How to get to Delhi

Delhi is a colourful metropolis and the heart of India, where centuries-old traditions coexist with modern urban culture. If you have decided to travel to Delhi, a multitude of logistical options opens up before you: the city is a major transport hub, receiving flights, trains, and buses from all corners of the country and the world. Discover the most convenient way to reach Delhi so that your acquaintance with the Indian capital begins easily and without unnecessary hassle.

The main aerial gateway to the metropolis is the Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL). It receives regular direct flights from numerous countries in Europe, Asia, and the Americas, making air travel the fastest and most convenient option for most tourists. The airport is distinguished by its modern infrastructure and high level of service.

For those travelling within the country, this aviation hub is also key: it is connected by a dense network of routes with practically all states and major cities. Getting from the terminal to the capital's centre is effortless — passengers have access to the high-speed Airport Express metro line, 24-hour taxis, and buses.

Delhi is one of the largest railway hubs in all of Asia, connecting the capital with practically every, even the most remote, corner of India. The railway here is the most popular and accessible mode of transport, so you can reach the metropolis by train from any point in the country, be it Mumbai, Kolkata, or the cities of Rajasthan. A journey on an Indian train, especially in the comfortable classes of the Rajdhani or Shatabdi expresses, will be a unique experience for a tourist.

Several large terminals operate in the city, distributing the colossal passenger flow. The main one is considered to be New Delhi Railway Station, located in the immediate vicinity of the tourist centre and the metro station. No less important are the historic Old Delhi station, located near the Red Fort, and Hazrat Nizamuddin, where trains from the southern direction often arrive. All stations are integrated into the urban transport network, allowing you to easily reach your hotel by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or metro.

Bus services connect the capital with neighbouring regions via excellent highways, offering tourists a budget-friendly and vibrant way to travel. One of the most popular routes is the trip from the city of Agra: comfortable express buses cover the distance of about 230 kilometres along the modern Yamuna Expressway in just 3–4 hours.

It is no less convenient to arrive via regular services from the city of Aligarh, located 130 kilometres to the southeast, which usually takes no more than four hours. If you are departing from the capital's nearest satellite, the city of Ghaziabad, the journey will cover just a couple of dozen kilometres and take about an hour, allowing you to find yourself in the centre of events almost instantly.

Travelling by car to Delhi allows you to independently plan stops and observe the changing Indian landscapes. The most popular and comfortable route for tourists runs from Agra: thanks to the modern toll road, the Yamuna Expressway, the distance of 230 kilometres is easily covered in 3–4 hours. The road from Aligarh, located approximately 130 kilometres to the southeast, will take about three and a half hours, passing through the colourful settlements of the state of Uttar Pradesh.

If you are heading to the capital from the satellite city of Ghaziabad, the path of about 25–30 kilometres usually takes from 45 minutes to an hour; however, it is worth allowing extra time for possible traffic jams when entering the metropolis. Given the chaotic nature of local traffic, most guests of India prefer not to drive themselves, but to hire a taxi or a car with a driver: this is a comparatively inexpensive and safe way to reach your hotel in comfort.

A trip to Delhi is an exciting adventure that requires certain preparation for maximum comfort. To ensure your introduction to the capital of India goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant impressions, we have compiled a list of the most important recommendations for you.

1. Clothing and Seasonality. The climate in the city varies from very hot summers to cool winters. From April to October, choose loose clothing made of natural cotton or linen. In winter (December-January), evenings can be cold, so a jacket or warm sweater is mandatory. At any time of the year, for walking around the city and visiting temples, dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees.
2. Transport. The fastest, cheapest, and coolest (temperature-wise) way to move around is the modern Delhi Metro, covering all key districts. For short trips, colourful auto-rickshaws (tuk-tuks) are suitable, but the price of the trip must be firmly negotiated before boarding. Popular mobile taxi apps also work excellently here, eliminating the need to bargain.
3. Finances. The national currency is the Indian Rupee. It is better to exchange money at banks or certified exchange points, avoiding street money changers. Major shopping centres and hotels accept cards, but always keep cash with you, preferably in small denominations, for buying souvenirs at markets and paying for minor services.
4. Health and Safety. The main rule: drink only bottled water and check the seal integrity upon purchase. Avoid ice in drinks at street cafes. Pharmacies are frequently found, but it is better to bring a basic kit of medicines (especially for digestion) with you. In crowded places, keep your bag in front of you.
5. Communication. English is widely spoken in the tourism sector: staff at hotels, museums, and restaurants usually speak it well. Knowing a few words in Hindi, for example, the greeting "Namaste" or "Dhanyavad" for thank you, will elicit a smile and goodwill from the locals.
6. Local Etiquette. Upon entering any temple, mosque, or gurdwara, as well as a private home, it is mandatory to remove your shoes. It is customary to greet elders and pass money or food only with the right hand, as the left hand is traditionally considered "impure".
7. What to Avoid. Do not trust strangers who persistently try to direct you to a "government tourist office" or claim that the road to your hotel is blocked — this is a common ploy to impose services. Ignore persistent street vendors; the best remedy is to confidently continue moving without entering into a dialogue.
8. Tip for Photographers. Due to smog and heavy traffic, the best views open up early in the morning. Try to arrive at attractions, such as India Gate or Humayun's Tomb, by opening time. You will not only catch the soft light and relatively clean air but also avoid huge crowds of tourists.

By following these simple practical tips, you will be able to confidently navigate the rhythm of the metropolis and focus on the beauty of the architecture and the richness of the culture. Delhi is a hospitable city for those who respect its traditions and are ready for new discoveries.