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A budget friendly guide to Old and New Delhi. From affordable food and stays to easy transport and essential backpacker hacks.

The post A Backpacker’s Budget Guide to Navigating Old and New Delhi appeared first on Goats On The Road.

Delhi, India’s huge capital, is a beautiful paradox where old heritage meets contemporary ambition. This makes it a great place for budget-conscious tourists to visit. Delhi is an amazing place for travelers who are ready to brave its crowded streets, fragrant spice shops, and stunning landmarks. Plus, it won’t break the bank. This city rewards those who accept its complexity with wonderful memories and surprisingly cheap experiences, whether you’re meandering through the winding streets of Old Delhi or admiring the colonial grandeur of New Delhi.

Understanding Delhi’s Two Souls

To make the most of their time in Delhi, travelers must know that the city has two very different sides. Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built Old Delhi in the 17th century. It is a busy area with small streets, ancient sites, and busy markets where tradition rules. British architect Edwin Lutyens built New Delhi in the early 1900s. It has broad boulevards, huge parks, and big government buildings that show how ambitious the British were when they colonized India. Understanding this difference helps travelers make smart decisions about where to stay and what to do depending on the kind of setting they want.

Getting There and Airport Transfers

Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi is the main airport for foreign and local visitors. The Airport Express Metro Line is the cheapest route to go to downtown Delhi. It links the airport to New Delhi Railway Station and Connaught Place and takes about 20-25 minutes. If you’re planning to fly to Delhi, you may want to look into Almosafer Flights for good prices and discounts that might help you save money right away. Local buses also run from the airport to different sections of the city, but these take a lot longer and may be hard to figure out for first-time tourists.

Where to Stay – Accommodation for Every Budget

Paharganj (The Backpacker Hub)

Paharganj, which is close to New Delhi Railway Station, is still the best place for backpackers since it has so many hostels, affordable hotels, and travel agencies. Hostels like Zostel and Hosteller Delhi are popular because they include clean rooms, shared kitchens, free Wi-Fi, and chances to meet other travelers. The region is full of life, has a lot of restaurants providing food from all over the world, and has great metro access to attractions in both Old and New Delhi.

Connaught Place (Central and Connected)

Backpackers looking for a nicer place to stay with greater facilities may find mid-range hostels and guesthouses in Connaught Place. This circular market area from the colonial period is in the middle of everything, has cleaner streets, and seems more cosmopolitan. The YWCA International Guest House is a great deal since it has big rooms, free breakfast, and a secure place to stay.

Old Delhi (Immersive Experience)

If you stay at Chandni Chowk, you’ll be in the middle of old Delhi, close to Jama Masjid, Red Fort, and great street food. The lodgings here are more rudimentary, but they’re real and very cheap. Private rooms at guesthouses are available. The continual activity, the call to prayer from Jama Masjid, and the tiny streets all make for a very cultural experience.

Getting Around – Transportation Hacks

Delhi Metro (Your Best Friend)

The best way to bypass this huge city is the Delhi Metro. It’s cheap, fast, and pleasant. Metro prices vary depending on how far you go. They cover most major attractions and areas. You can also buy a metro card at any station kiosk and fill it with some money to avoid having to wait in line for tokens every time you ride. Don’t get the tourist card since it doesn’t function on all lines and isn’t worth the money. The metro runs from around 6 AM to 11 PM. At busy times, trains come every few minutes.

Auto-Rickshaws and Walking

Auto-rickshaws are a great way to get around neighborhoods for short distances, and they’re affordable. To prevent arguments, always ask for the meter or settle the price before you leave. Walking is still the ideal way to see places like Chandni Chowk, Paharganj, and Connaught Place, where you can find hidden treasures and talk to people. Uber is also available around Delhi and has very low pricing.

Read Next: Backpackers Guide To Transportation in India

Exploring Old Delhi – Historical Immersion

Jama Masjid (Architectural Grandeur)

In 1656, Shah Jahan built the Jama Masjid, which is the biggest mosque in India. Anyone may come for free, no matter what religion they are. Dress modestly with covered shoulders and legs, remove shoes before entering, and consider climbing the southern minaret for a little admission charge to experience amazing panoramic views