Flights from Tokyo (TYO) to Delhi (DEL)

About Delhi

Discover the many layers of Delhi

Delhi is a city where centuries of history meet the pace of modern life. Wide boulevards and leafy avenues sit alongside lively bazaars, glass-fronted malls, and creative neighbourhoods. As India’s capital, it offers a dynamic mix of culture, cuisine, and everyday energy that you feel from the moment you arrive.

You can walk past grand colonial-era buildings, step into quiet courtyards, then emerge into bustling streets filled with markets and street food. Each area has its own character, from the meandering lanes of Old Delhi to the broad streets and green spaces of New Delhi. Whether you are visiting for business, a short stop, or a longer journey into India, Delhi is a city that rewards slow exploration.

The city is also a convenient gateway to some of North India’s most popular destinations. With strong rail and road connections, Delhi is often the starting point for trips to Agra, Jaipur, and beyond. This makes it a practical and inspiring base, with plenty to see and do before and after your onward travels.

Top sights in Delhi

Red Fort

Explore the imposing red sandstone walls and tranquil inner courtyards of this UNESCO-listed Mughal-era fortress.

Qutub Minar complex

Admire the soaring stone tower and intricate carvings that dot this historic complex set within landscaped gardens.

India Gate and Rajpath

Stroll around this landmark arch and its broad ceremonial avenue, especially atmospheric in the cooler evenings.

Humayun’s Tomb

Visit this beautifully preserved garden tomb, known for its symmetrical layout and detailed stonework.

Chandni Chowk

Experience Old Delhi’s famous market street, with busy lanes filled with shops, eateries, and traditional trades.

Experience Delhi’s culture and streets

One of the best ways to understand Delhi is to explore its contrasting neighbourhoods. Join a guided walking tour through Old Delhi to navigate its maze-like alleys, sample local snacks, and uncover stories behind historic havelis and bustling bazaars. In New Delhi, quieter tree-lined areas invite you to discover museums, galleries, and cultural centres at a gentler pace.

For a different view of the city, consider a heritage walk or photography tour at sunrise or just before dusk, when the light softens and the streets change character. Parks and gardens, such as those surrounding key monuments, offer calm open spaces where you can pause between site visits. Many visitors also spend an afternoon in contemporary hubs like Hauz Khas Village or Lodhi Colony, where street art, cafés, and boutiques reflect Delhi’s creative side.

If you have more time, day trips from Delhi open up a wider landscape. You can travel to nearby cities known for their historic architecture, or relax at resorts and nature retreats within a few hours’ drive. These short escapes pair easily with a stay in the capital, giving you a broader glimpse of northern India.

A taste of Delhi

Delhi is known for food that is bold, generous, and full of character. Street corners, modest eateries, and fine dining restaurants all contribute to a varied culinary scene. You can try classic dishes such as chaat, kebabs, and rich gravies, alongside lighter regional specialities from across India.

Food markets and traditional lanes are a highlight for many visitors. Areas like Chandni Chowk and other older neighbourhoods are filled with long-running stalls and small kitchens serving recipes passed down through generations. In contrast, modern districts offer stylish cafés, innovative tasting menus, and rooftop restaurants where you can pair city views with contemporary cuisine.

Delhi also caters well to different dietary preferences and dining styles. From quick snacks between meetings to leisurely multi-course meals with friends or colleagues, there are options at every time of day. Make time to sample local sweets and bakery items too, as many are associated with particular seasons and festivals.

Retail therapy in India’s capital

Shopping in Delhi ranges from traditional markets to spacious, air-conditioned malls. Lively bazaars are ideal for discovering textiles, crafts, jewellery, and homeware, often displayed in narrow alleys and busy squares. Part of the experience is browsing, comparing, and talking with shopkeepers to learn more about the items on offer.

If you prefer a more structured environment, the city has many modern shopping centres with international brands, cinemas, and casual dining. These complexes are convenient for combining errands, entertainment, and meals in one stop, especially during the warmer months or on busy days.

Craft emporiums and speciality stores are also worth seeking out, particularly if you are looking for gifts or pieces to decorate your home. They showcase work from artisans across India, from handwoven textiles to carved wooden objects and contemporary design pieces. Wherever you choose to shop, set aside enough time to explore slowly and enjoy the variety.

Best time to visit Delhi

Winter season (November to February, peak season). Days are generally mild, with average temperatures around 12–20°C (54–68°F), and cooler evenings. Clear skies and comfortable weather make it a popular time for sightseeing, outdoor walks, and exploring Delhi’s many gardens and historic sites.

Summer season (April to June, shoulder season). Temperatures often rise to 30–40°C (86–104°F), with dry heat and strong sunshine. Many travellers plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings, spending the hottest hours in museums, cafés, and air-conditioned malls, which can make the season manageable and rewarding.

Monsoon and post-monsoon season (July to October, low season). Average temperatures range from 25–32°C (77–90°F), with periods of rainfall that refresh the air and bring lush greenery to parks and boulevards. This season adds atmosphere to the city, and shorter queues at major attractions can be an advantage for patient visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions