42 Great Things to Do With Kids in Delhi

Delhi is a great city to visit with kids. I know because I live in Delhi and have visited all of these places, and I’m a parent. As the capital of India, there are plenty of things to do that will keep kids entertained and busy. Because Delhi is so vast and diverse your kids can experience one of the most eye opening travel experiences they will ever have.

Short on Time? Here’s What to Expect:

• list of cultural and fun sites & activities kids will enjoy
• child friendly restaurant
• family oriented hotel
• safety & transportation tips

My top picks of things to do with kids in Delhi:

42 Great Things to do With Kids in Delhi

1. National Zoological Park

Delhi’s National Zoological Park is home to a large number of birds, reptiles and mammals such as white tigers, jaguars, rhinoceros, elephants, deer, lion-tailed macaques, cobras, herons and peacocks. Besides the flora and fauna, a 14th Century tomb from the Tughlaq period and a Kos Minar are also on the grounds.

Food is strictly prohibited once you enter the zoo, so make sure you eat before you go, and bring water. There’s a canteen just outside the main entrance. Strollers are available and there’s an electric trolley service.

If you have an Indian SIM, the easiest way to book tickets is online on the National Zoological Park website. Otherwise you can buy tickets there.

2. Sunder Nursery

Sunder Nursery, Delhi’s newest favourite heritage park, is a wonderful place for children and one of the best things to do with kids in Delhi. Not only is it the site of historical 16th century monuments and an ancient trading route, it has a wonderful interactive children’s play zone, walking paths, and hosts many educational programs on topics like bee conservation and nest building.

It’s one of the nicest green spaces in South Delhi. Giant swings hang from many of the huge, old trees and every Sunday morning there’s an organic bazaar. Cultural performances take place at the amphitheatre throughout the year.

It has won UNESCO awards for heritage conservation and sustainable development. Over 80 species of birds and 40 species of butterflies have been sighted.

3. Red Fort Sound and Light Show

Kids will love Jai Hind, a dynamic sound and light show which features live performers, puppets and state of the art sound and visual effects. The show plays out in front of Delhi’s most famous historic site, the Red Fort.

Narrated by Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan, the show is a roundup of recent Indian history highlighting the grandeur of the Mughal empire, the period of the British Raj, India’s independence movement and the role of the Indian Army.

The show is 60 minutes long and takes place at 3 historic locations within the Red Fort. Guests walk from one location to the next. The longest part of the show is seated in front of the Diwan-e-Khana (Hall of Private Audiences).

Tickets can be purchased online through Book My Show. Please note a separate ticket is required to enter the Red Fort, but your Jai Hind ticket gives you access after 6:00 pm.

4. Take a Bollywood or Bhangra Dance Class at Delhi Dance Academy

Indian dance is a lot of fun, especially lively bhangra and Bollywood dance. Your little ones will love the happy, exuberant moves of bhangra and the theatrics of Bollywood. Taking a local dance class is one of the best active things to do with kids in Delhi.

Delhi Dance Academy is one of the best dance schools in Delhi and they offer a 2 hour introductory Indian dance class called “Namaste India Dance Workshop” for both children and adults.

Dance is a significant part of Indian culture and features prominently at festivals and weddings. Both bhangra and Bollywood styles are happy, joyful dances; not only are they great exercise, they are sure to put a smile on your kids’ faces.

5. Nehru Planetarium

Delhi’s planetarium is a great place for kids who want to get up close to the stars and planets. In addition to the 2D and 3D space shows, the planetarium is a bit of a museum which aims to educate children and highlight India’s role in space.

The planetarium was the initiative of India’s first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru and is located on the grounds of Teen Murti Bhavan, where he lived as prime minister.

There are no food outlets in the planetarium so bring your own snacks and drinks.

Tickets can be purchased online through Book My Show.

6. Sound and Light Show at Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya

The sound and light show at Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya is an outdoor show about India’s space program. It’s displayed on the exterior of one of Delhi’s best museums, the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya (Prime Ministers Museum).

At first glance it seems like an unusual location for a show about India’s space program, but Nehru Planetarium is located on the same grounds and if you go to the late 3D show at the planetarium, you can easily combine the two shows in one outing. The sound and light show is approximately 30 minutes.

The museum itself is excellent, one of the top museums in Delhi, but entirely dedicated to the prime ministers of India and post-independence history. Younger children will not find the museum entertaining, but anyone interested in recent Indian history will be fascinated.

Tickets can be booked online at the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya website.

7. See the Dhobi Walas in Action at Devi Prasad Sadan Dhobi Ghat

A dhobi ghat is an open air laundromat and Delhi has one, right in one of its most prominent neighbourhoods. Kids will be fascinated by the huge outdoor tubs, spinning machines and the dhobis (washer men) stomping in huge sudsy buckets to wash the laundry. It’s like going back in an Indian time machine.

The street leading up the dhobi ghat is strewn with sheets drying on makeshift laundry lines, so you’ll have no problem finding the place. It’s on Hailey Lane, just down the street from the beautiful stepwell, Agrasen ki Baoli.

After the laundry is washed and dried, the women take over, ironing and folding everything in neat bundles ready for same day delivery. This is a friendly community, but please be respectful – it’s not a tourist site.

8. Okhla Bird Sanctuary

In the middle of the busy metropolis is the Okhla Bird Sanctuary, a quiet oasis on the Yamuna River. It hosts over 300 species of birds including endangered and migratory birds. It’s one of the best outdoor things to do with kids in Delhi.

The best time of year to visit Okhla Bird Sanctuary is November to March when the migratory birds come through. Wear neutral coloured clothing and bring binoculars, if you have them. The reed beds in the park are good spots to see birds.

There is an auto rickshaw service to get around the park, but since bird watching usually requires quiet, I don’t recommend it.

Bring your own drinks and snacks – there were no food options the last time I was there.

9. Have Langar at Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

Sikh temples (gurudwaras) around the world provide langar for the community, and having langar at one of Delhi’s most important gurudwaras is a special and unique experience. Langar is a free vegetarian meal prepared by volunteers in the gurudwara’s enormous kitchen.

Everyone is welcome in a Sikh gurudwara and langar hall, regardless of faith, colour or gender. Children will enjoy sitting on the floor and having a community meal with everyone. Experiencing langar is one of the best cultural things to do with kids in Delhi.

Ask one of the volunteers for a tour of the kitchen to see the giant vats of dal, huge stacks of vegetables being prepared for cooking and automatic roti machine. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib serves about 10,000 meals a day and that number can triple on special festival and holy days.

Avoid the gurudwara on the weekend, unless you go early in the day. It can get very crowded and the langar hall might be overwhelming for children.

10. Deer Park

Deer Park is part of the city’s green belt. It’s a huge green space and quiet oasis in a historic area of South Delhi. True to its name, deer and peacocks are kept in a large enclosure. There’s also a children’s play area.

There are many walking paths through the park. The one that goes around the reservoir is adjacent to Hauz Khas Fort and you can get some up close views from the path.

For the adults, there are several historic monuments in the park from the Tughlaq and Lodhi periods: the Kali Gumti (built between 1320 and 1413), the Bagh i Alam Ka Gumbad (built in 1501) and several mosques.

11. Nehru Park

Nehru Park is one of Delhi’s best parks for families. It’s located in the affluent neighbourhood and diplomatic enclave of Chanakyapuri and is over 80 acres. There’s a large diversity of trees and flowers and many species of birds. It’s a favourite family picnic spot in the cooler months.

The park is well serviced with a children’s playground, parking, toilets, tennis courts, outdoor gym, and two temples. Unusually, there’s a statue of Vladimir Lenin which was unveiled by Mikhael Gorbachev before the fall of the Soviet Union.

Make sure to bring water – there are water stations but the water is not filtered.

12. Laxminarayan Mandir

There are several temples in Delhi that combine spirituality with a bit of a theatric element, be it unwittingly. While the temple itself may not be of interest to kids, the grounds and various statues will definitely be more pleasing.

Apart from the main temple, there are several small temples on the grounds, including a Lord Shiva temple with the gaping mouth of a monster as the entrance. The gardens have carved fountains and statues of animals all representing aspects of Hinduism which kids will find interesting.

When Laxminarayan Mandir was built, it was the largest Hindu temple in Delhi. It’s beautiful, adorned with fresco paintings, carvings and marble icons all handcrafted by artisans from one of Delhi’s holiest cities, Varanasi.

Avoid the temple during the festivals of Diwali and Janmashtami when it gets incredibly busy.

13. Take an Indian Cooking Class

Delhi is India’s culinary capital – it’s a serious foodie destination. What better way to get kids involved in the food of India than a hands on cooking class?

I highly recommend Gourmet Desire. It’s centrally located in Delhi and offers different options for adults and children. You can book an Indian cooking class, baking class, chocolate making class and produce market tours.

Your kids will get hands on and learn about Indian eating ethics and table manners (it’s okay to eat with your hands).

14. Take a Cycle Rickshaw Ride Through Chandni Chowk

Chandni Chowk is ground zero for exploring the sites of Old Delhi. It’s part of the historic city of Shahjahanabad and full of Mughal era buildings and sites, like Jama Masjid the Red Fort (UNESCO). It’s also the craziest, and one of the most congested parts of Delhi. It can be overwhelming on foot but on a cycle rickshaw families can enjoy the colourful and chaotic nature of the area.

An Old Delhi rickshaw ride is one of the best things to do with kids in Delhi and will be a real eye opener. They will not forget it!

Make sure the rickshaw driver takes you down the lanes and into the various markets that make up Chandni Chowk, like Kinari Bazaar (wedding market), Dariba Kalan (silver market) and Khari Baoli (spice market), as well as Chandni Chowk itself from the Red Fort to Fatehpuri Masjid.

15. Dilli Haat INA

This is a great place to bring children if you need to buy authentic souvenirs or gifts. It’s a pedestrian only outdoor market with clean toilets and an excellent food court with foods from across India.

It’s a one-stop shop for Indian handicrafts from all around the country. Artisans and craftsmen change every two weeks and the variety of crafts, arts and textiles is excellent. 

Prices may be slightly higher than in the local markets, but given the convenience of having everything in one place and being able to shop in a calm and traffic free environment, I think it’s worth it, especially with kids. 

👍 There are 3 Dilli Haat markets in Delhi.  Make sure you go to the INA location.  It is the largest and nicest by far. There is also a Delhi Haat INA store in Saket – do not go there!

16. Swaminarayan Akshardham & Water Show

This is Delhi’s most child friendly temple and one of the best things to do with kids in Delhi. Besides the enormous temple (it is one of the largest Hindu temples in the world) the complex has several unusual exhibitions that children will enjoy. There’s also a children’s playground and huge food hall.

The exhibitions include a series of 3D dioramas and immersive projections, a giant screen movie and a 12 minute cultural boat ride.  Along with the gift shop and food hall these gives the temple a bit of theme park feel but somehow it works.

Every evening there’s an outdoor water show based on Hindu mythology using colour lasers, under water flames, live actors, music and video projections. It begins at 7:15 pm and is very popular. You must be there by 6:30 pm.

Don’t count on taking any photos – photography is strictly forbidden and electronics must be left at security. Akshardham has a strict dress code: shoulders, chest and upper arms must be covered, and bottoms must fall below the knees. The temple has sarongs available to borrow if required.

17. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir (in Karol Bagh)

This is another temple with a bit of a theatrical element that children enjoy. The temple is dedicated to Hanuman (sometimes known as the monkey god). Hanuman is one of the most beloved gods, revered for his loyalty to Lord Rama, bravery and strength.

The entrance to the temple is a gaping mouth of monster and inside there are several colourful temples dedicated to various Hindu deities (including a cave like temple). Each temple has an eager pandit willing to bless you for a small donation.

The temple has become an iconic symbol of Delhi – it is a 108 foot high statue of Lord Hanuman and clearly visible from several flyovers and the Delhi metro. Every Tuesday and Saturday at 8:15 am and 8:15 pm the giant statue of Hanuman opens his chest to reveal Sita and Lord Rama in his heart. The spectacle always draws a crowd on the streets.

To enter the temple you must remove your shoes.

18. Go Horseback Riding

Most kids love horses and horseback riding in Delhi is a great way to get kids outdoors in a non-urban environment. The suburbs of Noida and Gurugram have several equestrian centres that offer trail rides and introductory lessons, but Aravali Equestrian Academy in Gurugram is one of the best.

They offer a full range of lessons (including photo shoots with horses), trail rides and have an outdoor arena and access to jungle trails. Check the Aravali Equestrian Academy FB page for their latest events.

Make sure to bring water and snacks.

19. Ice Skating at ISKATE

Most people don’t think of ice skating as something to do in Delhi, but ISKATE in Ambience Mall Gurugram is home to India’s largest indoor skating rink. In summer ice skating is one of the best things to do with kids in Delhi.

Public skating starts on the hour for 45 minute sessions. ISKATE also offers ice skating, figure skating and ice hockey lessons by national and visiting international coaches. Skates are included in the fee but bring long socks. Skating aids are available for little ones.

ISKATE is located in Ambience Mall Gurugram which has a large movie theatre and many eating options – you can easily make a full day of your visit here.

20. Bowling at SMAAASH

SMAAASH has modern and gorgeous bowling alleys in its virtual gaming and sports hubs. Your kids will love the state of the art bowling lanes, shiny pins and colourful bowling balls. Their twilight bowling alley with ultra violet lighting makes for really fun bowling.

There are two locations that are known for their bowling alleys, DLF Mall in Noida and the Rajouri Garden location in West Delhi.

Both locations have a host of other real and virtual activities and a cafe.

21. Rock Climbing at Boulder Box

Delhi’s premiere climbing facility is one of the best things to do with kids in Delhi and is a fun way for kids and adults to get active. Boulder Box has walls to suit all abilities, including a ‘campus’ wall so beginners can learn the basics.

They offer one hour kids classes which focus on technical understanding and movement on a climbing wall while under constant supervision. Private coaching is also available.

Climbing shoes and chalk (for hands) are available to rent. There are change rooms and an onsite cafe. Boulder Box offers yoga and aerial arts skills classes as well.

22. See a Movie

India loves the movies, and Delhi has hundreds of excellent movie theatres. Movie theatres are modern, air conditioned (it’s a great escape on a hot day) and have plenty of food options. The multiplexes always have the latest American block busters as well as domestic movies.

For an authentic experience see a Bollywood film (some have English subtitles). Indians can get very animated during a film and local reactions are almost as entertaining as the movie itself.

To check movie schedules and purchase tickets I use these two sites: PVR Cinemas and Book My Show.

23. Bharat Darshan Park

This is one of Delhi’s most ingenious parks. It features over 21 replicas of famous temples and heritage buildings from across India, built entirely of scrap metal.

The replicas were constructed using 350 tons of scrap material, including old vehicles, fans, iron rods, nuts and bolts. The toilet facilities are made from old shipping containers, the park uses solar energy and has its own water treatment facility.

It’s a great way to see India’s most famous buildings, like the Taj Mahal, Char Minar, Gateway of India, Konark Temple, Mysore Palace and Victoria Memorial. At dusk the monuments are lit up with coloured lights.

The park is set on 8.5 acres and has plenty of shaded seating, toilet facilities and vending machines with snacks.

24. Kidzania

Kidzania is an interactive indoor theme park that lets kids learn and get inspired through real life role playing activities.

Built like a city, it is complete with paved roads, battery operated cars, businesses and its own currency. Children can role play different jobs and learn about money management. There are no rides or video games. A parents lounge is onsite.

Children can try out over 60 different role playing activities, which include industries from both private and public sectors. It’s one of the most progressive family entertainment centres out there and one of the best things to do with kids in Delhi.

Tickets can be booked through the Kidzania website.

25. Museum of Illusions

This is a great family museum and one of the best things to do with kids in Delhi. Kids will love the mind bending and fun illusions that let them climb a wall like Spiderman and lift an auto rickshaw. The installations are based on mirrors, holograms, colours and sound, using science to trick the brain.

To avoid the crowds and lineups, go during the week and in the morning if possible. Buy tickets online on the Museum of Illusions website so you don’t need to queue up. Don’t book the last time slot of the day as staff may try to rush you through the exhibits.

26. Worlds of Wonder Amusement & Water Park

Don’t expect Delhi’s amusement parks to be at the Disney level, they’re just not – but Worlds of Wonder is probably the best one in the city. As long as expectations are kept in check, there is plenty for kids to enjoy here.

There’s a number of rides, including ones suitable for younger children in the children’s section, an indoor games area, and a water park with wave pool and water slides. Keep in mind tap water in India is not potable – you may not want young children in the water park in case they swallow water by accident.

27. National Science Centre

Delhi’s National Science Centre is one of the largest science centres in Asia and one of the best things to do with kids in Delhi. Its goal is to educate through entertainment, and I think it does a pretty good job.

There are exhibitions on nuclear power, human biology, pre-historic life and water, as well as Indian themed exhibits such as India’s role in science and technology.

The centre hosts many workshops and events throughout the year. You can check the calendar on the National Science Centre website.

28. National Crafts Museum & Hastkala Academy

Sometimes called India’s most inspiring museum, this little gem is often overlooked by visitors. The museum resembles a village as opposed to a formal gallery which makes it one of the best museums and things to do in Delhi with children.

Traditional crafts and art from across India are always displayed and artisans regularly give demonstrations of their craft.

Kids will enjoy the impressive outdoor village complex with replicas of village dwellings, courtyards and shrines from different parts of India, all built with regional materials.

The museum has a very good shop where you can buy traditional crafts at reasonable prices, and an excellent cafe.

29. Swimming at the Radisson Blu Hotel Paschim Vihar

Most kids love swimming in a pool, and visitors can buy a day pass for the pool at the Radisson Blu Hotel Paschim Vihar. You don’t need to be a hotel guest. The Suryaa New Delhi swimming pool is another great option for kids (they have day passes at the same price).

Delhi has public pools, but sanitation is not always up to Western standards. Given that the water is already not safe to drink in Delhi, the Radisson Blu Hotel Paschim Vihar is a safer option.

The swimming pool is located on the roof top and has panoramic views of Delhi. Parents can relax on the loungers and there’s a poolside bar that serves light meals and drinks.

30. Indian Air Force Museum

This is an excellent museum and one of the best things to do with kids in Delhi. Children and aviation enthusiasts will love walking through the hangars and getting up close to the planes. The museum is well done, informative and a popular field trip destination for students.

Over 37 aircraft are on display indoors and outdoors. The collection includes vintage jets, helicopters, airplanes and remnants of crashed Pakistani jets from the 1972 India Pakistan war. There’s also anti-aircraft guns, ordnance, vehicles and radar equipment.

31. Take a Cycle Tour with Delhi By Cycle

Taking a cycle tour of Delhi is a great family activity and one of the best things to do with kids in Delhi. Not only will it get everyone active, you’ll see a side of Delhi you didn’t know existed. Tours depart at 6:45 am so traffic and heat are not a problem.

Tours are 4 hours long and include a stop for chai (Indian tea) and breakfast. I did the Raj tour through Lutyens’ Delhi and had so much fun it made me want to do all the tours.

Helmets and baby seats are provided and bikes are well maintained. The tour leaders are fabulous – full of stories about Delhi and very aware of guest safety.

For booking and tour information, check the Delhi By Cycle website.

32. Snow World

It’s always winter at Snow World in DLF Mall of India, which can be a very welcome break from the Delhi heat. It’s almost a surreal thing to do in a city as hot as Delhi, and one of the best things to do with kids.

Kids can go ice skating, snowboarding, sledging and ice sliding. There’s snow fall in every session for snow play, snow angels and snow ball fights.

Snow World is located in one of the biggest malls of India, DLF Mall of India. After snow play you can catch a movie, shop or eat at one of the many restaurants in the mall.

Snow World tickets include coats, boots and gloves but make sure to bring long, warm socks.

33. Sulabh International Museum of Toilets

Kids love this quirky museum which is all about toilets. The museum chronicles the history of the toilet from 2500 BC through a bizarre and rare collection of objects, photos and information.

Although the museum sounds goofy, its mission is to highlight and tackle a very real health problem in India. It was founded by social reformer Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak who has endeavoured to change government policy about the right and need of sanitation for all.

34. Shankar’s International Dolls Museum

Often referred to as the United Nations of Dolls, this museum has one of the largest collections of dolls internationally. Currently it has over 7,000 dolls from more than 85 countries.

The museum is divided into sections: the Western section, the Asia/Africa/Middle East section and an extensive Indian section with dolls from all different regions in tribal costumes. There’s even a doll workshop where dolls are crafted to sell to collectors and other museums.

35. National Rail Museum

This is a great museum for families and one of the best things to do with kids in Delhi. The grounds resemble a railway yard with an extensive outdoor collection of locomotives and historic carriages on old railway tracks – there’s even a wheelhouse.

Kids will love exploring the rail cars and taking a ride on the mini Joy Train. When the kids are done looking at trains, the can burn off some steam in the playground.

The restaurant in the museum is a replica of the famous Mumbai train station, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus).  There is even a steam locomotive that chugs around the tables.

36. Jantar Mantar

Jantar Mantar is a historical group of 13 architectural astronomy instruments. The name Jantar Mantar literally means “instruments for measuring the harmony of the heavens.” Each instrument had a purpose and was surprisingly accurate.

For budding scientists or anyone interested in astronomy this is a must see site. Kids can get up close to the instruments, which are massive. The park is relatively compact and can be done in about an hour. There’s not much shade, so avoid going on really hot days or mid afternoon.

37. Shop and Hang Out at One of Delhi’s Beautiful Malls

If you have teenagers they might appreciate shopping in a familiar environment. Delhi has some large and very modern malls with many Western branded shops and restaurants.

The larger malls will have movie theatres, foods courts, plenty of restaurants, coffee shops, Indian and Western stores. They’re climate controlled and make a welcome break in summer from the Delhi heat.

Don’t be alarmed by the security to get into the mall, it’s standard practice in Delhi.

The best malls in Delhi (including the suburbs of Noida and Gurugram) are:

• Select Citywalk (and attached DLF Avenue Saket), Saket
• Ambience Mall Vasant Kunj
• Ambience Mall Gurugram
• DLF Mall of India, Noida

38. Have a Picnic

Delhi has many beautiful spots for a picnic. Visit any of Delhi’s large parks on the weekend and you will see lots of Indian families with blankets spread out on the lawns, picnicking. It’s a great way to get kids outdoors and enjoy some family time. Lodhi Garden, Sunder Nursery and Nehru Park are popular picnic spots in the city.

Planning a picnic in Delhi is super easy. You can have groceries and ready-made food items delivered right to your door with apps like Big Basket and Blinkit. Delhi has fruit and vegetable markets in every neighbourhood, and there are lots of little supermarkets you can visit. For a very simple alternative, order food from a restaurant and have it packed to go.

39. Waste to Wonder Dinosaur Park

Delhi now has its own version of Jurassic Park at the ingenious Waste To Wonder Park. This park has been around for a few years, but they just completed a terrific section on dinosaurs that is sure to please children.

Now the park has something for every member of the family. Adults will enjoy replicas of the 7 wonders of the world, and the kids can play on the dinosaurs (several are slides). All of the models are made from metal waste like automobile parts, old fans, rods, iron sheets, bicycle parts, metal railings, defunct sewer lines and old appliances.

It’s a very family friendly park, with a mini train, play area and food court, making it the best new thing to do with kids in Delhi.

40. Swami Sivananda Memorial Institute

Kids (and adults) can take a 2 or 4 hour block printing workshop at this heritage arts institute.

Block printing is a traditional handicraft still widely popular today. This will be a fun, very hands on activity for your kids, and they’ll get to take home their hand printed tote bag (or whatever else they make) as a souvenir.

Private classes can be arranged for groups of 4 or more. You can book a workshop on the SSMI website.

41. Leap Gymnastics Academy

If your children have energy to burn off, this is a really great spot. It’s a brand new facility and the best in Delhi in terms of equipment. Local expat moms really like this academy.

No matter what your child’s level in gymnastics there will be suitable program. They cater to all levels, from kids that just want to have fun to serious gymnasts. Try it out with a trial class.

42. The Barnyard

Kids can get up close and personal with farm animals at the Barnyard. They’ll enjoy feeding the goats, cows and chickens, getting involved in one of the farm activities and having fun in the playground.

The Barnyard is actually an animal rescue/sanctuary that operates as a petting zoo. There’s cows, goats, chickens, rabbits and donkeys.

No matter what your child’s level in gymnastics there will be suitable program. They cater to all levels, from kids that just want to have fun to serious gymnasts. Try it out with a trial class.

Where to Stay in Delhi with Kids

South or Central Delhi are the best parts of the city to stay in with children. These are nicer areas and close to many sites and monuments. Family friendly hotels with pools, babysitting and special kids activities are:

Where to Eat with Kids in Delhi

Indian cuisine is one of the most diverse in the world but the masala might not suit young palates. Luckily there are many options for less adventurous eaters. Besides Western chains like McDonald’s, Taco Bell, KFC, Dominos and Subway there are lots of great restaurants for children.

Haldiram’s

Haldiram’s is a great place to eat with children. India’s favourite food chain has outlets all over Delhi. It’s a casual, cafeteria style restaurant offering a variety of Indian meals and chaats (snacks).

Food is not overly spicy and it’s a great way for kids to try local food and street style snacks in a sanitary environment.

Habitat Hub

This American style diner serves international food, including breakfast. Kids will enjoy the retro theme diner and familiar food items. It’s located in one of Delhi’s premiere cultural hubs, India Habitat Centre, which always has free art shows and public art set up in the garden area.

Chili’s Grill & Bar

The American casual dining restaurant chain has several locations in Delhi. The menu does include some foods to appeal to the Indian palate but is mostly burgers, pizzas and the Tex-Mex food Chili’s is famous for.

Andhra Pradesh Bhavan

This unassuming government canteen is a favourite of those in the know. Everyone one from rickshaw drivers to high level government officials come in for the bottomless thali trays.

A thali is an assortment of foods that includes dhal, vegetable dishes, Indian breads, rice, and something sweet. It’s basically a buffet on a tray. Servers roam the aisles and slosh out food onto your tray (which kids love). You can eat as much as you want and it’s always fresh.

Hard Rock Cafe

The global rock and roll themed chain now has a location in central Delhi. If your kids are craving burgers and American classics, this is the place to come. The restaurant is decorated with rock and roll memorabilia, has an outdoor terrace and its own coffee house, the Constant Grind.

The Big Chill Cafe

Delhi’s favourite home-grown restaurant chain has locations throughout the city. The menu is extensive and includes pasta, pizza, burgers, salads, sandwiches and Indian food. There is bound to be something for even the fussiest eater. Big Chill Cafes are very popular, so if you go during lunch or dinner time or on the weekend, expect to wait for a table.

If your kids have a sweet tooth, take them to either Big Chill Cakery or Big Chill Creamery (ice cream) in Khan Market for dessert. They will love both of them.

Social

This urban themed restaurant chain has an extensive menu. Actually this is a great place to go if the kids want American style food but you want Indian. At least half the menu is Indian, but the other half is burgers, pasta, salads, pizza, wraps and other international foods like bao.

They also have a pretty extensive drink menu, for the adults. The Social in Hauz Khas Village is one of the most famous restaurants in Delhi.

Diggin Cafe

Diggin is a popular Italian inspired cafe that has several locations in Delhi. They’re famous for their beautiful outdoor terraces and are one of Delhi’s best cafes. They have a child friendly menu offering pizza, pasta, soup, salads and milkshakes.

The Best Pizza Places in Delhi for Kids

Delhi has some excellent pizzerias serving authentic Italian style pizza. The best are:

Food and Water Safety for Kids in Delhi

Food is definitely safe for kids to eat in Delhi, though much Indian cuisine uses spices and chilis which may not appeal to everyone. But there’s always rice, roti and paranthas which most kids enjoy and are not spicy. Yogurt is a great way to temper food that is too hot for your child – that is why it is commonly served with Indian meals.

⚠️ Tap water is not safe to drink in Delhi – make sure you and your children drink bottled or filtered water. This includes frozen ice treats on the street (like the Indian version of snow cones), and street food which uses water in any sauces.

How to Get Around Delhi with Kids

Delhi has really good transportation options. If your kids are young and you’re staying in South or Central Delhi, I recommend taking auto rickshaws for shorter distances (less than 3 km), and Uber for anything longer. Both are widely used in Delhi and safe.

In Delhi you can reserve an Uber for multiple hours and make as many stops as you want – it’s a really good alternative to renting a private car and driver.

If your kids are older, or you are staying somewhere further from the centre, take the Delhi metro to get into the city. It’s a surprisingly great system. Not only is it fast, clean, safe and cheap – it goes everywhere. The only reason I don’t recommend the metro for small children, is that it can get very crowded during rush hours.

Should I visit Delhi with kids?

Absolutely! There is tons of stuff for kids to do in Delhi no matter what their interests are. Indian culture is very family oriented and children are welcome everywhere. Here is an itinerary for one day in Delhi with children.

Is it safe to travel to Delhi with kids?

Delhi is as safe as any other megacity for kids, but there are some things to keep in mind. Safety standards are not the same as in the West. Railings may be low or non-existent in places, sidewalks (where they exist) can be full of potholes, amusement parks and water parks may not be as sanitary as those in Europe or North America. You’ll have to keep a very close eye on young children.

I don’t find Delhi to be stroller friendly (and most Indians don’t use them). Many places don’t have sidewalks, and when there are sidewalks they are full of huge cracks and potholes. Also, motorcycles occasionally use sidewalks when the road is blocked.

When is the best time to visit Delhi with kids?

The most pleasant months in terms of weather are February, March, October and November. Weather is warm but not overly hot during the day and nights are cooler. It’s perfect weather for exploring and won’t be too taxing on little ones.

Delhi does experience extremes in weather, so if you are traveling to Delhi in summer or winter, make sure your accommodation has heat or AC.

Average Weather in Delhi

• Winter: December & January – 5 to 20C (cool and smoggy)
• Spring: February & March – 20 to 25C (pleasant and sunny)
• Summer: April to June – 30 to 49C (very hot)
• Monsoon: July to mid September – 30 to 35C (hot and humid)
• Autumn: mid September to November – 20 to 30C (pleasant and sunny)

The Wrap-Up On 42 Great Things to Do With Kids in Delhi

There are so many things to do with kids in Delhi. No matter what your child’s interests or the time of year you will be able to find lots of things to keep them busy and entertained.

Don’t forget travel insurance! It’s always a good idea to carry travel insurance just in case something goes wrong. I really like and use SafetyWing

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