My Visit To The Capital

Delhi Travel Guide.
Like so many travellers, Delhi was my first experience of India in 2015.

In a flurry of last minute reading, sections of the lonely planet such as “scams to avoid in Delhi” and questions such as “is Delhi safe for foreigners” had thrown my heart into a bit of a flutter. Directions from my tour company to absolutely not leave the airport terminal until I had been met by the ground rep did not exactly help.

Like many, I was nervous visiting New Delhi for the first time. On my first trip I spent only two days in India’s capital, and did not have to plan my own things to do in Delhi. Along with the others in my group, I was guided through the winding lanes of Old Delhi to the fragrant and colourful spice market, towards the stunning Jameh Masjid mosque. My eyes gawking at the mass of dangling power cables and narrow streets as cycle rickshaws hurried past, threatening to keel over at any time in my jet-lagged brain.

But I also noticed the cold and prying eyes of Old Delhi – the cold, incessant stares that did not seem like the friendly stares one finds in other places in India. Was I not welcome here?

From that first visit, as part of a tour, to many subsequent visits to Delhi (often solo), it has taken me some time to appreciate – and even learn to love – Delhi. Much of that learning has been with the help of tips from friends – both local Delhiites and international friends who know the city. So here is why Delhi is a firm favourite on my India itinerary, and some top tips for things to do in Delhi that will hopefully give you – too – that feeling of appreciation for this crazy city of contrasts.