Chandni Chowk is one of India's most iconic and historic markets right in the heart of Old Delhi, where history meets vibrant energy. The soul of this area is defined by narrow streets teeming with people, the sizzling aroma of street food in the air, and countless shops overflowing with fabrics, jewellery, and spices.
Walking through Chandni Chowk seems as though one is entering a time capsule. Mughal-era architecture's old-world appeal fits perfectly with the modern-day rush of pedestrians, giving life to this centuries-old commercial hub.
A Glimpse into the Past
Built as part of his great city, Shahjahanabad, Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan founded Chandni Chowk in the 17th century. His daughter, Jahanara Begum, envisioned the market to be the capital's commercial centre that would reflect the grandeur of the Mughal empire.
The name Chandni Chowk originates from a central lake from the bygone era, which used to reflect the moonlight, giving the area an enchanted nighttime illumination.
Chandni Chowk has played a central part in Delhi's trade and culture over the ages. Its appeal has never changed. From a regal trade centre during the Mughal era to the most vibrant street in Delhi – its essence as a marketplace has remained intact.
Chandni Chowk's Architectural Enchantment
Remnants of Mughal and colonial architecture can still be witnessed amidst the busy bazaar. Standing at the eastern extremity of Chandni Chowk is the Red Fort, the magnificent illustration of Mughal grandeur. With its amazing domes and minarets, one of India's biggest mosques, Jama Masjid, rules the skyline nearby.
Other prominent buildings include:
- Town Hall: Once the British administrative centre, this colonial-era structure stands as a reminder of Delhi's colonial past. Built in 1863 with grand architecture and expansive gardens, it now serves as a heritage landmark.
- Begum Samru’s Haveli: The Haveli of Begum Samru is a historic estate displaying the beautiful blend of Mughal and European architecture. Begum Samru was a European woman who ruled Sardhana in the late 18th century. Today, the palace stands as a lesser-known but significant part of Chandni Chowk’s history.
- Havelis of Chandni Chowk: Many old havelis, including Haveli Dharampura, have been renovated to provide a window into Delhi's royal past. These havelis showcase the grandeur of Mughal-era aristocracy and the city’s rich heritage.
Key Attractions and Hidden Gems of Chandni Chowk
Chandni Chowk represents an experience rather than just being a shopping centre. These main features and hidden treasures make this location unique:
Paranthe Wali Gali
This legendary lane is dedicated to parathas, a type of Indian flatbread. Here, family-run restaurants have been serving delicious parathas for over a century, with famous names including Pt. Babu Ram Paranthe wala and Gaya Prasad Shiv Charan Paranthe Wala. There is an infinite range of paranthas – made from aloo (potato), gobi (cauliflower), paneer (cheese), or even rabri (sweet condensed milk).
Khari Baoli: Largest Spice Market Found in Asia
For those with a penchant for spices, Khari Baoli bazaar is heaven. Dating back to the 17th century, it is Asia's biggest wholesale spice bazaar. Rich smells of cardamom, saffron, dried red chillies, cinnamon, and other exotic spices can be found in the alleyways. This is the ideal spot to get dry fruits and real Indian spices.
Dariba Kalan: Silver Jewellery Market
Renowned for its huge jewellery collection, Dariba Kalan would be a delight if you love handcrafted silver jewellery. Retailers offering intricately designed necklaces, bangles, rings, and anklets can be seen lining this centuries-old street. Some shops even specialise in rare antique jewellery items reflecting excellent Indian workmanship.
Kinari Bazaar: The Wonderland for Wedding Planners
Kinari Bazaar is every bride’s dream come true. From zari (gold and silver embroidery) fabrics, sequins, laces, and turbans to wonderfully embroidered dupattas and lehengas, this market is the prime spot for everything needed for a great Indian wedding.
Nai Sarak: Haven of the Book Lover
For book enthusiasts, academics, and students, Nai Sarak presents a wealth of books at highly inexpensive rates. The market is a hub with a vast collection, from scholarly textbooks to fiction and even religious scriptures.
Lesser-Known Facts about Chandni Chowk
Despite being one of the busiest areas in Delhi, Chandni Chowk holds many secrets:
- The Moonlight Pool is gone: Chandni Chowk was once adorned with a central canal, shaded by trees, which widened into an octagonal pool. On full moon nights, its waters reflected the moonlight, giving the market its name, “Chandni Chowk”(Moonlight Square). During British rule, the pool was removed to make space for new buildings.
- Once there was a canal running through it: Chandni Chowk once had a canal running through its centre, adding to its aesthetic appeal and keeping the area cool. During the British Raj, the canal was bricked up and covered over, and a clock tower was built in its place.
- It is a Filmmaker's Dream: Chandni Chowk has been the backdrop for several Bollywood films, including Delhi-6 and Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham.
- The Ghantewala Halwai Legacy: Established in 1790, Ghantewala Halwai is among the first sweet stores in India, serving sweets to Mughal rulers. It was closed in 2015, yet its legacy lives on.
Ideal Time to Visit Chandni Chowk
Though Chandni Chowk is open year-round, the best time to visit is from October to March, when Delhi experiences pleasant weather. During summer months, it can be scorching hot, which can make exploration of the packed streets challenging.
Although the market is most active in the afternoons, arriving early in the morning is a smart choice if you wish to avoid big crowds. With brilliant lights, spectacular decorations, and festive shopping, special events like Diwali, Eid, and the wedding season between November to February reinvigorate the market with extra life.
Journey to Chandni Chowk: How to Get Here
Chandni Chowk is well-connected to the rest of Delhi via multiple transport options:
By Metro
Reaching the market via the Chandni Chowk Metro Station on the Yellow Delhi Metro Line is the most convenient way. It is a short stroll from most attractions.
By Train
Just one km from Chandni Chowk sits the Old Delhi Railway Station (Delhi Junction). From there, you might get an auto-rickshaw to the market.
By Road
Auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and taxis are available from all parts of Delhi. However, due to the narrow lanes and heavy traffic inside the marketplace, walking or taking a rickshaw is the best way to explore.
Parking could be a difficulty if you are driving. There is a multi-level parking facility near Jama Masjid; from there, you may walk up to the main market.
As the sun sets, Chandni Chowk transforms into a brilliant wonderland of lights, colours, and activity. For history buffs, food lovers, and shopping enthusiasts, this marketplace offers an unforgettable experience. This is where the past and present blend for a nostalgic journey through time.
