What to expect
- Best months for most visitors: October → March. MakeMyTrip
- Weather snapshot: hot in May–June, monsoon June–Sept, cool/winter Oct–Mar. Time and Date
- Watch for winter smog (especially Nov–Jan). Plan outdoor days with AQI checks. Reuters
- Top landmarks often recommended: Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, India Gate, Lotus Temple, Akshardham, and Lodi Gardens. Many are UNESCO or nationally protected sites. AAA International Relations
Best places in Delhi
Place | Short description | Best months to visit | Nearest metro (quick) | Why visit | Suggested time to visit | Nearby food/hangouts | Nearby hotels (examples) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Red Fort | Huge Mughal fort with ramparts and museums | Oct–Mar | Lal Qila / Chandni Chowk | Iconic Mughal history, light & sound shows | Late afternoon → sunset | Old Delhi street food, Karim’s nearby | The Imperial, budget hotels in Old Delhi |
Qutub Minar | Tall 13th-century minaret in a heritage complex | Feb–Apr, Sep–Nov | Qutub Minar / Chhatarpur | UNESCO site, great for photos & heritage walks | Early morning | Cafés in Mehrauli Village | Boutique stays near Mehrauli, Saket hotels |
Humayun’s Tomb | Early Mughal garden tomb, UNESCO site | Feb–Mar, Nov | JLN Stadium / Hazrat Nizamuddin | Historical architecture, peaceful gardens | Morning | Khan Market cafés for brunch | The Lodhi, mid-range hotels nearby |
India Gate | Large war memorial & evening promenade | Jan, Dec, Oct–Nov | Central Secretariat / Rajiv Chowk | Night strolls, national ceremonies, photo spot | Evening → night | Street snacks near the lawns; cafés in CP | Taj Palace, hotels around CP |
Lotus Temple | Baháʼí House of Worship, lotus-shaped | Oct–Mar, Sep | Kalkaji Mandir | Calm prayer/meditation space, striking architecture | Morning/late afternoon | Small eateries in Kalkaji | Budget & mid hotels in South Delhi |
Akshardham | Large modern temple complex + shows | Oct–May (avoid the hottest midday) | Akshardham Metro (Blue Line) | Exhibitions, gardens, evening water show | Late afternoon → evening show | Food court inside the complex | Hotels near Yamuna Bank / Noida |
Dilli Haat (INA) | Open-air crafts bazaar and food stalls | Sep–Nov, Dec | INA | Crafts from across India, regional food stalls | Midday → evening | Regional food stalls inside Haat | Hotels near South Delhi / AIIMS area |
Chandni Chowk (Old Delhi) | Historic market lanes, bazaars & food | Oct–Mar, Aug–Oct | Chandni Chowk | Classic Old Delhi food, narrow lanes, and shopping | Morning or evening (avoid mid-day heat) | Paranthe Wali Gali, Karim’s, jalebi shops | Haveli stays, budget hotels in Old Delhi |
Connaught Place (CP) | Circular colonial shopping & dining hub | Dec, Jan, Oct–Mar | Rajiv Chowk | Shops, cafés, winter markets, nightlife | Evening | Wenger’s local cafés, bars | The Imperial, mid-range hotels |
Lodhi Gardens | Large historic park with tombs & lawns | Feb–Mar, Jul–Sep | Jor Bagh / Khan Market | Peaceful walks, photography, and a picnic spot | Early morning/sunset | Cafés in Khan Market | The Lodhi, boutique hotels |
Mehrauli Archaeological Park | Large archaeological area next to Qutub | Mar–Apr, Jul (post-monsoon green) | Qutub Minar / Chhatarpur | Ruins, quiet heritage walks, photogenic spots | Morning | Mehrauli village cafés | Small guesthouses, boutique hotels |
Hauz Khas Village & Lake | Trendy neighbourhood + historic lake/ruins | Jul–Sep, Oct–Nov | Hauz Khas | Ruins by the lake, cafés, nightlife | Late afternoon → evening | Lakeside cafés, bars | Boutique hotels in South Delhi |
Jama Masjid | One of India’s largest mosques in Old Delhi | Oct–Mar | Jama Masjid / Chawri Bazar | Historic mosque, rooftop views of Old Delhi | Early morning / late afternoon | Street food near the mosque | Budget hotels in Old Delhi |
Purana Qila (Old Fort) | Large historic fort with museum & lake | Oct–Mar | Pragati Maidan / Delhi Gate | Fort, boating, history, quiet walks | Morning | Cafés near the gate, Pragati Maidan eateries | Hotels near South Delhi |
National Museum | Major national collection of arts & history | Jun–Aug (indoor), Oct–Mar | Janpath / Patel Chowk | Indoor escape in heat/monsoon; deep collections | Late morning | Cafés around Janpath | Hotels in central Delhi |
Crafts Museum | Folk & craft exhibitions, hands-on displays | Jun–Aug (indoor), Sep–Nov | Pragati Maidan / INA (via short ride) | Great for craft lovers and indoor visits | Morning → early afternoon | Small cafés, museum café | Mid-range hotels nearby |
Khan Market | Upscale shopping & café street | Feb–Mar, Sep–Nov | Khan Market | Brunch spots, bookshops, boutiques | Brunch to evening | Many cafés and bakeries | Hotels along Lodhi Road / Khan Market |
Dargah / Nizamuddin Area | Historic Sufi shrine area & lanes | Feb–Mar, Sep–Nov | JLN Stadium / Nizamuddin | Spiritual visits, qawwali nights (seasonal) | Evening (for qawwali) | Local kebab and sweet shops | Boutique guesthouses in Nizamuddin |
Month-by-month
January

January mornings and evenings are cool and crisp. India Gate looks beautiful at dusk when the lights turn on and people come out for hot chaat and late walks. Connaught Place’s colonial arcades are busy with shops, cafes, and winter markets. Pack a warm jacket for the night and a light layer for midday sun. If you’re here around Republic Day (26 Jan), expect security and crowds for official events. Plan and check closures. Early evening is best for photos and food stalls.
Tip: Use the metro (Rajiv Chowk) to avoid traffic and parking searches.
Best place(s) | Why this month | Top tips | Food nearby | Nearby hotels | Transport (nearest metro) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
India Gate, Connaught Place | Cool evenings, festive markets, Republic Day energy | Go at dusk for photos; wear layers at night | Street chaat near India Gate; cafes in Connaught Place | The Imperial (luxury), Hotel Ajanta (mid-range) | Cool evenings, festive markets, and Republic Day energy |
(Why this month?) The weather is cool and pleasant for walking, and outdoor night markets are lively, but remember winter smog can reduce visibility some years, so check the AQI.
If you love crisp winter mornings, Delhi in January is magical. But if you’re dreaming of tropical beaches this time of year, you might want to check the best time to visit Thailand for a perfect warm-weather escape.
February

February brings a gentle spring feeling. Humayun’s Tomb is peaceful in the morning light and looks perfect for photography. Nearby Lodhi Gardens starts to bloom and is ideal for a relaxed walk, sunrise yoga, or a picnic. Morning is the best time for both sites light is soft, and the crowds are smaller. Wear comfortable shoes for the lawns and bring sun protection for midday. If you like heritage + greenery photos, combine the two in a half-day. Local cafés in Khan Market nearby are great for brunch after a walk.
Best place(s) | Why this month | Top tips | Food nearby | Nearby hotels | Transport (nearest metro) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Humayun’s Tomb, Lodhi Gardens | Pleasant mornings, blooming greens | Arrive early; book guided tours if interested | Cafés in Khan Market; street chaat on Lodhi Road | The Lodhi (luxury), Lemon Tree (mid) | JLN Stadium / Khan Market / Jor Bagh (depending on entry) |
(Pro tip) Book guided tours if you want historical context; it makes the monuments come alive.
March

March is a sweet spot: temperatures rise slowly, but mornings and late afternoons stay pleasant. Mehrauli Archaeological Park (and Qutub Minar complex) has wide grounds, so you can enjoy heritage ruins without feeling boxed in. The sunlight gives warm textures to red sandstone and old stone, great for photos. Take water, go early to avoid heat, and combine Mehrauli with a visit to the nearby village cafés or Dargah for a local feel. Timed entry at Qutub Minar is often available; check online and avoid noon.
Best place(s) | Why this month | Top tips | Food nearby | Nearby hotels | Transport (nearest metro) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mehrauli Archaeological Park, Qutub Minar | Mild days, great light for photography | Go early morning; bring water and a hat | Local cafés in Mehrauli Village | ITC Maurya (closer central), boutique stays near Mehrauli | Qutub Minar / Chhatarpur / Mehrauli (via autos) |
April

April starts the long, hot stretch. Qutub Minar is still a top choice if you go very early morning, cool, fewer people, perfect golden light. If you can’t wake early, pick shaded, indoor options like small museums or a guided food walk in the cooler parts of the day. Carry water and a hat. Avoid midday outdoor climbing or long open walking tours. Metro + short taxi trips are an efficient way to move between sites with less sun exposure. Time and Date
Best place(s) | Why this month | Top tips | Food nearby | Nearby hotels | Transport (nearest metro) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Qutub Minar complex | Clear mornings, fewer crowds early | Visit at sunrise; avoid midday heat | Small cafés near Mehrauli, Khan Market, are a short drive | Lemon Tree (Saket), local guesthouses | Qutub Minar / Saket (metro + short auto) |
May

May is hot; pick air-conditioned or partially indoor attractions. Akshardham has large halls, exhibitions, and evening light shows that feel refreshing compared to open-air heat. Security checks can be strict, and some areas don’t allow camera checks before visiting. Museums like the National Museum or small art galleries are good daytime escapes. Plan sightseeing early (before 10:30) or late evening shows. Book tickets and transport ahead to avoid long waits in the sun.
Best place(s) | Why this month | Top tips | Food nearby | Nearby hotels | Transport (nearest metro) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Akshardham, National Museum | Air-conditioned exhibits; evening events | Check security rules; book timed entry | Food court at Akshardham; restaurants in southeast Delhi | Radisson Blu (near airport), mid-range hotels in Noida/Blue Area | Akshardham (Yamuna Bank / Bhajanpura via short taxi) |
June

June is usually the hottest month. Focus on museums, art galleries, and cultural centers; they’re air-conditioned and informative. The National Museum, Crafts Museum, and indoor gallery spaces give depth to a visit to Delhi’s history and arts. If you do go outdoors, pick botanical stretches in the early morning or after sunset. Note that the monsoon can start in late June; sudden showers are possible but usually short. Carry a small umbrella if you’re moving between indoor sites.
Best place(s) | Why this month | Top tips | Food nearby | Nearby hotels | Transport (nearest metro) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
National Museum, Crafts Museum, art galleries | Indoor, air-conditioned, informative | Start early; combine two indoor spots per day | Café inside museum complexes; nearby eateries | The Claridges (central) or budget hotels nearby | Patel Chowk / Janpath / Pragati Maidan metros |
July
July brings monsoon clouds and greener parks. Hauz Khas Village area—its lake, ruins, and cafés—look fresh after the rains. Mehrauli’s open spaces are also lush. Monsoon makes Delhi quieter for tourists and gives a different, tranquil mood to the historical parks. Paths may be muddy, so wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet. Expect some humidity but also fewer crowds and cooler daytime temps than May. Check local transport during heavy rains; the metro usually runs reliably.
Best place(s) | Why this month | Top tips | Food nearby | Nearby hotels | Transport (nearest metro) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hauz Khas Village, Mehrauli | Lush greenery, fewer crowds after the rains | Wear water-friendly shoes; carry an umbrella | Lakeside cafés in Hauz Khas; local eateries | Boutique hotels in South Delhi, guesthouses in Hauz Khas | Hauz Khas / Jor Bagh / Green Park (metro + short auto) |
August

August is good for food and culture: Old Delhi’s narrow lanes, spice markets, and historic Jama Masjid offer a deep local experience. Street food thrives after the monsoon, and the city feels calmer. Nights are cooler than May but still humid. Carry mosquito repellent if you’re near lakes or green patches. Public transport and short rickshaw rides are handy for quick hops through congested lanes. Festivals may start to pick up in late August/September, so keep an eye on local calendars.
Best place(s) | Why this month | Top tips | Food nearby | Nearby hotels | Transport (nearest metro) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chandni Chowk, Jama Masjid, Old Delhi lanes | Street food shines after the monsoon; local life | Go with a guide or join a trusted food walk | Paranthe Wali Gali, Karim’s, street chaat | Haveli-style stays and budget hotels in Old Delhi | Chandni Chowk / Jama Masjid metro + short rickshaw |
September

September is the start of the festival shopping season. Dilli Haat is perfect for crafts, regional food stalls, and easy shopping without the crush of bigger markets. The weather becomes more pleasant as the monsoon recedes, nice for exploring markets and open-air craft stalls. It’s a good time to buy gifts, local textiles, and try regional street foods. Plan festival shopping here or in Khan Market and Connaught Place for a mix of craft and branded finds.
Best place(s) | Why this month | Top tips | Food nearby | Nearby hotels | Transport (nearest metro) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dilli Haat, Khan Market, Connaught Place | Good shopping, craft stalls, and regional foods | Bargain politely; carry cash for small vendors | Regional food stalls at Dilli Haat, cafes in Khan Market | Novotel / budget hotels in CP or south Delhi | INA / AIIMS / Rajiv Chowk metros |
October

October opens the prime tourist window. Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi becomes busy and colorful with festivals like Diwali, sometimes falling here (check yearly dates). Streets glow with lights and shops get decorative, a magical time for photographers and food fans. Expect larger crowds and book heritage walks or guided food tours in advance. The weather is mostly dry and comfortable in the day, and cool at night. Also, a good month for open-air events and streetside performances.
Best place(s) | Why this month | Top tips | Food nearby | Nearby hotels | Transport (nearest metro) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chandni Chowk, Connaught Place, festival bazaars | Cool, dry, festival atmosphere | Book guided walks; expect crowds near festivals | Street food in Old Delhi; seasonal pop-ups in CP | The Imperial, mid-range hotels near CP | Rajiv Chowk, Chandni Chowk, Patel Chowk |
November

November often has clear skies (when not affected by smog) and crisp evenings, great for visiting big monuments like the Red Fort. The fort’s museums and ramparts are lovely at sunset. Note: winter smog can spike some years (often November onward) due to regional crop burning and local emissions. Check AQI before long outdoor plans. If the air is bad, choose indoor cultural shows or booked light & sound events held inside controlled venues.
Best place(s) | Why this month | Top tips | Food nearby | Nearby hotels | Transport (nearest metro) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Red Fort, Purana Qila, Lodi Gardens | Clear days (when not smoggy), great sunsets | Check AQI; book evening light & sound shows if interested | Old Delhi food or cafes near Netaji Subhash Place | Hotels in Central Delhi and near Kashmere Gate | Chandni Chowk / Kashmere Gate / Pragati Maidan metros |
December

December brings cool nights and a festive buzz around Connaught Place, India Gate, and winter markets. Holiday shoppers, Christmas pop-ups, and cosy cafés make evenings special. Layer up for nights and enjoy heated indoor restaurants for long dinners. This month works for those who like a festive city vibe plus comfortable sightseeing in the daytime. However, be mindful that late-December can see worsening AQI in some years — keep an AQI app handy and adjust plans accordingly.
Best place(s) | Why this month | Top tips | Food nearby | Nearby hotels | Transport (nearest metro) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Connaught Place, India Gate, and winter markets | Festive lights, cool days for walking | Layer clothes for night; watch AQI in late Dec | Cafés in CP, street vendors near India Gate | Hotel Taj Palace, a mid-range hotel in CP | Rajiv Chowk, Central Secretariat |
Plan your trip
Getting around: Delhi’s metro is the fastest way for many routes (connects the airport via the Airport Express). For short trips, taxis and auto rickshaws are convenient; always use metered taxis or app-based cabs. For Old Delhi, small foot walks and rickshaws are often the fastest.
Tickets & timing: Use official or trusted ticketing portals for monuments; some popular spots (Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, Akshardham) have timed entries or separate photography rules. Book morning slots in peak season to avoid heat and crowds. If you plan guided tours, compare local guide reviews on sites like TripAdvisor.
Health & pollution: Delhi’s winter smog can be severe, check AQI (Air Quality Index) daily if you’re visiting in Nov–Jan. On bad days, avoid long outdoor exposure; wear an N95 mask if necessary and favor indoor museums or shows. Reuters and public health advisories report frequent severe episodes in peak pollution months.
Safety: Delhi is broadly safe for tourists who follow common-sense rules: keep valuables secure, use official taxis or apps at night, and avoid poorly lit lanes after dark. For solo female travelers, stick to well-reviewed accommodations and trusted transport options. Local hotel staff can recommend safe routes and reputable guides.
Money & connectivity: ATMs are widely available; card payments are accepted in most places. Get a local SIM or an international roaming plan for easy navigation and rides. Bargain politely in markets like Chandni Chowk and Dilli Haat.
Faq
What is the best place to visit in Delhi for first-time travelers?
Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, and India Gate give a quick, classic taste of Delhi.
Which month is best to visit Delhi?
October to March (cool), dry weather is best for sightseeing.
Is Delhi safe for tourists?
Yes, with common-sense precautions: use metro/app taxis, avoid isolated areas at night, and secure valuables.
How many days should I spend in Delhi?
2–4 days covers the main highlights and one neighborhood or museum.
What’s the best way to get around the city?
Delhi Metro for most travel, app taxis for door-to-door, and rickshaws for short Old Delhi hops.
What local foods should I try in Delhi?
Try chaat, parathas (Paranthe Wali Gali), kebabs (Karim’s), and regional stalls at Dilli Haat.
When are Diwali and other festivals in Delhi?
Dates change yearly; check a current festival calendar before you book.
Are monuments open on national holidays?
Some have restricted access during official events. Verify on the official site before visiting.
How do I avoid or handle Delhi’s bad air days?
Check an AQI app daily, favor indoor activities on bad days, and wear an N95 outdoors if needed.
Can I visit Delhi on a budget?
Yes, use the metro, budget hotels/hostels, eat at markets, and visit free parks/monuments.
Useful links:
Resource | What it is | How to use it in your article |
---|---|---|
Incredible India — Delhi hub | Official national tourism portal with guides, festivals, and practical travel info. | Use to cite general travel facts, festival dates, and tourism tips. |
Delhi Tourism (DTTDC) — official site | Delhi government tourism site with e-booking, itineraries, and local events. | Link for official itineraries, city tours, and local transport updates. |
Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) — official | Official metro website and digital ticketing/route info. | Use for transit guidance, nearest-station tips, and metro travel times. |
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) — Humayun’s Tomb | Official monument page with history and visitor info. | Cite for Humayun’s Tomb hours, conservation notes, and official facts. |
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) — Qutb Minar | Official monument page with overview and management details. | Use for Qutub Minar facts, conservation status, and visitor guidance. |
Akshardham (Swaminarayan) — official | Official temple/cultural complex site with visitor rules and timings. | Reference for rules (no cameras in some areas), timings and show schedules. |
National Museum, New Delhi — official | Government-run national museum with collection and visiting info. | Use when recommending indoor museum days (summer/monsoon). |
National Air Quality Index (CPCB) — official AQI | Government AQI dashboard and city AQI bulletins. | Link as the authoritative AQI source for pollution advice (Nov–Jan warnings). |
India e-Visa (Indian Visa Online) — official | The authorised e-visa / visa information portal for India. | Add this link in your travel-prep section for visa requirements and applications. |
UNESCO — Humayun’s Tomb (WHC) | UNESCO World Heritage page for Humayun’s Tomb. | Use for heritage status, short historic description, and image rights notes. |
UNESCO — Qutb Minar (WHC) | UNESCO World Heritage page for Qutb Minar and the monuments complex. | Cite for heritage credentials and conservation program notes. |