Connaught Place, situated in the center of Delhi, fondly called CP Delhi, is not just a commercial hub but the soul of the capital. Widely known for its grand architecture and buzzing energy, Connaught Place New Delhi is a perfect blend of old world elegance along with the pulse of modern life. No doubt, it is a must-visit place on our Indian tour packages.
Designed by architect Robert Tor Russell, Connaught Place New Delhi offers visitors a unique circular layout which is a giant roundabout of possibilities, buzzing with energy, and home to most Instagrammable cafes in Delhi.
Whether you’re strolling the wide boulevards, checking out trendy cafes in CP, or have plans to explore CP market shopping, there’s no better way to feel the city’s vibe.
How to Reach Connaught Place New Delhi?
CP Delhi enjoys excellent connectivity, making it easily accessible from all parts of the capital.
For those traveling by metro, the Rajiv Chowk Metro Station, located at the heart of Connaught Place, serves as a major transit hub on the Delhi Metro’s Yellow Line and Blue Line.
Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses provide convenient transportation options for visitors. Navigating to CP Market or nearby attractions is seamless with Google Maps or local signage.
Best Time to Visit Connaught Place New Delhi
Even though Connaught Place Market is busy all year round, the ideal time to visit depends mainly on your tastes and the condition of the weather.
October to March provide nice weather, perfect for long walks and outdoor meals. Winter evenings here are perfect for sipping hot coffee in one of the many cafes in CP or browsing through Connaught Place shopping lanes.
However, if you wish to witness the festive spirit of the capital city, plan your visit during Diwali, Christmas, or New Year celebrations in Delhi, when Connaught Place comes alive with lights and festivities.
Top Cafes in CP Delhi for Every Mood
Looking for the triendiest cafes in CP? These iconic spots cater to everyone, from foodies to coffee aficionados. These cafes in CP not only offer great food but are also amongst the most instagrammable places in Delhi.
- The Big Chill Cafe: This iconic cafe is a favorite among Delhiites for its American diner-style ambiance, comfort food menu featuring Italian and American dishes, and a vast selection of desserts.
- Farzi Cafe: Known for its innovative take on Indian cuisine using molecular gastronomy techniques, Farzi Cafe offers a unique and modern dining experience.
- Cha Bar: Nestled within the Oxford Bookstore, Cha Bar is a haven for bookworms and tea lovers. It offers various teas, light meals, finger foods, and delectable cakes.
- United Coffee House: A heritage cafe established in 1942, United Coffee House is a go-to spot for a classic cup of coffee and Iranian snacks like bun maska and keema pav.
- The Junkyard Cafe: This quirky cafe lives up to its name with its decor made from recycled and upcycled materials. It offers a fun and funky ambiance, along with a menu of global comfort food.
- Cafe Delhi Heights: Perfect for global cuisine lovers, the place is known for its juicy lucy burgers, lamb chops, and a casual dining vibe. Food is consistently good and the service here is quick.
- Warehouse Cafe: Stylish industrial interiors with warm lighting, a global menu, and often live music which makes the place stand out. Do try Warehouse murg tikka or grilled fish when here. The cost is around INR 2500 for two.
- Wenger’s: For a taste of old-world charm and timeless flavors, head to Wenger’s Deli, a legendary establishment renowned for its delectable pastries, sandwiches, and baked goods.
- Theobroma: This popular bakery chain is known for its delicious pastries, cakes, and breads. They also offer a selection of coffees and teas.
- Cafe Tonino: Vintage italian charm and an intimate vibe, this cafe is popular for its wood fired pizza and bruschetta.
- Indian Coffee House: With rooftop seating, pocket friendly menu, and old school nostalgia. This place is loved by students and thinkers.
- Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters: A great place for coffee shots and working as it offers reliable Wi-Fi. Their speciality is coffee and pastries.
Connaught Place Delhi shopping is a haven for every budget and style. So whether you’re hunting local street wear or branded, CP market has it all.
- Janpath Market: This street market is a treasure trove for souvenirs, handicrafts, jewelry, and clothes. Here, you can find unique and affordable items.
- FabIndia: Explore India’s rich textile heritage at FabIndia, offering an exquisite collection of handcrafted garments, home furnishings, and accessories.
- Palika Bazaar: This underground air-conditioned market is known for mobile accessories, electronics, shoes, and street fashion. It's ideal for low cost deals in CP Delhi.
- Khadi India: Located close to CP, this emporium is run by the government and offers an organic range of skincare, herbal products, and khadi garments and ethnic accessories perfect for environment conscious shoppers.
- Shankar Market: Just off CP, this lesser known shopping hub is great for custom tailoring as well as fabric lovers. It's a paradise for those wanting to create fusion outfits and unique ethnic clothes.
- Central Cottage Industries Emporium (Janpath): Known for handcrafted textiles, brassware, Kashmiri shawls, Pashmina, and tribal art, all under one roof. A great place for premium Indian handicrafts near CP market.
- H&M, Zara, Marks & Spencer: Connaught Place market is home to some of the biggest global high street fashion brands, so whether you’re looking for trendy western wear or office wear, these stores have you covered.
Whether you prefer global brands or indie gems, CP Market has something unique to offer for every type of shopper.
10 Places To Visit In & Around Connaught Place Delhi
The places to visit in Connaught Place aren’t just limited to fashion and food. Several cultural landmarks lie within a 2 km radius:
- India Gate: Pay homage to India’s fallen soldiers at India Gate, an imposing war memorial located just a short drive away from Connaught Place.
- Jantar Mantar: Immerse yourself in India’s astronomical heritage at Jantar Mantar, an ancient observatory comprising a collection of architectural instruments used for celestial observations.
- National Museum: Delve into India’s rich cultural tapestry at the National Museum, showcasing a vast collection of art, artifacts, and archaeological treasures spanning millennials.
- Museum of Illusions: Get ready to question reality at the Museum of Illusions, where mind-bending exhibits and optical illusions make for mind-blowing selfies. It’s not just a museum; it’s a journey into the surreal and amongst the best places to visit in Connaught Place.
- Gurudwara Bangla Sahib: Gurudwara Bangla Sahib provides a spiritual retreat and a sense of calm in the middle of the bustle. Find comfort there amidst the urban chaos.
- Agrasen ki Baoli: Agrasen ki Baoli is an atmospheric 14th century stepwell that hides just 1 km from CP. It is a protected monument noted for its haunting symmetry and quiet charm, perfect for a moment of calmness and photography.
- National Charkha Museum: Built above the Palika Bazaar garden, the museum features the world’s largest stainless steel spinning wheel and interactive exhibits on the Charkha’s evolution as a symbol of freedom and craftsmanship.
- Central Park: CP’s inner circle central green space which is ideal for early morning jogs, yoga sessions, and relaxing under shady Banyan trees. It's the green lung of the area.
- National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA): Just a short walk from CP, this gallery is a colonial mansion that is home to India’s finest modern and contemporary artworks, featuring legends like Amrita Shergill and innovative contemporary exhibits.
- Lodi Gardens: A picturesque heritage park just 3 km away, filled with Mughal era tombs, lush lawns, and quiet trails. A top spot for photoshoots, morning walks, and escaping the urban space.
- Nehru Park: Also near CP, this spacious green area is perfect for cultural events, community yoga, or a peaceful picnic in the city.
- Delhi Haat INA: About 2 km away, this vibrant open-air craft bazaar showcases textiles, street food, and regional handicrafts. The place also hosts live performances, making it ideal for food and art lovers.
Savor the Street Food Delights at Connaught Place Market
Connaught Place Market isn’t just a haven for shopping and sightseeing; it’s also a paradise for food enthusiasts craving authentic flavors and culinary adventures. Some must-try spots include:
- Jain Chawal Wale: For a taste of authentic North Indian cuisine, make your way to Jain Chawal Wale, a humble eatery serving soul-satisfying rajma chawal and chole chawal.
- Odeon Bhel Puri Bhandar: Famous for their Bhel Puri with a secret recipe that includes dates and garlic chutney.
- Bhogal Chole Bhature (Janpath): Celebrated for over 60 years, this stall is considered legendary for its fluffy bhature and mildly spiced chole, served with kachalu, pickle and onions. A hearty plate costs INR 70-75. Locals rave about their loyal patronage spanning decades.
- Anil Kachori Wale: Situated near Hanuman Mandir on Baba Khadak Singh Marg, this 40+ years old stall serves samosas, kachoris, with tangy chutney and masala onions, and jalebis. A plate costs around INR 75 for two.
- Pappu Chaat Bhandar: Located near Tamasha on Kasturba Gandhi Marg, this street side stall is famous for its tikkis, aloo chaat, and fruit chaat. Their specialty is their crispy potato chaat with tangy chutney and sev (INR 100 for two) earns high praise for freshness and flavours.
- Halka Fulka (Food Rickshaw): An inventive auto rickshaw vendor in Block C offers keema rolls, veggie rolls, maggi and grilled sandwiches (INR 100-140). Its items are adored for quality, quantity, and cab style photogenic design.
- Depauls: An old school cafe at Janpath Bhawan dating back to 1950s is famous for its hazelnut coffee, sandwiches, cheese balls, momos, and patties. A nostalgic and affordable experience.
- Daksh Chinese Van: This iconic food van near American Center delivers Punjabi Chinese fusion with dishes like chilli potatoes, hakka noodles, and manchurian, worth trying for quantity and distinct flavour. Often a midday favourite.
Beyond the plush restaurants in Connaught Place Delhi, these street gems capture the capital’s food soul.
Top Restaurants in Connaught Place Delhi for a Delicious Meal
Want to indulge in fine dining? These restaurants in Connaught Place Delhi are known for flavour and ambiance.
- Parikrama: A revolving restaurant offering 360 degree views of Delhi.
- Zaffran: Get a chance to indulge mughlai delicacies in a luxe setting.
- Saravana Bhawan: In the list of favourite restaurants in Connaught Place for vegetarians.
- Biryani Blues: A popular name amongst restaurants in Connaught Place for authentic Hyderabadi flavours.
- Barbeque Nation: Buffet style grilled delights perfect for groups and large gatherings with a vibrant atmosphere.
- The Imperial Spice: A modern fine dining option near Connaught Place offering global fusion dishes with upscale decor and artistic plating.
- The Embassy: A legacy restaurant in CP serving continental classics, nostalgic North Indian cuisine, and rich desserts since the 1940s.
- Tamra- Shangri- La’s Eros Hotel: Located near CP, Tamra offers a luxurious buffet with Indian, Japanese, and European cuisines, perfect for lavish dining experience.
CP Delhi Nightlife: Where the Party Never Ends
Connaught Place transforms into Delhi’s nightlife capital as soon as the sun sets. Enjoy liev music, rooftop bars, and buzzing clubs:
- My Bar Headquarters: Amongst places to visit in Connaught Place for affordable drinks and loud music. It is one of the most budget friendly places in CP.
- Ministry of Beer: Spacious beer garden with great vibes. It is regarded as Delhi’s first steam punk themed brewery, known for craft beer, spacious seating, and electric atmosphere.
- Lord of the Drinks: Amongst places to visit in Connaught Place for a party like royalty. With medieval inspired interiors and an extensive drink menu, the place is known for dancing, drinking, and dining.
- Kitty Su (The Lalit): One of the most iconic LGBTQ+ friendly clubs in Delhi. It is an award winning club. Expect top notch music, drag shows, and an inclusive vibe.
- The Sky High: One of Delhi’s largest rooftop lounges perfect for laid back evenings offering skyline views, hookah, cocktails, and mood lighting.
Whether you're into electronic beats or chill acoustic sessions, CP Delhi doesn’t disappoint.
Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Connaught Place Delhi
Looking for the best hotels in Connaught Place Delhi? Whether you're in Delhi for business or leisure, these hotels in Connaught Place ensure a comfortable stay:
- The Imperial Hotel: A colonial-era luxury property near Connaught Place New Delhi known for its royal service, cozy interiors, and fine dining.
- Hotel The Royal Plaza: A good mid-range option amongst hotels in Connaught Place, centrally located with classic decor and modern amenities.
- Radisson Blu Marina: Located right in the heart of Connaught Place Market, it blends contemporary comfort with easy access to Delhi’s shopping and dining spots.
- Hotel Bright: Amongst affordable and cozy hotels in Connaught Place, offering clean, cozy rooms and excellent service in the heart of the city.
- YWCA International Guest House: Budget-friendly with a heritage touch, ideal for solo travelers and international tourists.
- The Park Hotel: Known for its stylish decor, spa, and nightlife options, this hotel offers a vibrant urban experience close to CP Delhi.
These hotels in Connaught Place are perfect bases to explore the city.
Insider Tips While Exploring Connaught Place New Delhi
- Opt for comfortable footwear to ensure an enjoyable outing.
- Bargain wisely while shopping in CP Market & Jnapath to snag the best deals.
- Stay hydrated and energized by indulging in local delicacies and refreshing beverages.
- Consider visiting during weekdays or early mornings to beat the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
- While the main outer circle of Connaught Place Market is bustling with activity, don’t forget to explore the inner circle and the lesser-known lanes and alleys.
- Connaught Place’s maze-like layout can be confusing, so having a reliable navigation tool can help you easily navigate its streets.
Experience the Timeless Magic of Connaught Place Delhi
Connaught Place isn’t just a place, its an experience in itself that captures the soul of Delhi. From vibrant nightlife, iconic landmarks to stylish cafes in CP and the bustling Connaught Place markets, every corner here tells a story.
So whether you have plans for shopping, dining, or simply immersing yourself in the colonial charm, Connaught Place New Delhi offers a perfect blend of modern vibes and heritage.
Planning to explore the best of Delhi and beyond? Let WanderOn curate the perfect journey for you. With handpicked experiences, guided tours, and best itineraries, we ensure that your adventure through CP Delhi and other landmarks becomes unforgettable.
