Which place is cheaper, Kuala Lumpur or Delhi?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Delhi or Kuala Lumpur?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Delhi or Kuala Lumpur, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.
Where Should I go: Delhi or Kuala Lumpur?
Delhi
Delhi is the largest city in northern India and is officially the country's capital. The city has a population of 11 million with the metropolitan population reaching over 16 million. The city is similar in landscape to the rest of its surrounding area. It is very flat with the river Yamuna flowing on the eastern side of the city. The Aravalii Hills are in the western portion of the city. The city's history dates back to the 6th century BC and it has served as a capital for various kingdoms and empires.
Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur, often referred to as KL, is the cosmopolitan capital of Malaysia. It is also the largest city in the country, having grown out of a small Chinese mining village. Today Kuala Lumpur is a microcosm of the country of Malaysia. The population is split between the Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures which you can see reflected in the city's neighborhoods, cuisine, and entertainment. It's also an incredibly affordable city, even if you're looking for the comforts of a five star hotel or a luxury restaurant. Prices are almost always a fraction of what you would pay in Europe or the United States.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to India, The Best Budget Tours to India, The Best Tours for Seniors to Malaysia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayDelhi $45Kuala Lumpur $62
The average daily cost (per person) in Delhi is $45, while the average daily cost in Kuala Lumpur is $62. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Delhi and Kuala Lumpur in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personDelhi $23Kuala Lumpur $36
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomDelhi $46Kuala Lumpur $72
Compare Hotels in Delhi and Kuala Lumpur
Looking for a hotel in Delhi or Kuala Lumpur? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.
Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.
Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Delhi Hotel Prices and Kuala Lumpur Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Delhi $5.28Kuala Lumpur $6.41
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Delhi
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Delhi:
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Tuk Tuk Ride$0.12
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Taxi to Airport$1.91
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Subway$0.38
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Uber Cab$0.96
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Delhi Metro Smart Card$1.79
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Auto-rickshaw$1.20
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Delhi
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Delhi:
- Walk through Old Delhi's Colorful Chandni Chowk with Private Transfer: $119
- Visit to Rail Museum or Dolls Museum with India Gate (private hotel transfers): $29
- Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Delhi HTL-APT (DEL): $27
- Transfer from New Delhi to Agra by Private car: $60
- Transfer from Delhi to Agra by private Car: $57
- Tour To Swaminarayan Akshardham Guide & Delhi Transfers: $37
- Taj Mahal Sunrise All Inclusive Tour with Transfers : $7.00
- Stroll through Old Delhi's Chandni Chowk with Private Transfer: $119
- Round Trip Airport Transfers - Delhi Airport to Hotel and back to Delhi Airport: $75
- Round Trip Airport Transfers - Delhi Airport to Hotel and back to Delhi Airport: $72
- Round Trip Airport Transfer- From Delhi Airport to Hotel & Back to Delhi Airport: $80
- Qutub Minar Skip-the-Line E-tickets & guide Delhi transfers: $15
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Kuala Lumpur
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Kuala Lumpur are as follows:
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Taxi Ride$3.14
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Metro Ride (for Two)$0.67
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Short Taxi Ride$3.14
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Taxi From Airport$19
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Bus from Airport$1.68
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Train & Boat to Pulau Ketam$2.52
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kuala Lumpur
Also for Kuala Lumpur, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Private Airport Transfer in Kuala Lumpur: $34
- *Chauffeur: Kuala Lumpur to Singapore Car Transfer: $268
- *Chauffeur: Kuala Lumpur to Singapore Transfer [Van]: $173
- 2 Way Transfer to or from Kuala Lumpur International Airport : $25
- AVANI Sepang Goldcoast Resort Hotel To Kuala Lumpur International Airport KLIA KLIA2 Transfer: $50
- Airport Arrival Transfer-VIP Class: $200
- Airport Transfer Hotel - KL Airport (KLIA / KLIA 2 || Private): $40
- Airport Transfer from/to KLIA /KLIA 2: $25
- Airport to Hotel Drop Off Transfer (Kuala Lumpur): $50
- Airport transfer : $40
- Arrival Private Transfer Kuala Lumpur Airport KUL to Kuala Lumpur by Minivan: $48
- Arrival Private Transfers from Airport KUL to Kuala Lumpur in Business Van: $115
Is it cheaper to fly into Delhi or Kuala Lumpur?
Prices for flights to both Kuala Lumpur and Delhi change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
Food
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Food Meals for one dayDelhi $12Kuala Lumpur $15
Typical Food Prices in Delhi
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Delhi:
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McDonalds$3.50
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Delhi
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Delhi.
- Appetizing virtual cooking class from Delhi: $20
- Old Delhi Food Tour with local, A must for Indian culinary lover!: $21
- Lunch or dinner with local family: $21
- Food Tour Old Delhi: $31
- Old Delhi Heritage Sightseeing | Walking Tour | Street Food Tour: $34
- Old Delhi Food Tour: A Night Time Feast: $36
- Veg and Non veg : Private Cooking Class in Delhi: $43
- Old Delhi Street Food Tour: $44
- Transit Tour-Guided Best Old Delhi's Attractions & Food Tour: $45
- Vegetarian : Private Cooking Class in Delhi: $46
- Culinary Delights Of Delhi Half Day Food Tour: $48
- Delhi Kabul Cooking Class: $50
Typical Food Prices in Kuala Lumpur
For Kuala Lumpur, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:
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Dinner at Ding Tai Fung$8.39
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Roti Bread$0.21
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Food Court Lunch$3.02
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Dinner at Indian Restaurant (for Two)$4.51
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kuala Lumpur
For Kuala Lumpur, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- ARAS Restaurant at KL Tower Buffet Dinner: $28
- Nightlife Street Food Tour with 6 Tastings: $43
- Street Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $49
- Sambal Streets Kuala Lumpur Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $49
- Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Cultural Night Experience with Buffet Dinner : $53
- From Kuala Selangor Fireflies Tour with Dinner: $53
- Cultural Night Tour with Dinner: $55
- Malaysia Cooking Classes: $60
- Kuala Lumpur by Night and Malaysian Food Tour: $61
- Petaling Street Heritage Food Tour: $62
- Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $63
- Kuala Selangor Fireflies Tour Include Seafood Dinner (Free Boat Ride): $65
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Delhi $13Kuala Lumpur $13
Typical Entertainment Prices in Delhi
Here are a few typical costs in Delhi for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
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Red Fort$10
Tours and Activities in Delhi
Here are a few actual costs in Delhi for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- 2 Days Agra Tour From Delhi with Fatehpur Sikri & bird Sanctuary: $130
- 3 Day Golden Triangle Tour from Delhi: $132
- 3 Days Golden Triangle Tour from Delhi: $205
- 3 Days Private Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and Triangle Tour : $147
- 6 Hours: Delhi Temples and Spiritual Sites Tour: $45
- All Inclusive: Same day Taj Mahal Tour From Delhi : $50
- Bharatpur Birding adventure from Delhi: $159
- Delhi : Private Day Tour Of Tajmahal And Shopping At Agra: $100
- Delhi Agra and Jaipur 5 Days Golden Triangle Tour From New Delhi: $220
- Delhi Evening City Tour with Guide: $53
- Full Day Old And New Delhi City Tour- All Inclusive : $38
- Golden Triangle Tour 3 Days: $267
Typical Entertainment Prices in Kuala Lumpur
Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Kuala Lumpur's activities, tours, and tickets:
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KL Tower Admission (for Two)$9.43
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Canopy Walk at FRIM Forest Reserve$1.05
Tours and Activities in Kuala Lumpur
For Kuala Lumpur, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
- KL Tower Admission E-Ticket with Options: $3.92
- Malaysia: KL Tower Entry Ticket: $4.60
- Alive 3D Art Gallery Admission Ticket: $7.67
- Zoo Negara Instant Entry E-Ticket: $9.81
- Aquaria KLCC Entry Ticket: $9.81
- KL Tower Observation Deck Entry Ticket: $11
- KL Tower Admission Ticket: $12
- Kuala Lumpur's Cultural Highlights and Landmarks: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
- Berjaya Times Square Theme Park Entry Ticket: $12
- Malaysia: Aquaria KLCC Entry Ticket: $13
- KL Tower Admission Ticket: $13
- Half-Day City Tour: $13
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayDelhi $8.67Kuala Lumpur $6.21
Typical Alcohol Prices in Kuala Lumpur
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Kuala Lumpur are as follows:
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Bottle of Wine$9.43
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Delhi and Kuala Lumpur, we can see that Kuala Lumpur is more expensive. And not only is Delhi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Delhi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Delhi and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Kuala Lumpur would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kuala Lumpur than you might in Delhi.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Delhi Expensive? and Is Kuala Lumpur Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Delhi or Kuala Lumpur?
Delhi has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Kuala Lumpur. When comparing the sizes of Delhi and Kuala Lumpur, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.
When is the best time to visit Delhi or Kuala Lumpur?
Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.
Should I visit Delhi or Kuala Lumpur in the Summer?
The summer brings many poeple to Delhi as well as Kuala Lumpur. Delhi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year.
It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. Delhi receives a lot of rain in the summer. Delhi usually gets more rain in July than Kuala Lumpur. Delhi gets 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. In the summer, Delhi often gets less sunshine than Kuala Lumpur. Delhi gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kuala Lumpur receives 200 hours of full sun.
Delhi can become quite hot in the summer. In July, Delhi is generally a little warmer than Kuala Lumpur. Daily temperatures in Delhi average around 31°C (88°F), and Kuala Lumpur fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyDelhi 31°C (88°F)Kuala Lumpur 28°C (82°F)
Should I visit Delhi or Kuala Lumpur in the Autumn?
Both Kuala Lumpur and Delhi are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Delhi throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. In October, Delhi usually receives less rain than Kuala Lumpur. Delhi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 280 mm (11 in) of rain each month for the autumn.
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Delhi. Delhi usually receives more sunshine than Kuala Lumpur during autumn. Delhi gets 269 hours of sunny skies, while Kuala Lumpur receives 169 hours of full sun in the autumn.
Delhi is around the same temperature as Kuala Lumpur in the autumn. The daily temperature in Delhi averages around 26°C (79°F) in October, and Kuala Lumpur fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberDelhi 26°C (79°F)Kuala Lumpur 27°C (81°F)
Should I visit Delhi or Kuala Lumpur in the Winter?
Both Kuala Lumpur and Delhi during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Delhi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round.
Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Delhi usually gets less rain in January than Kuala Lumpur. Delhi gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain this time of the year.
It's quite sunny in Delhi. In the winter, Delhi often gets more sunshine than Kuala Lumpur. Delhi gets 215 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kuala Lumpur receives 185 hours of full sun.
In the winter, Delhi is much colder than Kuala Lumpur. Typically, the winter temperatures in Delhi in January average around 15°C (59°F), and Kuala Lumpur averages at about 27°C (81°F).
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryDelhi 15°C (59°F)Kuala Lumpur 27°C (81°F)
Should I visit Delhi or Kuala Lumpur in the Spring?
The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Delhi and Kuala Lumpur. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Delhi year-round. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.
Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Delhi usually receives less rain than Kuala Lumpur. Delhi gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.
In Delhi, it's very sunny this time of the year. Delhi usually receives more sunshine than Kuala Lumpur during spring. Delhi gets 261 hours of sunny skies, while Kuala Lumpur receives 199 hours of full sun in the spring.
In April, Delhi is generally around the same temperature as Kuala Lumpur. Daily temperatures in Delhi average around 29°C (84°F), and Kuala Lumpur fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilDelhi 29°C (84°F)Kuala Lumpur 28°C (82°F)
Typical Weather for Kuala Lumpur and Delhi
| Delhi | Kuala Lumpur | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 15°C (59°F) | 20 mm (0.8 in) | 27°C (81°F) | 239 mm (9.4 in) |
| Feb | 17°C (63°F) | 30 mm (1.2 in) | 28°C (82°F) | 200 mm (7.9 in) |
| Mar | 22°C (72°F) | 20 mm (0.8 in) | 28°C (82°F) | 260 mm (10.2 in) |
| Apr | 29°C (84°F) | 40 mm (1.6 in) | 28°C (82°F) | 240 mm (9.4 in) |
| May | 33°C (91°F) | 30 mm (1.2 in) | 28°C (82°F) | 190 mm (7.5 in) |
| Jun | 34°C (93°F) | 80 mm (3.1 in) | 28°C (82°F) | 160 mm (6.3 in) |
| Jul | 31°C (88°F) | 170 mm (6.7 in) | 28°C (82°F) | 150 mm (5.9 in) |
| Aug | 30°C (86°F) | 200 mm (7.9 in) | 28°C (82°F) | 160 mm (6.3 in) |
| Sep | 30°C (86°F) | 110 mm (4.3 in) | 27°C (81°F) | 200 mm (7.9 in) |
| Oct | 26°C (79°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 27°C (81°F) | 280 mm (11 in) |
| Nov | 21°C (70°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 27°C (81°F) | 290 mm (11.4 in) |
| Dec | 16°C (61°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 27°C (81°F) | 250 mm (9.8 in) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.