10 Things To Do In Chandni Chowk Delhi To Witness Its Charm

The capital city of Delhi stands as an embodiment of culture, art and delectable dishes that will leave you wanting for more. Chandni Chowk in Delhi is the place to go if you want to experience the essence of old Delhi to its fullest. From shopping for in-vogue clothing items to eating delicious, finger-licking food, there are many things to do in Chandni Chowk. Established in the Mughal era, this is one of the oldest and busiest markets in India. The infamous market in the heart of old Delhi attracts both tourists and locals alike with the plethora of things it has to offer.

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10 Things To Do In Chandni Chowk

Here is a handpicked list of things to do in Chandni Chowk to make the most of your experience:

1. Savour The Street Food

Savouring delicious street food is one of the best things to do in Chandni Chowk Delhi.

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Anyone who visits Chandni Chowk must not leave without getting a taste of the delectable street food and chaat options that the market has to offer. The various chaat corners in the area provide the authentic taste of Delhi’s original street food that will make you lick your plates clean. Some foodie favourite places to get your hands on this delicious street food are Natraj Chaat Corner, Shree Balaji Chaat Bhandar and Padam Chaat Bhandar. If you wish to experience the finest street food Delhi has to offer at a pocket-friendly price, Chandni Chowk is the place to go.

2. Sound And Light Show At The Red Fort

Red Fort is one of the most amazing places to visit and explore for every traveller.

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The best way to immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Delhi is to go sightseeing on your visit to Chandni Chowk. The marvellous Red Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that provides a peek into the intricate architecture and history of the city. The fascinating light and sound show held at the fort perfectly pays homage to the historical monument that has stood through the rise and fall of various empires. It portrays the story of how the monument came to be and the Indian independence struggle via expert manipulation of light and sound. The cost ranges from ₹60-80 for adults and ₹20-30 for children.

3. Visit The Paranthe Wali Gali

Visiting and enjoying paratha is one of the best things to do in Chandni Chowk Delhi.

Photo: Shahzaib Damn Cruze / Wikimedia Commons

The Paranthe Wali Gali is a small and congested district in Chandni Chowk with eating joints that specialise in Paranthas, giving it its name. It is one of the most iconic food places in Delhi attracting tourists and locals to get a bite of the flavours that originate out of its tiny kitchens. If you are looking for breakfast or lunch options in Chandni Chowk, visiting the Paranthe Wali Gali is a safe option to satisfy your cravings. Babu Ram Parantha, Pt. Kanhaiyalal Durgaprasad Dixit and Old Famous Jalebi Wala are some of the outlets to go to whenever you are in the district.

4. Experience The Sanctity Of Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib

Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib is one of the most amazing places to visit for every traveller.

Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons

In the bustling market of Chandni Chowk resides Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib. The Gurudwara stands as an embodiment of sanctity, attracting pilgrims from far and wide who come here to experience the feeling of divine peace. Being one of the nine historical Gurudwaras in Delhi, it stands to commemorate the martyrdom of the ninth Sikh Guru- Guru Teg Bahadur. You can listen to the melodious Kirtan after paying your respects at the Darbar Sahib and immerse in the feeling of spirituality that the place emits. The Gurudwara is open all hours of the day and is easily accessible by the Delhi Metro.

5. Shop In Dariba Kalan

Shopping at Dariba Kalan is one of the best things to do in Chandni Chowk Delhi.

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Chandni Chowk is famous for being a great shopping destination, providing an experience that is worth engaging in. Dariba Kalan, also known as Jeweller’s Street, is a street famous for selling heavy jewellery and trinkets. Apart from that, it is also a great place to get your hands on beautiful necklaces, anklets and nose rings. The place is also famous for finding authentic ittars and sweet perfumes. If you are an enthusiast of oxidised jewellery, this is the perfect place to find it in a great variety at affordable prices.

6. Buy Books At Nai Sarak

Nai Sarak is one of the best places for students to buy books and stationery items.

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If you are a geek for books or a hoarder of stationery items, Nai Sarak is your shopping haven. From used books to new ones, you can find whatever you are looking for in this age-old market. The place is also famous for providing stationary items at wholesale prices allowing stationary lovers to stock up on their favourite supplies. The place is very pocket-friendly and has everything ranging from academic textbooks to all the varied genres of books. If you are a book lover, we can promise you that Nai Sarak will not disappoint.

7. Discover The Majestic Jama Masjid

Discovering the Jama Masjid is one of the best things to do in Chandni Chowk Delhi.

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In the heart of Old Delhi, Jama Masjid is one of the most magnificent mosques in India. Made during the reign of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, the mosque is designed to accommodate over 25000 worshipers in its courtyard. The place allows you to witness the intricate architecture of the Mughal era and marvel at its large domes adorned with sandstone and marble. The south minaret of the mosque provides a magnificent and picturesque view of the Delhi skyline. The mosque is open to tourists for the entire day except for prayer time.

8. Enjoy An Evening At A Rooftop Cafe

A delicious view of two mocktail glasses kept on a brown table garnished with mint leaves.

Photo: Jay Gajjar / Unsplash

Chandni Chowk has several rooftop cafes and restaurants that provide a picturesque view of the Old Delhi skyline. You can enjoy a cup of tea while enjoying a panoramic view of the city or enjoy your favourite dishes while gazing at the night sky. Some of these cafes even offer a panoramic view of the moonlight square making for a picturesque image that remains etched in your memory forever. Lakhori, Rooftop Lounge and Exotic Rooftop Cafe and Restaurant are some of the options that you can explore.

9. Shop For Clothes

Shopping for clothes is one of the best and amazing things to do in Chandni Chowk Delhi.

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Another thing Chandni Chowk is famous for its pristine fabrics and a great collection of clothes. Kinari Bazaar located near Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib is the go-to place for buying premium decorative apparel for your clothes. Katra Neel in Chandni Chowk is famous for wholesale wedding clothes, footwear and jewellery. Apart from that, you can also find pristine men’s wear, curtains and furniture covers. The wide range of products is complemented by their pocket-friendly nature, making Chandni Chowk the perfect shopping destination.

Suggested Read: Popular Places To Visit Near Chandni Chowk

10. Explore Mughlai Cuisine

Mughlai cuisine is one of the best cruises you can try to savour your taste buds.

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To add to the list of things Chandni Chowk is treasured for we have delectable and authentic Mughlai cuisine. The tiny kitchens of these narrow lanes produce bold culinary flavours that transport you through time. If you are a non-vegetarian, you must try the Mughlai food that Chandni Chowk has to offer. Some of the most famous Mughlai restaurants here are Karim’s, Al Jawahar and Sharbati Nihari Wale. You can find many more near Jama Masjid.

Chandni Chowk’s narrow lanes are a place where time seems to stand still. Whether you are experiencing the rich legacy and history or indulging in devouring some of the best food, something about this place just feels like home. Now that you have learnt about the magnificence of Chandni Chowk, plan your trip with Trip XL and get to experience what it has in store for you.

Cover Photo: Sergio Capuzzimati / Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Chandni Chowk market closed?

The market of Chandni Chowk is open all days except Sundays and national holidays.

What is the best way to reach Chandni Chowk?

The most efficient way of travelling to the market is via the metro. You can get down at the Chandni Chowk metro station on the Yellow Line. Alternatively, you can get down at the Lal Quila station on the Violet line if you want to experience a short rickshaw ride along the way. Other than this, cabs and buses are also some travel options

What is the best time to visit Chandni Chowk?

The Chandni Chowk market usually gets very crowded in the later hours of the day so it is advised to visit as early as possible. The shops tend to open as early as 10 AM so you can get your hands on whatever you wish to shop for without the hassle of the overcrowded lanes.

Is Chandni Chowk expensive?

Chandni Chowk is one of the cheapest markets in the country. You can get your hands on a variety of goods from clothing items to home decor at a very reasonable rate. You can even try your luck at bargains to get some discounts on your purchases.

Why is Chandni Chowk so famous?

Chandni Chowk is one of the most famous places to visit in Delhi. The market allows you to experience the rich cultural history of the country with ancient monuments and authentic cuisine that is bound to leave you in awe.

10 Things To Do In Chandni Chowk Delhi To Witness Its Real Charm