Private City Tour of New Delhi and Old Delhi

Exploring Delhi: A private tour that covers Old and New Delhi in one day

If you’re planning a trip to India’s bustling capital, this Private City Tour of New Delhi and Old Delhi offers a way to see much of what makes the city unique without the stress of navigating on your own. For around $43 per person, you’ll enjoy a full day of guided sightseeing, private transportation, and a chance to experience historic sites, vibrant markets, and iconic monuments. With a solid 5-star rating from 19 reviews and a consistent 100% recommendation rate, this tour seems to strike a good balance between value and authentic exploration.

One thing we especially appreciate is the personalized experience — it’s just your group with a guide dedicated to answering your questions and making the day tailored to your interests. Plus, the included transportation means you won’t need to worry about crowded public transit amid Delhi’s busy streets. A minor consideration might be the pace — with so many sites packed into eight hours, you’ll want to stay energized and be ready for some walking and vehicle hopping. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, stress-free introduction to Delhi with knowledgeable guides helping decode its history and culture.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience that caters to your group’s pace and interests
• All-inclusive transportation with unlimited mineral water for comfort
• Visits to iconic sites like Jama Masjid, India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, and Lotus Temple
• A focus on authentic highlights with opportunities to explore markets and learn from expert guides
• Lunch is optional and paid separately, giving flexibility to choose your preferred meal
• Designed for travelers who want a full-day overview without the hassle of planning

An in-depth look at what makes this Delhi tour special

The value of a private guide and transportation

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is that it’s just for your group. No sharing with strangers, no waiting around for others to catch up — you get the undivided attention of your guide, Ankush, who has been praised for being both knowledgeable and friendly. Multiple reviewers mentioned how their guides shared small, engaging facts, turning each site into a storytelling session. This personalized touch means you’re more likely to ask questions and really understand the significance of each landmark.

The private vehicle is air-conditioned, a real blessing considering Delhi’s often warm climate. The driver, Salamat, was noted for being punctual and patient, navigating Delhi’s notorious traffic with experience. The unlimited mineral water on board is a small but appreciated perk, especially if you’re sightseeing on a hot day.

The itinerary: What you’ll see and why it matters

Jama Masjid: Your journey begins at this grand mosque, built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan between 1644 and 1656. Its construction cost was around 1 million rupees, and it took over 5000 workers to complete. As one of the largest mosques in India, Jama Masjid is a sight to behold—its massive courtyard, intricate architecture, and the lively street life surrounding it make it a perfect first stop. One reviewer called the experience “cool,” especially walking through the narrow, winding streets of Chandni Chowk nearby, known for its wholesale spices and food markets.

Chandni Chowk: This historic market adds sensory overload with its vivid spices, nuts, herbs, and traditional Indian snacks. Reviewers loved walking through the bustling alleys, feeling like they stepped back in time. Be prepared for narrow streets, a chaotic but fascinating scene that’s a highlight for those wanting authentic Delhi.

India Gate: Moving to the newer part of Delhi, the India Gate commemorates soldiers of the British Indian Army. Built in 1921 by Edwin Lutyens, it’s less about the structure itself and more about the emotional weight it carries—remembering those who fought in the wars. Many reviewers appreciated the drive past the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President’s official residence, which lends a sense of the city’s political heart.

Humayun’s Tomb: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a stunning example of Mughal architecture, predating the Taj Mahal. Commissioned by Humayun’s first wife, Bega Begum, it’s notable for its symmetrical gardens and elegant domed structure. Visitors mention it as a peaceful, beautiful spot, perfect for photos and reflection.

Lunch Break: After Humayun’s Tomb, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a local Indian buffet at a well-known Delhi restaurant. While lunch isn’t included in the tour price, reviewers consistently found this a worthwhile part of the experience—an opportunity to recharge and sample authentic cuisine.

Qutub Minar: Standing tall at 73 meters, this red and buff sandstone tower is the tallest brick minaret in India. Built in 1199 by Qutb-ud-Din Aibak, it marks the beginning of Islamic rule in Delhi. The intricate carvings and the lush surrounding complex make it a favorite among visitors for its historical significance and striking appearance.

Lotus Temple: Your final stop is this distinctive Bahá’í House of Worship, shaped like a giant lotus flower. Dressed in white marble, it’s a peaceful sanctuary surrounded by lush gardens. Reviewers mention that its design makes it one of Delhi’s most recognizable landmarks, and it’s a perfect spot to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

How the tour really works for travelers

Most guests have lauded the timeliness and expertise of their guides. One said, “My guide Ankush was extremely informative and told us interesting little facts at all the sights,” which is a good sign that you’ll walk away with more than just surface-level knowledge. The flexibility of being in a private vehicle means you can spend more or less time at each site depending on your interests.

While the tour covers many of the major highlights, it’s worth noting that monument entrance fees are not included. This is typical for many guided tours, allowing you to choose whether to explore further or skip certain sites. Reviewers recommend arriving with comfortable shoes and an appetite for walking, especially in crowded areas like Chandni Chowk.

Pricing and overall value

At around $42.67 per person, this tour offers strong value considering it includes private transportation, a dedicated guide, and multiple major sights. The reviews highlight that the guides are well-informed, making the price an excellent deal for travelers eager to learn and see without the hassle of figuring out transport or navigation themselves.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Delhi’s diverse attractions. It’s also perfect for those who prefer a private, tailored experience rather than group tours. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or a partner, the private setup makes it easy to customize the pace.

Final impressions

This private Delhi tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into both Old and New Delhi’s most iconic sights. The inclusion of knowledgeable guides, private transportation, and a carefully curated itinerary makes it a convenient and educational choice for travelers who want to maximize their day.

You’ll love the way each site is explained and brought to life by experienced guides like Ankush, who turn what could be just another sightseeing trip into a memorable cultural introduction. The flexibility in timing and the chance to ask questions adds genuine value, making it suitable for curious travelers eager to deepen their understanding of Delhi’s history.

While not including monument entrance fees might seem like a minor inconvenience, it allows you to decide where to spend extra if you wish—an advantage for those wanting to tailor their experience.

This tour strikes a practical balance between comprehensive coverage and personal attention, making it a solid choice for those eager to explore Delhi efficiently and authentically.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, as it’s designed for a broad audience. The tour involves some walking and vehicle rides, so comfortable shoes and a reasonable fitness level are recommended.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers private air-conditioned transportation, a professional guide, parking, taxes, and unlimited mineral water. Lunch and monument entrance fees are paid separately.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private experience, you can discuss with your guide about spending more time at certain sites or skipping others if you prefer.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:00 am, making it a full-day experience that covers major sights comfortably before evening.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for monuments are not included, so you might want to bring extra or plan accordingly if you wish to go inside specific sites.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 8 hours, including visits, lunch, and travel time, giving you a thorough overview without feeling rushed.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not part of the tour price, but there are recommended restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Indian cuisine.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. Many sites, like Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, and Lotus Temple, are photogenic with great angles for photos. Just be mindful of your guide’s schedule at each stop.

Choosing a guided private tour of Delhi like this makes exploring the city less overwhelming and more enriching. With knowledgeable guides, flexible planning, and all the logistics handled, you can focus on soaking up the sights and stories that make Delhi such a captivating destination.