Where is the best area to stay in New Delhi?
By Anuj Burman. June 12, 2024
New Delhi is India’s political centre and gives frequent glimpses of the Mughal and British eras, as well as modern-day tech advancements. Also known as ‘the city of large-hearted people’, New Delhi is a paradise for history geeks, culture vultures, food lovers, nightlife seekers, and business travelers alike. The city is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, many museums, art galleries, gardens, lakes, and even a few wildlife sanctuaries. But any visit to New Delhi is incomplete without indulging in the local food, which is considered to be the finest in India.
The best area to stay in New Delhi is Chanakyapuri, which is preferred for its close proximity to the airport, business parks, and the city centre. From foreign diplomats to the Prime Minister of India, all call Chanakyapuri their home. Some of the city’s best hotels, restaurants, cafes, shopping centres, and monuments are located quite close to this area, which also boasts of immaculate roads and satisfying greenery. The Nehru park, nestled in the heart of Chanakyapuri, offers the perfect escape from the chaos outside, and occasionally features open air concerts.If you are interested in where to stay in New Delhi, you may also be interested in where to stay in Mumbai, where to stay in Jaipur or where to stay in Udaipur.
Chanakyapury, the best place to stay in New Delhi
Expats / Nightlife / Fine-dining
Chanakyapuri is one of the most effluent and coveted neighbourhoods of New Delhi and stands out for its beautiful avenues. This part of New Delhi is also home to the iconic Taj Palace and ITC Maurya hotels, which are renowned for their impeccable hospitality and upscale fine dining experiences.
A short 15 minute drive from Chanakyapuri lies the India Gate, a famous monument that is made from sandstone and is built like a magnificent arch. Constructed in the early 1900s, India Gate is a war memorial that is dedicated to the lives of more than 70,000 Indian soldiers who served in the First World War. A few minutes away from here is the Rashtrapati Bhawan, a beautiful and massive 350-room estate that is the home of the President of India.
There are several places to enjoy a hearty meal in Chanakyapuri, with options ranging from local Indian cuisine to global cuisine like American, European, and pan-Asian.
Other areas to stay in New Delhi
Connaught Place
Shopping / Architecture / Family
A circular shaped shopping complex, a plethora of good restaurants, and the choicest of bars are just a few things that make Connaught Place one of the most popular destinations in New Delhi. A product of Bitish planning and architecture, this part of New Delhi is always bustling with people, with the chime of a flute or a guitar ringing in the air.
At the centre of this massive open market complex is a huge park called Central Park, a favourite spot for locals and travellers to enjoy the setting sun. Some of the best five-star hotels are located here, but it also hosts quite a few budget hotels and hostels too.
One of the main attractions of this region is the famed Jantar Mantar, one of the oldest open-air astronomical observatories in the world. This is quite close to Janpath, a famous street market where one can shop for several Indian handicrafts, artefacts, and clothes.
Lodhi Colony
Culture / Park / History
Lodhi Colony is one of the most charming and serene places in New Delhi and is also the art and cultural hub of New Delhi. The India Habitat Center in Lodhi Colony hosts several art exhibits and music festivals, apart from offering several decent restaurants to dine at.
Amidst this serene region lies the Lodhi Gardens, a park spreading over 90 acres that also contains several Mughal tombs. This green oasis serves as a popular spot for morning walks or a satisfying run after a hearty meal.
Close to Lodhi Colony lies the charming Humayun Tomb, one of the three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Believed to have been built in 1572 under the guidance of the great Mughal Emperor, Akbar, the Humayun Tomb was the culmination of both Indian and Persian craftsmanship. The magnificence of Islamic architecture can be felt in the beautifully carved marble walls of this grand mausoleum.
Saket
Architecture / UNESCO Heritage Site / Business
Surrounded by Sainik Farms, Malviya Nagar, and Mehrauli, Saket enjoys a convenient and easily accessible location. This neighbourhood is located quite close to the international airport and also to Gurugram, the millennial city of India, which is one of India’s most significant IT hubs.
Qutb Minar, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the most noteworthy attraction close to Saket. Qutb Minar is a minaret consisting of 399 steps and is the most visited tourist spot in New Delhi. Close to Qutb Minar are several local as well as Mediterranean fine dining establishments that offer a culinary adventure against the backdrop of this impressive tower.
Several other Mughal monuments and ruins are dotted across the landscape of neighbouring Mehrauli. Almost 100 of them can be found adjacent to the Qutb Minar at the Mehrauli Archaeological Park, another place of interest. From budget stays to five-star hospitality, this region has it all. Saket also has the metro-rail and autorickshaws to take you around.
Paharganj
Backpackers / Budget Travellers / Railway Station
Located right outside the New Delhi Railway Station, Paharganj is the go-to place for backpackers and budget travellers. Known for its narrow lanes, echoing with the soft thumps of music coming from one of the many cafes, this place reveals a completely different side of New Delhi. With soft neon lights lighting up the streets, you will find it easy to get lost in the beauty and the chaos of Paharganj.
Close to Paharganj lies the breathtaking Red Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site that is made from red sandstone and is another marvel of Mughal architecture. This lies in the old part of Delhi and is close to Chandni Chowk, a haven for classic Indian jewellery shoppers.
A visit to this region is incomplete without trying the many local delicacies, which is a deep dive into the culinary world of the Mughal kingdom.
Aerocity
International Airport / Luxury / Nightlife
Located in the vicinity of New Delhi’s international airport, Aerocity is the blitziest party capital of the city. Evenings are best enjoyed at the numerous nightclubs in this area that serve some of the most delectable cocktails and are frequented by the city’s most affluent. These clubs also frequently feature some of the world’s best musicians, who perform from night to day.
Aerocity is also lined with several beautiful five-star hotels that are preferred by both business and luxury travelers. Several high-end retail outlets and even spas are located in one of the many modern buildings in this area.
The biggest benefit of staying at Aerocity is that it is located only a few minutes from the International Airport, and is also close to Gurugram. The area is well connected to all parts of New Delhi, making transportation to any part of New Delhi easy.
Hauz Khas
Cafes / Couples / Lake
New Delhi also has a hip and trendy side, and that can truly be experienced at Hauz Khas. This region of Delhi is the most preferred hangout spot for youngsters, with several small and unique cafes and bars that can be found around the many by-lanes. The setting is like an urban village, with ample greenery around and the smell of fresh coffee drifting down the narrow lanes.
A walk around the Hauz Khas village will take you to an ancient lake and a fort that give the village a very serene and calm vibe. Close to the village is another attraction, the Deer Park, which is a great place to spot deer while taking a stroll amidst the dense greenery.
Hauz Khas has a charming allure due to the easy availability of hostels, and holiday rentals. It is also well-connected to the rest of the city by metro rail, and auto rickshaws.
Karol Bagh
Street Food / Shopping / Backpackers
The charm of Karol Bagh lies in its narrow streets that are lined with shops on both sides, each offering a bargain. Footwear, clothes, electronics, furniture, home decor, and a lot more are available in Karol Bagh, and that too at great prices. Walking down the streets of Karol Bagh and feeling the atmosphere of the place can lift anyone’s spirits.
The local food shops that are dotted all over this huge market offer some of the best street food in New Delhi. The food is very tasty but generally spicy, so precaution should be taken, and the prices are pocket-friendly.
This neighbourhood has a good selection of budget hotels, hostels, and guesthouses, which is perfect for backpackers and solo travellers. Metro rail, autorickshaws, and cab services are easily available here, making transportation easy, time-saving, and cost-effective.
Lajpat Nagar
Solo Travellers / Shopping / Local Food
Lajpat Nagar forms a charming little part of New Delhi that is mostly famous for the shopping and dining experience that the place offers. The place is synonymous with the hustle and bustle seen in most parts of New Delhi, but the energy is quite vibrant and uplifting.
The local restaurants offer pan-Asian and Indian food that is some of the best in the city. Every corner is lined with vendors selling everything from socks to mobile chargers. People can be heard all around bargaining for the best prices. And amidst all this, the enticing aroma of various local delicacies is passing down the crowded streets.
Lajpat Nagar has plenty of options for accommodations, including hostels and guesthouses, making it a great place to stay in New Delhi. The area is also very well connected via metro rail, autorickshaws, and taxis, making it easy to travel to any part of New Delhi.
Our recommended hotels in New Delhi
Use the interactive map to navigate through our recommended hotels in New DelhiNote: Hotel prices can change daily due to promotions, seasons, and demand. Our $ - $$$$ scale shows the overall cost range rather than exact prices.
