half day layover in Delhi, suggestions?

[lilrabbit13]

Hi everyone,

I have a half of a day layover in Delhi, before heading home. Would anyone have any recommendations or suggestion on what I can do there? I already have a night at the airport before heading to Kathmandu, I can't see myself spending another half day at the airport, way too depressing.

Thank you!

[Lars]

I can't see myself spending another half day at the airport, way too depressing.
No, you shouldn't! Delhi is quite nice and there are many things to see.

Go have a look around at Connaught Place, right at the center of New Delhi,
and The Red Fort in Old Delhi. Then you will at least have seen something of
the city.

It it was me, I would take a prepaid taxi from the airport to Connaught Place,
and then a cycle rickshaw to Old Delhi. It is about one hour by rickshaw but
through very interesting areas. Then again I am an old India hand.

If you do go by cycle rickshaw you must agree on the price beforehand.

[Landfall38]

Don't forget to get your Indian visa BEFORE arriving Delhi!

[deserteyes]

If you're going to Old Delhi, the quickest way would be the metro (half a day is not very much). Very fast, cheap, and clean -- avoid rush hour of course.

Connaught Place is good for general shopping, but if you're looking for souvenirs you would be better off going to Janpath which is a major road just off CP. The government cottage emporium has plenty to offer. You might just want to hire a taxi and drive down Janpath to the intersection of Rajpath, there you can see the Rashtrapati Bhavan (houses of parliament) and India Gate etc.

There's lots to see in Delhi, choose from the Red Fort already mentioned, or the Qutb Minar, or Humayun's Tomb etc.. All Mughal architecture...

[yakshaver]

For half a day I would also go with Old Delhi, Red Fort, the big Mosque etc.

If you go by taxi from the airport, allow one hour each way. It may take less, but don''t count on it.

I guess two hours around Old Delhi is about as much as one can handle at any given time anyway.

[lilrabbit13]

Thank you very much for the suggestions.

I failed to ask what can I do with my backpack/luggage. I don't think i can check it in early. Is there a place at the airport to hold luggage?

Also, how much does a taxi cost?

Thanks Landfall38, I picked up my visa as soon as I realize that I was flying thru delhi.