Delhi from Ahmedabad: where to stay and what to do
A short flight from Ahmedabad takes you to Delhi, a city of Mughal monuments, lively bazaars and diverse cuisine.
Getting there from Ahmedabad
Non-stop flights from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD) to Indira Gandhi International Airport take roughly one hour and forty minutes. Several airlines operate this route. Check current schedules and book in advance, especially during peak travel months. The airport in Delhi is well connected to the city by metro, taxis and app-based cabs. Indian citizens do not need a visa or passport for domestic travel. Carry a government-issued photo ID such as an Aadhaar card, voter ID or driving licence for flight check-in and security.
Trains also run between Ahmedabad and Delhi, but the journey takes around twelve to fourteen hours. For a short trip, flying is the more practical option. Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport has three terminals; domestic flights usually arrive at Terminal 1 or 2, while international flights use Terminal 3. The airport metro station connects to the Blue Line, making it easy to reach central areas like Connaught Place within about thirty minutes.
Areas to stay
Connaught Place is the commercial heart of New Delhi, with easy metro access and a range of accommodation from mid-range to luxury. South Delhi, including areas like Hauz Khas and Saket, offers quieter neighbourhoods with parks, cafes and good metro links. Aerocity, near the airport, is convenient for late arrivals or early departures, with many hotels and a direct metro line. Paharganj, near New Delhi Railway Station, is a budget traveller hub with simple guesthouses and a lively street scene.
Karol Bagh has a mix of mid-range hotels and local markets. Old Delhi, around Chandni Chowk, is chaotic but immersive, close to the Red Fort and Jama Masjid. Choose based on your itinerary and budget. Each area has its own character: Connaught Place for convenience, South Delhi for a relaxed vibe, Old Delhi for history, and Aerocity for transit stays. Paharganj is ideal if you are on a tight budget and want to be near the railway station.
- Connaught Place: central, metro hub, wide range of hotels.
- South Delhi: leafy, good metro, quieter than central areas.
- Aerocity: near airport, convenient for short stays.
- Paharganj: budget options, close to New Delhi station.
- Old Delhi: historic, chaotic, close to major monuments.
What to do
Delhi's Mughal monuments are a highlight. The Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was the main residence of Mughal emperors. Jama Masjid, one of India's largest mosques, offers views from its minaret. Humayun's Tomb, also UNESCO-listed, inspired the Taj Mahal. Qutub Minar, another UNESCO site, is a 73-metre tower from the 12th century. The India Gate war memorial and the President's House (Rashtrapati Bhavan) are landmarks from the British era. Old Delhi's narrow lanes around Chandni Chowk are a sensory experience.
Take a cycle-rickshaw ride through the bazaars. Visit the spice market at Khari Baoli. The National Museum and the Gandhi Smriti museum offer cultural depth. For modern Delhi, explore Lodhi Garden, the Hauz Khas village ruins and the contemporary art galleries in the city. Delhi also has several temples worth visiting, such as the Lotus Temple and Akshardham Temple. If you have time, consider a day trip to Agra to see the Taj Mahal, which is about three hours away by train or car.
Food in Delhi
Delhi's food scene is diverse and largely non-vegetarian, unlike Ahmedabad. Old Delhi is famous for its Mughlai cuisine. Try butter chicken, kebabs, biryani and nihari. Street food includes chole bhature, aloo tikki, golgappa and parathas from Paranthe Wali Gali. The city also has excellent South Indian, Punjabi and international options. For a sweet finish, try jalebi, rabri or kulfi. Chandni Chowk's narrow lanes are packed with food stalls that have been running for generations.
Connaught Place and Khan Market have cafes and restaurants serving global cuisines. Delhi is also known for its dhaba-style eateries in areas like Daryaganj and Pandara Road Market. The city's food reflects its history as a Mughal capital and a modern metropolis. Vegetarians will find plenty of options too, including paneer dishes, dal makhani and stuffed parathas. The street food in Old Delhi is particularly famous and should not be missed on any visit.
- Butter chicken and kebabs are Delhi signatures.
- Old Delhi's street food is a must-try experience.
- Paranthe Wali Gali offers stuffed flatbreads since the 1870s.
- Chandni Chowk has many century-old sweet shops.
Getting around and practical tips
Delhi's metro is efficient and covers most tourist areas. Buy a tourist card for unlimited rides. Auto-rickshaws and app-based cabs are widely available. Negotiate fares for autos or use a metered service. The city has a bus network, but it can be crowded. Walking is possible in central areas but be cautious of traffic. Smog is common in November and December. Carry a mask if you are sensitive to air pollution. October to March is the best time to visit, with pleasant weather.
Delhi is also a gateway to Agra (Taj Mahal) and Jaipur, both about a three- to four-hour drive or train ride. Plan a day trip or an extended Rajasthan itinerary. Carry a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated. Keep a copy of your ID and travel documents handy. Delhi is generally safe, but take usual precautions. Avoid isolated areas at night and keep valuables secure. The city's traffic can be heavy, so allow extra time for travel between attractions.









