How to Plan Your Private Tour of Old Delhi: Chandni Chowk, Tuk Tuk & Food

If you’re visiting New Delhi, a must-do experience is to explore the historic and colorful streets of Old Delhi. The bustling market of Chandni Chowk is a vibrant cacophony of smells, sounds, and sights. And what better way to explore this lively part of town than on a private tour with a knowledgeable guide? In this blog post, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about planning your private tour of Old Delhi, including highlights, itinerary, and other important details.

Experience

On this private tour, you’ll get to experience the following:

• Delight your taste buds with traditional Indian street foods in Chandni Chowk
• Enjoy a private guided tour of Old Delhi including India Gate and the Red Fort
• Explore Chandni Chowk’s massive markets filled with flavorful spices and fruit
• Visit the historic and majestic Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India
• Wander along the narrow and colorful streets of Chandni Chowk on a tuk-tuk ride

Highlights

Here are the highlights of the tour:

1. Chandni Chowk: This bustling market is the heart of Old Delhi and is filled with shops, stalls, and vendors selling everything from spices and fruit to clothing and jewelry.
2. Tuk Tuk Ride: A tuk-tuk is a popular mode of transportation in India, and on this tour, you’ll get to experience a thrilling ride through the narrow streets of Chandni Chowk.
3. Food Tour: One of the best ways to experience the culture of Delhi is through its food. You’ll get to try traditional Indian street foods like samosas, chaat, and kebabs.
4. India Gate: This iconic monument is a symbol of India’s struggle for freedom and is a must-visit attraction in Delhi.
5. Red Fort: The Red Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was once the residence of the Mughal emperors.
6. Jama Masjid: This impressive mosque was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the mid-1600s and is one of the largest mosques in India.

Itinerary

Here’s a sample itinerary for the tour:

• Start with a pickup from your hotel in Delhi and drive to Old Delhi.
• Visit Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India.
• Explore the narrow and colorful streets of Chandni Chowk on a tuk-tuk ride.
• Stop at the local markets to try delicious street food.
• Visit India Gate and the Red Fort.
• End the tour with a drop-off at your hotel.

Important Details

Here are some important details to keep in mind when booking this tour:

• The tour is private, and you’ll have a dedicated guide to take you around.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private air-conditioned transportation, entry fees (if option selected), tuk-tuk ride, street food (if option selected), and bottles of water.
• The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, and you’ll be on your feet for most of the time.
• Wear comfortable shoes and lightweight clothing as it can get hot and humid in Delhi.

Book Your Private Tour of Old Delhi Now

To book your private tour of Old Delhi, visit the GetYourGuide website and select the tour. With a knowledgeable guide to show you around, you’ll get to experience the vibrant culture and history of Old Delhi in a unique and unforgettable way.

Frequently Asked Questions About New Delhi

New Delhi, the capital city of India, is a bustling metropolis that offers a perfect mix of heritage, history, culture, and modern lifestyle. Here are some frequently asked questions about the city:

1. What is the best time to visit New Delhi?

New Delhi experiences extreme temperatures in summer and winter, making it difficult for tourists to explore the city comfortably. The best time to visit New Delhi is between October and March when the weather is pleasant, and there are several festivals and events to participate in.

2. How to reach New Delhi?

New Delhi is a well-connected city, and you can reach here by air, train, or road. Indira Gandhi International Airport is the main airport in New Delhi, and it is connected to all major cities in the world. New Delhi Railway Station is one of the busiest railway stations in India, and it is connected to all major cities in the country. You can also reach New Delhi by road as the city is well-connected to all the major cities in North India.

3. What are the must-visit places in New Delhi?

New Delhi is a historical city that boasts of several tourist attractions. Some of the must-visit places in New Delhi include:

• Red Fort – A UNESCO World Heritage Site that was the residence of the Mughal emperors for around 200 years.
• Qutub Minar – A towering minaret that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• India Gate – A war memorial that is a must-visit attraction in New Delhi.
• Humayun’s Tomb – Another UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a fine example of Mughal architecture.
• Lotus Temple – A unique lotus-shaped temple that is a symbol of religious harmony.
• Jama Masjid – One of the largest mosques in India that is a must-visit attraction in Old Delhi.
• Akshardham Temple – A modern temple that is a marvel of architecture and technology.

4. What are the best shopping destinations in New Delhi?

New Delhi is a paradise for shoppers as it offers a wide range of shopping options. Some of the best shopping destinations in New Delhi include:

• Chandni Chowk – A bustling market in Old Delhi that offers a wide range of products at affordable prices. It is famous for its street food, textiles, and jewelry.
• Dilli Haat – A traditional Indian market that offers handicrafts, textiles, and food from different parts of India.
• Connaught Place – A shopping destination that is famous for its high-end fashion stores, bookstores, and restaurants.
• Janpath – A popular market that offers a wide range of clothing, accessories, and handicrafts at affordable prices.
• Khan Market – A shopping destination that offers a wide range of products, including books, handicrafts, and branded clothes.

5. What is the local food of New Delhi?

New Delhi is a food lover’s paradise as it offers a wide range of cuisines from different parts of India. Some of the must-try dishes in New Delhi include:

• Chole Bhature – A popular dish made from spicy chickpeas and fried bread.
• Butter Chicken – A mouth-watering chicken dish that is cooked in a rich tomato-based gravy.
• Paratha – A flatbread that is stuffed with different fillings such as potatoes, onions, and cheese.
• Chicken Tikka – A popular appetizer that is made from boneless chicken pieces marinated in spices and grilled or baked.
• Paneer Tikka – A vegetarian version of chicken tikka, made from cubes of paneer marinated in spices and grilled or baked.
• Kulfi – A popular dessert that is similar to ice cream but is denser and creamier.

6. What are the popular festivals celebrated in New Delhi?

New Delhi celebrates several festivals throughout the year, and some of the popular festivals celebrated in the city include:

• Diwali – The festival of lights that is celebrated with great enthusiasm in New Delhi.
• Holi – The festival of colors that is celebrated in March every year.
• Eid-ul-Fitr – A significant Muslim festival that marks the end of the month of Ramadan.
• Dussehra – The festival that marks the victory of good over evil.
• Republic Day – The national holiday that commemorates the adoption of the Indian Constitution.

In conclusion, New Delhi is a majestic city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern lifestyle. It is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to explore the rich cultural heritage of India.

How to Make the Most of Your Time as a Tourist in New Delhi

New Delhi, the capital city of India, is an enticing destination with a culture and heritage that is unmatched anywhere else. A vibrant city with a plethora of historical landmarks and magnificent structures, New Delhi is a treasure trove of experiences for tourists. With so much to do and see, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. To help you spend your time in New Delhi efficiently, follow this guide.

1. Visit Historical Landmarks

New Delhi is renowned for its striking architecture, reflecting the numerous empires that have ruled the city. Be sure to set aside time to visit some of the historical landmarks that make New Delhi such a popular tourist destination. Here are some of the top historical landmarks to visit:

Jama Masjid

This mosque is a must-visit landmark and is one of the largest mosques in India. It was built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan. The mosque is made of red sandstone and white marble, with a central dome made of marble. When you visit, don’t forget to climb to the top for the panoramic view of the city.

Red Fort

The Red Fort was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century and was the residence for the Mughal Emperors until 1857. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007. You will see the impressive engineering skills and craftsmanship that were put into its construction, including ornate fountains and water channels.

Humayun’s Tomb

Located in South Delhi, Humayun’s Tomb is the final resting place of one of the Mughal emperors, Humayun. It was built by his wife, and the design is thought to have influenced the construction of the Taj Mahal in Agra. The tomb also attracts history lovers as it reflects early Mughal architecture.

2. Explore the Local Markets

New Delhi is home to some of the most vibrant and colorful markets in India. It is said you can find almost anything in these markets. Here are some of the local markets to visit:

Chandni Chowk

Chandni Chowk is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Old Delhi. Its narrow lanes are filled with shops selling jewelry, fabrics, spices, and street food. The market is so busy that you need to keep an eye on your belongings.

Dilli Haat

Dilli Haat is a unique market that combines the best of traditional Indian handicraft with modern amenities. Here, you can shop for Indian handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. The market also has a range of food shops where you can sample delicious street food from all over India.

3. Take a Food Tour

Indian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its spices and flavors. A food tour in New Delhi is a perfect way to explore the city’s culinary delights. Here are some places to add to your food tour itinerary:

Paranthe Wali Gali

Located in Old Delhi, Paranthe Wali Gali is a narrow street famous for serving possibly the best parathas (Indian fried flatbreads) in the city. The street features a collection of shops that serve savory and sweet versions of parathas.

Karim’s

Karim’s is a popular eatery that has been around since the Mughal era. It is renowned for its delicious kebabs and Mughlai cuisine, making it a must-visit for any foodie.

4. Attend a Cultural Event

New Delhi is also known for its diverse and exciting cultural events. Make sure to check out some of the cultural events happening around the city during your trip. Here are some venues where you can experience the rich culture of New Delhi:

India Habitat Centre

India Habitat Centre is a popular venue for contemporary music concerts, art exhibitions and theater performances. The center is a great place to learn about Indian culture and to experience modern India.

The Kingdom of Dreams

The Kingdom of Dreams is a unique entertainment destination that offers shows from across India. The center has cutting-edge technology that makes use of state-of-the-art sets, costumes, and sound to showcase India’s rich cultural diversity.

5. Relax in Local Parks

After a long day of exploring, relax and unwind in one of New Delhi’s beautiful parks. These parks provide green open spaces in the middle of the bustling city. Here are some parks to check out:

Lodi Gardens

Lodi Gardens is a historic park that has tombs, mosques and other architectural structures from the 15th century. It is a great place to jog, relax or even have a picnic.

Deer Park

Deer Park is located in the heart of New Delhi, and its primary attraction is its spectacular greenery and, of course, the deer. It is a great place to escape from the busy city for some peace and tranquility.

Wrap Up

New Delhi offers an array of experiences for visitors to explore. Make sure to visit the historical landmarks, local markets, and try the delicious food. Attending cultural events and relaxing in the local parks is also a great way to experience the vibrant culture of New Delhi. Follow these tips, and you are sure to have an unforgettable time in this beautiful city.