India · tool
How much does Delhi cost?
Daily budget breakdown across three tiers — so you can realistically plan your Delhi trip before you book anything.
Photo by shalender kumar on Unsplash
Delhi, India travel budget
Realistic daily cost per person across three spending tiers. All figures in USD.
Budget
$20–$40
per day
Hostels, street food, public transit
Accommodation
$5–$15
Hostel dorm beds or basic guesthouses.
Food
$5–$10
Street food, local dhabas, and small eateries.
Transport
$3–$7
Delhi Metro, auto-rickshaws (negotiate fare or use meter), and local buses.
Activities
$3–$5
Exploring markets, visiting free temples and monuments like India Gate, walking tours.
Misc
$4–$3
Water, snacks, small souvenirs.
Mid-range
$70–$175
per day
3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some taxis
Accommodation
$30–$80
Comfortable 3-star hotels or well-rated Airbnb apartments.
Food
$15–$40
Mix of casual restaurants, popular cafes, and mid-range dining experiences.
Transport
$10–$20
App-based taxis (Ola, Uber), occasional private car hire for specific trips.
Activities
$10–$25
Entrance fees to historical sites (Red Fort, Humayun's Tomb), museums, and cultural performances.
Misc
$5–$10
Shopping, additional drinks, personal expenses.
Luxury
$210–$550
per day
4-5 star hotels, premium dining, private transfers
Accommodation
$120–$350
5-star hotels or premium serviced apartments.
Food
$40–$80
Fine dining restaurants, hotel buffets, and tasting menus.
Transport
$30–$50
Private car with driver for the day, airport transfers.
Activities
$10–$20
Exclusive guided tours, private cooking classes, premium cultural experiences.
Misc
$10–$50
Spa treatments, high-end shopping, discretionary spending.
Destination-specific money tips
- •While major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in hotels and large stores, always carry sufficient cash for smaller shops, street vendors, and auto-rickshaws.
- •ATMs are widely available, but some smaller banks might charge higher fees for international withdrawals. Using ATMs attached to major banks like HDFC Bank or ICICI Bank is generally safer.
- •Bargaining is expected in markets and with auto-rickshaws; maintain a polite but firm approach.
- •Be aware that some tourist attractions have separate, higher entry fees for foreigners compared to locals.
- •Tipping is not obligatory but is a good way to show appreciation for excellent service; 5-10% is customary in restaurants if a service charge isn't already included.