Discover the Soul of India: A Day in Old Delhi
India is more than a destination — it is an experience filled with vibrant colours, centuries of history, unforgettable flavours and warm hospitality. And there is no better place to feel all of it at once than Old Delhi.
Most journeys to India begin in Delhi, and many travellers rush straight on to Agra and Jaipur. That is a mistake. Give Old Delhi a full morning or a day, and your guests will understand India in a way no monument alone can show them.
The lanes of Chandni Chowk
Old Delhi was built in the 17th century as Shahjahanabad, the capital of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan — the same emperor who built the Taj Mahal. Its main street, Chandni Chowk, has been a market for nearly four centuries, and it still feels like one.
Step into the side lanes and each one has its own trade: garlands of marigold and jasmine, wedding finery, silver jewellery, spices piled high in sacks, paper kites and brass. It is busy, colourful and loud — and, with a good local guide leading the way, completely safe and endlessly fascinating.
Chai, sweets and street food
A walk through Old Delhi is also a food tour. Guests can stop for kulhad chai, sweet spiced tea served in a small clay cup, then try freshly fried jalebis, parathas from the famous Paranthe Wali Gali, or rich Mughlai dishes in one of the old family restaurants near Jama Masjid.
We choose clean, well-known places and can arrange vegetarian, Jain or halal food on request — just tell us your guests' preferences when you book.
Jama Masjid
At the heart of Old Delhi stands Jama Masjid, built by Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century and one of the largest mosques in India. Its courtyard can hold thousands of worshippers, and the view of its marble domes and tall minarets is unforgettable.
Visitors of all faiths are welcome outside prayer times. Modest dress is required — shoulders and legs covered — and robes are available at the entrance, as you can see in our guests' photos. Shoes are left at the gate.
The Red Fort
A short ride away is the Red Fort, the Mughal emperors' palace for nearly 200 years and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its massive red sandstone walls, the Lahori Gate and the elegant halls inside tell the story of the Mughal court. Today it is also a national symbol: every year on 15 August, India's Prime Minister raises the national flag here on Independence Day.
The fort is closed on Mondays, so we plan Old Delhi days around that.
Getting around
Old Delhi's lanes are narrow, so the best way to explore is on foot or by cycle rickshaw, with our guide alongside. Around the larger monuments, guests can also ride in comfort on a small electric cart — an easy, relaxed way to see the area, especially for older travellers.
How to include Old Delhi in an India trip
- Golden Triangle: add a half-day or full day in Old Delhi to the classic Delhi–Agra–Jaipur route. See our India page for ideas.
- Fixed departures: our guaranteed group departures include Delhi sightseeing — see Fixed Departures from Manila and India Fixed Departures starting in Delhi.
- Private and tailor-made tours: for families, couples and small groups, we build the day around your guests' pace, interests and food preferences.
Best time to visit is October to March, when Delhi's days are pleasantly warm and dry.
Plan it with Incredible Luxury Holidays
At Incredible Luxury Holidays, we craft memorable journeys across India — cultural discoveries, authentic local experiences and personalised travel arrangements, with our own team on the ground.
Whether you are planning a private holiday, a family journey, a group tour or a tailor-made India itinerary for your clients, let us help you discover India beyond the ordinary.
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