Vibrant silks, spicy chole bhature and a slice of Mughal history await in this 17th-century market
Here’s a challenge for serious shoppers – spend a day in Chandni Chowk, the sprawling 17th-century market in the heart of Old Delhi, and see if you can keep up.
This is no ordinary bazaar. Chandni Chowk – which means Moonlight Square – was once lined with a shimmering canal, Silk Road caravanserais, and lush gardens. Today, while the canal is long gone, the grandeur lingers in its crumbling Mughal-era havelis, echoing with memories of Urdu poetry gatherings and pigeon-flying competitions.
Tip 1: To beat the crowds, start early
Before rickshaws clog the alleys and the scent of frying snacks fills the air, head to one of the area’s beloved breakfast stalls. Stuffed parathas, crisp samosas, and kachori sabzi are essential fuel. If you’re still hungry, don’t skip the chole bhature and melt-in-your-mouth kebabs.
Tip 2: Got a sweet tooth?
Round things off with a hot gulab jamun, golden jalebi or the chilled layers of rabri falooda. For something deeper, stop by Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib and share in the langar – a warm, communal meal served to anyone who walks in.
Tip 3: Know what you’re looking for
Textiles? Head to Katra Neel, where shimmering sarees and bolts of silk await. Silver jewellery? Try Dariba Kalan, a narrow lane once frequented by royalty. Weddings and trimmings? Kinari Bazaar is packed with lace, tassels, and ceremonial sparkle. Spices? Khari Baoli is Asia’s largest wholesale spice market, with sacks of saffron, dried chillies and tea stacked sky-high.
Tip 4: End with a dose of culture
Before calling it a day, drop by the Kathika Museum to trace Delhi’s architectural and cultural evolution. Then treat yourself at Haveli Dharampura – a restored 19th-century mansion turned heritage hotel. The tasting menu here is worth lingering over, especially when paired with a live Kathak performance, all intricate footwork and storytelling grace.
Tip 5: Essential pitstops for the foodies
Head to Karim’s for the juicy tandoori bites, don’t miss miss Qureshi Kabab Corner for sumptuous kebab and visit Shyam Sweets for samosas and sweet snacks.
