Chandni Chowk is one of the most fascinating areas of Old Delhi, a location that has been widely popularised. Thanks in part to Bollywood films like Delhi 6 and Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham. Kajol’s character in the latter movie was a pure ‘Purani Dilli’ girl, one who introduced us to the joys and hospitality of one of the oldest landmarks in the nation, in a totally down-to-earth and believable way.
30 Second Window:
- While many believe that the hype around Chandni Chowk is limited to Jama Masjid and the Red Fort, the truth is that this locality is one of the most culturally diverse sections of India.
- Delhiites swear by the food and shopping options you can find here, but there is a lot more to these bustling lanes than meets the eye!
- Let’s find it out in this blog!
Dariba Kalan
Dariba Kalan is a lane full of jewellers selling gorgeous silver jewellery that cost at least 25 per cent less than what you’d find in any other market. From nose-pins, earrings, neckpieces, and anklets, to silverware and utensils, your silver needs will be sorted here. Other than Silver, you will also find Kundan, Meenakari jewellery, plus shops selling ittars, perfumes, and oils too.
Bhagirath Palace
Asia’s largest wholesale market for electrical and electronic goods, Bhagirath Palace has got a lot to offer—from basic light fixtures to fancy decorative lights that can take centre-stage in your living room or can be placed in your garden, you’ll find them all here, and at dirt cheap prices.
Chawri Bazar
Chawri Bazar is where you should head if you want to get wedding cards printed in bulk {and at a wholesale cost}. There are hundreds of shops selling all kinds of invitation cards—from super simple to super fancy. You can get some fancy crockery and mason jars there too.
Khari Baoli
Located at the western end of Chandni Chowk, Khari Baoli is a street entirely dedicated to all kinds of spices, dried fruits, nuts, and herbs. From amlas, makhanas, red & green chilis, and dried mulberries & plums, there’s really nothing in terms of spices and condiments {even the exotic kind} you can’t find here.
Fatehpuri Market
This one’s a wholesale trade centre for khoya and paneer. You’ll find plenty of eateries like parathas, kulfi, aloo puri, chole bhature, and more. You’ll even find prayer items and materials required for wedding rituals.
Kucha Choudhary Market
A famous photo market, in Chandni Chowk and also photographers dream place. You can get every type of camera {vintage, DSLR, or Polaroid} and essential accessory you could ever imagine {and that’s not hyperbole!} around every corner.
Katra Neel
A wholesale market for cloth of all kind, this is where you’ll find the first Raymond franchise from Old Delhi. You’ll also find plenty of shops selling lehengas, sarees, and salwar suits here, plus plenty of menswear.
An area where artisans and entertainers found a willing audience. Even as recently as the 1960s, Chandni Chowk was home to ghazal performances, light and dance shows and other cultural extravaganzas that would continue through the night. People of all age groups would attend, as willing and enthusiastic participants in musical evenings and social gatherings.
Other than these markets, Chandni Chowk is famous for other places as well.
- Jama Masjid
- Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir
- Hindu Gauri Shankar Temple
- Christian Central Baptist Church
- Sikh Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib
- Muslim Fatehpuri Masjid
Another striking feature of Chandni Chowk are the overhead wires, some strong and sturdy, while some thin and fragile, a bunch of them suspended by poles, running through a balcony, jumping across the narrow lane, attaching itself to another pole, hanging just above a shop, rising up till the wall of a house, settling back to a pole.
DforDelhi Recommends:
- Amidst the religious places and the shopping bouquet, the place also houses some of Delhi’s oldest eateries and delicious sweet shops. Do visit Chandni Chowk for the best time of your life and yes, relive the History! India Rocks, for sure!!
Now, how well do you know your Delhi?
