Here’s our travel guide for what to do in two days in Delhi, India. We’ve got the main sites covered, so keep reading.
Click here for what you need to know for traveling in India.
Delhi is a city where the echoes of ancient empires exist alongside the buzz of modern India. It’s a captivating blend of history, culture, and gloriously maddening chaos. That’s my new favorite phrase for Delhi: “gloriously maddening.”
Noelle here, by the way.
This bustling metropolis offers so many sights, sounds, and flavors. So much so that it’s a whirlwind experience for even the most seasoned traveler.
If you’ve read much of our website, you’ll see that we’re experienced travelers. Add in many trips to Europe, Japan, Panama, and South Africa not chronicled here. And you’ll find that we’re good at going with the flow.
But Delhi, India? Steve said it’s like landing on the moon! It has majestic monuments, vibrant markets, and a diverse culinary scene. But it also has trash, endless four-letter horn honking, and overwhelming crowds of people. There’s also an infuriating inability to know who you can possibly trust. Mix it all together, and Delhi promises an unforgettable journey.
In this two days in Delhi, India itinerary, we’ll jump into the heart of this captivating city. We’ll explore its iconic landmarks and rich history and savor its delectable foods. We’ll go from the grandeur of the Red Fort to the serenity of Lodhi Garden. (Spoiler alert: Westerners are like rock stars at the tourist sites. EVERYone wants our picture! Keep reading to find out more.)
Delhi offers a range of experiences that will leave you spellbound. So, buckle up and get ready for a thrilling adventure through the vibrant streets of Delhi.
Sites to See in Delhi, India
Delhi is a city full of amazing places to see. Here are some of the most incredible spots.
- Mahatma Gandhi Museum, Raj Ghat SAMADI (Memorial): An inspirational place to learn and reflect.
- Red Fort: A huge, red fort built by the Mughals.
- Chandni Chowk: A busy market with spices, clothing, and everything under the Sun.
- Jama Masjid: A big, beautiful mosque where 25,000 devotees go to pray.
- Qutub Minar: A super tall tower with beautiful carvings.
- India Gate: A war memorial with a big arch leading to the presidential palace.
- Humayun’s Tomb: A grand tomb with beautiful gardens
- Lodhi Garden: It’s another garden with some tombs in it, but it’s a peaceful place in a busy city.
- Akshardham Temple: A Hindu temple complex with a sunset water show
Day 1: A Historical Journey
Some sights will be a quick stop if you only have two days. But you could easily spend a few hours in each place.
Morning:
Start your morning visiting Mahatma Gandhi’s Memorial (45 minutes to 1 hour.) Walk along paths to read some of his most famous quotes about living life well. Read about our visit in more detail here.
The Raj Ghat is where Gandhi’s mortal remains were cremated in 1948. A large black stone platform has his last words inscribed, “Hey Ram” or “Oh God.”
Lessons From Gandhi
Steve and I visited this site on our second day in India. It was exactly where we needed to go. On our first day, we felt bombarded with people who each told us not to believe or trust anyone else. So many people wanted to talk with us to offer superior services to those of anyone else we would meet.
We both felt overwhelmed and uncertain, which was a new travel experience. So, we relaxed and walked the peaceful grounds, surrounded by placards of Gandhi’s wisdom. Ultimately, we agreed that someone in this country will take advantage of us. It’s inevitable.
Yet, occasionally paying more for an experience or trinket than someone else doesn’t make things terrible. Part of travel is accepting that not everyone we meet will have our best interests at heart. And that’s on them. We will continue moving through life in an honest and straightforward direction.
I live by the motto, “Simply let your yes be yes, and your no be no.” So, I was happy to see Gandhi’s version of that proverb. “He who always treads only the path of truth never stumbles.”
Gandhi Museum
Tour the adjacent museum to learn about Gandhi’s life if time allows. Walk through rooms with mostly chronological images and explanations of Gandhi’s life. It’s free, but you might actually learn more by watching a documentary about him. We felt overwhelmed with hard-to-absorb information.
Otherwise, continue for a drive to our next stop in three days in Delhi.
Visit Delhi’s Red Fort
Continue your morning by visiting the majestic Red Fort (600 Rupee entrance). This Mughal-era fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, constructed between 1639 and 1648. It’s renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history. Explore its imposing red sandstone walls and intricate carvings.
Plan to spend at least a couple of hours wandering here if you’re walking. However, you can also hire a tour guide for 650 Rupees. They’ll drive you in a Tuk-Tuk to the entrance, a long walk from the ticket booth (maybe a half mile or more). They’ll also share information you probably won’t learn by reading the boards.
See the Receiving Halls
See the Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience) and the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience.) This is where the emperor greeted visitors or settled public disputes.
Steve’s checking out the private hall below. Built in 1648, this is where the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan greeted VIP courtiers and special visitors. There’s still a marble pedestal in the center where a “Peacock Throne” sat. Another Shah removed it in 1739 when he looted the treasures here.
The north and south walls below the cornice and over the corner arches have a famous verse from Amir Khusraw inscribed. It says, “If there be a paradise on the earth, it is this, it is this, it is this.”
And if the drawing below is any indication of the splendor this fort and hall had, it was surely paradise.
This location is where Steve got absolutely mauled by people who wanted to take a picture with him. I only captured a few of them. But it was wild how many men loved his beard!
Of course, a few people included me in their photos, too. This momma just handed me her baby, and then everyone crowded in. I loved it! We don’t fully understand the local fascination with us. But we’ve told our kids we’ll be unbearable when we get home with our newfound celebrity status. They’ve assured us they’ll ask for selfies and money, too! 🙂 🙂
Two Days in Delhi India – Chandni Chowk
After leaving your adoring new friends, head to the bustling Chandni Chowk Market.
We did an hour-long tour here and it gave us a good overview.
Hire an auto rickshaw for about 500 Rupees per hour. Then, drop right into the chaos and colors of this historic market. It’s feral and crowded. But you can sample delicious street food like chaat and parathas. Grab some lunch along the way or have your driver take you to a restaurant after this stop.
The Paranthe Wali Gali means the street serving traditional fried Indian bread. It’s famous for parathas (stuffed flatbreads) and lassies. Of course, you’ll find mixed reviews since it’s now rather touristy, but it’s still a fun stop.
Wandering through the narrow lanes of Old Delhi is like stepping back in time since this area was constructed in the 17th century. Chandni Chowk means Moonlight Place. That’s because a tree-lined canal used to run through its middle, reflecting the moon.
Chandni Chowk feels overwhelmingly crowded after the relative peacefulness of the Red Fort. It’s hard to imagine a tree-lined canal anywhere near this mass of humanity.
Tip: Keep your backpack and purses in front of you, not across your back.
So Many Spices!
The narrow, winding lanes are lined with colorful shops and historic buildings. There’s also a constant buzz of activity. People sell everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and electronics. We especially liked the spice market.
Some of the city’s oldest and most iconic landmarks are here. They include the Digambar Jain Lal Mandir and the Gauri Shankar Temple. Don’t forget to look above the crowds. You’ll see glimpses of these buildings mixed with the twisting masses of electrical cords.
Just be prepared for the sensory overload! The sights, sounds, and smells of Old Delhi can be overwhelming. But it’s an experience you won’t forget.
Afternoon:
A note about dining during your two days in Delhi and around India:
Taxi drivers have preferred stops to take you for meals and shopping. They get a small gift of rupees or a simple meal for taking you there. Some shops even give them a percentage of how much you spend. This is a common way for drivers to make extra income throughout SE Asia. We experienced it in Thailand and Vietnam. Yes, you’ll get the tourist lunch, but it will likely be less spicy than local fare, and that’s okay by us.
Next, visit Jama Masjid. It’s one of the largest mosques in India. You can see its three grand gates and two 40-meter-high minarets (towers.) The entry fee for foreigners is Rs.300. This stop takes only about 30-45 minutes.
The mosque’s huge courtyard can hold up to 25,000 worshippers. Shah Jahan, the Mughal emperor who built Chandni Chowk, the Red Fort, and the Taj Mahal, began building it in 1644.
This is a peaceful place where you can feel the spiritual energy. Dress modestly when you visit, especially for women. Interestingly, Western women must wear a long covering, like a thin robe. But local women don’t have to wear it. Covering your head with a scarf is optional but respectful.
I’m reposting the picture below (with permission) from an India tourist Face Book group we’re in. I asked if it’s a drone picture of AI, but the only response was that they “liked” my comment. So, I’m hoping it’s a drone picture, but who knows?
Now’s a good time to head back to your hotel for a rest or head straight to our next stop for souvenir shopping. Ask your driver to take you to the nearby local Indian market at Connaught Place for great deals. Or visit the international-style shops here.
Evening:
For dinner, visit Haldiram’s – Connaught Place. One driver told us that Haldiram’s is India’s McDonald’s. If by that he meant fast food, he’s right. But there’s no comparison when it comes to food choice and quality. Haldiram’s beats McDonald’s every day of the week!
Walk around to get a feel for the place. There are ready-to-eat boxed snacks for taking home—see the link above. There’s a sweets counter with delicious-looking bakery items. Next is a savory counter with samosas and dosas. Then, there are counters serving hot food.
Check out the vast menus by the registers and crowd into the queue to pay for your meal. Then, take the counter ticket to the hot food counter, where they’ll fill your request. Honestly, we aren’t familiar with all the dishes, so it was a bit of a guess for us. But we ended up with delicious food. I had a rice bowl with butter paneer. And Steve enjoyed a tandoori platter. We both thought he might get some chicken, but it was vegetarian.
After Dinner:
After a day of exploring, unwind by dropping into the world of Bollywood at a local cinema. These movies have dramatic storylines, catchy songs, and elaborate dance sequences. They’re a great way to experience Indian culture and entertainment.
Since you’re already at Connaught Place, catch a Bollywood movie at PVR Cinemas.
Another option is to check out the Kamani Auditorium or the Shri Ram Centre for Performing Arts. These venues host classical dance, music, and theater performances. Most hotels will help you secure tickets.
Day 2 of Two Days in Delhi
Morning: Qutub Minar
Start your day by visiting the iconic Qutub Minar. This towering minaret is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s known for intricate carvings and architecture. You’re not allowed to enter the tower, but seeing it’s still fantastic.
Built in the 12th century, this 238 foot (73 meter) tall victory monument is India’s tallest stone tower. The information sign says it’s only five feet shorter than the Taj Mahal’s marble towers. The whole complex is worth exploring, as everywhere we looked were more intricately designed walls and arches.
I like imagining how ancient places were in their heyday. It’s fun to picture the people milling about with gardens in bloom (and no smog!) It’s such a different world than the one we live in today, so wandering through these ancient ruins feels special.
The Qutub Complex houses other historical monuments, including the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the Iron Pillar.
You’ll also find several tombs, enshrined in amazing buildings. There are endless Instagram-worthy selfie spots here. And sometimes, you’ll need to wait for your chance to get the perfect shot.
Two Days in Delhi: India Gate
Now, take a drive to the India Gate. Officials dedicated this war memorial to the Indian soldiers who died in World War I and the Afghan War. The majestic archway symbolizes India’s courage and sacrifice.
Next, stroll along the Rajpath. This grand boulevard features beautiful buildings, lush green lawns, and fountains. You’ll see iconic landmarks like the Rashtrapati Bhavan (the President’s house). Also, keep an eye out for the National War Memorial.
Honestly, we just did a drive-by of these locations. But there were tons of people out and about to snap selfies by the Gate and monuments.
My picture below shows that smog and air pollution are real issues during the winter in Delhi. The temperatures are cooler, but the smog gets trapped to unbearable levels. It’s something to be aware of.
Visiting Humayun’s Tomb
Humayun’s Tomb (600 Rupees), built in 1570, was India’s first Mughal-era garden tomb. Its beauty inspired architectural styles, leading to the construction of the Taj Mahal.
Similar to the Taj Mahal’s love story, Humayun’s tomb came about from the love of his wife and chief consort. Empress Bega Begum paid for the construction herself for 1.5 million rupees. Humayun’s death so grieved her that she dedicated the rest of her life to constructing the Empire’s most magnificent mausoleum.
Two Days in Delhi India – Afternoon: Lodhi Garden
Ask your driver to suggest a lunch stop before relaxing in the serene beauty of Lodhi Garden. It’s a short drive from Humayn’s Tomb. This historic park is home to several beautiful tombs and lush green spaces. It’s a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peace.
Many locals walk or practice yoga in the 90-acre park in the early mornings. Walk through the peaceful grounds to discover Mohammed Shah’s Tomb, the Shisha Gumbad, the Tomb of Sikandar Lodi, and the Bara Gumbad. These are all architectural works of the 15th century by Lodis. They ruled parts of northern India, Punjab, and parts of modern-day Pakistan between 1451 and 1526.
We saw a lot of school kids hanging out here and even a model’s photo shoot. It’s a fun place to see a laid back version of Delhi.
Read our full post about visiting Lodhi Garden.
Afternoon and Early Evening:
End your day with a visit to the Akshardham Temple. Admission is free, but it costs to see some exhibits. ₹ 255 for the Sahajanand Darshan, Neelkanth Darshan, & Sankruti Darshan exhibits. We didn’t pay for the exhibits since the film isn’t in English. Instead, we enjoyed seeing the temple and the people.
We also don’t have any photos here, since they aren’t allowed. No phones, smart watches, cameras, or recording device of any kind. However, it was kind of nice to just look around and take it all in without feeling the need to document everything.
‘Swagatam’ – Welcome. The exploration of Akshardham begins with auspicious symbols and prayers for universal peace and harmony. The experience begins with the invocation of the Vedic prayer: आ नो भद्राः क्रतवो यन्तु विश्वतः’ – ‘Let noble thoughts come to us from all directions’. Akshardham welcomes people from all directions, backgrounds, faiths and beliefs and teaches everyone to do the same.
Arrive in the afternoon to see the grounds. This stunning Hindu temple complex is a marvel of modern architecture and spirituality. Built in 2005, this is a newer structure. But over 11,000 volunteers helped create its intricate carvings and gardens.
Explore before eating a fresh, vegetarian dinner at the Premvati Food Court. Since I’m still unsure what most dishes are, I got a vegetarian thali. Steve got a mixed veggie curry with naan. We also got a mango lassi, which was to die for. There’s a sweets counter and plenty of ice cream selections, too.
Then, stay after sunset for the 24-minute lighted water, laser, and animation show (₹ 95). Check the temple website for times, but there are usually two showings. While this show is only in Hindi, it was still pretty magical to watch families gather for it. There’s movie theater popcorn and lots of excitement in this open-air step-well.
I think the show is likely a children’s story about deities based on the responses of children around us. But, even without speaking the language, this was a fun time.
Things to Consider about Two Days in Delhi India
For all the details, read our complete account of what to know about traveling in India. But the basics are here.
- Stay aware of your surroundings. The sheer number of people means there’s a bad apple in every group. So, remain alert, but try not to get paranoid.
- Uber works in India, so it’s a reliable source of transportation. But do take some Tuk-Tuk rides. They’re fun and exhilarating. Ask your hotel staff to help negotiate the cost.
- Dress modestly. Cover shoulders, cleavage, and knees. Carry a scarf to cover your head at temples and holy places.
- Explore India’s weather to know the best travel periods for the areas you want to visit.
- Be prepared to bargain, but please do so politely and respectfully. Everyone deserves the right to make a small profit.
Conclusion
Delhi has a rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food. It’s a city that will leave you spellbound. We met an Indian man who’s spent most of his life living half the year in the States and half here in India. He says this about Delhi: Love it or hate it, you’ll never forget it. And I think he’s right.
So, embrace Delhi’s chaos and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture. Pack your bags and get ready for a bumpy ride. Then, let Delhi surprise you!
FAQs About Two Days in Delhi
How’s the Weather in Delhi, India?
Delhi’s weather can be extreme, so trip planning is essential. Here’s a quick breakdown of the seasons:
- Summer (April-June): Hot and humid.
- Monsoon (July-September): Rainy and humid.
- Winter (October-March): Pleasant and dry.
Summer (April-June)
These months are scorching hot and humid. Temperatures can soar to 45°C (113°F) or even higher. We had dinner at the home of some locals, who said that last summer (2024), temperatures reached up to 52°C (125.6°F). That’s hard for me to imagine! Unfortunately, people have died from the extreme heat: the elderly, the homeless, and outdoor workers.
Monsoon (July-September)
This season brings much-needed relief from the heat. You can expect heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms.
Winter in Delhi, India (October-March)
The winter months are pleasant, with cool temperatures. However, the air quality deteriorates significantly during this time.
If you can handle the smog, the best time to visit Delhi is during the winter months. The weather is pleasant, and the city’s festivals and cultural events are in full swing.
We arrived in late November. The heat felt wonderful compared to the rainy season in the Pacific Northwest. As we flew off to warm weather, our home region experienced an atmospheric river and a bomb cyclone, so we weren’t sad to leave that cold dampness.
What’s the Pollution Like in Delhi?
While Delhi is a fascinating city to explore year-round, the highest pollution occurs in winter (October to February). This can seriously impact one’s health and overall experience. Three days in Delhi India is enough to make it hard to breath.
Consider visiting during the monsoon season (July to September) when the air quality improves and the city is lush and green. However, be prepared for occasional rain showers. The spring season (March to May) is also a pleasant time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.
Delhi’s air pollution comes from millions of cars and tuk-tuks. Factories and construction sites add to it. But farmers burning crop waste in nearby areas is another huge reason for the smog. These pollutants get trapped when the weather is cold, making the air even worse.
The main reason pollutants get trapped is a weather phenomenon called temperature inversion. Usually, the air gets colder as you go higher. But during winter, a layer of warm air gets trapped above cold air near the ground. This acts like a lid, preventing the pollutants from rising and dispersing.
- Air Quality: Delhi can experience periods of dangerously high air pollution.
- Tips: Consider wearing a mask during peak pollution times, especially outdoors.
Stay Informed: Check air quality indices before planning outdoor activities. We used the Weather app on our iPhones.
Tour Guide Contact Info
Here’s the contact information for Zahoor, who helped us navigate northern India and the Golden Triangle. He’s based in New Delhi, but he kept in touch with us regularly.
We found him very knowledgeable, with a large base of local hotels for any budget. He’s booked us low-cost hotels and luxury ones, depending on the area and our requests.
Zahoor’s team coordinated our transportation and drivers, so we didn’t need to worry about getting where we wanted to be. He took care of every detail. We don’t make any money as an affiliate for him, so this is just our suggestion for one of many tour operators.
107, Scindia House, Janpath, Connaught Place, New Delhi 110001
Zahoor +91 98912 64450, WhatsApp
India’s Best Driver
Along the same lines, here’s the contact info for our favorite driver in Delhi and the Golden Triangle, Rakesh. He’s part of Zahoor’s team, too.
Rakesh even took us to the doctor in Delhi when we were both so sick after our arrival. Of course, he teased us for the next couple of months about not getting us spicy food.
Reach Rakesh on WhatsApp at +91 99589 62179. He’ll take great care of you!
delhi is such a fun place to be at.
food+travel+hustle.
dilli hai dilwalo ki.