Delhi is an expansive metropolitan area in the north of India with a population of over 32 million people. If you’re planning a trip to this part of India, it’s only natural to be nervous about how you’ll navigate such a densely populated city. Don’t wait until you arrive to make travel plans. Instead, familiarize yourself with these standard transportation options below. You might then be able to explore everything Delhi has to offer with confidence.
Rental Cars
When you travel in Delhi, you’ll see no shortage of people biking to get to their destinations. However, if you’re not confident navigating the busy streets by yourself, consider hiring a rental car. You might like to lease a car that you can drive yourself, or if you’re unfamiliar with traffic laws in India, you might want to rent a car with a hired chauffeur to take you to the best tourist attractions.
Buses
Buses connect multiple parts of Delhi to ensure as many residents as possible can get to their preferred destinations without having to own vehicles. Traveling by bus is also affordable, which might pique your interest if you’re traveling on a budget.
However, it’s important to note that traveling by bus in Delhi and other parts of India isn’t always comfortable. Buses can often be overcrowded, and not all have air conditioning. Bus routes also aren’t well sign-posted, and you generally have to ask people or check online to know when to expect buses to arrive.
Metro
If you need a fast, affordable way to get around Delhi, don’t look past the Delhi Metro. The Delhi Metro is an intra-city rail network with at least six lines offering transportation. If you plan on being in Delhi for an extended period, you can purchase a smart card for discounts. Alternatively, you can buy a tourist card that offers unlimited travel for two to three days.
Rickshaws
When you want an authentic Indian experience on your travels through Delhi, explore your rickshaw options. Auto rickshaws are among the most popular and are also known to be reasonably affordable. However, some drivers are known to overcharge, so you might like to visit a prepaid auto stand operated by the Delhi Traffic Police.
Alternatively, if you only need to travel a short distance or visit narrower parts of the area, consider booking a ride on a cycle rickshaw. You can negotiate a fare with the operator and explore parts of Delhi that might not be accessible by a rental car, bus, or metro.
On Foot
A rental car will be one of the best options for getting to and from major tourist destinations miles apart, but inner-city exploring might be much easier on foot. Many of the best shops and attractions are within walking distance of each other, and you can immerse yourself in the culture and everyday life of Delhi residents along the way. Since there are many unsafe drivers in Delhi, it’s essential to have your wits about you and stick to pedestrian-friendly walking areas.
Navigating some of the busiest cities in the world isn’t always easy, but it doesn’t have to be as stressful as you think. Research your options before traveling, consider hiring someone to drive for you, and take care. You might then be more prepared for exploring than you think.
