Exploring a city that you don't know much about in less than $2 is no joke. But with a little knowledge of the routes and a fair idea about the public transport can take you places? literally? without spending a fortune.

Delhi is a city, which is home to the powerful and wealthy at the same time it has the poor and marginalized. Both survive in Delhi. Exploring Delhi by spending less has its own excitement. You take public transport used by many city dwellers. It gives you an opportunity to have an idea about how the city's people live and behave.

No matter, which, part of the city you are staying or which hotel. The maximum you pay to travel from one part to another on public transport (bus) is just Rs.10/- The public transport in Delhi consists of DTC buses, private buses and the newly opened Metro rail. Buses may prove a bit uncomfortable but Metro is air-conditioned and very convenient.

Though Metro has not touched every part of the city, it covers areas on the edge of Delhi. Central Delhi and New Delhi Railway station are well connected by Metro rail. So, if you wish to travel to any part of the city, find out if Metro train service is available for that area. If yes, unhesitatingly go for it. If not, don't worry, a bus will take you there.

Let's take an example, you are staying at a hotel near Connaught Place (CP) or New Delhi Station and you want to visit some of the popular tourist attractions in the city. So, how will you go about it without bothering to hire a taxi or auto rickshaw? Simple; find about easiest and cheapest way to travel to these tourist attractions.

India Gate is the nearest tourist spot to CP and you can take either a bus or metro train to reach this spot. A bus won't take more than 10-15 minutes to take you to the India Gate or if you wish to travel by Metro, you'll reach within 5-10 minutes. You can also choose either to visit the Red Fort and Jama Masjid in old Delhi. Another important historic landmark in Delhi is Humayun's Tomb, which is also easily accessible from CP.

Bus route numbers come very handy when traveling in the city. It is good idea to buy a route map of the city. So, it is best to have an idea as which bus goes to which place. Believe me it is very easy. You don't need to remember about every bus route. All you should know is which bus will take you to your destination. And the same will take you back also! But let me caution you, buses are not very comfortable and at times crowded. So, avoid office hours, which are generally 9 to 11 in the morning and 5 to 7 in the evening.

If you are lost, don't panic?Delhi is a city of helpful people. Ask for directions. To make sure if somebody is guiding you the right way, try and ask two-three people. At times, two different people tell you about two different routes to reach the same destination. Don't get confused. Use your judgment and common sense. You are sure to save your hard earned money.

Some safety tips

? Keep copies of all your travel documents

? Keep telephone/mobile nos. of your contacts in the city

? It is better to have your embassy contact no. with you

Note: The rates mentioned were applicable during the period when the article was written.