Delhi India Travel Guide
The Indian Rupee (INR), symbol ₹, is India's currency. Coins come in ₹1, ₹2, ₹5, ₹10, and ₹20. Banknotes are available in ₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100, ₹200, ₹500, and ₹2000.
Banks or authorized money changers (like Thomas Cook or UAE Exchange) generally offer good exchange rates. Avoid exchanging large amounts at the airport. ATMs are widely available. Inform your bank concerning trips plans to avoid card blocking. Most hotels, upscale restaurants, and large stores accept credit and debit cards. Carry cash for street food, small shops, and local transportationation.
Tipping practices in Delhi vary. Use these guidelines to show appreciation for service.
Restaurants: 5-10% of the bill for good service in mid-range to upscale restaurants. No tip awaited for street food or basic eateries. Hotels: ₹50-₹100 for luggage handlers/bellhops. ₹100-₹200 per night for housekeeping (optional). Drivers (Taxis/Private Car): ₹100-₹300 for a full day. Round up for short rides. Guides: ₹200-₹500 per half/full-day tour. No giving a tip for small services or when bargaining in markets.
~₹1000 - ₹3000 ($12 - $36 USD) daily
₹500 - ₹1500 (Hostel dorm or basic guesthouse)
₹300 - ₹800 (Street food, local dhabas)
~₹4400 - ₹10500 ($53 - $125 USD) daily
₹2500 - ₹6000 (3-4 star hotel or good guesthouse)
₹1000 - ₹2000 (Mid-range restaurants, cafes)
~₹13000 - ₹45000+ ($155 - $540+ USD) daily
₹8000 - ₹30000+ (5-star hotels, boutique properties)
₹2500 - ₹7000+ (Fine dining, upscale restaurants)
Maximize your budget with these handy tips for Delhi. Utilize the Delhi Metro for efficient and cost-effective travel between major attractions. Consider purchasing a "Metro Card" for discounted fares and added convenience.
Delhi's street food is both tasty and inexpensive. Look for popular, busy stalls for fresh, well-prepared food. Thalis offer a complete meal at a good price. Bargaining is expected in local markets like Sarojini Nagar, Janpath, and Chandni Chowk.
Most efficient and cost-effective transport.
Delicious and inexpensive dining. Thalis provide complete meals.
Haggling is customary in area markets.
Reduce costs and plastic waste. Bottled water available.
Visit India Gate, Lotus Temple, Lodhi Garden, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib.
Your well-being is important when traveling. Review vaccination recommendations, common health concerns, and safety measures.
Consult a travel health clinic far in advance of your travel.
Take proactive steps to avoid common health issues.
Save these numbers accessible.
Delhi offers a wide array of accommodation choices, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious 5-star hotels, catering to all traveler's preference and budget.
Choosing the right neighborhood in Delhi can considerably impact your experience. Some areas are known for their historical charm, others for their shopping and nightlife, and some for their tranquil atmosphere.
Consider proximity to major attractions, public transport, plus food choices when making your choice.
Hostels plus simple guesthouses. Offers dorm beds and private rooms. Often located in lively areas like Paharganj.
Affordable, social atmosphere, basic amenities.
Less privacy, can be noisy, shared facilities.
3-FOUR-STAR hotels and comfortable guesthouses. Located across various neighborhoods, offering more comfort and services.
Good value, private rooms, amenities like AC and the morning meal.
Can still be basic in some areas, less personalized than luxury.
5-star hotels, heritage properties, and boutique resorts. Offers premium services, fine dining, and far-reaching facilities.
Exceptional service, world-class amenities, exclusive experiences.
Highest prices, can feel removed from local culture.
| Category | Typical Price Range (INR) | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel Dorm Bed | ₹400 - ₹800 | Shared rooms, communal spaces, social atmosphere |
| Budget Guesthouse/Hotel | ₹800 - ₹2500 | Private rooms, basic amenities, good for frugal travelers |
| Boutique/Mid-Range Hotel | ₹2500 - ₹8000 | Comfortable rooms, additional facilities, often good locations |
Additional essential details to help you navigate Delhi smoothly.
A "Namaste" (folding hands) is a respectful greeting. A handshake is also common, especially among men.
Remove shoes before entering homes plus religious sites. Cover your head in gurudwaras and mosques.
The left hand is traditionally considered unclean. Avoid using it for eating or handing items.
Hindi is the official language, but English is common in tourist areas.
Learning a few basic Hindi phrases ("Dhanyawad" for thank you, "Kitne ka hai?" for how much) is appreciated by locals.
Most signs in major tourist areas and on the Metro include English. Translation apps are useful for conversations.
Consider a local SIM card for easy correspondence and internet connectivity.
Easily available from providers like Airtel, Jio, Vodafone Idea. Activation may take a few hours.
For compatible devices, eSIMs (e.g., Airalo) offer quicker activation without a physical card.
Available in most hotels, cafes, and airports. Free public Wi-Fi access may require an Indian mobile number for OTP.
Observe these instructions for a smoother trip.
Delhi offers an excellent shopping experience, from traditional bazaars to new shopping centers.
Chandni Chowk, Kinari Bazaar for textiles, jewelry, spices, and traditional goods. Bargaining is expected.
Dilli Haat for handicrafts from across India. Government emporiums (Central Cottage Industries Emporium) for predetermined-price, quality items.
Connaught Place, Select Citywalk, Ambience Mall for multinational brands, department stores, and entertainment.
