Delhi: Old & New Delhi Private Tour with Rickshaw Ride

Summary

Delhi’s layered stories from Mughal domes to bustling bazaars

You’ll feel Delhi shift under your feet as you move from ancient Mughal towers to noisy markets and quiet memorials. Expect laughter on a rickshaw through Chandni Chowk, moments of silence at Gandhi Smriti, and colors that stick in your memory long after hotel drop-off.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the air shifted — hot and a little dusty, but then you catch a whiff of cardamom or frying dough from somewhere nearby. Our guide, Arun, met us right at the hotel in Delhi (he waved before I even spotted our car), and we set off through traffic that felt like its own living creature. I’d read about Old and New Delhi tours before, but nothing really prepares you for how those worlds collide on the same street.

We started at Qutub Minar — honestly taller than I expected, with these carvings you want to run your fingers over (I did, until Arun gently said not to). The sun was already climbing when we reached Lotus Temple. There was a line snaking around the gardens, so we just stood outside for a bit watching people take photos and kids chasing each other across the grass. It’s quieter than you’d think for such a famous spot. Then came India Gate — families picnicking under trees, vendors selling balloons shaped like animals. The air tasted faintly metallic near the monument, maybe from all the city mixing together.

Lunch was just bottled water in the car (should’ve packed snacks), but Chandni Chowk made up for it. The rickshaw ride is wild — horns blaring, saris brushing past your knees, shopkeepers calling out in Hindi and sometimes English. Arun pointed out the spice market; I sneezed twice just passing by. He laughed and handed me a tissue, saying it happens to everyone their first time. We stopped at Jama Masjid too — shoes off on warm stone steps, flocks of pigeons scattering if you move too fast.

I didn’t expect Gandhi Smriti to hit so hard. It’s quiet there — almost heavy — and people walk slower somehow. There’s this glass case with his glasses inside; it made me stop talking for a minute without realizing it. By Parliament House and Humayun’s Tomb I was tired but still looking out the window trying to hold onto every detail: women in bright scarves waving from mopeds, men arguing gently over tea stalls. And then suddenly we were back at our hotel door again — Delhi still buzzing outside.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Old and New Delhi landmarks

• Pick up from your location
• Visit Qutub Minar
• Visit Lotus Temple
• Visit India Gate
• Visit Humayun's Tomb
• Visit Gandhi Smriti
• Pass by Parliament House
• Rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk
• Visit Jama Masjid
• Pass by Red Fort
• Drop off at your location

Top questions

How long does the Old & New Delhi private tour last?

The full-day tour lasts about 8 hours including pickup and drop-off.

Is hotel pickup included in this Delhi city tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from hotels or locations in Delhi, Gurgaon or Noida.

Do I need to buy tickets for Qutub Minar or Lotus Temple?

No advance ticket needed for Lotus Temple (it’s free); entry fees for Qutub Minar are handled by your guide.

Can I choose between Old Delhi or New Delhi if short on time?

Yes, there is a half-day option focusing on either Old or New Delhi highlights.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?

The tour is wheelchair accessible and transportation options can accommodate wheelchairs.

What should I wear when visiting Jama Masjid?

Wear modest clothing; you’ll need to remove your shoes before entering Jama Masjid.

Are meals included during this day trip?

No meal is provided; bottled water is included but lunch is not part of the package.

Will there be an English-speaking guide throughout?

A live guide accompanies you at all sites; English is spoken throughout the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or airport pickup and drop-off anywhere in Delhi, Gurgaon or Noida; all parking fees and tolls covered; private air-conditioned car with driver; bottled water along the way; live local guide at every stop; plus a rickshaw ride through Old Delhi’s Chandni Chowk before heading back after sightseeing ends.