Delhi
If you’ve done any reading about Delhi, you’ve probably heard already that it is a city of contrasts. Old monuments and new buildings; hot, hot summers and chilly winters; luxurious but stark; rich but struggling; elegant yet rustic. I’m here to tell you – it’s all true. While it can be maddening, you’ll also find a moment or two when it calms the soul. It’s not the kind of place that you either love or hate – very likely, you will love it AND hate it simultaneously. And if you feel like you’ve had enough and it’s time to leave, that’s probably a sign that at some point you’ll also want to come back.
Delhi, India: Guide For Women Travellers
If you’ve done any reading about Delhi, you’ve probably heard already that it is a city of contrasts. Old monuments and new buildings; hot, hot summers and chilly winters; luxurious but stark; rich but struggling; elegant yet rustic.
Where to Stay
General Zones & What They Offer The residential parts of Delhi for visitors are mostly Central & South Delhi, as well as the Chankyapuri area near the army areas and the airport, where 5-star hotels line up like soldiers. Staying in an area like GK (Greater Kailash) or Hauz Khas Village means that you can…
Customs & Cultures
The People India has more spoken languages than a nomad has luggage stickers on a suitcase. In Delhi, Hindi is spoken and understood by almost everyone. English is commonly spoken (don’t ask a neighbouring table at a café how their English is so good; it was after all our medium of education) and for those…
Essentials
What to Pack Pack as you normally would, and ensure you have sunscreen. Public loos may or may not be in a great shape; I like to keep hand sanitiser as well as a pack of baby wipes handy at all times. For more public toilet tips, read How to Survive a Foreign Toilet. What…
Getting There & Around
From the airport to the city At both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, there is a pre-paid taxi counter within the terminal right after baggage claim with a choice of air-conditioned and non air-conditioned cars. There will be two taxi desks right outside the terminal when you step out. These belong to Meru Cabs and…
Dangers & Annoyances
Common scams As a visitor to India, you may have your haggling boots on but no matter how good you are at bargaining, you’ll find yourself well matched to say the least. The slightest hint of an accent that is non-desi (desi means ‘Indian local’ loosely), and you’re almost certain to be quoted a price…
Health & Emergencies
Over-the-counter Medication There are plenty of pharmacies all over the city – taking care of people’s health is good business. Watch out for chemists or pharmacists that offer discounts on medicines – you want to be sure that the drugs are not spurious or placebos. Stick to well-known names like Apollo Pharmacy, Religare, Guardian Pharmacy…
Other Useful Information
adies, while it may be tempting to have a romantic tryst while you’re in a land far away, rely on your judgment. I’d say this to you in any part of the world, and especially in India, where casual encounters are less popular than many other countries. Given how Tinder has taken over the consciousness…
Recommended Websites
Websites that provide up to date information on eating, drinking, and going out in Delhi: Activities – Little Black Book Delhi and What’s Hot Nightlife – Little Black Book Delhi Food – Little Black Book Delhi and Chef at Large City travel articles – Travel + Leisure Local Experts Program Websites & Blogs – Seek…
Recommended Apps
Transport & getting around – Ola Cabs and Meru Cabs and Uber Maps – Google Maps and MapMyIndia Guides – Triposo Safety – Times of India article on this Food & entertainment – Zomato (Restaurant Finder) Travel bookings – Cleartrip