Budget Trip to Delhi

Delhi vacation on a budget

Delhi is a popular tourist destination in India, and for good reason. The city has so many things to offer that it can be hard to know where to start. Whether you're looking for fun activities or historic sites, Delhi has it all! Here are some of my favorite things about visiting this amazing city:

Briefly introduce Delhi as a popular tourist destination in India

Delhi is the capital of India and has been home to many rulers over the centuries. The city was founded in 1539 by Sher Shah Suri, who chose it as his capital because he thought that it would be easier to defend than Agra (the previous capital). He built an elaborate palace called Purana Qila and introduced a new style of architecture that was influenced by Islamic styles. Today, Delhi is one of India's most popular tourist destinations, thanks in part to its rich history and beautiful buildings.

Discuss different transportation options for getting to Delhi

Flights:

Pros: The fastest way to get to Delhi, usually with direct flights from major cities.

Cons: Can be expensive during peak travel seasons, may require advance booking to get the best deals.

Recommendations: Use price comparison websites or apps to find the cheapest flights, book in advance or look for last-minute deals, try to fly during off-peak travel times to save money.

Trains:

Pros: Trains offer a comfortable and affordable way to travel to Delhi.

Cons: The journey can be long, especially if traveling from far away, may require booking in advance to secure seats.

Recommendations: Book tickets in advance to get the best deals, look for options like sleeper or express trains to save time and travel in comfort, try booking through the official Indian Railways website to avoid scams.

Buses:

Pros: Buses offer an affordable and convenient option for travel within India, with frequent departures from major cities.

Cons: Can be uncomfortable and time-consuming, especially for long journeys.

Recommendations: Look for reputable bus operators with good reviews, try booking a sleeper or semi-sleeper bus for overnight travel, be prepared for delays due to traffic.

Discuss different types of accommodation options in Delhi

Hotels:

Pros: Offer a range of amenities and services, usually located in central areas of the city.

Cons: Can be expensive, especially during peak travel seasons, may lack local charm.

Recommendations: Look for budget hotels in Delhi or mid-range chains, book through price comparison websites or apps to find the best deals, read reviews from previous guests before booking.

Hostels:

Pros: Offer affordable accommodation options for solo travelers or groups, often with communal areas for socializing.

Cons: Can be noisy and lacking privacy, may not be suitable for families or couples.

Recommendations: Look for hostels with private rooms or female-only dorms, book in advance to secure a spot during peak travel seasons, read reviews from previous guests before booking.

Guesthouses:

Pros: Offer a more authentic and local experience, usually run by families or individuals.

Cons: May lack amenities or services of hotels, location may not be central.

Recommendations: Look for guesthouses in safe and local neighborhoods, read reviews from previous guests before booking, communicate with the owner or host to ensure a comfortable stay.

Discuss the food and drink scene in Delhi, including popular local dishes and street food

Popular local dishes and street food:

Delhi is famous for its street food, with dishes like chaat, parathas, and chole bhature being among the most popular.

Other must-try dishes include butter chicken, biryani, and kebabs.

Some popular food markets to try include Chandni Chowk, Sarojini Nagar, and Connaught Place.

Tips for finding affordable and delicious meals in Delhi:

Look for small, local restaurants or street vendors rather than chain restaurants in Delhi or tourist hotspots.

Ask locals or hotel staff for recommendations on where to find the best food.

Consider taking a food tour to sample a variety of dishes and get insider tips from a local guide.

Highlight some of the top tourist attractions in Delhi, including historical sites, museums, and cultural experiences

Top tourist attractions in Delhi:

The Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Mughal power in India.

Qutub Minar, a towering minaret built in the 13th century.

Humayun's Tomb, a stunning example of Mughal architecture and another UNESCO World Heritage Site.

India Gate, a war memorial and popular spot for picnics and evening walks.

Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India and a beautiful example of Islamic architecture.

Recommendations for visiting these sites on a budget:

Look for discounted tickets, especially for students or senior citizens.

Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and long lines.

Consider hiring a local guide for a more personalized and informative experience.

Pack your own food and drinks to save money on meals while sightseeing.

Discuss the shopping scene in Delhi, including popular markets and souvenirs

Popular markets:

Chandni Chowk, one of the oldest and busiest markets in Old Delhi, offering everything from clothing to jewelry to spices.

Dilli Haat, a government-run market with stalls selling handicrafts, textiles, and regional food from across India.

Sarojini Nagar, a budget-friendly market with affordable clothing, accessories, and home goods.

Popular souvenirs:

Handicrafts such as pottery, textiles, and jewelry made by local artisans.

Spices and teas, such as chai and Darjeeling tea.

Traditional clothing, such as sarees and kurtas.

Tips for finding affordable and unique souvenirs:

Bargain with vendors to get the best price.

Look for small, independent Delhi shoping areas rather than big chains or tourist hotspots.

Avoid scams by being cautious of overly aggressive or pushy vendors, and always check the quality of the product before making a purchase.

Encourage readers to plan a budget trip to Delhi and experience all that the city has to offer

Plan a budget trip to Delhi and experience all that the city has to offer! From delicious Delhi Fast Food Restaurants to historic monuments to unique shopping experiences, Delhi has something for every budget and interest. By following the tips provided, you can make the most of your trip without breaking the bank. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure in Delhi!

Closure

If you have never been to India or Delhi, this trip is a perfect opportunity to see what the country has to offer. With its diverse culture, rich history and natural beauty, Delhi is an ideal destination for any traveler looking for something different. We hope that by reading through our guide on how best to experience this city as a budget traveller we have inspired you enough so that when October 2018 rolls around again (and if not before!), you'll be ready for your trip!