Delhi: A 5-Day Tapestry of Empires and Eras
Complete Journey Overview
Delhi: A 5-Day Tapestry of Empires and Eras
Delhi: A 5-Day Tapestry of Empires and Eras
Embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with amazing experiences
Day 1: Arrival and Old Delhi's Timeless Chaos
Arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)
Welcome to Delhi! After clearing immigration and customs, pick up your luggage and proceed to the arrivals hall.
Check-in and Freshen Up
Check into your hotel. A good mid-range option is The Lalit New Delhi in Connaught Place, offering central location and excellent amenities.
Lunch at a Local Classic
Head to Connaught Place for a classic North Indian lunch. Saravana Bhavan is excellent for South Indian, or try a thali at a local eatery.
Jama Masjid & Chandni Chowk Exploration
Take the metro to Chandni Chowk. Visit Jama Masjid, one of India's largest mosques. Afterwards, take a cycle-rickshaw ride through the chaotic, vibrant lanes of Chandni Chowk market.
Dinner at Karim's or Parathewali Gali
Experience legendary Mughlai cuisine at Karim's, located near Jama Masjid. Alternatively, sample various stuffed fried breads at the famous Parathewali Gali in Chandni Chowk.
Day 2: Mughal Grandeur and Lutyens' Legacy
Humayun's Tomb
Visit this magnificent garden-tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a precursor to the Taj Mahal. Its stunning Persian-inspired architecture is best enjoyed in the morning light.
Drive through Lutyens' Delhi
Hire an auto-rickshaw or cab for an hour to drive past the key landmarks of British-designed New Delhi. See India Gate (war memorial), Rashtrapati Bhavan (President's House), and the Parliament House.
Lunch at Andhra Bhavan
Experience an authentic and unlimited South Indian thali at the canteen of Andhra Pradesh's state house. It's a local favorite known for its spicy, flavorful food and incredible value.
Lodhi Garden
Spend a relaxing afternoon at Lodhi Garden, a beautiful city park dotted with 15th-century tombs of the Sayyid and Lodhi dynasties. It's a favorite spot for locals to walk, relax, and picnic.
Dinner and Shopping at Khan Market
Explore Khan Market, an upscale U-shaped market popular with expats and locals. It has excellent bookshops, designer boutiques, and a wide array of cafes and restaurants. Enjoy dinner at a place like The Big Chill Cakery or SodaBottleOpenerWala.
Day 3: Spiritual Serenity and Ancient Minarets
Lunch in Mehrauli
Have lunch at a restaurant in the Mehrauli area. There are several options with views of the Qutub Minar or the surrounding archaeological park.
Lotus Temple
Begin your day at the Bahá'í House of Worship, famously known as the Lotus Temple due to its flower-like shape. It's a serene space open to all faiths for silent prayer and meditation.
Qutub Minar Complex
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Qutub Minar, a towering 73-meter-high minaret. The surrounding complex features magnificent ruins, including the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the mysterious Iron Pillar.
Hauz Khas Village & Fort
Discover the trendy urban village of Hauz Khas. Explore the medieval ruins of the Hauz Khas Fort overlooking a serene lake, then wander through the narrow lanes filled with art galleries, boutiques, and quirky cafes.
Dinner at Hauz Khas Social
Enjoy dinner at Social, a popular cafe and co-working space with a creative menu and a lively atmosphere. It offers great views of the lake and fort.
Day 4: Crafts, Culture, and a Hidden Stepwell
Dilli Haat (INA)
Visit Dilli Haat, an open-air food plaza and craft bazaar. It offers a vibrant, safe, and enjoyable way to see the cultural diversity of India. Shop for handicrafts and enjoy food from various state stalls.
Lunch at Dilli Haat
Have lunch inside Dilli Haat. Choose from a variety of state food stalls. Highly recommended are the momos from the Sikkim stall, biryani from the Hyderabad stall, or dosas from the Tamil Nadu stall.
National Museum
Immerse yourself in India's rich history at the National Museum. It houses an incredible collection of artifacts spanning 5,000 years, from the Harappan Civilization to modern art.
Agrasen ki Baoli (Stepwell)
Visit this ancient and architecturally stunning stepwell hidden amidst the high-rises of central Delhi. The 108 steps descend into the earth, offering a unique and photogenic experience.
Dinner at Indian Accent
For a truly special farewell dinner, book a table at Indian Accent. It's consistently ranked among the best restaurants in Asia, offering an inventive and modern take on Indian cuisine.
Day 5: A Grand Temple and Departure
Akshardham Temple
Visit the sprawling Swaminarayan Akshardham complex, a modern Hindu temple that showcases Indian art, culture, and spirituality. The intricate carvings, exhibitions, and boat ride are breathtaking.
Final Lunch & Souvenir Shopping
Return to central Delhi for a final lunch. You could visit a market like Janpath or Connaught Place for some last-minute souvenir shopping and a quick meal.
Departure from Delhi
Head back to your hotel to pick up your luggage and then proceed to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) for your flight home.
