Traditions and customs in Delhi

1. Namaste greeting

Palms together with a slight bow — universally understood and generally preferred to a handshake, particularly across genders.

2. Diwali

The festival of lights, with oil lamps, sweets exchanged between households and fireworks over several nights.

• Best time: October or November
• Tip: Air quality in Delhi is at its worst around Diwali; anyone with a respiratory condition should plan around it.

3. Holi

Coloured powder and water thrown freely for a day in March. Enormous fun and genuinely uncontrolled.

• Best time: March
• Tip: Wear clothes you will discard and oil your hair beforehand. Women travelling alone should join an organised or private event.

4. Qawwali at Nizamuddin Dargah

Devotional Sufi singing at the shrine of Nizamuddin Auliya every Thursday evening, for centuries.

• Where: Nizamuddin
• Best time: Thursday evening
• Tip: Head covered, shoes left outside. Women can attend but seating is separate.

5. Chai stalls

Milk tea boiled with cardamom and ginger, sold in small glasses or clay cups at every corner.

• Cost: INR 10–30