Delhi Travel Cost Breakdown for 2026
How Much Does a Trip to Delhi Cost?
A trip to Delhi in 2026 can range from approximately $180 for a budget 3-day excursion to over $3360 for a 7-day luxury experience, with mid-range options falling between these figures.
Daily Cost Breakdown
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $20 | $70 | $200 |
| Food | $15 | $40 | $100 |
| Transport | $5 | $20 | $60 |
| Activities | $10 | $30 | $70 |
| Misc | $10 | $20 | $50 |
| DAILY TOTAL | $60 | $180 | $480 |
The best time to visit Delhi for optimal weather and travel experience is from October to March. The current exchange rate is approximately 1 USD = 83 INR (₹). Tipping culture in India suggests a 10% gratuity at restaurants for good service.
Total Trip Cost by Duration
| Duration | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Days | $180 | $540 | $1440 |
| 5 Days | $300 | $900 | $2400 |
| 7 Days | $420 | $1260 | $3360 |
Accommodation Costs
Accommodation prices in Delhi for 2026 vary significantly based on the type of lodging:
- Hostels: Expect to pay between $10 – $25 per night for a dorm bed in a well-rated hostel.
- Budget Hotels: Basic, clean rooms in budget hotels typically range from $20 – $40 per night.
- Mid-Range Hotels: Comfortable 3-star hotels offering better amenities will cost between $60 – $100 per night.
- Airbnb/Guesthouses: Private rooms or entire apartments can be found for $40 – $90 per night, offering a local feel.
- Luxury Hotels: 5-star hotels and premium resorts will charge upwards of $180 – $400+ per night.
Food & Restaurant Costs
Delhi is a culinary paradise, with options to suit every budget. Prices are approximate per person:
- Street Food: Delicious and filling snacks like chaat, samosas, and parathas can be enjoyed for $1 – $3 per meal.
- Casual Restaurants (Dhabas/Local Eateries): A hearty meal of Indian cuisine (dal, roti, sabzi) can cost $3 – $8.
- Mid-Range Dining: Sit-down restaurants offering a wider variety of Indian and international dishes typically range from $10 – $20 per person for a full meal.
- Fine Dining: Upscale restaurants and hotel dining experiences can cost $30 – $70+ per person, excluding beverages.
Transportation Costs
Navigating Delhi is relatively affordable:
- Airport Transfer: The Airport Express Metro is the most economical option at approximately $1.50. Taxis and ride-sharing services from the airport can range from $8 – $15.
- Public Transit Day Pass: A Delhi Metro day pass costs approximately $3.50, offering unlimited travel on the metro for a day.
- Taxis/Rideshare: Short rides within the city typically cost $2 – $5. Longer journeys or those during peak hours can be $5 – $10.
- Auto-rickshaws: For shorter distances, auto-rickshaws are a common and affordable option, with fares negotiated but usually in the $1 – $3 range for short trips.
How to Save Money in Delhi
- Embrace Street Food: Eating at reputable street food stalls can drastically reduce your food budget. For example, enjoying 3 meals from street vendors might cost around $5-$10 daily, saving $5-$25 per day compared to mid-range dining.
- Utilize Public Transport: Relying on the Delhi Metro and local buses instead of taxis or ride-sharing services can save $10-$40 per day. A day pass is extremely cost-effective.
- Stay in Hostels or Budget Guesthouses: Opting for accommodation under $30 per night instead of mid-range hotels can save $40-$70 per day.
- Negotiate Fares (where applicable): For auto-rickshaws and some market purchases, polite negotiation can lead to savings of 5-10%.
- Visit Free Attractions: Many beautiful temples, markets, and parks in Delhi are free to enter, reducing your activity expenses.
Is Delhi Expensive Compared to Other Cities?
Compared to other major Asian capitals, Delhi offers excellent value for money. For instance, a comparable mid-range 7-day trip to Bangkok might cost around $1500-$1800, while a similar trip to Singapore could easily exceed $2500-$3000. Delhi’s affordability, particularly in accommodation and food, makes it an attractive destination for budget-conscious travelers. For more in-depth planning, consult our Delhi travel guide.
Kai has visited 60+ countries across 6 continents, with a obsession for one thing most travelers ignore: the real cost of getting there. Former budget backpacker turned data-driven travel writer, Kai breaks down destination costs so you can plan smarter — not just dream bigger. Based everywhere, from nowhere in particular.
