Delhi's fascination

You will be amazed at this city of contrasts; old and new, tranquil and chaotic. Food, commerce, history and wonderful architecture give Delhi a unique ambiance throughout the year.

Choosing the Right Time

The best time for Delhi is from October to March when temperatures are more comfortable for visitors and reach an October high of around 33°C dipping to a January high of 21°C. Rainfall during the winter months is low. All year markets abound from the ancient and rambling Chandni Chowk and Lajpat Nagar, offering wonderful Indian clothing and intricate henna decorations, to art and antiques in the Sunder Nagar. Delhi is famous for chaat - small delicious dishes from market stalls. Some of the best are found in Chandni Chowk in the old city. After shopping and food, relax in the beautiful, tranquil Lodi Gardens near Humayun's tomb. Wonderful Delhi monuments are many and include the Qutab Minar, built in 1206, the tallest brick minaret in the world. The Red Fort is a famed landmark and reminder of Delhi's Mughal emperors. Visit the sound and light show each evening. The Holi Spring Festival is a Hindu festival held in March. Dates vary according to the Hindu calendar.

Planning your Holiday

You need to obtain a visa from the Indian High Commission. Your passport needs two blank pages and to be valid for 180 days at least at the point when you apply. India is a budget travellers paradise, however quality electronic gear still costs about the same as in the UK. Tetanus, typhoid, diphtheria and hepatitis A vaccines are all recommended and a polio vaccine is required when entering India from some countries.Time differences are plus 5:30 hours in the UK winter, in summer Delhi is 4:30 hours ahead of the UK since there is no daylight saving time.

Once in Delhi

Transport from Delhi's airport to the centre of the city runs from 4.40am to 11.30pm [Metro Line 2]. There is a shuttle bus to Connaught Place or you can use one of the many prepaid taxis. Distance to New Delhi is about 10 miles and the travel time is about 20 minutes or so. Guest houses or hostels are priced from around 500 rupees per night. Cheap Three Star hotels average at about 1400 rupees per person per night.

There is an excellent cheap public transport system of buses, metro and rickshaws. Taxis cost much less in Delhi than in the UK.