A glamorous view of Cannaught Place. Image – Instagram.
24 Hours in Delhi – New Delhi, an immense and sprawling metropolis. A vibrant state blended with old-world charm, prevailing glamour and a perfect blend of different cultures. Whether it be the pompous architecture of the British Raj or the magnificent plethora of splendid palaces, tombs, and mosques of the Mughal Empire, this city has plenty to offer. I am utterly convinced that most of people visit Delhi for a day or two on an official trip or assignment. And it is from these stopovers they glean their overall feeling of the city. And I must say this city does not always make a good first impression on them. Yet, there are lucky ones who managed to explore the sheer beauty and charm of the city.
Indeed, they managed to discover the hidden treasures that most of us miss of this city. So, I hope you should also give it a chance to discover the city whenever you get the opportunity to spend a day in the capital. Hence, I would recommend spending 24 hours in Delhi.
“Delhi is beautiful. Delhi is irresistible.
And Delhi is memorable“
In fact, people often get a break in Delhi which if time permits can use it to explore this amazing city. Indeed. there are truly a lot of things to do here that it’s hard to begin 24 hours in Delhi city guide, and what travel tips to offer to the visitors and tourists who want to explore and experience the best of the city, hotels, attractions, landmarks and fun things to do in 24 in one day. Hence, If you need some inspiration for a future vacation, read on.
Getting around Delhi
Indeed, delhi is huge and many of its attractions are spread out over the new and the old city. Therefore, I would suggest hire eithe a private cab or take Delhi metro for the transit. Hence, metro is a fast and cheap option that will get you around the city quickly. Every so often, it gets extremely crowded and you may have to be a little forceful to get out at the right stop. But, it tends to be quite easy to travel once you master it.
A complete 24 hours in Delhi itinerary
Day 1
6 p.m.
Relive the colonial era at Connaught Place
Above all, begin your “24 hours in delhi excursion” from Connaught Place, an epitome of stunning Colonial architecture. It is one of the largest financial and business centers in India. Indeed, It accommodaes several noted Indian and international firms, fashion boutiques, an underground market, restaurants and cinemas makes this place a great opportunity for a relaxed evening stroll.
In effect, It is an emerging cultural center of the odd theater and street dance performances in its Central Park. There are several events dedicated to graffiti and artwork that happen every Sunday morning in the area. Also, Its whitewashed buildings are formed into a perfect circle housing some of the best nightlife in Delhi. Some popular places are Odeon Social (even just for the name) and Tamasha.
8 p.m.
Spend a quality time at Hauz Khas
Henceforth, the next place to visit is the hip and trendy Hauz Khas village. In essence, the locale is jam packed with fashion boutiques, art galleries and book shops, restaurants, and nightclubs and is one of the exclusive places to go out in New Delhi. Indeed, dining options are numerous, ranging from thematic European restaurants to acknowledged Mediterranean taverns, from hefty North Indian meals to spicy East Asian cuisine, from tasty American burgers to lesser-known yet delicious Himalayan cuisine. In case, you want a cozy and reasonably priced dining experience. Then, head to The Record Room, a cozy restaurant with amazing lake-view offering delicious North Indian, Chinese and Continental cuisines.
DAY 2
10 a.m.
Get lost in the streets of Old Delhi
Above all, wake up early in the morning feeling refreshed, skip the boring hotel breakfast and head to the bustling Chandni Chowk, Delhi’s oldest market district. Chandni Chowk is the thoroughfare that runs through Old Delhi, with the Red Fort across the road at the eastern end and the Fatehpuri mosque at the western end.
This retro locale doesn’t really come to life until later in the day, but that’s the point of going early on this one-day Delhi itinerary. Whilst strolling the walkway, take your time to explore exclusive spice, jewellery for wedding markets in the nearby alleyways; admire the beautiful, yet run-down havelis; or visit some of the religious places of worship belonging to either Muslim, Hindus, Sikhs or Christians. The gold-domed Sikh Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib is a must visit. The street-food vendors and the small restaurants offer a large variety of authentic, delicious and diverse Indian breakfast options, especially Pt. Baburam Parathewale of the famous Parathewali gali and toothsome Jalebis at Old and Famous Jalebiwala.
12:00 a.m.
Take heritage walk at Red Fort
After a quick breakfast at the slowly awakening Chandni Chowk, take a convenience to the mighty Red Fort, a colossal red sandstone residence of Mughal emperors for more than 200 hundred years, is an iconic establishment in Delhi. It takes you to an unforgettable journey in history and the majestic architecture of the Mughal Era.
Despite vast destruction by the British forces in the aftermath of the Indian rebellion in 1857, the size of Red Fort and its beautiful inner courts and pavilions including private residences of Mughal emperor and his wives and sons, continues to mesmerize its visitors and bewitch them to the time of the great Mughal empire.
In fact, my most admiring segment in the fort was the fusion of Persian, European, and Indian architecture and several arches in perfect symmetry. In 2007, it was declared a UNESCO world heritage site and has a collection of historical rooms, buildings, and museums to wander around.
1 p.m.
Visit Jama Masjid, the Emperor’s Mosque
After a historical dose of Red fort. Consequently,, head to the mighty Jama Masjid, which is siituated just in front of the Red Fort at the bustling Chhawri bazaar area of Chandni Chowk. Built of red sandstone and white marble, this mosque is a brilliant example of Islamic art, architecture and the Mughal’s Legacy. Furthermore, It is not only the mighty mosque but also prominent historical monument in India.
Consequently, It’s amazing to watch the flight of pigeons in the mosque courtyard which is simply a sight to behold. You can also climb up to the immense Jama Masjid minarets and slowly explore the gates and towers of the mosque. In fact, you would be awe-struck at the enormity and minute detailing that went into making this structure of wonder. In fact, this place of worship has three gateways and all of them are flanked by the flight of stairs.
2 p.m.
Have a mughlai Lunch at Karim’s
Now it’s time for lunch as hunger strikes and what could be a better option than the great Karim’s restaurants which is just next to Jama Masjid. I am not sure when I actually came to know about this place. Perhaps, I was a kid when I actually discovered place and I’ve been going back ever since. Furthermore, It’s the place where people from all over the world visit to have a taste of authentic Mughlai food.
Particularly, just try their minced mutton kebabs with crushed green chilli and steamed onions. Indeed, their badam pasanda curry — a sensual combination of lamb and sweet almonds is really delicious their Mutton Korma with their fabulous Tandoori Roti is really exquisite. And finally, their renowned tandoori chicken with its psychedelic sunset hue born from a slow and steady marinade is just the taste to behold.
In effect, featured on the BBC and Lonely Planet, Karim’s is voted one of the best restaurants in all of Asia. Notably, it’s a dining place managed by the chefs who had conjured exotic ingredients to assemble Mughal dynasty’s meals!
4 p.m.
Experience the Contemporary art at National Gallery of Modern Art
Therefore, catch a cab to the National Gallery of Modern Art and on your way behold a glimpse of the majestic India Gate. In addition to,, there is a butterfly shaped National Gallery of Modern Art which is one major art gallery located at the Jaipur House in New Delhi. In fact, it was established by the government of India, on March 29, 1954. Likewise, there are beautifully designed and well kept exhibits and preserves the works of artists as Raja Ravi Verma, Thomas Daniell, Abanindranath Tagore, Rabindranath Tagore, Nandalal Bose, Jamini Roy, Amrita Sher-Gil and other foreign sculpture artists. Indeed, the contemporary works of M.F.Husain and Jamini Roy are just amazing.
National Gallery of Modern Art is a prominant exhibition centre and a rendenvouz or emerging Contemporary artists. It also has an education centre and a library which consists of audio visual material, photographs, books on art, etc. It’s a great halt in your 24 hours in Delhi cuircuit.
6 p.m.
The great Indian flea stories: Janpath market
Consequently, head towards the Janpath market, one of the popular flea markets in Delhi-NCR. Indeed, It’s cheap, friendly, and has everything you need as a tourist to take home. In addition, You don’t have to pay an entrance fee like Dilli Haat. So, you will be aware that prices won’t jump awkwardly! I hope that you find everything here from bags, shawls, Ganesh statues, incense, jewelry, and more.
In case, you are after finer gifts, there is a ‘cottage industry emporium’ which is located in the Janpath Bhawan. It’s expensive, but it showcases top-quality products which are as perfect as home decorative items. While in the middle of shopping, do try the flavoured cold coffees at Deepaul’s Coffee. Indeed, they really have delectable flavors.
Finish the day at Connaught Place
Consequently, if you’re not dead off your feet and want to head into unwind, I would suggest going to Connaught place in the evening. It’s just adjacent to Janpath Market. In fact, you can choose from numerous options of bars, restaurants and cafés. Indeed, Farzi cafe in the inner circle is one of the cool cafes for dinner or after dinner purposes. Their menus are perfect and interiors just give that laid back funky feel. It’s open till midnight and a really perfect place to chill out.
That’s your 24 hours in Delhi itinerary
To sum up, it is the sure-fire way of getting everything you need out of this crazy city in the shortest amount of time. Further, I think you would be able to explore most things in just 24 hours in Delhi or if anything on here didn’t take your fancy, there are also several places which can also be explored within this short span. You can visit Safdarjung tomb if you would like tranquility, Humayun’s Tomb if you desire to experience one of the last Mughal architectures or the famous Gurudwara Bangla Sahib to keep you occupied. Also, you’ll love the Instagram-worthy Agrasen Ki Baoli which is a bit of a hidden gem and supposedly haunted!
Read my recent post on 10 Iconic places to visit in Delhi
Note: Keep in mind that just because this itinerary is for 24 hours in Delhi doesn’t mean you should only spend 24 hours in Delhi. In fact, if you find this post useful, don’t forget to share it with your family and friends.
TRAVEL DIFFERENTLY!
Address list:
Day One:
Click here for a detailed map of the itinerary
The record Room Delhi, Hauz Khas Village, New Delhi
Day Two:
Click here for a detailed map of the itinerary:
Pt. Baburam Parathewale, Chandni Chowk, Delhi
Old and Famous Jalebiwala, Chandni Chowk, Delhi
National Gallery of Modern Art, Jaipur House, India Gate, New Delhi
The best places to stay in Delhi
In fact, here are some hotels for every budget, click on the links to check for available dates and rates;
5* Luxury:
The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences
Mid-range:
YWCA International Guest House
Hotel Star One – Near Delhi Airport
Budget:
Hotel Tark inn Near IGI Airport
