“Where ancient soul meets modern chaos—and every frame tells a story.”

Delhi Is Not Just a City—It’s an Experience

Landing in Delhi feels like stepping into a vibrant, living documentary. It’s fast-paced, loud, bursting with color—and endlessly captivating. Every street tells a story, every monument echoes with history, and every market hums with energy. For photographers and travelers alike, Delhi is one of the most visually and culturally rich cities on the planet.

Visiting India had been on my travel wish list for years, and in March/April 2025, I finally made it happen. I explored the vibrant north, with stops in New Delhi, Dudhwa National Park near the Nepal border, Jaipur, Ranthambore National Park, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, and Agra.

As a seasoned traveler, arriving in New Delhi is like stepping into the heart of India’s layered soul. This mesmerizing capital bursts with millions of faces, fragrances, and sounds—each corner revealing a different chapter of its timeless story. One of the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities, Delhi is a living museum of empires past and present.

Here, Mughal-era masterpieces sit alongside colonial architecture and sleek glass towers, while the streets teem with life that’s chaotic, colorful, and completely captivating. For photographers, it’s a visual playground. For culture seekers, it’s an endless trove. Add to that a culinary scene that rivals any in the world, vibrant festivals throughout the year, and locals whose warmth will stay with you long after you leave—and you’ve got a destination that’s anything but ordinary.

Chances are, if you're headed to northern India, your journey will begin in Delhi. If your itinerary allows, carve out a few days to explore. We barely scratched the surface, and there was still so much left to uncover. That said, take your time—especially if it’s your first visit. Delhi has a rhythm of its own, and it’s best experienced at your own pace.

How to Get a Visa to India (Tourist Visa)

✅ Step 1: Check if you can get an e-Visa

India offers an e-Visa (Electronic Visa) system for citizens of over 150 countries, including the U.S., Canada, the UK, EU countries, Australia, and more. Check if your country is eligible for an Indian e-Visa Eligibility List.

✅ Step 2: Choose the Right Visa Type

For photography, tourism, and general travel, you’ll want the:

e-Tourist Visa – Valid for:
- 30 days (double entry)
- 1 year (multiple entries)
- 5 years (multiple entries)

Choose the 1-year or 5-year if you're planning to return for other projects or extended travel.

✅ Step 3: Apply Online

Go to the official government portal: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in. Make sure you're using the official site—there are many third-party sites that charge extra fees.

Documents You'll Need:

Valid passport (must be valid for at least 6 months with 2 blank pages)
Recent passport-style photo (white background, JPEG format)
Scan of passport’s bio page (PDF format)
Credit/debit card for payment

💸 Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee

Visa fees depend on the duration and nationality. As of now, for U.S. passport holders:

30-day visa: ~$10–25 USD
1-year visa: ~$40 USD
5-year visa: ~$80 USD

🕒 Step 5: Wait for Approval

Processing Time: Usually 3–5 business days (can be faster).
You'll receive your e-Visa via email—print it out and carry it with your passport.

Upon Arrival in India

At immigration, be ready to present:

Your printed e-Visa
Your passport
Your return or onward ticket and hotel booking (these are sometimes requested)

Once they check everything, they’ll stamp your passport—and just like that, you’re ready to start exploring!

ARRIVING IN DELHI

I highly recommend arranging a car service through your hotel for airport pickup. It’s a simple way to avoid the hassle of taxi scams and ensures your arrival starts on a positive note. The service was surprisingly affordable, and as I stepped out of baggage claim, a kind gentleman was waiting for me with a sign bearing my name—smooth, safe, and stress-free.

I recommend grabbing some local currency at the airport—there’s an ATM conveniently located just after you exit baggage claim. Most of the machines I used only dispensed up to 10,000 Rupees per transaction, which is roughly $125. It's a good idea to get some cash early for taxis, tips, or any small purchases where cards might not be accepted.

If you're planning to get a SIM card for your trip, I’d recommend doing it right at the airport. When we arrived, there was a bit of a line at the SIM card counter, so we skipped it—thinking we could easily pick one up in the city center. Big mistake. It turned out to be much harder than expected. So if you need data or plan to use apps like Uber while you're there, it's worth the wait at the airport. Just stick with the queue—you’ll thank yourself later.

TOur Recommendation - Step Into the Heart of Old Delhi with Masterji Kee Haveli

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Delhi, Masterji Kee Haveli’s walking and food tours are an absolute must. This tour is beyond exceptional. I actually took the tour two times, and each time was unique since there are five individuals who give the tours. These immersive, deeply personal tours are filled with rich stories, vibrant sights, and incredible flavors. It’s more than a tour—it’s a journey through time and tradition, led by warm hosts who make you feel like family.

We arranged for a convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, which made the whole experience seamless from start to finish. You can read my full review link to my review of their tours.

What you’ll experience:
✨ Wander through colorful bazaars like the bustling Spice Market and fragrant Flower Market
✨ Taste a variety of local delicacies—each one more delicious than the last
✨ Enjoy a classic rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Old Delhi
✨ Savor a home-cooked meal at the beautiful Haveli—an experience in itself. The best meal in India!

Bonus for photographers?
You’ll capture some of the most authentic and compelling images of daily life, food preparation, and heritage architecture in Delhi. It’s a feast for the senses—and your camera.

Don’t miss this—it’s one of the most enriching, memorable things you can do in the city.

Time Zone

India operates on India Standard Time (IST), which is GMT +5:30. Yes, that half-hour offset might seem unusual—but it's also one of those quirky, fascinating details that make traveling here all the more memorable.

TRAVEL ADAPTERS

No matter where you travel, having the right wall plug adapter is a must to keep your gear powered up. In India, you’ll need a Type D plug adapter. The good news? You won’t need a voltage converter—most modern electronics are built to handle different electrical currents automatically. Just pack the right adapter, and you’re good to go.

IMPRESSIONS OF NEW DELHI AND OTHER THINGS TO KNOW

Delhi is bold, brash, poetic, ancient, and modern—all at once. It might throw you off balance at first. But by the end of your stay, you'll realize: Delhi doesn’t just grow on you—it stays with you.

The first thing you'll notice? The layers of history. Walk through Old Delhi, and you’re stepping into the 17th century: rickshaws dodging spice carts, mosques echoing with prayer calls, and narrow alleys where time stands still. Then jump over to New Delhi, and it’s wide boulevards, leafy embassies, and British colonial grandeur.

Cows – The Sacred Kings of the Road

You’ll see them lounging like royalty in the middle of traffic, completely unfazed by honking cars and scooters whizzing by. In Hinduism, cows are sacred, so they roam freely and are rarely disturbed. Sometimes they’ll block entire lanes, and trust me—everyone just drives around them.

The people of Old Delhi—they are the heartbeat of the city. Especially areas like Chandni Chowk, Daryaganj, and Ballimaran, is home to a rich mix of Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and Jains—all living and working side by side, often in multi-generational homes where courtyards echo with laughter, gossip, and the clang of morning chai cups.

You’ll see men in crisp white kurta-pajamas walking to the mosque, women in bright sarees haggling over spices, and entire families running the same business that their great-grandparents started.

People in Old Delhi are known for their hospitality. They’re proud of their city—and if you show genuine interest, many will go out of their way to help or guide you.

Things to Know

India’s national language is Hindi, and a warm greeting goes a long way. A common way to say hello is “Namaste”—spoken with your hands pressed together at your heart and a slight bow. You may also hear “Namaskaar,” which is another respectful greeting used across the country.

When it comes to water, play it safe. Avoid drinking tap water entirely—even many seasoned travelers prefer to use bottled water for brushing their teeth. Always check that the seal on your bottle is intact before buying, as refilled bottles can occasionally be passed off as new.

Where to Stay: Central Delhi is Your Best Bet

Best Area to Stay: Central Delhi
(Lodhi Colony, Connaught Place, India Gate area)

This central hub offers the perfect base for exploring both Old and New Delhi. You’ll be within easy reach of major monuments, buzzing markets, fantastic restaurants, and some of the city’s best photo ops. It’s a smart, convenient location that keeps you close to the action while offering a comfortable retreat.

Luxury Hotels

The Oberoi, New Delhi – Stylish, serene, and luxurious, with sweeping views of Humayun’s Tomb and the Delhi Golf Course.
The Imperial New Delhi – A British-era classic that feels like stepping into a Raj-era film set. Gorgeous interiors and elegant courtyards.
The Lodhi – Understated luxury with modern design, private plunge pools, and one of the best spas in the city.

Mid-Range Gems

Bloomrooms @ Janpath – Minimalist, bright, and super central. Great for solo travelers or couples.
Haveli Dharampura – Stay inside a restored 200-year-old haveli in Old Delhi. A photographer’s dream.
Pullman New Delhi Aerocity – Ultra-convenient for early flights, with five-star service, beautiful interiors, and great food. Ideal for winding down or freshening up before/after travel.

How Long to Stay & Best Time to Visit

Give yourself at least four to five days to truly experience Delhi. That’ll allow enough time to dive into both Old and New Delhi, join a walking tour or two, and capture those golden hour shots without feeling rushed.

Best Time to Visit: October to March – This is when Delhi is at its most comfortable, with cooler, drier weather and daytime temps in the 70s and 80s—perfect for exploring on foot and shooting outdoors.

Getting Around Delhi

Delhi Metro – Efficient, clean, and covers major areas. Avoid peak rush hours.
Uber & Ola – Available citywide and generally reliable.
Auto Rickshaws – Good for short trips, but always agree on the fare first.
Private Driver – Worth hiring for full-day photography excursions or sunrise sessions.

Where to Eat in New Delhi

Delhi is a culinary wonderland, with flavors as bold and diverse as the city itself. From sizzling street snacks to luxurious fine dining, India’s capital serves up something for every palate—and every budget. Whether you’re nibbling on spicy chaat in a crowded market or savoring a slow-cooked curry in a palace-like restaurant, one thing’s certain: you’ll never go hungry here.

Drink Safety in New Delhi

Avoid tap water—
Always drink bottled or filtered water. Make sure the seal is intact before opening. Most higher-end hotels will provide complimentary filtered water, which is safe to drink.
Skip ice—
Unless you're in a trusted, upscale restaurant or hotel, avoid ice in your drinks. It’s often made from tap water.
Carry purification tablets or a filtered water bottle—
Brands like LifeStraw or GRAYL can be a game changer for peace of mind on the go.

Street Food Tour of Old Delhi
For a truly local (and delicious) adventure, join a guided Old Delhi street food tour like the Masterji Kee Haveli I recommended above. Hop between stalls in a rickshaw and sample beloved snacks like golgappa, jalebi, paratha, and chaat. *Be very careful with what you eat, especially Street food in India.

The vibrant chaos of the markets combined with the burst of flavors is pure magic for your taste buds—and your camera. It’s one of the best ways to dive into Delhi’s culinary scene while experiencing the city like a true local.

Top Places to Eat in New Delhi

1. Indian Accent – The Lodhi - Widely regarded as one of India’s best restaurants, Indian Accent offers a creative, modern take on traditional Indian dishes. Think blue cheese naan and pulled pork phulka tacos—unexpected, refined, and unforgettable.

2. Bukhara – ITC Maurya - A legendary spot for North Indian cuisine, Bukhara is known for its rustic charm and robust flavors. Their dal Bukhara and giant tandoori kebabs are the stuff of culinary legend.

3. Karim’s – Jama Masjid, Old Delhi - A no-frills institution with a long-standing reputation, Karim’s is a must for meat lovers. Tucked into the lanes near Jama Masjid, it’s famous for its mutton korma, kebabs, and naan straight from the tandoor.

Photography Gear Checklist

Whether you're shooting street, architecture, or portraits, here's what you’ll want:

Camera Bodies: Canon R5, Sony A7R V, Nikon Z8, or Fujifilm X-T5
Lenses:
- 16–35mm for wide architecture
- 24–70mm for all-around versatility
- 70–200mm for compression and portraits
- 50mm or 85mm f/1.4 for dreamy bokeh and details
Accessories: ND filters for bright days, circular polarizer for reducing glare, travel tripod, and rain protection.
Extras: Extra batteries, SD cards, and a secure backpack (the street life here is too good to miss!)

Best Photography Locations in Delhi

📍 Humayun’s Tomb – Beautiful symmetry and soft light.
📍 Jama Masjid – Golden hour here is magic.
📍 Chandni Chowk – The heart of Old Delhi. Get ready for colors, characters, and candid street shots.
📍 Lodhi Art District – Graffiti, murals, and urban vibes.
📍 Agrasen ki Baoli – A hidden stepwell with dramatic architecture.
📍 India Gate – Best shot at twilight with reflections and movement.
📍 Qutub Minar – Towering minaret with incredible detail and lightplay.

Final Thoughts & Etiquette Tips

Dress conservatively, especially at religious sites.
Ask before photographing people—most are friendly and curious!
Tip your guides and drivers.
Be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas—especially with gear.
Stay hydrated and carry hand sanitizer. Delhi is an adventure, after all.

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Travel & Photography

My Photography & Travel Guide to Delhi, India