Have you ever heard of the renowned Paranthe wali Gali in Delhi, Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, or the famous Kinari bazaar? Oh, of course, you have, right? Who hasn’t? All these are the top attractions you can explore in Chandni Chowk, India’s oldest market situated in the heart of our capital city and is a special place for Delhi’s inhabitants.
It was the central square of the capital of Shah Jahan’s empire, Shahjahanabad, and since there was a small pool in the middle of this square where the water reflected the moon, it got the name Chandni Chowk. While this place underwent numerous changes and improvements, its old-world charm never changed.
This narrow street in Delhi, stretching from Lahori Gate of the Red Fort to the Fatehpuri Masjid, is Asia’s largest wholesale spice market with numerous other hidden treasures that you can witness. Book an affordable car rental in Delhi with a local driver and get exploring the hidden gems of Delhi.
If you are visiting Chandni Chowk for the first time, here are five things you cannot miss.
Visit the famous Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib
Situated in the heart of Chandni Chowk, Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib is one of the nine ancient Gurdwaras of Delhi constructed to commemorate the site of the beheading Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru.
This Gurdwara also holds the replica of a well from which the Guru Tegh Bahadur used to drink water. You will undoubtedly find this place spiritual and peaceful amidst the hustle and bustle of this street. Moreover, the tasty langar and halwa served as prasad are a delight!
Witness the historic Mirza Ghalib’s Haveli
Home of prominent Urdu poet Mirza Ghalib and now a heritage site, this haveli in Ballimaran, Chandni Chowk, is truly a sight to behold. With stunning architecture and aesthetic appeal, this place has a large-sized portrait of Mirza Ghalib with a hookah in his hand and his countless handwritten poems.
Go on a shopping spree
Chandni Chowk is one of the oldest shopping locations known for more than 300 years. Shopping in this place is one of the most overwhelming and fun experiences, and there is hardly anything that you will not find in this street. Books, clothes, bags, household knick-knacks, shoes, and electronics; you will get everything you want.
If you love reading or want to shop for some stationery, head towards Nai Sadak. Similarly, you can head to Kinari Bazar for wedding lehenga shopping, Ballimaran market for accessories like sunglasses and shoes, Dariba Kalan for antique jewellery and Katra Neel for apparel shopping.
Too much, isn’t it? Well, it’s not even close!
Enjoy mouth-watering delicacies at Paranthewali Gali
Your visit to Chandni Chowk would be incomplete without tasting the delectable food served here. While there are numerous fantastic places to eat here, Paranthewali Gali is legendary in its way. Of the initial 20 odd shops in the 1960s, only three that remain today serve lip-smacking paranthas and other delicacies that you must not miss.
Visit Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir
One of the oldest Jain temples in India, Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir, features stunning architecture made with red sandstone. This temple houses the statues of Adinath, Mahavira, and Parasnath, three of the most esteemed icons in Jainism, with the shrine decorated with stunning paintwork and well-lit lamps.
With vibrant history and throbbing culture, Chandni Chowk in Delhi never fails to amaze you. So next time you are in Delhi, opt for a top-rated cab booking app and witness the old-world allure of this place.