Delhi: Make Your Own Customisable Private City Tour

Planning a trip to Delhi? This private, customizable tour offers a flexible way to see both the historic and modern sides of India’s bustling capital. With around 7 hours to explore, it’s designed to give you a taste of key attractions while allowing space for tailored interests.

What really makes this experience stand out is the chance to choose what interests you most — be it temples, markets, or architecture. The inclusion of both Old and New Delhi means you get a comprehensive look at the city’s diverse character. Plus, traveling in a private vehicle with a guide means you won’t be herded like cattle through busy streets, making for a more relaxed, authentic experience.

However, the $88 price for up to two people isn’t dirt cheap, but it’s quite reasonable for a private tour with customized options. Keep in mind, some sites like the airport pickup or drop-off from surrounding areas come at an extra cost, so budget accordingly. This tour suits travelers who want flexibility, personal attention, and a mix of cultural, historical, and spiritual sights — perfect for those who prefer to skip the crowded group tours.

Key Points

• Flexible & customizable: You can tailor the itinerary based on your interests.
• Private transportation & guide: Enjoy a relaxed, personalized experience without the hassle.
• Diverse sights: From Mughal forts to temples and bazaars, Delhi’s highlights are well covered.
• Cultural insights: Guides provide recommendations, enriching your understanding of each site.
• Value for money: At $88, it’s a good deal for a private, all-day experience focused on your interests.
• Accessibility considerations: Not suitable for wheelchair users and requires comfortable walking shoes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Delhi’s Contrasts: Old Meets New

This tour promises an excellent overview of Delhi’s contrasts, blending historic monuments with contemporary temples. We loved the way the itinerary balances iconic Mughal architecture with spiritual spaces like the Lotus Temple and Akshardham. The flexibility to customize means you can prioritize what excites you most — whether it’s history, religion, or vibrant markets.

Starting with pickup from your hotel, the day unfolds in a comfortable private vehicle — a real plus considering Delhi’s traffic can be chaotic. Guides are available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, German, Italian, and French, ensuring clear communication.

Highlights of the Tour

Mughal Monuments & Heritage Buildings

We appreciated the opportunity to see Red Fort, Jama Masjid, and Humayun’s Tomb. These sights showcase Delhi’s Mughal grandeur, with intricate architecture and sprawling courtyards. The Red Fort, in particular, offers a glimpse into India’s imperial past — its massive red sandstone walls and imposing gateways are impressive up close.

One reviewer mentioned, “Seeing these monuments with a guide made it so much more meaningful — I learned about the Mughal rulers and the significance of each site.” The separate entrance lines for these historical sites mean you spend less time waiting and more time appreciating the architecture.

Temples & Spiritual Spaces

The Lotus Temple stands out for its striking flower-like design. It’s a peaceful spot, especially if you’re into modern architecture with symbolic meaning. The Akshardham Temple is another highlight, renowned for its ornate carvings and spiritual ambiance. Visitors often comment on the awe-inspiring craftsmanship and the vast complex that combines architecture with cultural exhibitions.

The Lakshmi Narayan Temple adds a different flavor, representing classical Hindu temple architecture and religious devotion. We found the covered shoulders and knees rule manageable, as guides provide shawls and explain what’s expected at each site.

Old Delhi’s Bazaars & Heritage

For those interested in experiencing Delhi’s bustling markets, the tour can include visits to centuries-old bazaars, where you can browse spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Walking through these vibrant streets offers a sensory overload — colors, scents, and sounds all compete for attention.

One traveler shared, “Walking through these narrow lanes felt like stepping back in time. The guide pointed out where locals buy their daily supplies, which added authenticity to the experience.”

Temples & Museums

If you’re into museums, the optional visits to Gandhi Smriti and Rajghat are meaningful. Gandhi Smriti is where Mahatma Gandhi spent his last days, offering insight into his life and peaceful philosophy. Rajghat commemorates Gandhi with a simple yet powerful memorial. These add depth for history buffs and those interested in India’s independence movement.

Practical Details & What to Expect

The tour’s duration of about 7 hours is well-suited for a comprehensive day in Delhi. Expect to start with an early pickup, so you can beat some of the crowds and the midday heat, especially if visiting outdoor sites like Humayun’s Tomb or the bazaars.

Transportation is via a private vehicle, meaning you won’t be waiting for public transit or sharing space with strangers. The guide’s recommendations help shape the day, whether prioritizing architecture, spirituality, or shopping.

The cost is $88 for the group (up to 2 people), which offers good value considering the private, personalized nature of the experience. Additional costs include airport transfers and pickup from areas like Noida or Gurgaon, at INR 1500, payable to the driver.

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What to Wear & Bring

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you’ll be on your feet exploring heritage sites and temples. Covering shoulders and knees is necessary at places of worship, but guides usually provide shawls or scarves. Carry a water bottle — Delhi’s climate can be warm — and be prepared for some walking through busy streets and markets.

Accessibility & Considerations

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, mainly due to the walking involved and the architecture of certain sites. If mobility is a concern, consider discussing options with the provider beforehand.

Authentic Experiences & Tips from Past Travelers

Many reviewers noted the value of having a guide who shares stories beyond the guidebook, adding context and humor. One said, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and tailored the tour to our interests — I loved the suggestions for local eateries after the temple visits.”

Another appreciated the separate entrance access, which cut down waiting times and allowed for a smoother, more relaxed experience. “It was so helpful to skip lines at the Red Fort,” they shared, “and spend more time enjoying the architecture and taking photos.”

Customization & Flexibility

The ability to customize the itinerary is the biggest plus here. Whether you want to focus on Mughal history, religious sites, or vibrant markets, your guide can adapt. This flexibility makes the tour more engaging and tailored to your preferences.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a private, flexible way to explore Delhi’s highlights without the chaos of group tours, this experience is ideal. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer personalized attention, want to avoid long lines, and enjoy a mix of history, spirituality, and local culture.

Couples or small groups will find good value in the price, and the option to customize ensures you see what interests you most. However, those with mobility issues should consider other options, as this tour involves some walking and site-specific access challenges.

Final Thoughts

This Delhi tour offers a balanced view of the city’s old-world charm and modern splendor. The private vehicle and guide make route planning and site visits smooth and personalized. The ability to customize the day means you’re not stuck with a cookie-cutter experience but can focus on what truly excites you.

From the magnificent Mughal architecture to the serene temples and bustling bazaars, this experience captures Delhi’s diverse spirit in one coherent day. The price is reasonable for a private tour, and the flexibility makes it suitable for travelers with specific interests or time constraints.

If you’re looking for a practical, in-depth, personalized tour of Delhi that respects your pace and preferences, this is a strong contender.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The $88 fee covers the private guide, transportation in a private vehicle, and entrance to sites with skip-the-line access where specified. Additional costs may include airport or out-of-area pickups.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is designed to be flexible. Guides can recommend and help tailor the day to your interests, whether focusing on temples, history, or markets.

What sites are covered?
Highlights include Mughal monuments like Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Humayun’s Tomb, and prominent temples like the Lotus Temple, Akshardham, and Lakshmi Narayan.

Is pickup and drop-off included?
Pickup is included from all Delhi/NCR locations. Drop-off at the same place is standard, with additional charges for airport or other locations like Noida or Gurgaon.

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
While the tour is private and flexible, it involves walking and site visits that may be tiring for some. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with moderate walking.

Are vegetarian or special dietary needs accommodated?
The tour focuses on sightseeing, but guides can suggest local eateries. Specific dietary accommodations are best arranged separately.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 7 hours, starting from your hotel pickup.

Is it possible to include shopping?
Yes, the guide can incorporate stops at bazaars and markets based on your interests.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential. Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required at religious sites; shawls are often provided.

In summary, this private Delhi tour stands out as a flexible, in-depth way to see the city’s highlights at your own pace. It’s best suited for curious travelers wanting personalized insights, especially those keen on combining history, spirituality, and local culture in one day. Whether exploring Mughal forts or serene temples, you’ll get a curated experience designed around your interests.

You can check availability for your dates here: