Delhi: Old & New City Private Tour with Rickshaw Ride & Lunch

Summary

Delhi’s layers—rickshaws, spices, mosques and Mughal echoes

You’ll wind through Old Delhi’s wild lanes by rickshaw, taste sweets straight from century-old stalls, walk barefoot inside Jama Masjid, breathe in spice market air and wander Mughal gardens—all with a local guide who keeps things real. Expect laughter, surprises, street food (and maybe chili powder tears), plus hotel pickup so you can just dive in.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the smell—cardamom and frying batter hitting me as we squeezed into Old Delhi. Our guide, Ajay, waved us over to a rickshaw that looked like it had seen decades of monsoons. The driver grinned (missing two teeth but honestly, best smile ever) and off we went, dodging cows and wedding bands. Chandni Chowk felt like a movie set: wires overhead, shouts in Hindi, flashes of sari color. At one point we stopped for jalebi from a vendor who said his family had been making them since “before independence.” I burned my tongue but it was worth it.

Inside Jama Masjid, we padded barefoot across cool stone while kids chased pigeons in the courtyard. Ajay explained why everyone covers up here—I tried to wrap my scarf properly and failed spectacularly (he fixed it for me). The call to prayer echoed off the domes; I just stood there breathing in incense and dust. It’s hard to describe how busy Delhi feels until you’re right there—horns blaring outside while inside the mosque it’s all hush and marble.

Later we slipped into Khari Baoli spice market. My eyes watered from chili powder in the air—seriously, don’t rub your nose—and sacks of turmeric spilled yellow onto the ground. We sampled parathas in Parathe Wali Gali; Ajay insisted I try one with paneer even though I was already full (he was right). The Red Fort loomed up out of nowhere through traffic haze—so massive you feel tiny next to its walls. There were families picnicking on the grass and a kid selling postcards who kept calling me “aunty,” which made me laugh.

The afternoon drifted through Humayun’s Tomb gardens where everything suddenly got quiet except for birdsong. Sunlight slid over red sandstone arches—Ajay told stories about Mughal emperors that made history feel close enough to touch. By the time we reached India Gate and Parliament House, my feet hurt but I didn’t care. On the drive back, Delhi’s chaos faded behind glass windows and I realized I’d only scratched the surface—you know? Still thinking about that jalebi.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Old and New Delhi highlights

• Pickup from hotel or airport
• Visit Jama Masjid mosque
• Enjoy rickshaw ride in Old Delhi
• Explore Chandni Chowk market
• Visit Khari Baoli spice market
• Pass by Red Fort
• Visit Agrasen ki Baoli step-well
• Visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
• Visit India Gate memorial
• Pass by Parliament House
• Pass by President's House
• Visit Humayun's Tomb
• Visit Gandhi Smriti memorial
• Visit Lotus Temple
• Visit Qutub Minar tower
• Drop off at desired location

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Delhi private tour?

Yes, pickup is included from your hotel or other preferred location in Delhi, Noida or Gurugram.

How long does the full day Delhi city tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours depending on traffic and how much time you spend at each site.

Are entrance fees included?

If you select the all-inclusive option when booking, entrance fees are covered.

Is lunch provided during the day trip?

Yes—a multi-cuisine lunch at a reputable restaurant is included if you choose that option.

Can I customize which sites we visit?

Yes—the itinerary is flexible; let your guide know if there are places you want to skip or add.

Is this private tour suitable for families with children?

Definitely—the rickshaw ride and colorful markets are popular with kids of all ages.

What should I wear for visiting religious sites like Jama Masjid?

You’ll need to dress modestly; traditional clothes are required and shoes must be removed inside Jama Masjid.

Does this day trip include both Old Delhi and New Delhi attractions?

Yes—you’ll explore highlights from both parts of the city including monuments like Red Fort and Humayun's Tomb.

What’s included

Your day includes private hotel pickup and drop-off anywhere in Delhi NCR, all sightseeing by air-conditioned car with a professional local guide who knows every shortcut through traffic jams, entry fees if you pick that option when booking, an Old Delhi rickshaw ride (hang on tight), bottled water along the way, plus a proper lunch at a clean restaurant before heading back home stuffed and happy.