Chandni Chowk, Delhi | What to do in Chandni Chowk

With its narrow lanes teeming with life, bustling bazaars, and centuries-old monuments, Chandni Chowk in Delhi is a sensory delight, offering travelers a captivating glimpse into Delhi’s storied past and vibrant present. 

From savoring delectable street food to navigating through a maze of bustling markets, every corner of Chandni Chowk exudes an irresistible charm and allure. Do not miss out on the vibrant New Years celebration in Delhi.

Join us on a journey through this bustling thoroughfare as we unravel its myriad delights and immerse ourselves in the timeless charm of Old Delhi’s beating heart, Chandni Chowk.

Delhi: An Overview

It boasts a rich heritage dating back thousands of years, evident in its plethora of ancient monuments, forts, and archaeological sites.

Delhi’s cultural tapestry is equally vibrant, with a myriad of festivals, art galleries, museums, and performing arts venues dotting the cityscape. From traditional dance performances to contemporary art exhibitions, there is always something to captivate the senses.

History of Chandni Chowk

Established by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1650, Chandni Chowk, which translates to “Moonlit Square,” was designed as an elegant boulevard with a central pool reflecting moonlight, lending it its poetic name.

Originally, Chandni Chowk served as the grand thoroughfare of Shahjahanabad, the capital of the Mughal Empire during Shah Jahan’s reign. 

The market was lined with elegant mansions, bustling bazaars, and opulent havelis belonging to nobles and merchants, making it the epitome of prosperity and grandeur.

Over the centuries, Chandni Chowk in Delhi evolved into a vibrant commercial hub, attracting traders, artisans, and craftsmen from across the Indian subcontinent. 

The market became renowned for its diverse array of goods, including textiles, spices, jewelry, and perfumes, drawing merchants from distant lands and establishing Delhi as a center of trade and commerce.

Best Time To Visit in Chandni Chowk

October to March

The best time to visit in Chandni Chowk Delhi is during the winter months, from October to March. During this time, the weather in Delhi is relatively pleasant, with cooler temperatures that make wandering through the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk more comfortable. 

The winter months also coincide with several festivals and celebrations, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of this historic area.

Visiting Chandni Chowk in Delhi during these months allows travelers to fully immerse themselves in the vibrant street life, savoring the flavors of local cuisine, bargaining at the bustling markets, and exploring the iconic landmarks that dot the area. 

From sampling mouth watering street food to marveling at the architectural wonders like Jama Masjid and Red Fort, there’s no shortage of experiences to cherish in Chandni Chowk during the winter season.

Things to do in Chandni Chowk:

• Street Food Safari: 

Dive into the culinary delights of Chandni Chowk by embarking on street food at Chandni Chowk safari. Sample iconic dishes like parathas at Paranthe Wali Gali, chaat at Natraj Dahi Bhalla Corner, jalebis at Old Famous Jalebi Wala, and kebabs at Karim’s. Let your taste buds dance with the flavors of authentic Indian street food. Do Check out the best restaurants in Delhi for Valentines day!

• Shopping Spree: 

Lose yourself in the bustling markets of Chandni Chowk in Delhi, renowned for their eclectic range of goods. Explore Kinari Bazaar for fabrics and wedding attire, Dariba Kalan for exquisite jewelry, Nai Sarak for books and stationery, and Khari Baoli for spices. Bargain to your heart’s content and take home unique souvenirs.

• Heritage Walks: 

Immerse yourself in the rich history and architectural splendor of Chandni Chowk with a guided heritage walk. Explore iconic landmarks such as Jama Masjid, Red Fort, Fatehpuri Masjid, and Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib, each steeped in centuries-old history and cultural significance.

• Rickshaw Ride: 

Experience the bustling chaos of Chandni Chowk from a different perspective with a thrilling rickshaw ride. Let a skilled rickshaw puller navigate through narrow lanes and bustling markets as you soak in the vibrant sights, sounds, and smells of this historic neighborhood.

• Temple and Mosque Visits: 

Pay your respects at the sacred temples and mosques that dot the landscape of Chandni Chowk. Visit the historic Jain Mandir, Gauri Shankar Temple, and Sunehri Masjid to experience the spiritual diversity and architectural grandeur of Delhi’s oldest neighborhoods. Do go through the list of Shiv temples in Delhi so you don’t miss out on any.

• Photography Expedition: 

Capture the vibrant colors, bustling streets, and timeless charm of Chandni Chowk through your lens. Photograph the intricate architecture, bustling markets, and candid moments of daily life to preserve memories of your visit to this iconic neighborhood.

• Savor Sweets: 

Indulge your sweet tooth with a visit to the famous sweet shops of Chandni Chowk. Sample delectable treats like rabri falooda at Giani’s, gulab jamun at Chaina Ram Sindhi Confectioners, and shahi tukda at Ghantewala Halwai. Let the flavors of traditional Indian sweets tantalize your taste buds.

Shopping Destinations in Chandni Chowk

What can you Buy in Chandni Chowk?

• Kinari Bazaar: 

Famous for its exquisite fabrics, Kinari Bazaar is a paradise for those seeking traditional Indian attire, including sarees, lehengas, and fabrics for suits. It’s also known for its dazzling range of wedding accessories, such as embroidered borders, tassels, and embellishments.

• Dariba Kalan: 

This historic street is synonymous with stunning jewelry, particularly silver and gold ornaments. From intricately crafted necklaces and earrings to traditional bridal sets, Dariba Kalan offers a wide selection of exquisite jewelry pieces to suit every taste and occasion.

• Nai Sarak: 

Book lovers will find Nai Sarak to be a treasure trove of literature. This bustling street is lined with bookstores offering a diverse collection of books, ranging from academic texts and novels to religious scriptures and children’s literature.

• Khari Baoli: 

As one of Asia’s largest spice markets, Khari Baoli entices visitors with its aromatic spices, herbs, and dry fruits. From fragrant saffron and flavorful cardamom to exotic teas and nuts, Khari Baoli offers an unforgettable sensory experience for spice enthusiasts and culinary aficionados.

• Chawri Bazaar: 

Known for its vibrant wholesale market, Chawri Bazaar is a hub for stationery, brassware, and traditional Indian wedding invitations. It’s also famous for its wide range of brass and copper utensils, including pots, pans, and ceremonial items.

• Chandni Chowk Cloth Market: 

This bustling market offers a diverse range of textiles, including cotton, silk, and synthetic fabrics. From traditional Indian prints to modern designs, shoppers can find fabrics for clothing, upholstery, and home decor at competitive prices.

• Ballimaran Market: 

Famous for its footwear, Ballimaran Market is a haven for shoe enthusiasts. From traditional Indian juttis and mojaris to trendy sandals and sneakers, this market offers a wide variety of footwear styles for men, women, and children.

• Fancy Market: 

As the name suggests, Fancy Market is a treasure trove of fancy dress materials, costume jewelry, and accessories. From sequined fabrics and beads to artificial flowers and trinkets, shoppers can find everything they need to create stunning costumes and accessories.

Top Hotels Near Chandni Chowk:

• The Lalit New Delhi: 

Located about 3 kilometers from Chandni Chowk, The Lalit New Delhi offers luxurious accommodations with elegant decor, modern amenities, and impeccable service. The hotel features multiple dining options, a spa, fitness center, and swimming pool, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.

• The Imperial New Delhi: 

Situated around 2.5 kilometers from Chandni Chowk, The Imperial New Delhi is a heritage luxury hotel known for its colonial-era charm and opulent interiors. Guests can enjoy a range of dining options, a world-class spa, outdoor pool, and beautifully landscaped gardens.

• Hotel Broadway: 

Just a short distance from Chandni Chowk, Hotel Broadway offers comfortable accommodations with a blend of contemporary and traditional design. The hotel features a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of Old Delhi, serving delicious Indian and international cuisine.

• Hotel Tara Palace Chandni Chowk: 

For those looking for a budget-friendly option near Chandni Chowk, Hotel Tara Palace offers clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities. The hotel’s convenient location makes it ideal for exploring the bustling markets and historic landmarks of Old Delhi.

• Haveli Dharampura: 

Experience the charm of Old Delhi at Haveli Dharampura, a heritage hotel located near Chandni Chowk. Housed in a restored 19th-century mansion, the hotel offers luxurious accommodations, traditional Indian hospitality, and a rooftop terrace overlooking the bustling streets below.