Getting Around Delhi. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation: Delhi Metro & Buses

The Delhi Metro is a modern, extensive, clean, air-conditioned, and efficient rapid transit system. It covers most parts of Delhi and applies to surrounding NCR cities like Gurgaon, Noida, Ghaziabad, and Faridabad. It a reliable way to travel across long distances.

DTC (Delhi Transport Corporation) Buses cover zones not reached by the Metro but are often crowded and slower due to traffic. They are a very budget-friendly option.

Metro & Bus Overview

Delhi Metro: Modern, efficient, air-conditioned rapid transit.
DTC Buses: Extensive network, budget-friendly, often crowded.
Route Maps: Available at terminals, DMRC website, 'Delhi Metro Rail' app.
Hours: Metro typically 5:30 AM - 11:30 PM; Buses 5 AM - 11 PM.

Ticketing

Metro tokens for single journeys, Smart Cards (Metro Card) for discounts, A quick response code tickets via app. Bus passes from conductor.

Major Hubs

Rajiv Chowk (Yellow/Blue lines), Kashmere Gate (Red/Yellow/Violet lines, ISBT), Central Secretariat (Yellow/Violet lines).

Accessibility

Most Metro stations have elevators and escalators. DTC buses are generally not wheelchair accessible.

Efficiency Tips for Public Transit

Metro Advantage

Use the Delhi Metro for the fastest, safest, and most reliable travel.
Purchase a Metro Card for convenience and discounted fares.
Use navigation apps like Google Maps for real-time info and route planning.

Avoid Peak Hours

Metro and buses become extremely crowded during morning (8-10 AM) and evening (5-8 PM) rush hours.
Plan your travel outside these times if achievable for a more comfortable journey.
Bus how often it happens is less predictable and can vary significantly.

Delhi Metro Interior

Cleanliness

Well-looked after and clean carriages.

Air-Conditioned

Comfortable especially when it's hot summer months.

Announcements

Bilingual announcements (Hindi and The english language) at terminals and inside trains.

Safety

Dedicated women-only carriages on every train.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing apps offer convenient door-to-door transportation in Delhi, with safety features for peace of mind.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Dominant Services: Ola and Uber are the main ride-sharing apps.
Vehicle Options: Offer cars (sedans, SUVs) and auto-rickshaws (Ola Auto, Uber Auto).
Costs & Ways to pay: Fixed fares displayed in-app. Cash or in-app digital payment.
Safety: LOCATION tracking, driver verification, in-app emergency features. Share trip details.

Traditional Taxis & Auto-Rickshaws

Traditional Taxis: Yellow-and-black taxis are less common. Prepaid booths at airports/stations.
Hotel Taxis: Arranged by hotels, often at a premium.
Auto-rickshaws: Ubiquitous three-wheeled vehicles. Negotiate fare if not using an app.
Caution: Negotiate fare before ride. Female solo travelers avoid late-night auto-rickshaws in isolated areas.

Airport/Station Taxi Arrangements

Airport (DEL): Dedicated pick-up zones for Ola/Uber. Prepaid taxi counters available.
Railway Stations: Prepaid taxi booths. Ola/Uber pick-up points may be somewhat more distant from the central exits.
Location: Confirm exact pick-up location in the app upon arrival.

Safety Check: Verify driver name, license plate, and car model against the app before entering.
Trip Sharing: Use in-app options to share your trip details with trusted contacts.
Support: Use in-app support for any issues or concerns during your lift.

Licensed Taxi Fares & Payment Methods

Traditional Taxis

Fares are metered, but negotiation might be needed. Payment usually cash.

App-based Cabs

Fares are fixed and displayed in the app. Cash or in-app digital payment.

Prepaid Taxis

Fixed fare paid at the counter for airport/station services.

Rental Options

While self-it is not recommended to drive recommended in Delhi, other rental options exist for specific needs.

Car Rentals

Self-Drive: Companies like Zoomcar, Revv, Myles. Requires International Driving Permit (IDP) and national license.
Chauffeur-Driven: Highly recommended for tourists. Companies like Avis, Hertz. Book for hourly, daily, or multi-day.
Caution: Self-driving in Delhi is not recommended due to chaotic traffic and aggressive driving styles.
Driving Laws: Drive on the left side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory. Rules are often loosely followed.

Two-Wheeler & Bicycle Rentals

Motorcycle/Scooter: Available in backpacker areas. Necessitates a valid motorcycle license and IDP. Not for inexperienced riders. Helmets mandatory.
Bicycle: Limited public sharing (SmartBike). Rentals in parks (Lodhi Garden, Sunder Nursery) or through tour operators for guided tours.
Safety: Cycling in Delhi traffic flow is risky. Best in parks or early mornings.
Parking: Challenging in crowded areas. Many attractions have designated paid parking.

Specialized Vehicle Options

Auto-rickshaws

Ubiquitous three-wheeled vehicles. A quintessential Delhi experience. Negotiate fares or use Ola/Uber Auto.

For short, exhilarating rides.

Cycle Rickshaws

Mainly found in Old Delhi. Slower and environmentally friendly for short distances. Fares must be negotiated.

For local charm in Old Delhi.

Tour Buses

HoHo Delhi (Hop-on Hop-off) offers air-conditioned buses covering major attractions with commentary.

For structured sightseeing.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Parks: Lodhi Garden, Sunder Nursery, Garden of Five Senses.
City Centers: Connaught Place (Inner Circle), Hauz Khas Village.
Markets: Chandni Chowk (pedestrianized sections), Lutyens' Delhi (wide avenues).

Cycling & Safety

Infrastructure: Limited dedicated cycling infrastructure. Most cycling occurs on shared roads.
Safety: Risky due to heavy traffic. Optimal in parks or early morning hours.
No-Go: Avoid walking/cycling alone at night in dimly lit areas or highly congested traffic.

Accessibility Services for Mobility Needs

Metro Accessibility

Elevators/Escalators: Most Metro stations are equipped with ramps and elevators.
Challenges: Crowded platforms and entrances can still pose difficulties.
Planning: Plan routes and attractions attentively for accessibility.

Other Transport

Private Taxis/Chauffeur: Arrange for greater comfort and door-to-door service.
Buses: DTC buses are generally not wheelchair accessible.
Infrastructure: Irregular pavements and full of people public spaces limit infrastructure outside Metro.

Navigating Delhi

Choose your mode of transport wisely to get the most out of your time and experience in this city.

The Delhi Metro is your best friend for efficient travel across the city.

Where to Stay in Delhi

Next Up: Where to Stay in Delhi. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation

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