Delhi is incomplete without the mention of Old Delhi. Old Delhi’s narrow lanes are dotted with bustling bazaars brimming with culture and history. Each bazaar or market illustrates its amazing and unique factors. Not only are monuments the space to fully discover the essence of Delhi but the local markets and bazaars will lead you to thrills and shopping adventures. Take a stroll through these pulsating markets in this blog to experience the real flavor of the city.
Delhi’s Beating Heart
Do you know Chandni Chowk is over 300 years old? Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, this ‘moonlit square’ was once the imperial avenue to the Red Fort. Over the centuries, it evolved into Delhi’s oldest and busiest bazaar.
You will be shocked to know that the chaos of cars, cycle rickshaws, handcarts, and pedestrians has not changed since the Mughal era! Meandering through the cacophony transports you back in time.
Not only that, Chandni Chowk is a food lover’s paradise. Stop at century-old eateries like Paranthe Wali Gali for stuffed flatbreads and Ghantewala for sweets. And you cannot miss Old Famous Jalebi Wala, which has been selling the softest jalebis since 1884.
Delhi’s Paper Hub
Heading north takes you to Chawri Bazar, Delhi’s wedding card and paper products market. You will be amazed by the endless shops selling handmade paper products, wedding accessories, and more.
Do you know how Chawri Bazar got its unique name? Legend says it came from ‘chawri’ or lamps that a courtesan lit to welcome Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II.
Not only that, Chawri Bazar has a 350-year-old temple, an ornate mosque, and a charming Jain temple. And don’t miss indulging in vegetarian treats at Hare Ram Hare Krishna in Daryaganj.
Asia’s Largest Spice Market
No trip to Old Delhi is complete without visiting the aromatic Khari Baoli. Do you know it is Asia’s largest wholesale spice market?
You will be awed to see mountains of colorful spices, herbs, and food products. The market’s name means ‘salty stepwell’, referring to the water body once located here.
Not only that, a walk through Khari Baoli provides a glimpse into Old Delhi’s rich spice trade history. Marvel at sacks of vivid spices, pick some to take home and sample tasty snacks at Old Famous Jalebi Wala.
The Street of the Tailor’s Needle
In the middle of Old Delhi lies Sui Walan, a place filled with shops selling clothes, eateries, and whatnot. The mentioned place is a main local market. Famous eating points are Durga Halwai, which is not only famous for its wok Chowmin and Chole Bhature but also for its franchise shop of utensils.
While exploring Sui Walan, you will be welcomed by the fragrance of fresh gajra, mehendi, and pickles.
Old Delhi’s bazaars give you a sensory experience through their chaos, flavors, aromas, and colors. Lose yourself in these markets to soak up the old-world charm.
