Delhi from Pune: where to stay and what to do
A guide for travellers from Pune to Delhi, covering flights, areas to stay, monuments, food, transport and practical advice.
Getting there from Pune
Non-stop flights from Pune International Airport (PNQ) to Indira Gandhi International Airport take about 2 hours 10 minutes. The straight-line distance is roughly 1,170 km. Check current schedules and airlines; multiple carriers operate this route daily. Book tickets well in advance, especially during the peak October to March season. Carry a government-issued photo ID for the flight; airline staff check it at boarding.
Delhi has two main domestic terminals: Terminal 1 used by some low-cost carriers and Terminal 3 used by full-service and international flights. Both are well connected to the city by metro, prepaid taxis and app-based cabs. From Terminal 3, the Airport Express metro line reaches New Delhi station in about 20 minutes. The metro is reliable and air-conditioned, a good option for reaching central areas.
Areas to stay
Connaught Place is central, with metro access and many hotels. South Delhi areas such as Hauz Khas, Saket and Lajpat Nagar offer quieter residential settings and good dining options. Aerocity, near the airport, is convenient for early or late flights and has a direct metro connection to the city centre. Each area suits different budgets and travel styles.
Paharganj and Karol Bagh are budget-friendly areas near New Delhi railway station. Old Delhi, especially around Chandni Chowk, is chaotic but close to the Red Fort and Jama Masjid. Choose your accommodation based on your itinerary: central locations save travel time. Check reviews for cleanliness and safety. Delhi has options from hostels to luxury hotels.
Mughal monuments and sights
Delhi's major Mughal monuments include the Red Fort (Lal Qila), Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar and the Jama Masjid. The Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was the main residence of Mughal emperors for about 200 years. Humayun's Tomb, built in the 1560s, is a precursor to the Taj Mahal in Agra. Qutub Minar, a 73-metre tower, dates from the 12th century and is also a UNESCO site.
Other important sights include the India Gate war memorial, the Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple and the National Museum on Janpath. Lodi Gardens, a park with tombs from the Sayyid and Lodi periods, is popular for morning walks. Plan at least two full days for the main monuments. Start early to avoid crowds and heat. Many monuments are closed on Mondays; confirm timings before visiting.
- Red Fort: check entry rules and timings before visiting.
- Qutub Minar: the 73-metre tower dates from the 12th century.
- Humayun's Tomb: set in a large garden complex.
- India Gate: a war memorial on the Rajpath ceremonial avenue.
Old Delhi food and markets
Old Delhi, especially the lanes around Chandni Chowk, is known for its street food and Mughlai cuisine. Dishes to try include parathas, chole bhature, kebabs, biryani, jalebis and kulfi. The area also has sweet shops selling rabri, gulab jamun and other traditional desserts. The spice market at Khari Baoli and the cloth market in Chandni Chowk are historic and busy. Cycle rickshaws are the best way to navigate the narrow lanes.
Be prepared for crowds and noise; the experience is part of the visit. Do not name any shop or restaurant in your notes. Try parathas near the Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib, sample kebabs and biryani from street stalls in Matia Mahal, and visit the spice market for a sensory experience. Ride a cycle rickshaw through the main bazaar to cover more ground. Carry cash, as many stalls do not accept cards.
- Try parathas at a lane near the Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib.
- Sample kebabs and biryani from street stalls in Matia Mahal.
- Visit the spice market for a sensory experience.
- Ride a cycle rickshaw through the main bazaar.
Getting around and practical tips
Delhi has an extensive metro network covering most tourist areas. The Airport Express line connects the airport to New Delhi station and central Delhi. Buses, app-based taxis and auto-rickshaws are also available. Avoid cycle rickshaws on main roads; use them only in Old Delhi lanes. The metro is reliable, air-conditioned and affordable. Download a metro map app for easy navigation. Check the current network for line extensions.
October to March is the best time, with mild weather. Smog can be heavy in November and December; check air quality and carry a mask. Carry a government photo ID for flights and trains. Delhi is a gateway to Agra (Taj Mahal) and Jaipur (Pink City), both reachable by train or bus within a few hours. Drink bottled water and avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
