"Cycle rickshaws - traveling the local way" New Delhi Transportation Tip by 850prc

Another VERY Indian method of city transport is the cycle rickshaw. Basically, this is a rickshaw that is peddle powered by a hard-working "driver", and it's perfect for negotiating tight and crowded streets and even alleyways. It's a excellent way to really immerse one's self in the city and among the people. And, for the most part, it's a way to do so without being dogged (at least as much anyway) by the ever-present touts.

Cycle rickshaws are basically designed to carry - at most - two passengers. And from where I sat in my rickshaw rides, this is a tough, tough way for someone to make a living. Peddling tourists all over the city is backbreaking work, and these guys do it seven days a week, 14-15 hours a day. Whew, it makes me tired just writing the sentence about it.

The cost on cycle rickshaws is usually subject to negotiation, and you can barter a bit. Sure, the prices you'll be quoted will be higher if you're obviously a tourist. But, before you really push the guy to lower the price, please consider how reasonable his supposedly "exorbant" price offer really is. You can right for an hour throughout Chandi Chowk or wherever for maybe 200-300 Rs. That's US$2 or $3... ::I:: sure wouldn't want to peddle some tourist around for an hour for $2. My wish? Save your bargaining skills and prowess for the upper scale shops, don't put the screws to these hard-working rickshaw peddlers. :) And besides, if you give him a good price and tip, he might be able to "protect" you from the touts.

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