Introduction

Have you ever wanted to go back in time? Well, Delhi’s Chandni Chowk is a place that transports you back in time. From decades-old Havelis to architectural marvels, there are a number of famous places in Chandini  Chowk. Chandini Chowk is one of those places where history and culture have been beautifully preserved. Furthermore, you can find wholesale shops in Chandni Chow for everything that you’re looking for! From spices to fabrics, and even finger-licking parathas, if you visit this place, you’re guaranteed a fun ride!

Origins of Chandni Chowk 

We may trace the origins of Chandni Chowk back to Sir Thomas Theophilus Metcalf’s enticing recount of the place. He wrote about the original Chandini Chowk that existed in the capital city of Shahjahanabad. The old Chandni Chowk was a semi-circle-shaped square in front of the Municipal Townhall. It’s reflection would glisten in the moonlit water pool in front of it. Initially, shops were built in a half-moon shaped which has now been lost. In Chandani Chowk Bazaar, a little water channel from the Yamuna river cut through the middle of the straight path. Chandni Chowk, and its three bazaars: Urdu Bazaar, Johri Bazaar and Fatehpuri Bazaar. 

Location and Accessibility 

Located at the heart of Old Delhi, Chandini Chowk is open to visitors and tourists every day of the week except Sunday. This popular destination can be reached via the bus, metro or cab and is fairly easy to navigate through. 

What can one experience in Chandni Chowk?

Chandini Chowk is a place that is bursting with history and culture. There are so many things to do in Chandni Chowk that one cannot explore this place in just a day. So,if you’re short on time, here are the must-see places in Chandini Chowk!

1. Dariba Kalan: Do you enjoy wearing silver jewellery? Dariba Kalan, Delhi’s own silver jewellery market, is the place for you! In this age old market, you can get magnificent silver pieces for at least 25% less than what you’d find in most Delhi stores. Dariba Kalan is an outlier in  Chandni Chowk fashion and is a treasure trove of all things silver, from 92.5 sterling silver rings to massive necklaces and even tiny nose rings.

2. Gulab Singh Johri Mal: If you adore perfumes and scintillating aromas, this is the place to be! Gulab Singh Johrimal, located near Dariba Kalan, is a well-known Old Delhi perfumery. This 200-year-old ‘attar’ business is famed for traditional Indian scented oils, incense sticks, and essential oils.

3. Parathe Wali Gali: The Paranthe Wali Gali is one of the best places to visit in Chandni Chowk for food. This street, is a foodie’s heaven! As the name implies, it means ‘The Parantha Street’. One can be certain to find the best variety of paranthas (Indian flatbread). This area is home to some of the oldest shops, which have been selling delicious parathas for generations.

4. Old Havelis: The Havelis of Old Delhi are intriguing, yet they are deteriorating with time. The enormous houses of Old Delhi have gradually been split as they have been passed down from generation to generation. The Havelis in old Delhi do not particularly resemble the well-preserved Havelis in Rajasthan. However, they are an excellent way to learn about history, culture, and traditions.

Impact on Delhi Local Tourism 

For decades, Chandini Chowk has been a tourist destination, but its beauty has deteriorated over time and crime has increased. With this in mind, the Delhi Government has revamped Chandni Chowk for an estimated Rs 99 crore during the last three years. The Delhi Government has redeveloped the Chandni Chowk area in a modern manner in order to boost tourism in Delhi. With stronger rules in place, motorised vehicles will be prohibited from moving on this road from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., to boost shopping in Chandni Chowk and preventing visitors from encountering problems such as traffic congestion.

Best time to visit  

Although, Chandini Chowk is a place that is open most days, the best time to get the most out of your trip is around big festivals, like Holi and Diwali as these festivals create an atmosphere of celebration and the place truly comes alive. 

Conclusion 

Whether you’re looking to satisfy a street food craving or something more serious like wedding shopping, the Chandini Chowk Bazaar has you covered. Go put on your most comfy shoes and go discover this hidden treasure of a spot in Delhi!

Also have a look at : 10 Best Marketplaces in Rajasthan for Foreigners

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