During winters, the frenetic, centuries-old Delhi is transformed; unexpectedly chilly weather knocks on the door of the usually hot and humid capital. Mornings start with crisp air that makes the exotic scent of roasting coffee beans from local street vendors even more tempting. Suddenly, the old buildings, landmarks, and ancient Mughal architecture start looking more appealing too because obviously, there’s a difference when you roam around the hot streets of Delhi at 40°C and at 20°C. Delhi is much more pleasant to explore in the winter and in this article, we’ll show you which are some of the best places to visit in Delhi in winter.
Helpful Resources If You Visit Delhi In Winter
If you’re looking for an affordable flight to Delhi, this Qatar Airways offer gets you up to 15% off (I use it too to book most of my flights).
Travel insurance, albeit not mandatory is always handy when traveling to India, and if you don’t already have one, SafetyWing offers affordable plans that cover all major medical expenses, and even most miscellaneous travel expenses like lost baggage and delayed flights.
For great accommodation bargains, you can save up to 15% on all properties in Delhi by using our special offer through Booking.com.
And last but not least, don’t forget about your Visa. If you need assistance with getting one, iVisa can take care of all necessary arrangements for you for only a small fee, making the process much easier. Personally, I use their services all the time while traveling and warmly recommend them.
Why Visit Delhi In The Winter?
I’ll start this off by saying what is the biggest drawback of visiting Delhi in the winter. It’s the air pollution that gets to extreme levels because of the increased need for heating and the number of homeless people who burn anything they can get their hands on to keep themselves warm. But that being said, Delhi is a lot more comfortable for exploring in the winter when the weather is not extremely hot and the air is not very humid. As the chilly breeze sweeps over the city’s historical landmarks and cultural treasures, you start to see the real beauty of all these places when you don’t have to rub elbows with other tourists while sweaty and semi-dehydrated…
Now that we covered some basics, let’s get to the most important part of this article; some of the best places to visit in Delhi in winter.
Places To Stay In Delhi
Before we get to some suggestions on places to visit, here are some of the best hotels and areas to stay in when visiting India’s capital.
Luxury Travelers
If you’re a luxury traveler, you’ll probably like some of our favorite choices- The Imperial Hotel, a historic luxury hotel known for its grandeur and excellent service, The Leela Palace, a regal property with top-notch amenities, and The Lodhi, a modern luxury boutique hotel with private plunge pools.
Budget Travelers
If you’re a budget traveler, you’ll be able to find plenty of cheap hotels, guesthouses and hostels in the Paharganj Area or around Karol Bagh. Both neighborhoods are near Delhi’s central area and not very far from the city’s main attractions.
Family Travelers
If you’re traveling with your family the two best choices for you would be the Connaught Place Area located in the heart of Delhi or the urban area of South Delhi (Saket, Greater Kailash). Both areas are very close to some of the city’s tourist attractions and both have plenty of family-friendly hotels to choose from.
Solo Travelers
Last but not least, if you’re a solo traveler, you’ll probably like the area around Hauz Khas Village, a trendy neighborhood with hipster vibes that has plenty of boutique guesthouses and a vibrant social scene or Nehru Place, another lively neighborhood with a mix of budget and mid-range hotels.
Best Tours To Take In Delhi
If you’re looking for a great adventure in the heart of Old Delhi, check out this guided tour that takes you on a journey along some of Delhi’s oldest streets. If you want to see some of the main attractions of Delhi mentioned on this list, check out this sightseeing tour that covers many of the attractions that are mentioned on our list.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a different experience, check out this tour of Delhi’s slums to get a glimpse of the city’s diverging contrasts or if you’re looking to go shopping, check out this shopping tour (having an Indian guide with you can actually come in handy as you are likely to be overcharged as a foreigner if you’re on your own).
Historical Places To Visit In Delhi In Winter
Delhi has no shortage of fascinating historical sites, including monuments of national value, religious sites and temples, museums, and more. Here are some of the most interesting things to do in Delhi in winter when it comes to historical sites.
Red Fort
We start off this list of the best places to visit in Delhi in winter with the Red Fort, a medieval fortification that historically served as the main residence of Mughal emperors that even today serves as a testament to the rich history of India. The fort was erected in the 17th century when the Mughal dynasty decided to move their capital from Agra to Delhi. Visiting the fort gives you a chance to admire one of the most impressive architectural gems of all time and enjoy the panoramic views from the Fort’s ramparts and catch glimpses of Delhi’s modern skyline as the winter sun casts a golden hue over the red sandstone walls.
Qutub Minar
The Qutub Minar is a 73-meter-tall marvel of history that has withstood the test of time since the 12th century. This landmark is a minaret and a victory tower that was built by the Tomar Rajputs who ruled Delhi between the 8th and 12th centuries. Inside the tower, you’ll find a spiral staircase that contains 379 steps that lead to the top while at the foot of the tower, you’ll find the Quwat Ul Islam Mosque. There’s always something special when visiting the Qutub Minar in the winter as the winter sun casts its gentle rays upon the majestic landmark making it come alive with an enchanting glow.
Humayun’s Tomb
In my opinion, Humayun’s Tomb is one of the most underrated historical sites in India. Its beauty and intricate design remain unparalleled to this day. The tomb is an eternal resting place of the Mughal Emperor Humayun, commissioned by his wife, and the first garden tomb on the Indian subcontinent. One thing many people don’t know about this monument is that it served as inspiration for the glorious Taj Mahal which has an almost identical design but is made of white marble instead of Humayun’s Tomb’s red sandstone.
Winter is perhaps the best time to admire the glorious beauty of Humayun’s Tomb as the gentle winter sun brings out the best of the red sandstone and white marble inlays, creating a fascinating play of lights and shadows.
India Gate
As you stroll along the Rajpath, the wide avenue that leads to India Gate, perhaps the country’s most famous war memorial dedicated to the 84,000 Indian Army soldiers who died in WWI and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. you’re enveloped by a spirit of patriotism and admiration. Interestingly, the gate was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens who tried to combine elements of the Arch de Triomphe in Paris and elements of Indian architecture. In the winter, the rows of trees that decorate the boulevard create a serene and picturesque setting, where people often gather to spend time together and enjoy the pleasant winter weather.
Akshardham Temple
It should come as a surprise to no one that Akshardham is one of the best places to visit in Delhi in winter. Entering Akshardham Temple during the winter in Delhi is like stepping into a divine sanctuary where spirituality and architectural brilliance converge. The temple’s grand entrance and intricately carved sandstone and marble are a beautiful architectural expression of Indian mythology. The complex displays more than 1,000 years of traditional and modern Hindu culture, spirituality, and architecture. It’s a bit out of the way (almost at the border between Delhi and Noida) but the trip will be worth your time, I guarantee it.
Lotus Temple
The winter ambiance adds a special charm to the Lotus Temple, a continental Baháʼí House of Worship built in December 1986. The temple is one of the most unusual architectural masterpieces in Delhi (and in the world for that matter). The facade is designed in a way that its appearance resembles a lotus flower and the beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding the Temple just add to the overall serenity and harmony of the complex. If you choose to visit Lotus temple, try to be there around dusk, as the sun sets, adorning the structure in a warm embrace of evening lights, creating an ethereal ambiance that captivates the heart.
National Handicrafts And Handlooms Museum
The National Handicrafts And Handlooms Museum is the largest craft museum in India and showcases the intricate embroidery of Gujarat, the delicate silk weaves of Varanasi, and the exquisite metalwork of Rajasthan. Each exhibit in the museum is a masterpiece of Indian handicrafts, lovingly crafted by skilled artisans who have preserved their ancient craft for centuries. The museum is home to more than 35,000 rare and distinctive handicrafts, including painting, embroidery, textiles, various crafts of clay, stone and wood.
National Gallery of Modern Art
Stretching across 12,000 square meters of exhibition space, the National Gallery is one of the world’s largest galleries and one of the best places to visit in Delhi in winter if the weather gets too cold. The gallery houses 1,700 works by some of the finest Indian painters, including names like Raja Ravi Verma, Nandalal Bose, Gaganendranath Tagore, Abanindranath Tagore, and many others. Embarking on a winter visit to the National Gallery of Modern Art in Delhi is akin to entering a captivating realm of artistic expression and innovation. The gallery is a living canvas of contemporary thought and expression, where each piece opens a gateway to the artist’s soul.
Enjoying Nature
As surprising as it may sound (since Delhi is one of the most crowded cities on Earth), there are many parks where you can just relax and enjoy nature and in this part of the article, we’ll share the best nature places to visit in Delhi in winter.
Lodi Gardens
Situated between Khan Market and Safdarjung’s Tomb, Lodi Gardens is one of Delhi’s most beautiful parks. The park is home to the tombs of several different emperors from the Lodi Dynasty and several different architectural marbles that date back to as early as the 15th century. A walk through the meandering pathways surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees provides visitors a much-needed respite from the urban chaos as the winter sun casts a soft, golden glow over the sprawling lawns and ancient tombs, creating one of Delhi’s most picturesque settings.
Garden Of Five Senses
This list of the best places to visit in Delhi in winter couldn’t be complete without the Garden of Five Senses; a sensory feast, where every step unveils a new facet of nature’s beauty. Commissioned in 2003, the garden consists of several separate sections- Mughal Gardens, bamboo courts, herb gardens, a solar energy park, and plus pools of water lilies. The winter season adds a touch of magic to the already beautiful garden, as the lush foliage and vibrant flowers create a riot of colors that dance before your eyes.
Yamuna Riverfront
Despite the unneglectable pollution modern times have brought to it, the Yamuna River still remains one of the largest, holiest, and strategically most important rivers in the region and its riverfront is one of the best places to visit in Delhi in winter. With the gentle flow of the river and the scenic landscapes, the riverfront remains one of the last corners of serenity in the busy capital. In the winter months, the water takes on a silvery hue, and the surrounding greenery thrives in the mild weather, creating the perfect setting for a leisurely winter stroll.
Deer Park
Known for its friendly inhabitants, Deer Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and animal lovers alike. As its name suggests, the park is home to many deer that are left to roam freely within the park’s lush greenery. Along some of the park’s many winding pathways, visitors get the chance to encounter these graceful creatures. A trip to the park is more recommended during the winter because the summers are too hot while the winter months have pleasant temperatures and the gentle rustling of leaves and the melodious chirping of birds provide a soothing soundtrack to the beautiful surrounding nature.
Winter Festivals and Events
This guide to the best places to visit in Delhi in winter wouldn’t be complete without mentioning a few of Delhi’s most popular traditional winter festivals that you should seriously consider adding to your itinerary.
Delhi International Arts Festival
The Delhi International Art Festival is a celebration of different forms of arts, including mesmerizing dance performances, soul-stirring traditional music, captivating theater plays depicting tales of local folklore, and thought-provoking art exhibitions. It’s a cultural extravaganza that transcends boundaries and brings together artists, performers, and art enthusiasts from different parts of the world.
Surajkund Crafts Mela
The Surajkund Crafts Mela offers visitors the unique chance to experience first-hand India’s artisanal heritage. Every year in February, skilled craftsmen from around the country gather in one of Delhi’s suburbs, Faridabad to showcase their exquisite creations. From intricately woven textiles and delicate pottery to beautiful wooden carvings and vibrant paintings, the festival is a highlight of Indian craftsmanship that showcases the country’s fascinating artistic traditions.
National Street Food Festival
Speaking of places to visit in Delhi in winter, one thing that should certainly be on your list is attending the National Street Food Festival; a festival that will give you a glimpse of the diversity of Indian street food. The festival takes place every year in mid-January and gives you the chance to try out the best Indian street food snacks from all the different regions across the country without ever traveling there.
Street Food & Shopping
Street food and shopping will likely be a part of your Delhi itinerary, regardless of whether you’re looking for places to visit in Delhi in winter, summer or any time in between. Here are a few food & shopping places that should be on the top of your Delhi bucket list.
Dilli Haat
Dilli Haat is an open-air marketplace, where you can find traditional Indian handicrafts, folklore outfits, Indian textiles, artwork, and all kinds of different decorations that make the perfect souvenirs. The best way to describe Dilli Haat is as a melting pot of cultures, where artisans and craftsmen from different regions of India come together to showcase the exquisite creations of their regions but Dilli Haat is not just about shopping; it’s also a culinary delight. The food stalls offer a delectable array of regional cuisines from all over India, allowing visitors to indulge in a gastronomic adventure.
Khan Market
Khan Market is one of Delhi’s most popular street markets where you can find a range of boutiques, specialty shops, jewelry, and handicrafts. In addition to this, Khan Market is also home to some of the most famous street food stalls in Delhi where you can try some of the capital’s most popular street food delights.
Chandni Chowk
No trip to Delhi is complete without Chandni Chowk; Delhi’s ultimate melting pot of flavors, fragrances, and colors, and one of the oldest and largest street markets in Delhi where you can find anything from clothes, handicrafts, and jewelry to wholesale products. Also, the culinary offerings of Chandni Chowk are legendary, with street food stalls dishing out iconic delicacies like parathas, chaats, jalebis, and kebabs.
Day Trips
Lastly, we’ll wrap up this guide to the best places to visit in Delhi in winter with a few day trip ideas you can add to your itinerary, starting with…
Agra
The drive to Agra takes you through the scenic countryside, passing by fields and small villages, offering glimpses of rural life in India, making the day trip from Delhi to Agra one of the most popular choices for travelers. Agra is one of India’s former capitals and home to two UNESCO Heritage Sites- the iconic Taj Mahal and the beautiful Agra Fort.
Jaipur
Visiting Jaipur from Delhi in winter is like embarking on a royal sojourn to a city steeped in history, culture, and vibrant colors. Jaipur, also known as The Pink City is the capital of Rajasthan and the heart of Rajput culture. The city is home to some of India’s most iconic attractions like the magnificent Amber Palace, Nahargarh Fort, the water palace of Jal Mahal, and Jaigarh Fort, just to name a few. The winter months offer the perfect weather to explore these places and immerse yourself in the cultural vibrancy of Jaipur.
Neemrana Fort Palace
The drive from Delhi to Neemrana takes you through the scenic Aravalli hills, offering panoramic views of rugged terrains and rural villages. The majestic fort stands proudly on a hill, overlooking the surrounding countryside as the winter light enhances the beauty of the ancient palace that has been turned into a heritage hotel, offering visitors a chance to experience the regal lifestyle of the past.
Nainital
Visiting Nainital from Delhi is one of the best choices for a winter day trip. The drive from Delhi to Nainital takes you through scenic routes, winding roads, and picturesque landscapes, with snow-capped peaks and lush greenery everywhere along the way. The cool and crisp winter weather sets the stage for outdoor activities like trekking, boating on the lake, and exploring some of Naintal’s most scenic viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas of the Himalayas…
Did you like our list of the best places to visit in Delhi in winter? Which one was your favorite? Do you think there are some other places that should find their way on this list? Feel free to let us know in the comments below.
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