Overview
Chandni Chowk is the main market street of Old Delhi, laid out in the 1650s as part of Shah Jahan's new city, Shahjahanabad. It runs from the Red Fort toward the Fatehpuri Masjid and is traditionally said to have been planned by his daughter Jahanara Begum.
Today its crowded lanes hold spice markets, jewellery shops, sweet shops and street food, along with a Jain temple, a Sikh gurdwara, a church and a mosque on or near the main road. A rickshaw ride through the lanes is the classic way to see it.
What to look for
- The spice market at Khari Baoli nearby
- The Paranthe Wali Gali for fried flatbreads
- The Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib and the Jain temple
- The Red Fort at one end of the street
Visiting tips
- Go in the morning, when it is calmer; it is very crowded later.
- A cycle-rickshaw ride with your guide is the best way through the lanes.
- Keep valuables secure and carry small notes.
Why visit with a private guide
A private guide shows you where to stand, when to arrive and what most visitors miss at Chandni Chowk, and fits the visit around the rest of your day.
More photographs
Nearby
Akshardham Bangla Sahib Humayun's Tomb India Gate Jama Masjid Lotus Temple Qutub Minar Red Fort
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