Free Walking Tours in Delhi

Delhi is home to a vast collection of landmarks that tell the tale of its history since the city was founded in the 11th century, from mausoleums respecting its devoted leaders to ornate temples and regal palaces.

One of the best ways to explore any new destination is on foot, which is why you should consider adding a free walking tour in Delhi to your itinerary. You’ll see dazzling attractions that you may have never known existed and gain more knowledge about each monument with an enthusiastic local at your side.

Here's all you need to know about free walking tours, one of the most engaging and worthwhile sightseeing tours in Delhi.

How do free walking tours work?

Free walking tours in Delhi have become increasingly popular in recent years as they provide tourists with an affordable and authentic way of experiencing this incredible city.

These tours are completely free to book and participate in, but it is encouraged that you tip your tour guide at the end of the tour. The amount you decide to tip is completely up to you.

How much should you tip?

When deciding how much to tip, think about the effort that your guide put into the tour and how much you enjoyed the tour overall.

Most tour participants tend to tip between US$10 and US$15 per person, but some people tip as much as US$50 for outstanding tours.

What are the best free walking tours in Delhi?

Old Delhi free walking tour

Travel back in time to the Mughal Empire, which stretched between the 16th and 18th centuries, on this walking tour of Delhi’s oldest sites. Accompanied by an energetic local, you’ll hit the streets of Delhi’s historic quarter, which showcases the best of the Mughal Empire.

You’ll see the 17th-century Jama Masjid, which is one of the largest temples in India and holds up to 25,000 devoted worshippers, on your way to a bustling market, once reserved for the ladies of the city. Let your guide lead you through a web of back streets and draw your attention to the impressive architecture of this corner of the city, which often goes unnoticed.

Catch a glimpse of the myriad of private mansions along the streets, also known as “Havelis,” which house Delhi’s most affluent families You’ll learn about the famous folk who lived in this part of India on your way to the city’s spice market, which is lined with endless stalls selling vibrant aromatic powders and seeds.

Free walking and food tour in Delhi

Feel your taste buds come to life as you sample the bold flavors that form the basis of Indian cooking on this combination sightseeing and food tour. The first destination on this free walking tour in Delhi is Connaught Place, which has been transformed from a wildlife area to a bustling business district.

Moving on, you’ll make your way to the Gurudwara Shri Bangla Sahib, which honors the 18th-century Sikh General Sardar Baghel Singh and features a golden dome that sets it apart from its surroundings. Discover the energetic Palika Bazar, where tourists can find all manner of items, from designer-inspired goods to clothing and everything in between.

Marvel at the foodie paradise of Gali Kababiyan where you can breathe in the fragrant scents of rich mutton curries and indulgent sweets. Throughout the duration of this city tour in Delhi, you’ll have the opportunity to try local cuisine and understand why Indian dishes are renowned for their burst of flavors.

Lodhi Gardens and Tomb of Safdar Jang tour in Delhi

Discover a wealth of mausoleums, as well as one of the city’s most beloved green spaces on this free walking tour.

This excursion begins with a leisurely stroll through Lodhi Gardens, which is scattered with numerous monuments dating back to the 15th century. The perfect place to gain a little respite from the hectic city streets, Lodhi Gardens’ architectural gems include tombs dedicated to some of the most revered leaders in Delhi’s history, such as Sikandar Lodi.

Just a stone’s throw from this public park is the Tomb of Safdar Jang — an esteemed governor during the Mughal Empire. You’ll learn about this venerable figure who moved to Delhi from Awadh in the 18th century, as well as the architectural style of the building, as you admire the vibrant yellows, rich oranges and detailed patterns that form the exterior of the tomb.

Free walking tour of Mehrauli Archaeological Park in Delhi

This archaeological park includes a multitude of historic attractions that you can explore with a passionate local on a walking tour.

You’ll begin this free walking tour in Delhi with an insightful introduction to the archaeological park, which is bound to pique your interest in the site. Discover the 19th-century Metcalfe Canopy, which overlooks the city from a verdant hill, as well as Rajon Kee Baoli. This stepwell was built in the 16th century and was inhabited by masons in the 20th century.

Another monument to explore as you stroll the grounds of the Mehrauli Archaeological Park is the Jamali Kamali Mosque, which is built of red sandstone and comprises two buildings — a mosque and a tomb — the latter of which houses the remains of Jamali — otherwise known as Shaikh Fazlu'llah.

In which languages are they operated?

Typically, free walking tours in Delhi only operate in English. However, as the popularity of these excursions increases, the variety of languages on offer may also expand, making them accessible to a wider range of international travelers.

Where does it start?

Many free walking tours in Delhi begin at metro stations close to the area you’ll be exploring. This makes it easy to reach your starting point via public transportation and Delhi’s network of metro trains is both reliable, and easy to navigate.

Upon arrival at your meeting point, your guide will be wearing or holding an item to make themselves recognizable to you.

It’s worth noting that many excursions end in a different location from the one they meet at. You can consult the booking page of your selected tour to find out more information about where it ends.

How long does last?

Free walking tours in Delhi typically last between 2 and 4 hours. While you won’t be able to explore the entire city during this time, you will be able to visit its most renowned attractions and gain a feel for the region. As these excursions last half a day or less, they are easy to slip into most travelers’ itineraries.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Free walking tours do not tend to be suitable for wheelchair users. Instead, those with reduced mobility can choose from a host of city tours and outdoor activities in Delhi that are more accessible.

When is the best time to join a free walking tour in Delhi?

The best time to participate on a free walking tour in Delhi, weather-wise, is from October to March when the climate is comfortable. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times of day for walking tours, especially in the warmer months.

Depending on the tour you select, you may want to choose a specific time or season — for example, a food walking tour might be best experienced in the evening when most street food vendors are active.

Should you book tickets online?

While you can wait until you reach the city, reserving your slot on a free walking tour in Delhi is advisable for most travelers. This will save you precious vacation time that would otherwise be spent roaming the streets trying to find a guide.

You’ll also be able to read the itinerary of each excursion, along with the reviews, to ensure you participate in one that best suits your own interests. Finally, free tours in Delhi take just a couple of minutes to book and you won’t need to input your credit card information.