How to Move to Delhi in 2025: moving guide for Expat Moms

As an expat mom in Delhi, I know first-hand the joys, challenges, and questions of moving to Delhi and living here. So, to help make the transition smoother for you, I’m sharing these 16 answers to some of the most common questions about moving to Delhi with your family.

1. Thinking about moving to Delhi and wondering if you should give it a go?

Delhi is a bustling, vibrant city full of life and energy, and while it may seem overwhelming at first, it has something for everyone once you settle in. Whether you’re exploring the lively street markets or visiting iconic monuments, the city offers endless opportunities for discovery. If you’re a foodie, adventurer, or culture enthusiast, Delhi can surprise you in more ways than one.

With its rich culture and history, Delhi is an ideal place for anyone eager to explore India’s heritage. You’ll find plenty of chances to dive into traditional Indian customs and try authentic dishes from different regions. What’s even more remarkable is the city’s diversity – people from all walks of life coexist, creating a unique blend of experiences and perspectives. Whether you’re moving here or just visiting, Delhi has a way of winning you over, just like it did with my family during our three years here.

But what makes Delhi truly special is its people – warm, welcoming, and always eager to help out strangers. This unique combination of culture and hospitality makes Delhi a wonderful place to live!

2. What is the climate like in New Delhi?

The climate in Delhi can be quite unpredictable at times. The city endures scorching, humid summers and chilly winters, with the monsoon season bringing heavy downpours. You’ll notice that the weather changes suddenly, too—one moment it’s brisk until mid-February, and then, seemingly overnight, spring arrives. Just a week later, you’ll find yourself in the depths of summer!

February and March are truly the best months to visit, as pollution levels drop significantly during this time. The skies turn a lovely shade of blue, and our air purifiers finally get a little break after the heavy pollution of winter. Unfortunately, Delhi is the third most polluted city in the world, following Karachi and Dhaka, so pollution is a significant concern. It tends to worsen after the October Diwali celebrations and lingers throughout the winter months. To protect yourself and your family, it’s essential to have air purifiers in every room of your home and to wear masks when heading outdoors.

So if you plan on visiting New Delhi or moving here, pack for any weather and N95 masks!

3. What is the most common language spoken in Delhi?

Delhi is a melting pot of cultures and languages, reflecting the rich tapestry of India itself. As the capital city, it attracts people from every corner of the country, each bringing their unique linguistic heritage. But what language do the majority of Delhiites speak?

The most common language in Delhi is Hindi, which serves as the official language of the city. Almost all locals communicate in Hindi, making it the primary means of conversation in both formal and informal settings. However, Delhi’s linguistic landscape is far more varied. Alongside Hindi, you will hear a symphony of languages including Punjabi, Urdu, English, and Bhojpuri, each representing different communities that contribute to the city’s vibrant culture.

Punjabi, for instance, is widely spoken due to the significant Punjabi population in the region, while Urdu holds historical significance and is spoken by many in various neighborhoods. English, often used in business and education, is increasingly prevalent among the younger generation and expatriates, making it a bridge language in many interactions.

In addition to these major languages, Delhi is home to a plethora of regional dialects, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of its residents. Languages such as Maithili, Haryanvi, and Rajasthani can also be heard in different pockets of the city, adding to the rich auditory tapestry of everyday life.

Whether you’re navigating the bustling markets, dining at local eateries, or simply enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, you’ll find that language is an integral part of the experience in Delhi. So, whether you’re a visitor or a newcomer, picking up a few phrases in Hindi or another local language can enhance your interactions and help you feel more connected to this dynamic city.

4. What are some of the most popular festivals celebrated in Delhi?

New Delhi is a vibrant city brimming with culture, history, and beauty. Each year, the city comes alive with a kaleidoscope of cultural events and festivals that celebrate its rich heritage. From the dazzling lights of Diwali, the festival of lights, to the colorful splashes of Holi, the festival of colors, these traditional celebrations reflect the deep-rooted customs and values of the local communities.

In addition to these iconic festivals, New Delhi hosts a range of modern events that cater to diverse interests. The International Film Festival of India is a highlight for cinema enthusiasts, showcasing both national and international films that provoke thought and inspire dialogue. Music lovers can revel in the sounds of various genres at music festivals held throughout the year, featuring both local talent and international artists.

Art enthusiasts will find plenty to admire in the city’s vibrant art scene, with numerous art exhibitions showcasing contemporary and traditional works by Indian and international artists. The theatre scene is equally dynamic, with performances ranging from classic plays to avant-garde productions that reflect the city’s evolving cultural narrative.

These cultural events serve as a vital platform for celebrating the diversity of New Delhi, bringing together people from all walks of life. Attending these festivals is not just about enjoying the festivities; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and meet individuals who share your passion for the arts, cuisine, and community.

As you wander through the streets during these events, you’ll discover a treasure trove of flavors, sounds, and experiences that will leave you enriched and inspired. From sampling delicious street food that tantalizes your taste buds to enjoying live performances that stir your soul, the cultural landscape of New Delhi offers something unique for everyone. So, whether you’re a resident or a visitor, there’s always a new facet of the city waiting to be explored, promising memories that you’ll cherish for a lifetime!

5. Where are the best places to go shopping in Delhi?

Delhi is surprisingly a fantastic place to go shopping, offering a vibrant mix of markets and stores that cater to every taste and budget. For those who enjoy the modern shopping experience, Delhi boasts a variety of shopping malls that feature international brands, from H&M to Chanel. These malls provide a familiar atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely shopping spree.

However, what sets Delhi apart is its bustling markets, especially in Old Delhi, where you can find treasures that reflect the city’s rich heritage. Here, you’ll discover beautiful handcrafted carpets at bargain prices—perfect for adding a touch of luxury to your home. Additionally, Delhi is renowned for its exquisite diamond jewelry, with many shops offering stunning pieces that won’t break the bank. And don’t miss the vibrant textile shops, where you can find colorful cushions and fabrics that are ideal for brightening up any space.

These markets not only offer a unique shopping experience but also allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture. As you stroll through the lively streets, you’ll encounter artisans and vendors who are eager to share their crafts, ensuring that your shopping adventure in Delhi is unforgettable

6. How safe is it to travel around Delhi?

Navigating Delhi’s lively streets can sometimes feel daunting, especially for newcomers. With crowded markets, chaotic traffic, and an ever-present hum of activity, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

To keep yourself safe while exploring the city, consider some practical safety measures. Avoid wandering into unfamiliar areas after dark, stay aware of your surroundings, and research destinations beforehand. Be particularly mindful of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded places. Familiarizing yourself with the local customs and etiquette can also go a long way in helping you blend in and feel more secure.

As a Lithuanian saying goes, “If you take care of yourself, God will also take care of you.” This serves as a reminder to remain vigilant and thoughtful about your actions, who you engage with, and where you choose to go. By exercising caution and being aware, you’ll find that Delhi is a city that welcomes you with open arms. Enjoy the sights, the sounds, and the warmth of its people, and you’ll be just fine!

7. Is there any public transport system in Delhi?

Delhi is home to over 20 million people, making it one of the most populated cities in the world. To accommodate this vast population, Delhi has an extensive public transport system designed to make commuting as convenient as possible. Options include buses, metro trains, auto-rickshaws, and taxis.

However, for a foreigner visiting Delhi for the first time, I highly recommend hiring a driver with a car. It’s not only easy to arrange but also quite affordable. Having a driver is more of a necessity than a luxury, especially for newcomers. Most expats either own vehicles with drivers or drive themselves. This isn’t due to a lack of resourcefulness; it’s simply because the state of public transport options can be quite challenging.

While the metro system is generally efficient, buses and auto-rickshaws may not always meet international safety and maintenance standards. We’ve taken Uber several times, and while the vehicles aren’t necessarily old, they often appear well-worn and poorly maintained, with doors that barely close. It’s not uncommon for the worst-looking cars on the streets to be Uber vehicles, raising legitimate safety concerns. When in doubt, it’s best to avoid getting into a car with a stranger.

For those planning a relocation or a trip to Delhi, I recommend joining Facebook groups like Delhi Dish. These communities are filled with friendly expats and local residents who can guide you to the best transportation options and answer any questions you might have. From finding reliable drivers to understanding the metro system, the support of this community can make your transition smoother and more enjoyable.

8. What healthcare options are available in Delhi for expat families?

Delhi is one of India’s most populated cities and home to a large expatriate community. With the city’s growing population, it has become increasingly important for expats to be aware of their healthcare options.

Healthcare in Delhi can be divided into two main categories: public and private. Public healthcare facilities provide basic medical services at an affordable cost, while private facilities offer more advanced treatments and services at a higher price. Therefore, you should consider your budget and health needs before deciding which option is best for you. 

Additionally, research what type of insurance coverage you have and need before arriving in Delhi.

To my knowledge and (unfortunately) experience, the best option to go with children is Children’s Rainbow Hospital. Emergency number in Delhi: +91 84487 99501

We had two emergency visits in the middle of the night and spent three nights in a hospital ward. You can stay in a private room for an additional cost. The room is decorated with pictures of Disney characters to make it more appealing for kids. 

MAX hospital is the choice to go for an emergency & trauma for an adult. Ambulance number: +91-11-3065 3030

For non-emergency consultations and diagnostic treatments, go to Max Multi Speciality Centre. It looks more like private clinics in Europe. However, it could be better managed time-wise. You have a specific time slot, but still, ten people are in front of you, although you are on time. 

Doctors are knowledgeable, and the clinic seems to be well-equipped. It’s chaotic, though. You pay for consultation upon entering, then every time before entering a check-up room. So, if I go to the clinic, I must wait to check in and pay for the consultation upfront. Then, once the consultation is over and I have to do a USG, I pay a random staff person in the corridor before being allowed to have the procedure, etc. Although it may be common here, I find it strange. Maybe they don’t trust foreigners and think I’d run away without paying the bill at the counter downstairs? 

9. What are the best neighborhoods in Delhi to move in for expat families?

Delhi is a vibrant city with a variety of neighborhoods. So whether you’re looking for a bustling city center, a quiet suburb, or something in between, there’s sure to be the perfect neighborhood for you!

Each area has unique charm and character, from South Delhi’s posh locales to North Delhi’s historical gems. With many options, deciding which neighborhood in Delhi is best for you to move in can take time. That’s why I’ve compiled this list of the top neighborhoods chosen by expats who move to live in Delhi. In fact, they are not called neighborhoods here. You live in colonies, not neighborhoods, though essentially, it is the same thing. I found it funny initially, like choosing a colony on Mars. But, well, you get used to everything. So, here go the main colonies you, as an expat in India, should consider when moving to Delhi:

Vasant Vihar, West End, Shanti Niketan, Anand Niketan, Defence Colony, Malcha Marg Area and Jor Bagh.

Some are split into blocks, like Vasant Vihar Block A, etc. These colonies are where you will find many embassies and have your colleagues and friends from school as neighbors.  The first 2 years in Delhi we lived in Vasant Vihar block B. However, I found it to be very noisy with construction going on somewhere around all the time. After that we moved to Jor Bagh and it was wonderful. I simply love this neighbourhood which in addition to being much smaller and quieter is located next to the beautiful Lodhi Park! If your children will attend AES (American Embassy School) it’s a perfect location – it takes 10 mins door to door.

Google their locations and distances to your schools and offices. Then, choose the colony nearest to these establishments to which you will commute almost daily. Traffic in Delhi can be a headache, so plan accordingly to spend less time stuck among tuk-tuks and holy cows. 

10. What is the cost of living in Delhi? 

Delhi is the capital of India and one of the most populated cities in the world. It is a hub for business, culture, education, and entertainment. It is also home to some of India’s most expensive real estate. Knowing the cost of living in Delhi can help you plan your budget and determine if it is a good fit for you. Living here can be expensive, with the cost of living significantly higher than in other cities in India. Rent and food are two of the most significant expenses, but there are also many additional costs, such as transportation, entertainment, and healthcare. 

However, so many expats love living in Delhi because they can afford lifestyles they can’t enjoy at home. 

For example, I will share how much we pay for certain services and goods. 

In Singapore, we lived in a 100 m2 apartment. With the same budget in Delhi, we rent over a 200 m2 apartment and a private 120 m2 rooftop terrace. In Singapore, I cleaned the apartment myself, did not have a nanny, and used to take MRT (subway in Singapore). In Delhi, I have my driver with a luxury car, a full-time maid, a nanny, and a gardener. 

11. How much does it cost to have house help in Delhi?

House help is very cheap and, as mentioned below, easy to get. 

I will share the approximate salaries you can plan to pay your house help staff in Delhi:

For a full-time (40 hours work week) maid, expect to pay around 200 USD monthly. For a gardener who comes at specific planting times, around 30 USD per month. And for a nanny, also about 200 USD for 40 hours work week. There are options of having house help who live with you. The apartments here come with servant quarters. We chose staff who go to their own home at the end of the day. 

The price of the driver depends on whether you get him via an agency, hire a private person with a car, pay for the fuel, or if your company provides all that for you. For us, the company offers the driver and the vehicle. The car rental agency pays the salary to our driver directly, and I don’t know how much it is. However, I believe it’s not very high, and since we love our driver, we pay him an extra 100 USD monthly. 

12. How easy is it to find house help Delhi?

If you are looking for house help in Delhi, you will be glad to know that it is not as difficult as it seems. With the help of the internet, finding house help in Delhi is super easy! The best way to find reliable and trustworthy house help is through recommendations from other expat families. Expats come and go, and when they leave India, they recommend their staff to expats and local communities in Delhi on Whatsapp and Facebook groups. Also, ask your friends and colleagues if they may know someone they can recommend. 

Honestly, you can replace a person from one day to another. It does not sound nice, but queues are waiting to work for you. You just need to select the right fit. It took us three attempts to get the right driver, and he’s been with us for over two years. We had to replace the maid once because of stealing and lying issues. The current maid came via the recommendation of our nanny. Basically, it is trial and error, but without a doubt, you will get the right people eventually. 

For starters, join the Delhi Dish community page on Facebook. The members of the group will happily help you. 

13. Are there any good international schools in Delhi for expat kids?

Delhi is great for expat families who want to experience a different culture and lifestyle. There are plenty of education options for expat children. The most famous international schools that children go are American Embassy School (AES), the British School, the French School, and the German Embassy School.

AES is probably the best but also the most expensive option. I suggest you research these schools and have calls with them to answer your questions, which will help you decide. 

If you can afford it, AES is the best choice. They have a fantastic campus and programs for the little tots at Pre-K all the way to high school graduates.

14. What are the best places to explore when living in Delhi with kids?

I wasn’t keen to move to Delhi. To be honest, I cried. But to my surprise, Delhi turned out to be a vibrant city full of places to explore with kids. There are so many historical monuments that we have explored and have yet to discover! The parks are gorgeous here, and so many activities keep kids entertained. Actually, I’ve written blog posts about how to enjoy Delhi with kids and the best things and activities in Delhi for kids. Check them out; I am sure you will find some you’ll want to visit. Also, if you move to Delhi with a four-legged furry friend, you’ll be pleased to know that there are many parks here that are dog friendly. 

Read more: Dog-friendly parks in New Delhi

More here: How to enjoy Delhi with kids

Read more: The best things to do in Delhi with kids

15. What type of food can I expect to find in Delhi?

Delhi is a city of diverse cultures and cuisines. From traditional Mughlai dishes to street food, Delhi has something for everyone! So whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full-course meal, you’ll find it here. From the famous chaat to North Indian delicacies like butter chicken and dal makhani, you won’t be disappointed with the variety of food available here. So if you’re moving to Delhi, try all the delicious dishes it has to offer!

However, if spicy food is not your thing, plenty of restaurants serve and deliver any meal you desire. 

Download food delivery apps, such as Zomato. There are hundreds of restaurants and cuisines to choose from and delivered to your doorstep.  

16. What advice would you give to expat parents moving to Delhi?

Moving to a new city, especially with a family, can be daunting. As an expat parent, you must ensure you have all the necessary information about the city and its culture before you move. Delhi is a vibrant and exciting city with plenty of opportunities for families. Therefore, it is important to research and understand the complex bureaucracy, language barriers, local customs, and traditions to smooth your transition into a new life in Delhi.

For new expat parents moving to Delhi, finding out as much as possible about the education system, healthcare options, housing market, transport options, house help, and other amenities available in the city is essential. It is also helpful to connect with other expats who have already made a move so that they can provide helpful advice on how best to settle down in Delhi.

I hope that you found this information helpful. However, if you didn’t find what you were looking for, feel free to ask away any additional questions in the comment section below!

One-on-one consultations with me

If you’d like to cover everything in more detail and have additional specific questions, hop on call with me. We’ll spend an hour together online, and I will answer all your questions, give suggestions, and share the right contacts and recommendations, ranging from finding the best area to live in to getting the best pedicures in town. Click HERE to learn more and to schedule a call! So let’s make your transition & settling in New Delhi a smooth and positive experience!

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