As Tah and I set our first feet in India, the excitement inside began to grow. We were in the Indira Gandhi International Airport at 4 AM that day. When we researched on what’s the best way to reach our place where we stay in Delhi, we found out most of the people suggesting the metro trains in Delhi.
After seeking some help from the Immigration department, we started our journey to explore the metro rails of India. Even though it was early that morning, the smog has peeped out. So, it is better you wear a face mask to protect yourself. It was rather cold in February. The temperature was 11 degrees. Hailing from Thailand and experiencing the winters in only 16 degree celsius, Tah felt it was too chill.
As we reached the metro station, we could see so many people even at that time. This is because, trains are the best way to reach to your destination as it is affordable and lets you skip road traffic.
The subway is pretty easy to navigate. There are arrows either way to indicate where you need to go. It is similar to the one in Bangkok or Mexico. To make your travel easy, there are two ways:
- Take a pic of the metro map displayed in the station
- Download the Metro app available in Play store or App store
About Delhi Metro:
When you make-up your mind to travel to your destination in the fastest way possible from the airport, then the apt solution is Delhi Metro. Navigation inside the Metro is indicated in different colors. You need to follow this to reach your train. First of all, look out for Terminal 3. The superfast Metro express connect you to the central area of New Delhi. This happens when you follow the Orange line.
The first train from Delhi Metro Airport
As early as 4.45 AM, there is a train from New Delhi to the airport. This is the very first train of the day. The last train, both from and to New Delhi and airport is at 11.30 PM. This happens in a 15 minute frequency. To reach New Delhi from Terminal 3, it is approximately 19 minutes. So from the airport you can start off in the 5.20 train.
Where to get tickets in Delhi Airport Metro and What is the ticket cost in Delhi Airport Metro
Ticket counters are available at the airport. To manage the crowd, there is another option also. Yes, the automatic ticket issuing machine is available in Terminal 3. This machine is present both in the domestic and international arrivals. It is also available in the T1 arrivals if you are going somewhere else from T1. The cost of the ticket from Airport to New Delhi is Rs.60 which is $0.84. If you are going to Dwarka, then it is just Rs.21.
Why should one choose public transport in Delhi?
New Delhi is one of the most populated cities of the world, housing 19 million people. Hence getting around in a private vehicle is super-difficult. Though there is Uber and Ola, the mad traffic in Delhi makes it difficult to reach your destination on time. If you are unlucky, there is a chance you will not able to get a cab also, because of so many users wanting a cab. Sometimes, in the wee hours the rate of the cab is neck high too. So most of the people prefer to travel in public transport. You can reach your destination faster without burning your pockets. You can also understand and experience more of the locals while you are on a public transport!
Facts of Delhi Metro:
- The Metro rails in Delhi was inaugurated in December of 2002.
- This was the first railway system to receive the United Nations Certificate in the whole whole. This was given for the fact that these trains reduce greenhouse gas emissions. How cool is that?!
- There are 8 main lines divided by colors like red, blue, yellow, green, magenta, violet and pink.
- There is one Orange line that leads to the Airport.
- Delhi metro consists of 184 metro stations! They are both underground and above ground.
- All the trains are air-conditioned. To bear with the Delhi summers, this is a must.
Getting around in Delhi in a Metro Rail
Here are few tips and details about Delhi Metro that you should know when you plan to catch a train.
- Cards and tokens
The metro rail system issues both cards and tokens at respective ticket counters. If you are just a rare or one-way traveler, then get the token. If you are a frequent metro train user, then better get the card. There is something called special tourist card that offers unlimited rides for particular number of day. One day tourist card is Rs.200 and for three days it is Rs.500.
- Ticket cost differs
There is no fixed price for tickets. Depending on your destination, the price of the ticket varies. You can also calculate the fare to the destination, beforehand.
- No eating on the train
There are many eat-outs in the station where you can grab a coffee, tea and snacks. But you are not allowed to have it in the train. Why do you have to worry, you have amazing places that you can reach to and have Indian food in Delhi!
- Maximum weight you can carry
You cannot carry more than 15kgs in the Metro train. Bags are scanned before you get into the train. So, it is better to limit your luggage to 15 kgs.
- Women compartments
There are 6 to 8 cars in the train and one is always reserved for the ladies who travel. How sweet is that!
Are you planning to visit Delhi very soon? Now that you know how fascinating Delhi Metro Rails are, you should include travelling in one. You can also reach close to awesome destinations like Rajiv Chowk, Central Secretariat, Nehru place and more when you take a metro train. Check out our recent travel videos of India to help you plan your next trip to this incredible country!
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