New Delhi in winter: How to make the most of your visit

New Delhi in winter is more than its foggy mornings and cooler temperatures. To make the most of your visit, lean in to the smaller crowds, cozy activities, and cultural highlights that make winter an exciting time to visit New Delhi: Sample India's must-eat meals, check out a theatrical performance at India's largest theatre festival, or watch the skies fill up with elaborate kites. Planning a winter getaway? You'll find the best things to do in New Delhi below.

New Delhi’s best winter activities at a glance

Best outdoor experiences: Take a stroll around India Gate at dusk or explore Humayun’s Tomb at sunrise.
Cultural highlights: Enjoy The Bharat Rang Mahotsav festival, which showcases Indian and international theatre, or Patang Utsav, an international kite festival.
Winter shopping: Browse Kashmiri shawls, stoles, and woolens at Janpath Market or Chittaranjan Park.
Seasonal street food: Savor gajar ka halwa (carrot pudding), parathas (flatbread), and makki ki roti (flatbread typically eaten in winter with curry) at the Chandni Chowk and Lajpat Nagar markets.

1. Experience India Gate illuminated at night

India Gate, a war memorial and one of New Delhi’s iconic landmarks, transforms into an illuminated spectacle in the winter time. Swing by in the evening, when the lights contrast against the skies, and the surrounding lawns background a romantic, evening stroll. Food vendors nearby also serve up traditional winter snacks like Shakarkandi (sweet potato) and stuffed parathas.

Why do it in winter?

During the run-up to Christmas, India Gate is lit from top to bottom with lights, making it one of the best times to visit this historic site.

Address and opening hours

India Gate, Kartavya Path, India Gate, New Delhi, Delhi 110001

2. Explore Humayun's Tomb on a peaceful winter morning

Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of India's finest examples of Mughal architecture. The symmetrical gardens, intricate marble inlays, and grand domes are said to have inspired the Taj Mahal. The mausoleum also maintains its practical function: it keeps the bodies of 150 Mughal family members.

Why do it in winter?

You’ll find it much easier to explore the expansive grounds of Humayun’s Tomb during the winter, when lower temperatures make long afternoons outside much more enjoyable.

Address and opening hours

Humayun’s Tomb, Mathura Road, Nizamuddin, New Delhi, Delhi 110013. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM.

3. Experience Bharat Rang Mahotsav

Lose yourself in one of Asia’s largest theatre festivals, Bharat Rang Mahotsav, organized by the National School of Drama. The festival showcases a wide range of performances, from traditional Indian plays to modern and experimental shows from international troupes. Held across culturally storied venues like Kamani Auditorium and NSD’s campus, it is an unmissable cultural event for art and theatre enthusiasts.

Why do it in winter?

Bharat Rang Mahotsav typically takes place in February of each year, meaning you’ll need to travel during the late winter season.

4. Shop for woolens at Janpath Market

If you enjoy a good shopping tour, Janpath Market is a stop not to be missed. Selling everything from intricately designed Kashmiri shawls to woolen sweaters, scarves, and gloves, the market is laid out along a central road that draws locals and tourists alike. Haggling is a customary practice, so don’t hesitate to negotiate for the best deals.

Address and opening hours

Janpath Road, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001. Open daily, 11:00 AM-8:00 PM.

5. Attend the International Kite Festival

The International Kite Festival, known locally as Patang Utsav, is unquestionably one of the best things to do in New Delhi in winter and is held every January at Baansera. Kite flyers from across the world converge to display their flying skills and unique designs, from traditional Indian kites to the latest in kite-flying innovation. Alongside the spectacular displays, the festival also includes craft bazaars, live cultural performances, and other interactive activities, making it a perfect family-friendly activity for all ages.

Why do it in winter?

Taking place in January, the festival leverages Delhi’s cool and clear winter skies, creating ideal conditions for kite flying and enjoying the spectacular natural beauty of the Yamuna River.

Address and opening hours

Baansera, Sarai Kale Khan, New Delhi, Delhi 110013

6. Warm yourself with traditional Indian hot drinks

India has a rich tradition of teas and spiced beverages, ideal for warming up on cozy winter days. Head to United Coffee House for a traditionally rich Indian coffee, sip on a ginger tea at one of the many Chai Point locations, or grab a steaming cup of masala chai from the street vendors at Chandni Chowk. To decompress after a long morning of sightseeing, try out a mug of haldi doodh (turmeric milk) or badam doodh (spiced almond milk).

Why do it in winter?

Winter is the traditional time to experience spiced teas like masala chai, as well as special hot beverages infused with naturally warming ingredients like saffron and cinnamon.

Address and opening hours

United Coffee House, E-15, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001. Open daily, 10:00 AM-23:45 PM

7. Take a culinary tour through the city's streets

New Delhi is famous for its street food tours, which will take you on an educational (and delicious) adventure through India’s diverse culinary heritage. Visit hotspots like Chandni Chowk for jalebis (crispy. juicy funnel cake-like treat), spicy chole bhature (spicy chickpea curry), and steaming parathas. In Chittaranjan Park, known as the city’s “mini Calcutta,” sample winter delights like puchka (pani puri) and ghugni (curried chickpeas).

Why do it in winter?

Winter is festival season in New Delhi with vendors serving up warm, seasonal treats that you’re unlikely to find at any other time of year.

Address and opening hours

Chittaranjan Park, New Delhi, Delhi 110019

FAQs

1. Is New Delhi in winter cold?

In New Delhi, winter temperatures range from 77 F (25 C) to 46 F (8 C). Mornings and evenings may feel chilly, but the weather is generally comfortable for outdoor activities.

2. What are the best things to do in New Delhi in winter?

New Delhi in winter is a wonderful place to sample seasonal street foods like spicy chole bhature or steaming masala chai. Festivals like Bharat Rang Mahotsav also shouldn’t be missed.

3. What is the coldest month in New Delhi?

January is the coldest month in New Delhi, with temperatures dipping to around 46 F (8 C). It’s also a quieter time for tourism, making it ideal for avoiding the worst of the crowds.

4. How many days do you need in New Delhi in winter?

With a well-planned itinerary and the help of this winter guide to New Delhi, 4 to 5 days should be enough time to explore key attractions, such as Humayun’s Tomb and India Gate.

5. Is New Delhi a walkable city?

Certain areas like Connaught Place and Chandni Chowk are walkable, with attractions clustered together. For longer distances, tuk-tuks or pedicabs are convenient transport options.