8 fantastic things to do in New Delhi in fall

Think of New Delhi in fall as the relaxing break between hot summers and cold winters. Despite September’s high rainfall, autumn is a beautiful time to visit, offering mild temperatures and ideal conditions for long afternoons spent sightseeing.

Celebrate Diwali with festive treats and fireworks, watch classical dance at the Qutub Festival, or immerse yourself in the energetic alleys of Chandi Chowk. You’ll never go hungry in this foodie haven either, with countless food festivals and street food making the perfect on-the-go snack. From trendy cafés to architectural masterpieces, here’s what’s in your guide to New Delhi in fall.

New Delhi’s best fall activities at a glance

Top fall experience in New Delhi: Diwali festivities and melas.
Top activities for food lovers in New Delhi in fall: The Grub Fest, India's largest culinary celebration and Horn Ok Please.
Unique fall experiences in New Delhi: The Qutub Festival.

1. See the city light up during Diwali

No fall guide to New Delhi would be complete without a mention of the major Hindu festival of Diwali. Cities light up with the warm glow of diyas (oil lamps) and candles during this celebration of the victory of good over evil. During the five-day event, feasts, fireworks, light shows, and religious and spiritual activities at local landmarks like India Gate pervade. Gift-giving and community is also cherished during this time, with people exchanging sweet treats like kaju katli (cashew fudge).

Address

It is celebrated at several iconic landmarks in the city.

2. Visit a mela during Diwali

For an unforgettable Diwali experience in New Delhi, don't miss the city's free festive fairs, or melas, occurring in October. Visit the Dastakar's Festival of Lights or the Dilli Haat INA, an open-air market featuring crafts and food. You might also enjoy the renowned Blind School Diwali Mela, which sells crafts made by the school’s talented children. As you might have guessed, the Diwali melas are best for shopping handcrafted products, street food, and cultural experiences.

3. Taste your way across the local food scene

Thanks to a food scene that spans innumerable regional and international cuisines, New Delhi is a food lover's paradise. The food scene explodes in the fall — take your pick, from “Horn OK Please,” a convening of food trucks and pop-up restaurants, to “Palate Fest,” a premier food and music festival that highlights gourmet cuisine. Or check out Grub Fest, one of India’s largest food festival featuring over 100 food stalls, a Ferris wheel, and live entertainment. These food festivals only take place in the fall, which offers ideal temps to indulge in outdoor culinary experiences in New Delhi.

Address and opening hours

The venue, dates, and opening times vary from year to year. Check online for up-to-date information.

4. Take a day trip to Agra to visit the Taj Mahal

A weekend trip to the Taj Mahal in the fall is a must. Its white marble is picture-perfect at sunrise and sunset as are the stunning nearby gardens of Mehtab Bagh. A visit during the autumn season might also coincide with Ram Barat, a three-day celebration that takes place in the same city and reenacts the marriage procession of Lord Ram.

Address

Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001.

Opening hours

Open Saturday-Thursday, opens 30 minutes before sunrise and closes 30 minutes before sunset.

5. Visit the Akshardham Temple

Akshardham Temple, a spiritual haven in New Delhi, stands as a testament to divine artistry. This vast complex, complete with lush gardens, musical fountains, and serene lakes, provides a jaw-dropping visual experience year-round. As you explore this complex work of architecture, you might be surprised to learn that it was only built in 2005. Fall travelers would also be pleased to know that the temple often hosts grand festivities during Diwali (October-November), including decorative lights, cultural performances, and spiritual rituals.

Address

NH 24, Pramukh Swami Maharaj Marg, Pandav Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi, 110092.

Opening hours

Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-6:30 PM.

6. Enjoy classical Indian music and dance at the Qutub Festival

The Qutub Festival is a three-day cultural event held annually at the iconic Qutb Minar in New Delhi. It showcases India's rich artistic heritage through music and dance performances. Against the backdrop of the illuminated Qutub Minar, renowned artists from across the country showcase the elegance of Indian classical dance forms, including Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Kathak, and Kuchipudi.

Address

Seth Sarai, Mehrauli, New Delhi, Delhi 110030.

7. Revitalize your body and soul with yoga and wellness in New Delhi

After a day of exploring the city's bustling streets, join a yoga class in what is considered the birth country of the practice. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, you’ll find abundant options for deepening your practice, from multi-day yoga retreats to yoga classes in beautiful spaces, like Lodi Gardens. Yoga is also the perfect energizing activity for rainy days in September.

8. Visit Raj Ghat: New Delhi's tribute to Gandhi and other icons

Located on Delhi's Ring Road, Raj Ghat is a memorial complex dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi and other prominent Indian leaders. The centerpiece is a black marble platform with an eternal flame that marks Gandhi's cremation site. Over time, the complex has expanded to include samadhis (memorials) for other influential figures in Indian history, such as Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi, offering insights into the nation's political legacy. October 2, celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti, is a national holiday in India marking Mahatma Gandhi's birthday. Thousands of visitors pay their respects on this special day.

Address

Behind Red Fort, Delhi, 110006.

Opening hours

Open daily, 6:00 AM-6:30 PM.

FAQs

Is October a good time to visit New Delhi?

New Delhi in fall boasts a pleasant climate with less humid days and cool evenings, making October one of the best times to visit the city.

Is October cold in New Delhi?

No. It might not be as hot as summer, but New Delhi in fall is still warm. The average temperature is around 68 F (20 C), but can climb up to 86 F (30 C).

What should I pack for a trip to New Delhi in fall?

Pack versatile clothing for warm days and cool evenings, along with sun protection and a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders when visiting religious sites.

What are some recommended activities for families visiting New Delhi in the fall?

Families visiting New Delhi in the fall can enjoy a variety of activities, such as exploring the National Zoological Park or visiting the Nehru Planetarium for an educational experience. The Children's Park near India Gate is perfect for a fun day out, and a boat ride at the Old Fort (Purana Qila) can be a delightful family adventure.

What are the best things to do in New Delhi in fall?

In New Delhi in fall, visitors can visit melas during the vibrant Diwali festival, sample various food festivals, and enjoy outdoor cultural shows like the Qutub Festival.