Delhi is a city that dazzles with contrasts: majestic forts, bustling bazaars, vibrant food scenes, and buzzing nightlife. But for all its energy and colour, India’s capital also comes with challenges,
especially for solo travellers. While much of Delhi is safe to explore with common sense and precautions, there are a few pockets where caution is strongly advised. If you’re planning to wander alone in the national capital on your next trip, here are five dangerous places in Delhi you might want to skip or approach carefully, especially at night.
1. Paharganj & New Delhi Railway Station
Paharganj, the backpacker hub, is often the first stop for budget travellers. Its lively streets are lined with cafés, guesthouses, and shops. Yet, the chaos can be overwhelming. After dark, alleys become less welcoming, with touts, scams, and occasional harassment making it a stressful experience for solo travellers. The nearby New Delhi Railway Station is equally hectic – crowded platforms and dimly lit exits create opportunities for pickpockets.
2. Old Delhi’s Narrow Lanes
A walk through Chandni Chowk and Jama Masjid is a sensory overload: sizzling street food, Mughal architecture, and endless shops. But once daylight fades, the maze of narrow lanes can feel unsafe. Pickpocketing is common, and it’s easy to get disoriented. Exploring Old Delhi is best done in groups or during the day when its vibrancy is at its safest.
3. Seelampur, Seemapuri & Nand Nagri
These East Delhi neighbourhoods often appear in local safety advisories due to higher crime rates and limited infrastructure. Poor lighting and low police presence make them less than ideal for anyone wandering solo. Unless you have a specific reason to be there with locals, it’s wise to leave these off your itinerary.
4. Lajpat Nagar & Market Backstreets
Lajpat Nagar is a favourite shopping stop for both tourists and locals. During the day, it’s bustling and lively, but once the shops close, the quieter by-lanes can attract loiterers. The same goes for some backstreets near INA and Nizamuddin. Shop to your heart’s content by day, but head back before late evening.
5. GB Road (Garstin Bastion Road)
Known as Delhi’s red-light district, GB Road is not recommended for tourists – especially solo female travellers. Beyond its reputation, the area has higher safety concerns at night, and there’s little for a visitor to explore here anyway. It’s best avoided altogether.
