New Delhi Walks: Old Delhi, Lutyens and Lodhi

November 5, 2026

Five ways to walk New Delhi

Because the city covers a huge area, the practical approach is to choose a district and walk only that. Each route below starts at a Metro station. Distances are approximate, so allow extra time for crowds and heat.

1. Old Delhi, about 3.5 km

Begin at Lal Quila Metro and go straight into Chandni Chowk. Branch into Dariba Kalan (silver, attar and perfume), Kinari Bazaar (bridal lace and trims), Paranthe Wali Gali and the spice-filled lanes of Khari Baoli. Finish at Jama Masjid, passing Fatehpuri Masjid and the poet Mirza Ghalib’s haveli in Gali Qasim Jan if you have energy. Allow 3 to 4 hours, early in the morning. Entering Jama Masjid needs modest dress and is not allowed during prayer. The Red Fort next to the start is open every day now, an ASI order from February 2026 having ended the Monday closure (Business Standard ).

2. Lutyens’ Delhi, about 3 km

Walk from India Gate along Kartavya Path to the gates of Rashtrapati Bhavan. The route is paved and flat and takes roughly 2 hours; late afternoon is best because the sun is lower. At the National War Memorial, keep voices down and keep off the lawns and the name panels.

3. Lodhi Colony and Lodhi Garden, about 3 km

From Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium Metro, walk through Lodhi Colony’s street murals, which were painted by artists working with the St+art India Foundation. Then enter Lodhi Garden to see the Bara Gumbad, Shish Gumbad and Sikandar Lodi’s tomb. Plan on about 2 hours; the garden is free.

4. Mehrauli Archaeological Park, about 3 km

This park next to Qutub Minar has well over a hundred monuments, including Jamali Kamali, Rajon ki Baoli and the tomb of Balban. The ground is rough, so wear sturdy shoes. Plan 2 to 2.5 hours.

5. Humayun’s Tomb to Sunder Nursery, a short stroll

An easy stroll between two heritage sites. Sunder Nursery charges foreigners Rs 200, and its hours are listed on the booking page .

Safety and comfort

Keep valuables zipped in crowds and guard against pickpockets.
Do not use any “tourist office” a tout recommends; the official India Tourism office is at 88 Janpath.
Drink sealed bottled water only.
In May and June, walk before 10:00. From mid-October to January, check the air quality index and shorten routes on poor days.

If you prefer a guide, search Viator and confirm what the price includes.