Day 1: Arrival Tips, Qutub Minar, and India Gate Lights in Delhi | India Purple Travel Guide
Welcome to India! Your Golden Triangle journey begins at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi, one of the best-managed airports in the country. A little preparation will ensure your first moments in India are stress-free and exciting.
Here at Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides, we promote self-guided walking tours.
But we realize that not everybody likes to walk by themselves in a foreign city. So, just in case that you rather go with ab guide: NO PROBLEM! Please see the GuruWalk and Viator tours below.
free GuruWalk tours
paid Viator tours
Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) Arrival
Immigration, Visas, and Customs
International flights usually arrive at Terminal 3 (T3). Before landing, ensure you have your E-Visa confirmation and your hotel address handy, as this is typically requested at the counter. Delhi Airport has introduced an E-Arrival Card facility, replacing traditional paper forms, which helps streamline the process. Follow signs for 'FOREIGN NATIONALS – E-VISA' upon arrival.
Money Exchange and SIM Cards
After clearing customs and exiting into the main arrival hall, you will immediately find facilities for the two most crucial things you need: cash and connectivity.
Money (Rupees): You will need cash in India, as credit cards are not accepted everywhere. Use the ATMs available (e.g., SBI Bank).
Travel Tip: When withdrawing cash, always select to be charged in Indian Rupees (INR) rather than your home currency; this ensures you get the better exchange rate set by your bank.SIM Card: Look for the official kiosks (like Airtel or Jio). You will need your passport and often a passport-sized photograph for the application. Expect to pay in cash (around ₹800 for a typical tourist plan, which provides daily data for 90 days). The SIM card usually takes 15-30 minutes to activate fully.
Getting to Your Hotel
You have three excellent options for reaching your accommodation:
Airport Express Metro (Orange Line): This is the fastest, cheapest, and most efficient way to get into central Delhi, specifically the New Delhi Metro Station. The journey is quick, clean, and avoids all road traffic. The Metro station can be found right across the road from Terminal 3 (map).
More information can be found in our Delhi Metro Guide.Pre-Paid Taxi: Look for the official Pre-Paid Taxi counter inside the terminal. You pay the fixed fare there and receive a receipt/coupon, which you hand to the driver outside. This eliminates fare negotiation and potential hassles.
App-Based Cabs (Uber/Ola): If your SIM card is active, you can use these apps, which offer transparent pricing. The pickup zones are clearly marked outside the terminal.
Your Delhi Accommodation
For your stay in Delhi, you have the choice of a vast number of hotels, homestays, and AirBnBs. Click here to find out where to stay, and to read some hotel reviews.
We have reviewed these three hotels in Delhi:
Exploring Delhi on Day 1
After checking in to your hotel and maybe eating lunch at your hotel or a nearby restaurant, start your exploration of Delhi.
Since today is your first day, and you may be jetlagged, we are only seeing few attractions today. Even if you are super tired, try to at least see Qutub Minar, as this is a highlight of Delhi, and a perfect start to your India adventure!
The destinations for today are:
If you have time and feel good, then you can visit Lotus Temple (map, reviews, website)
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Backpack and Snorkel Purple Travel GuideIf you can stay awake: India Gate Lights at Night, otherwise you can do it tomorrow.
The Tower of Victory: Exploring Qutub Minar
(map, reviews)
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Backpack and Snorkel Purple Travel GuideStanding over 73 meters tall, the Qutub Minar is not just a tower; it is a profound monument to Delhi's long and complex history—a true UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This incredible landmark, often called the "Tower of Victory," is the perfect introduction to India's historical depth, showcasing beautiful Indo-Islamic architecture and intricate carvings that date back to the 12th century. It’s a photographer’s dream and a history enthusiast’s delight.
Why You Should Visit Qutub Minar on Day 1:
Architectural Marvel: See the world's tallest brick minaret and the surrounding complex, including the mysterious Iron Pillar.
Historical Context: Understand the roots of the Delhi Sultanate before moving on to Mughal-era sights.
Photographic Beauty: The ruins offer stunning backdrops, especially in the late afternoon light.
Ready to dive deep into history? Click here for our detailed guide on Qutub Minar, including its history, opening hours, best photo spots, and how to discover the site yourself!
India Gate: The Arc of Sacrifice and National Pride
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Backpack and Snorkel Purple Travel GuideAs you wrap up your first day in Delhi, you'll witness the city's modern heart at India Gate. Located right in the center of the capital, this massive 42-meter-high arch is a solemn war memorial, paying tribute to thousands of Indian soldiers who lost their lives in World War I.
The surrounding area, often referred to as the Rajpath, is a beautiful, expansive park space that truly comes alive after sundown.
The Magic of the India Gate Lights:
Evening Vibe: The atmosphere transforms from a quiet memorial into a bustling gathering spot where families and visitors relax.
Spectacular Lighting: The arch itself is dramatically illuminated, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding lawns and fountains. It's the perfect, relaxed conclusion to a busy first day.
Ideal Location: It's situated near the President's House (Rashtrapati Bhavan), providing a grand sense of the capital's prestige.
Want to know the best time to visit? Click here for our detailed guide to India Gate, including its history, practical transport tips, and the best viewing points for the spectacular lights at night!
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Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel
Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.
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