Delhi: Layers of History
Eight cities, three empires — the full Delhi story
Tour Highlights
- Red Fort — Mughal imperial palace and UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Qutb Minar — tallest minaret in India (UNESCO)
- Humayun's Tomb — prototype for the Taj Mahal
- India Gate and Lutyens' New Delhi on a twilight drive
- Mehrauli Archaeological Park — ruins spanning 1,000 years
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Delhi — New Delhi Overview
Private airport transfer to hotel. Afternoon orientation drive through Lutyens' New Delhi: India Gate, the Presidential Palace (Rashtrapati Bhavan), Parliament House, and Connaught Place. Evening at leisure.
Old Delhi — Mughal Heart of the City
Morning at the Red Fort (UNESCO) — the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan's imperial palace complex, built between 1638–1648. Rickshaw ride through Old Delhi's narrow lanes: spice market, silver bazaar, and the Jama Masjid — India's largest mosque. Lunch at a centuries-old Old Delhi restaurant.
Mehrauli — The First City of Delhi
Visit Mehrauli Archaeological Park — 700 acres containing over 400 monuments spanning 1,000 years. The centrepiece: Qutb Minar (UNESCO), a 73-metre minaret built in 1193 AD. Explore the Iron Pillar, Alai Darwaza, and Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque — the first mosque built in India.
Mughal Legacy — Humayun's Tomb & Lodhi Garden
Morning at Humayun's Tomb (UNESCO) — built in 1570, the prototype for the Taj Mahal. Afternoon in the serene Lodhi Garden, dotted with 15th-century Sayyid and Lodhi tombs amid landscaped greenery. Visit Safdarjung's Tomb.
Delhi — Colonial & Partition History
Morning at Purana Qila (Old Fort) — one of the oldest forts in Delhi, covering the mythological site of Indraprastha. Afternoon visit to the Partition Museum and a guided walk through Civil Lines, Delhi's colonial bungalow district. Evening: panoramic sunset drive.
Delhi — Departure
Morning at leisure. Last-minute shopping at Dilli Haat or Khan Market. Transfer to Delhi airport for onward journey.
What's Included
Included
- 5 nights in 4–5 star hotels in Delhi
- Daily breakfast
- Private air-conditioned vehicle + driver throughout
- Licensed English-speaking guide throughout
- All monument entrance fees (Red Fort, Qutb Minar, Humayun's Tomb, etc.)
- Old Delhi rickshaw tour
- All transfers
- Bottled water throughout
Not Included
- International or domestic flights
- India visa
- Travel insurance
- Lunches and dinners (unless specified)
- Personal expenses and gratuities
Essential Travel Tips
A few things to know before you travel to India — our team briefs you on all of this (and anything specific to your trip) once your tour is confirmed.
Visa & Entry
Most foreign nationals can apply for an India e-Visa online — apply at least 4–7 days before departure. Keep a printed and digital copy of your visa approval and passport photo page handy for arrival immigration.
Currency & Payments
The Indian Rupee (INR) is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops in cities, but carry some cash for local markets, small vendors, and rural stops. Notify your bank of your travel dates beforehand.
Dress Code
Modest clothing is appreciated at temples, mosques, and religious sites — shoulders and knees covered. Shoes are removed before entering most places of worship, so slip-on footwear is convenient.
Health & Safety
Drink only bottled or filtered water. We recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies. Check with your doctor about routine vaccinations 4–6 weeks before travel.
Staying Connected
Local SIM cards or eSIMs are available at the airport with your passport. Most hotels and our private vehicles offer complimentary WiFi throughout your journey.
Tipping & Etiquette
Tipping is customary but not mandatory — around 10% for guides and drivers is appreciated for good service. A traditional greeting is placing your palms together and saying "Namaste."
Travelled with us on this tour?
We'd love to hear about your experience — a review helps future travellers plan their trip.