Alright, let’s talk honestly. If you’ve ever traveled from New Delhi Railway Station, you know it can feel like a wild maze. Between the crowd, the honking autos, the announcements you barely understand — it’s a lot.
But here’s something I’ve realized over the years — the New Delhi Railway Station Ajmeri Gate side? It’s a game changer. Seriously.
Now, this post isn’t some brochure-style list of features. It’s more like me, a fellow traveler, sharing what I wish someone had told me before my first few chaotic visits to the station.
First Things First: What Is the Ajmeri Gate Side?
So, New Delhi Railway Station has two faces:
Paharganj Side (Western)
Ajmeri Gate Side (Eastern)
The Ajmeri Gate side is where you want to be if you like clean surroundings, better entry points, and a quicker connection to the Metro. It’s linked with Bhavbhuti Marg, and connects directly to both the Yellow Line and Airport Express Line of the Delhi Metro.
And trust me, that Metro access alone can save your sanity in Delhi’s crazy traffic.
Why I Started Using the Ajmeri Gate Side More
Honestly? It was by accident.
A few years ago, I got down from a train and exited on the Ajmeri Gate side. I was in a rush to catch a flight, and someone pointed me to the Airport Metro Line — just a few steps away. I made it to IGI Terminal 3 in under 25 minutes. That day changed how I see this station.
Since then, I’ve preferred this side, especially when traveling with luggage or tight on time.
Here’s what stands out:
Less chaos (relatively speaking)
Cleaner platforms and concourse
Working escalators and lifts
Access to new platforms (like 16 to 18)
Proper Uber/Ola pickup zones
The New Delhi Railway Station Ajmeri Gate side isn’t perfect, but it feels more “figured out” than the Paharganj mess.
How to Get There Without Getting Lost
So if you’re heading to this side, here’s what you need to know:
From Connaught Place, take a cab or auto via Bhavbhuti Marg.
If you’re on the Metro Yellow Line or Airport Express, get down at New Delhi Metro Station and take the Ajmeri Gate exit.
There’s a big pedestrian bridge that connects the metro directly to the station — super useful in rush hours.
Also, if you’re booking a cab, New Delhi Railway Station Ajmeri Gate side as your drop point in the app. If you don’t, you might end up on the other side and have to drag your suitcase across an endless footbridge.
What You’ll Find at the Ajmeri Gate Side
Now don’t expect five-star luxury, but compared to its twin side, New Delhi Railway Station Ajmeri Gate side does give you:
More organized parking (with actual painted lines!)
IRCTC executive lounges where you can chill during long layovers
Clean washrooms (well… relatively)
Digital signage that mostly works
A few food options that won’t make you sick
Also, there’s a newish cloakroom and help desk that actually has people who speak politely — something that’s rare in many parts of the station.
Cleanliness: Manage Your Expectations
Look, no railway station in India is squeaky clean — let’s just accept that.
But on the Ajmeri Gate side, you’ll notice at least an effort. Sweeping is done, announcements are audible, and there’s a bit of breathing space. The New Delhi Railway Station Ajmeri Gate side has been renovated in parts, and you can feel the difference, especially on platforms 16 to 18.
I once waited for a train here on platform 16, and there were working fans, a charging station, and a guy actually mopping the floor. I almost thought I was in a different city.
Should Tourists Use This Side?
Absolutely yes.
If you’re visiting Delhi for the first time, or if you’re catching a connecting flight or metro, Ajmeri Gate side is your best bet. It’s far easier to navigate, and the signage is in English and Hindi (and surprisingly readable). Plus, there are hotels, travel agencies, and eateries just a short walk away.
Also, because of its Metro connectivity, reaching places like Connaught Place, India Gate, Rajiv Chowk, or even Gurgaon becomes so much easier.
A Few Things That Still Suck
No sugarcoating here. This side has its flaws too:
The escalators don’t always work (especially when you really need them)
Footbridges are long — and if you’ve got heavy luggage, you’re in for a workout
Booking counters can be confusing
Begging and touts are still present, though in smaller numbers
Also, avoid this side between 5 PM to 8 PM if you’re in a rush — it gets packed with office-goers and long-distance travelers.
My Personal Tips (From One Traveler to Another)
Let me be your unofficial guide for a second. If you’re using the New Delhi Railway Station Ajmeri Gate side, here are a few things I do:
Arrive early — this gives you time to figure out platform numbers and avoid last-minute stress
Always use the Metro when possible — it’s way more reliable than Delhi roads
Download “RailYatri” or “Where is My Train” app — lifesavers
Keep change for water, snacks, and autos
Carry a power bank — charging points aren’t always functional
And don’t shy away from asking station staff — they’re usually more helpful than they look.
So, Should You Choose This Side?
Look, at the end of the day, both sides take you to trains. But if I had to pick? I’d go with the New Delhi Railway Station Ajmeri Gate side almost every single time.
It’s faster, cleaner, more connected, and just makes life easier. Whether you’re a student catching a train home, a tourist exploring Delhi, or a business traveler with a suitcase and a deadline — this side’s got your back.
Final Takeaways (In My Words)
If the New Delhi Railway Station were a movie, Ajmeri Gate side would be the slightly underrated but smarter supporting actor — not as flashy, but definitely reliable.
I won’t say it’s perfect, because it’s not. But in the chaos that is Indian rail travel, the Ajmeri Gate side feels like a small win — and if you’ve traveled through Delhi before, you know how rare those are.
So next time you book a train to or from NDLS, remember: New Delhi Railway Station Ajmeri Gate side might just save your day.
If you’re planning a longer stay, don’t miss our complete travel guide. It’s packed with practical tips, places to eat, and hidden gems.
Want to check real-time train status? Head to Indian Railways’ official site before you leave.
