Is Delhi safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Delhi is generally safe for visitors who take care, but it is demanding. The realistic risks are scams and touts, pickpocketing in crowds, heavy traffic, food and water hygiene, and severe air pollution from about November to January. Violent crime against tourists is uncommon.
The real risks
Scams and touts
Strangers near New Delhi station or Connaught Place who claim your hotel or a sight is closed, fake tourist offices and commission shops; decline unsolicited help and book your own transport.
Pickpocketing
Crowded Chandni Chowk, markets and buses; keep your bag in front and phones out of back pockets.
Air pollution
Severe from about November to January; check the air quality index and consider an N95 mask.
Food and water
Drink bottled or filtered water, check seals, and choose busy stalls where food is cooked fresh.
Traffic
Very heavy and chaotic; cross with care and use the metro where possible.
Heat
April to June often exceeds 40°C; avoid midday sightseeing.
Areas and times to take care
Old Delhi's lanes are fascinating but crowded; go in the morning and keep belongings close. Paharganj has many touts and some overcharging. Take more care in empty areas and around stations late at night.
Getting around safely
The Delhi Metro is the safest and easiest option, with a women-only carriage. Use Uber and Ola for taxis and auto-rickshaws, agree prices for cycle rickshaws in Old Delhi, and take the Airport Express Line from the airport.
Solo and women travellers
Many women travel alone in Delhi, but harassment such as staring and unwanted attention is common. Dress modestly, use the women's metro carriage and app-based taxis, avoid empty areas at night and consider a guided tour for Old Delhi.
Health, water and heat
Do not drink tap water; use bottled or filtered (RO) water. Be careful with raw salads and uncooked chutneys in the first days. Heat is extreme from April to June, the monsoon brings mosquitoes, and winter smog affects breathing. Good private hospitals exist; travel insurance is essential.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
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Common questions
Is Delhi safe for tourists?
Generally yes with care: watch for scams and pickpockets, use app taxis and the metro, and drink bottled water.
Is Delhi safe for women travelling alone?
Many do it, but harassment is common. Dress modestly, use the women's metro carriage and app taxis, and avoid empty areas at night.
How bad is the air pollution?
Severe from about November to January. Check the air quality index and consider an N95 mask.