Subway Guide
After many years of construction, all six lines of the Delhi Metro are now up and running, connecting all of Delhi as well as Gurgaon and Noida. The metro is a mix between overground aerial trains and underground subway-style tunnels. The metro is a quick, affordable way to get around town and is fully air-conditioned. It can, however, get crowded, and people can be aggressively pushy when getting on and off trains. The first car of most trains is reserved for women and their accompanying children, and female passengers should make every effort to travel in this car to reduce the risk of getting groped or ogled at. Metro maps (in English and Hindi) are posted in all stations and are available free-of-charge at ticket counters or online (see below).
Fares and Passes
Fares depend on distance traveled, ranging from Rs 8 to Rs 30. Individual tokens can be bought at machines or counters in all stations, but it’s easier to buy a travel card. To obtain a travel card, simply walk up to any ticket counter and ask for one–you won’t be required to fill out any forms. You will, however, need to pay a refundable recharge of Rs 50 for your card. Cards can be purchased or topped-up in denominations of Rs.50 (or multiples thereof, up to Rs. 800) and are valid for one year from date of purchase or last top-up, whichever is later. Unlimited-access tourist cards are also available, but are only a bargain if you plan to cover great distances and make frequent trips over a period of 1-3 days. One-day cards cost Rs. 100 and three-day cards cost Rs. 250 (there are no two-day cards). These cards also require a refundable deposit of Rs. 50.
Timings
Trains run at a frequency of every 4 minutes during morning and evening rush hours (around 8-10AM and 5-7PM) and every 12 minutes during non-peak hours. Trains run from 6AM to around 11PM daily.
For more information, including maps, schedules, fares, and a journey planner, please visit: http://www.delhimetrorail.com
