How to plan your Old Delhi: 3-Hour Tuk-Tuk/Rickshaw Tour

If you’re looking for an authentic experience of Old Delhi, look no further than the Old Delhi: 3-Hour Tuk-Tuk/Rickshaw Tour. You will discover Chandni Chowk and the different markets of Old Delhi while escaping the chaos of walking by riding in a delightful tuk-tuk. You will also explore India’s largest mosque and see views of Old Delhi as well as participate in an authentic community kitchen at a Sikh Gurudwara. To top it all off, you’ll taste the local evening tea time snacks of Chai and Samosa. In this post, we’ll guide you on how to plan your tour and what to expect from this remarkable experience.

Highlights

• Discover Chandni Chowk and the different markets of Old Delhi
• Escape the chaos of walking by riding in a delightful tuk-tuk
• Explore India’s largest mosque and see views of Old Delhi
• Participate in an authentic community kitchen at a Sikh Gurudwara
• Taste the local evening tea time snacks of Chai and Samosa

Full Description

This tour gives you a great introduction to the authentic old-world charms of Delhi and helps you escape the nuisances of walking amongst the traffic. Meet your guide at the meeting point near Red Fort, then climb into a tuk-tuk, a modified version of the cycle rickshaw. Sit back and enjoy the views as you ride past the several colorful and busy bazaars of Old Delhi while your guide explains the important role that they play for the locals.

Your first stop is Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque. Spend some time walking around the red sandstone courtyard, and if you are lucky, you can even climb up a minaret to see the views. Return to your tuk-tuk as your next destination awaits.

Your tuk-tuk will drop you off at one of the several vegetable markets in Old Delhi, a visual treat for anyone slightly interested in culinary arts. Here, you will learn about the vegetables and ingredients used extensively in Indian cuisine. Your guide will take you to a nearby community kitchen called “Langar” at a Sikh Gurudwara. You will see how the community kitchen makes and distributes an enormous amount of food, offering free meals to anyone who enters the premises.

Your next stop will be one of the several popular sweet shops so you can taste the best-selling Indian sweet “Gulab Jamun,” a must-try for anyone who claims to have a sweet tooth, right before visiting the spice market.

The spice market is a profoundly stimulating, thrilling, and exotic experience that will excite and titillate your senses. The plethora of colors, aromas, and textures from different types of spices will leave you enchanted. Here, you will get to witness different spices like cumin seeds, bay leaves, red chili powder, and cardamom. The unique experience here is that the spices you buy are ground in front of you, and you can even choose which spice to blend as per your preferred taste.

The final stop of the tour will be Chai and Samosa at a local shop, the best place to indulge in the evening tea. You can head back to your hotel room, feeling delighted and satiated after a wholesome, joyful experience of Old Delhi.

How to book the tour?

If you’re interested in booking the tour, you can do so via GetYourGuide. Note that the tour is conducted with a group of up to ten people, so make sure to book your spot early!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Old Delhi: 3-Hour Tuk-Tuk/Rickshaw Tour is an enjoyable and life-enriching experience that you should not miss out on. This tour brings the authentic, colourful, and living culture of Old Delhi to life. Follow our guide to prepare effectively for the tour, and be ready to have a fantastic time in Delhi.

An Insider’s Guide to the Hidden Gems of Old Delhi: A 3-Hour Tuk-Tuk Tour

Delhi is a bustling city with a mix of history, culture, and tradition. In Old Delhi, you can experience the intricate maze of narrow alleyways, vibrant street markets, and historical landmarks. Beyond the typical tourist hotspots, Old Delhi has a lot to offer to those who are willing to explore. Here’s an insider’s guide to some hidden gems and unique experiences that will make your 3-hour tuk-tuk tour unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Exploring the lesser-known treasures

Most visitors flock to the popular Jama Masjid and Red Fort. However, Old Delhi has many other hidden gems, including:

– Hakeem Karamuddin’s Unani Hospital: It is an 18th-century hospital that still operates using a traditional system of medicine. You can get a consultation with the local practitioners and learn about ancient remedies.
– Chunnamal Haveli: This 150-year-old mansion is a testament to the opulent lifestyle of the wealthy merchant class of those times. It has ornate carvings, intricate paintings, and boasts a unique blend of Islamic and European architecture.
– Ghalib ki Haveli: One of the lesser-known places in Old Delhi, it is the ancestral home of the renowned poet Mirza Ghalib. His work is still celebrated in India and Pakistan, and you can witness the exquisite Urdu calligraphy and literature on display.

Dining Spots: Discovering the local flavors

Food is an integral part of Delhi’s culture, and there is no better way to explore it than by indulging in the local cuisine. Here are some of the best places to try local delights:

– Karim’s: This iconic restaurant has been serving mouth-watering kebabs, biryani, and other Mughlai dishes for more than a century. The recipes have been passed down through generations and are a must-try for any foodie visiting Delhi.
– Parathe Wali Gali: This lane is famous for its buttery and crispy stuffed parathas. The variety of flavors and fillings will leave you spoilt for choice.
– Old Delhi Chaat: Indulge in the savory and tangy flavors of the quintessential chaat (snacks) of Delhi. From samosas to pani puri, the street food stalls here have it all!

Cultural Experiences: A glimpse into the city’s rich heritage

Delhi is a melting pot of cultures, and to experience it fully, explore some of the following cultural gems:

– Nizam-ud-din Dargah: This is the shrine of one of the most famous Sufi saints in India, Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya. The location has a unique spiritual aura that is enhanced by the soulful qawwalis (devotional music) sung there.
– Ramlila: If you are visiting Delhi during the festival of Dussehra, then watching the enactment of the epic Ramayana at the Ramlila ground is a must-do. It is a theatrical extravaganza that includes elaborate sets, colorful costumes, and pulsating music.
– Tornos ‘Explore your City’ Walks: Book a tour with Tornos and explore Old Delhi with a local guide. You will witness the spice markets, silver and textile workshops, and learn about the city’s history and culture.

Local History: Discovering the fascinating stories

Old Delhi is steeped in history, and here are some of the fascinating tales that you might not find in history books:

– The Hauz Qazi Riots of 1979: This incident happened when a derogatory remark was made about the Prophet Mohammed, which led to communal violence between Hindus and Muslims. The neighborhood has now bounced back but is still scarred by the memories.
– The Partition Museum: The museum is a reminder of the horrors and heart-wrenching tales of the 1947 Partition that left millions displaced and fleeing for their lives. It is a must-visit, especially for those interested in the city’s history.
– The Story of Shahjahanabad: This museum housed in the historic Red Fort complex narrates the tales of the city from the Mughal era to its current avatar.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique tips for an unforgettable tour

– Take a pottery class: Head to the Kumhar Colony and learn the art of pottery-making from the local artisans. You can make your own keepsake to take back home.
– Mughal Heritage Walk: This guided walk takes you through the lesser-known corners of Shahjahanabad, showing you the monuments and landmarks that are often overlooked.
– Johari Bazaar Midnight Tour: Experience the market in a different light, under the twinkling lamps, and away from the crowds, on this exclusive midnight tour.

Wrap Up

Old Delhi has an endless list of hidden treasures to explore, and this insider’s guide will help you see the city in a new light. From the delicious food to the vibrant culture and fascinating history, you will have a memorable 3-hour tuk-tuk tour. So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!