India's capital is not for the faint-hearted. The crowds, noise, pollution, and sensory overload can be intense. But for travelers who embrace the chaos, Delhi rewards with some of Asia's most impressive monuments, food that spans the entire subcontinent, and experiences that range from ancient Sufi shrines to modern craft cocktail bars. Delhi is actually three cities in one: the Mughal old city with its narrow lanes and street food, the British-built New Delhi with its grand boulevards and government buildings, and the modern metropolis of malls and tech hubs. Each offers different experiences. Flight deals to Delhi appear regularly, and the extremely low costs once you arrive make India one of the best value destinations anywhere.
Best Time to Fly to Delhi
Peak Season
October through March offers the best weather, with October-November and February-March being ideal. This is peak tourist season with higher prices, especially around Diwali and Christmas.
Off Season (Best Deals)
April through June is brutally hot, reaching 110°F+. The monsoon (July-September) brings relief but heavy rains. Both periods see significantly lower prices.
Winter (November to February) is pleasant at 40-70°F, though fog can disrupt travel in December/January. Summer (April to June) is scorching at 95-115°F. Monsoon (July to September) brings humidity and rain at 80-95°F.
💡Book 2-3 months ahead for peak season. Summer deals are significant if you can handle extreme heat.
Cheapest Months to Fly to Delhi
Cheapest Months
May, June, August
Most Expensive
October to November, December to January, Diwali
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Must-Try Foods in Delhi
Chole Bhature
This Punjabi breakfast of spiced chickpeas with puffy fried bread is Delhi's favorite meal. The bhature should be lighter than air, the chole complex and warming. Old Delhi shops serve it best. Sita Ram Diwan Chand and Nand Di Hatti are legendary. Don't skip the pickles and onions.
$2-4
Kebabs at Karim's
Near Jama Masjid since 1913, Karim's serves Mughlai cuisine perfected over generations. The seekh kebabs, mutton burra, and chicken jahangiri are legendary. The setting in narrow Old Delhi lanes adds to the experience. Come hungry and order multiple dishes to share.
$5-15
Paranthe Wali Gali
This narrow Old Delhi lane has served stuffed parathas for over a century. Stalls offer fillings from potato to rabri (sweet) to minced meat. The parathas are fried in ghee until crispy. It's a tourist attraction now but still delicious. Come for breakfast or lunch.
$2-5
Top Attractions in Delhi
Humayun's Tomb
This Mughal masterpiece predates and inspired the Taj Mahal. The red sandstone and white marble tomb sits in gorgeous Char Bagh gardens. Sunrise and sunset light is magical. Less crowded than the Red Fort, equally impressive. UNESCO World Heritage site.
Jama Masjid & Old Delhi
India's largest mosque anchors the chaotic, fascinating lanes of Old Delhi. Explore the narrow galis (alleys) of Chandni Chowk, each specializing in specific trades. The sensory overload is intense but unforgettable. Hire a cycle rickshaw or walking guide to navigate.
Hauz Khas Village
This medieval village complex has been transformed into Delhi's hippest neighborhood. Ancient ruins sit alongside boutiques, cafes, and rooftop bars. The 14th-century reservoir and madrasa make for atmospheric wandering. Evening drinks at Social or Imperfecto are popular.
Daily Costs in Delhi
Delhi is extremely affordable. Street food costs $1-3, excellent restaurants $5-15, and nice hotels $40-100. You can travel comfortably on $30-50 per day. Auto-rickshaws and metro are very cheap.
Accommodation (per night, pick one)
Budget
$15-30
Mid-Range
$40-100
Airbnb
$25-60
Food (per day)
Street Meal
$1-3
Restaurant
$5-15
Coffee
$2-4
Transport
Local Transport
$0.50-3/ride
Comfortable Daily Budget
(excluding flights)
$30-70
Getting Around Delhi
From the Airport
Indira Gandhi Airport connects to central Delhi via the Airport Metro (30 minutes to New Delhi station, $2-3). Uber/Ola cost $8-15. Pre-paid taxis from airport counters are safe but more expensive.
Getting Around
Delhi's metro is excellent: clean, cheap, air-conditioned, and reaches most tourist areas. Auto-rickshaws are the classic way to travel; use Uber/Ola for fixed pricing. Traffic is chaotic; give yourself extra time. The metro is fastest for longer distances.
Tips
- •Use the metro whenever possible. It's fast, cheap, and avoids traffic. Women-only cars are available.
- •For auto-rickshaws, use Uber/Ola for fair pricing. If negotiating, agree on the fare before getting in.
Where to Stay in Delhi
Connaught Place / Central Delhi
The British-built commercial center offers good metro access, restaurants, and hotels within reach of major sights. The circular colonnaded buildings are distinctive. Not the most atmospheric but convenient and well-connected.
Hauz Khas / South Delhi
The medieval village turned hip neighborhood has Delhi's best bars, restaurants, and boutiques. Nearby Khan Market offers upscale shopping and dining. This is Delhi at its most modern and comfortable for Western visitors.
Old Delhi (Shahjahanabad)
The Mughal walled city is chaotic, intense, and utterly fascinating. Jama Masjid, Red Fort, and the lanes of Chandni Chowk offer the most authentic Delhi experience. Not for everyone, but irreplaceable for those who embrace it.
Smart Travel Tips for Delhi
FAQs About Flights to Delhi
Delhi is extremely affordable. Street food costs $1-3, nice restaurants $5-15, and good hotels $40-100. The metro costs under $1 for most trips. Budget $30-50 per day for comfortable travel.
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