late Morning: Humayun’s Tomb
Next, visit Humayun’s Tomb, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a beautiful example of Mughal architecture. Continue reading 4 day delhi itinerary.
- Time to Spend: 1 – 1.5 hours
- Entry Fee: INR 35 for Indian citizens, INR 550 for foreigners
Afternoon: Lunch and National Gallery of Modern Art
Enjoy lunch at Cafe Lota, known for its contemporary Indian cuisine. Post-lunch, explore the National Gallery of Modern Art.
- Time to Spend: 2 hours
- Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indian citizens, INR 500 for foreigners
Evening: Shopping at Khan Market
Spend your evening shopping at Khan Market, one of the most upscale markets in Delhi. Enjoy dinner at The Imperial or The Big Chill.
Day 4: Exploring Old Delhi
Morning: Shree Bangla Sahib Gurudwara
Start your final day at the Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, a beautiful Sikh temple known for its stunning architecture and community kitchen.
- Time to Spend: 1 – 1.5 hours
Late Morning: Nizamuddin Dargah
Visit the Nizamuddin Dargah, the shrine of the Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya. Attend the qawwali session if you’re there on a Thursday.
- Time to Spend: 1 hour
Afternoon: Lunch in Old Delhi
For lunch, explore Chandni Chowk further and try local dishes at places like Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi Wale for delicious kulfis.
Evening: Old Delhi Heritage Walk
Join a guided heritage walk in Old Delhi to explore its hidden gems, including historic havelis, ancient temples, and bustling bazaars. Continue reading 4 day delhi itinerary.
- Time to Spend: 2 – 3 hours
Transportation Tips
Metro: The Delhi Metro is the fastest way to get around the city. It connects major attractions and is an affordable option.
Auto-Rickshaws and Taxis: Widely available for getting around. Ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on a fare beforehand.
Ride-Hailing Apps: Ola and Uber are available throughout the city.
Accommodation Suggestions
- Luxury: The Taj Mahal Hotel or The Oberoi
- Mid-Range: The Park New Delhi or Crowne Plaza New Delhi
- Budget: Zostel Delhi or The Madpackers
Budget Breakdown
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (Per Day) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | INR 1,500 – 15,000 |
| Food | INR 500 – 3,000 |
| Transportation | INR 300 – 1,000 |
| Sightseeing/Entry Fees | INR 200 – 2,000 |
| Miscellaneous | INR 200 – 1,000 |
Total Estimated Daily Cost: INR 2,700 – 22,000 depending on preferences.
Local Etiquette
- Dress Modestly: When visiting religious sites, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.
- Respect Local Customs: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in sensitive areas like temples or mosques.
- Bargaining: Bargaining is common in street markets. Don’t hesitate to negotiate prices for souvenirs, but always do so politely.
Conclusion
Delhi is a city that captures the essence of India’s rich history, culture, and diversity. This 4-day itinerary is designed to provide you with a comprehensive experience of the city, from historical landmarks and cultural insights to delicious street food and local experiences. Whether you’re exploring ancient monuments or enjoying a meal in a bustling market, Delhi promises a memorable adventure.
Pack your bags, keep an open mind, and get ready to explore the vibrant capital of India!
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Also read: Best Street Food in Mumbai
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