Old Delhi having its own charm making one aware of the legacy that Delhi inhibits. Chandni Chowk is one such charm at Old Delhi that attracts people of each genre; from tourists to shopaholics. Although the lanes here are narrow but you will find variety of stuffs like Clothing, Books, Leather Goods, Consumer Goods and many more. In fact this place specializes for Wedding-Shopping, one can have a glimpse “Real” Delhi via these congested roads. A Paradise to Foodies, Chandni Chowk explains well why Delhi Buzzes as lovable City among Foodies.
Chandni Chowk was established in 1650 AD by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, designed by Jahanara Begum Sahib, the city was originally called Shahjahanabad. Heritages like Red Fort (Lal Quila), Fatehpuri Masjid and Lahori Darwaza are the pride that marks the distinction of this place.
One among the India’s biggest wholesale markets where shops were originally demon shaped and was famous for Silver Merchants. Chandni Chowk was created in square shape originally with a pool in the middle, which shimmers up with the reflection of moon light, hence the place is named as Chandni Chowk. Then the pool was replaced by a clock tower (Ghantaghar) by 1950.
Starting with the eastern end (Red Fort), the first tourist attraction is the Digambara Jain Temple. Established in 16th Century, the temple is famous for its devotional statues of Lord Mahavira and Lord Parasnath with focal Devotional Room at first floor. There is also a Bird’s Hospital in the Temple’s compound.
Next stoppage of the journey is a Hindu Temple “Gauri Shankar Mandir” which was built in honour of Lord Shiva and it is believed that the “Lingam” here is 800 years old. Move ahead towards West to gulp down some of the delectable Jalebis. The shop “Jalebiwala” at the corner of Chandni Chowk and Dariba Kalan will make you fall in love with this delicacy all over again.
Then gear up for some exclusive shopping along Dariba Kalan Road. The street is well-known for Costume and Gold Jewelleries. In case you have a budget constraint, you can go for some of the enticing Silver antiques. Passing through this road, which gently curves to the left, you will find Kinari Bazaar on the right of it. From fashionable Bridal accessories to all Wedding supplies, you will find all the exclusivity here. This Bubbly Bazaar is buzzed with glittering tinsel decorations.
While moving ahead, you will reach one of the most astounding places for foodies – Parathe Wali Gali. Devoted to Parathas, this place has its own charm with the offering of varied Varieties of Parathas (Indian Style Flat Bread). Try a commendable crushed Almond Paratha or a Mirchi Paratha to enjoy an astonishing food journey.
Just a few steps away from here, you will reach Sisganj Gurudwara, a place where Mughals killed Tegh Bhahadur- the ninth Sikh Guru. Kirtan (devotional singing by Shikhs) throughout the day here will let you cherish a soulful experience here. The tour of this centuries-old place comes to an end here but everyone takes away an amazing experience of passing through these by-lanes with all the hustle and bustle along.
Address: Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi (Map)
