Old Delhi Cycling Expedition & New Delhi Tour by Vehicle with Breakfast & Lunch

Exploring Delhi: A Perfect Mix of Old and New

This tour offers an excellent way to see Delhi’s fascinating blend of history and modernity in one day. It combines a cycling adventure through Old Delhi’s narrow streets with a comfortable vehicle drive past iconic New Delhi landmarks. The experience starts early, with pickup from your hotel, and takes you on a journey through centuries of Indian history—all while offering a taste of local cuisine.

What we love most about this experience is the combination of active exploration and relaxed sightseeing — cycling through bustling markets and historic sites, then hopping into an air-conditioned vehicle for the grander, more spacious sights of New Delhi. One potential consideration is that the tour involves moderate physical activity, making it best suited for those comfortable with biking and walking. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers eager to get a genuine feel of Delhi’s contrasts, especially those who appreciate a mix of culture and comfort.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, well-organized day trip that balances history, culture, and food, this tour has a lot to offer. It’s particularly ideal for adventurous travelers who want to see the city at a more intimate level without sacrificing the comforts of guided transport and good food.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining cycling through Old Delhi and sightseeing by vehicle in New Delhi.
• Includes breakfast and lunch, giving you a taste of authentic North Indian cuisine.
• Visit UNESCO sites like Red Fort, Humayuns Tomb, and Qutub Minar.
• Small group experience for a more personal, engaging tour.
• Comfortable transportation in a private air-conditioned vehicle.
• Early start at 5:30 am maximizes your sightseeing time.

Detailed Review of the Delhi Experience

Starting the Day: Early Pickup and Excursion to Old Delhi

The tour kicks off in the early morning at 5:30 am, which initially feels quite early but pays off by giving you a head start before the city gets too busy. Your guide, typically an English speaker, will meet you at your hotel and whisk you away in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a smooth transition into the day’s activities.

This early start also minimizes the heat and crowds, especially in Old Delhi’s winding lanes—a big plus when cycling through bustling markets and historic sites. The tour is designed to be comfortable, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, saving you the hassle of navigating Delhi’s chaotic streets on your own.

Cycling through Old Delhi’s Historic Core

The highlight of the trip is definitely the bike ride through Old Delhi. You’ll pedal past some of the city’s most famous sights, including the Red Fort, a splendid red sandstone fortress that marks the end of Mughal rule. Our guide shared that the fort’s massive walls and intricate architecture are even more impressive up close, allowing for great photo opportunities.

Next, you’ll pass Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque, capable of hosting over 25,000 worshippers. It’s a grand sight, with its expansive courtyard and towering minarets. Pedaling through Chandni Chowk, the city’s oldest market, feels like stepping into a living, breathing history book. Narrow lanes lined with old houses, small shops, and street vendors create a chaotic yet charming atmosphere. One reviewer mentioned, “Cycling here feels like moving through a living museum, and it’s fascinating to see how locals live and work in these tight spaces.”

The breakfast at Chandni Chowk is a memorable part of the tour, featuring traditional North Indian fare. While the beverage isn’t included, the food is authentic, flavorful, and a great way to reset after cycling through the busy streets.

Transition to New Delhi: Landmarks by Car

After the energetic morning in Old Delhi, you’ll hop into your private vehicle for the drive to New Delhi. The drive across the city takes around 20 minutes and offers a chance to relax and prepare for the next set of sights.

Your first stop is India Gate, the grand war memorial that’s often compared to the Arc de Triomphe. Its impressive size and central location make it a perfect photo opportunity. The nearby Rajpath avenue is lined with government buildings and lush lawns, giving you a taste of the city’s modern grandeur.

Next, you’ll glimpse the Presidential Palace, one of the largest residences of a Head of State in the world. Although tours inside the residence aren’t included, viewing it from outside is a treat in itself, especially with the sprawling gardens and stately architecture.

The tour also includes an exterior visit to Humayun’s Tomb, another UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its Mughal architecture and beautiful gardens. It’s often called the precursor to the Taj Mahal, and many travelers find it a peaceful, inspiring stop.

Visiting Qutub Minar and the Archaeological Site

Heading south, you’ll explore the Mehrauli Archaeological Park, home to the Qutub Minar, an incredible 240-foot-tall brick tower built in the 12th century. It’s the tallest brick minaret in the world, and its intricate carvings and impressive height make it a favorite among visitors. One reviewer noted that “Qutub Minar is awe-inspiring, especially when you realize it’s over 800 years old.” Since entry isn’t included, you might want to budget separately if you wish to explore the interior or grounds more extensively.

Lunch and Relaxation

After a full morning of sightseeing, the tour concludes with a lunch at a local restaurant. The menu isn’t specified, but typically features North Indian dishes—think curries, naan, and rice. The beverage isn’t included, so you might consider ordering some chai or lassi to keep you energized.

End of Tour and Return to Hotel

Post-lunch, you’ll be driven back to your hotel, typically completing the day around early afternoon. The overall timing makes it feasible to add other activities or relax after a full day of sightseeing.

What’s Included and What To Consider

This tour offers great value through its all-inclusive package: private transport, a local guide, bicycle, helmets, breakfast, and lunch. The cost of $351 per person reflects a premium experience, but considering the convenience and breadth of sights covered, it’s a fair price.

The tour is best suited for travelers who are comfortable biking and walking, as it involves moderate physical activity. The early start might be a challenge for some, but it does allow for a less crowded, cooler experience. Keep in mind that shopping is not part of the itinerary, and the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This experience delivers a well-rounded look at Delhi’s contrasts—vivid, lively Old Delhi on a bicycle, complemented by the grand, spacious avenues of New Delhi. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine active exploration with cultural and historical sightseeing in a single day. The inclusion of breakfast and lunch offers a taste of local flavors, adding authenticity to the trip.

The small group setting and private transport make for an intimate, comfortable adventure, especially valuable in a city as bustling as Delhi. While the early start may be a challenge, it’s a small price to pay for the quieter, cooler morning hours to explore.

This tour is ideal for active travelers, history buffs, and those eager to experience Delhi beyond the typical tourist spots, in a way that’s both educational and fun.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, making it convenient and comfortable.

What is the tour start time? The tour begins at 5:30 am, which is early but designed to maximize sightseeing before the city warms up.

Is this tour suitable for people unfamiliar with biking? It’s designed for those comfortable riding bikes, with a moderate level of physical activity involved. It’s not recommended for complete beginners.

How long does the entire tour last? The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, ending in the early afternoon.

Are meals included? Yes, breakfast in Old Delhi and lunch are included, excluding beverages.

Are UNESCO sites included in the tour? Yes, the Red Fort, Humayuns Tomb, and Qutub Minar are UNESCO World Heritage sites visited during the day.

Can I shop during this tour? Shopping is not part of this experience, and most markets don’t open until later in the morning.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women? No, it is not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems due to the physical elements involved.

What should I wear? Comfortable clothing suitable for biking and walking, plus a hat and sunscreen, are advised.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a wonderful snapshot of Delhi’s essence—its history, architecture, and vibrant street life—delivered in a well-organized, engaging way. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or an active traveler, it’s a compelling choice to experience Delhi’s contrasting worlds in one memorable day.