Chandni chowk (चाँदनी चौक meaning Moonlight Square) in short is one of the oldest and busiest markets in old Delhi, India. It was built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and designed by his daughter Jahanara. The market is known for its historical significance, shops, chaos and delicious local food.
timings
10:30 am - 9:00pm (some outlets are closed on Sundays)
what are the local delicacies, what are the famous shops there, how can I get there, what is the history of the fort? etc., all will be answered just keep on reading!
History of Chandni Chowk
The market's history dates to the founding of the capital city of Shahjahanabad when Emperor Shah Jahan established the Red Fort on the banks of the Yamuna River besides his new capital.
as it had existed a couple of hundred years ago, was a street made of bazaars with a row of banyan trees down the centre, with the silver ribbon of the flowing canal flanked by a wide platform where people sat and conversed. Horse driven carriages, palanquins and sometimes elephants passed through the street.
Chandni Chowk was established by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan when he decided to shift the capital of his empire from Agra to Delhi. It was designed as one of the main streets of Shahjanabad, the new walled city of Delhi. Construction began in 1650 and was completed in 1656.
Originally, Chandni Chowk was a half-moon-shaped square located in front of the Municipal Townhall. A shallow water channel ran through the middle of the straight road, now known as the Chandani Chowk bazaar, with roads and shops on either side. The pool in the center shimmered in the moonlight, giving the market its name.
The bazaar was famous for its silver merchants, contributing to the name “Silver Street” (as silver is referred to as “Chandi” in Hindi). Over time, the pool was replaced by a clock tower (Ghanta Ghar) in the 1870s.
kuchas, katras and havelis
Kucha: a zone with houses whose owners shared some common attribute, usually their occupation. Hence the names Maliwara, the gardeners&; neighborhood and Ballimaran, the oarsmen’s neighborhood.
Katra: refers to a separate wing of tradesmen and craftsmen belonging to the same trade. They usually lived and worked together. It is a system similar to the guild housing in Amsterdam.
Haveli: Haveli refers to a mansion. The term "haveli" is derived from the Arabic word "hawali" which means "partition or "private space." It gained popularity during the Mughal empire. A normal haveli would have a big courtyard (atrium) surrounded on four sides by spacious rooms and often another walled courtyard around the exterior as well. One of the largest preserved havelis in the area is the Chunnamal haveli.
present Chandnichowk
Preserving the antiquity of Old Delhi, Chandni Chowk is a bustling neighborhood that is one of the oldest in the national capital. A vibrant bazaar that is buzzing with activity, Chandni Chowk is a labyrinth of narrow alleyways that are crammed with small shops, either selling delicious servings of snacks, sweets and savories' or offering budgeted deals on a host of products, including clothes. This medieval shopping site is stocked with almost everything under the sun, and you can get a fine selection of perfumes, jewelry, electronics, candles, lifestyle goods and idols of gods and goddesses. Moreover, it also plays host to one of the largest wholesale markets in Delhi, in which visitors can get huge discounts on several items.
DELICACIES
has a deep as well as the old relationship with food which began in the Mughal Era. The streets of Chandni Chowk are rich with an overwhelming variety of culinary delicacies which include the world-famous Mughlai Cuisine.
On the streets of this place, you can smell the aroma of culinary heritage that has been grown over centuries. Though the entire Delhi is emerging with new cafes and restaurants, it can never take the place of age-old restaurants at Chandni Chowk or Jama Masjid.
120 years old Natraj is one of the most popular outlet for Dahi Bhalla in chandnichowk. It was established in the year 1940 and selling Dahi Bhallas for generations. The bhallas prepared here are very soft, daanedaar and fluffy and is served with red tamarind chutney in an old-fashioned way. It is sprinkled with Dahi Bhalla masala, the awesome signature. The bhallas are really great and the tasty masala is the secret behind its tempting savor. A huge crowd gathers in front of the shop, which is a witness of the taste of Dahi bhallas served at Natraj. They also serve Aloo Tikki fully hand-shaped & has a daal filling in the center. The outer layer is super crispy & the daal gives a new dimension to the chaat. The red & green chutney adds to the taste.
Old Jalebi Walaa
This iconic jalebi shop has been around since 1884, spanning four generations of the same family, serving hot jalebi – the crisp surface breaks open, releasing divine sweetness. The taste lingers, tantalizing your taste buds for hours. Here’s what makes them special. They use desi khandsari sugar for the syrup instead of regular sugar. The jalebis are prepared using desi ghee and cooked over a coal fire. Visit the small shop at the corner of Dariba Kalan Road to witness the magic. The sweet maker squeezes the batter into circular loops directly into boiling hot desi ghee. The white swirls transform into crispy, golden jalebis, which are then soaked in rich sugary syrup. The shop was established by Late Sh. Lala Nem Chand Jain, who migrated to Delhi with just INR 2 in his pocket.
Giani Di Hatti
Certainly! Giani’s Di Hatti in Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, is a legendary street food destination. The story of Giani’s di Hatti dates back to 1956 when Giani Gurcharan Singh, a traditional sweetmeat maker from Layallpur (Faislabad), Pakistan, migrated to Delhi. He set up shop in the bustling bazaars of Fatehpuri, Chandni Chowk, and named it ‘Giani Di Hatti’. There, he began serving his famous specialty icy-cold Rabri Faluda and various shakes; rose, mango, pineapple etc. which costs ₹ 70 each, made with the finest ingredients, love, and dedication.
JB kachodi waala
Jung Bahadur Kachori Wala, also known as JB Kachori Wala, is a legendary street food vendor in Chandni Chowk, Delhi. Established in 1971, this iconic eatery has been delighting food enthusiasts for over three decades. Their specialty? Spicy urad dal ki kachori served with a mysterious and flavorful kachalu ki chatni. This combination sets them apart from other kachori sellers in Chandni Chowk and beyond. In fact, Hindustan Times awarded JB Kachori Wala the title of “Best Street Food of Delhi” in 2009.
Matar Kulcha
Matar Kulcha is a popular street food in Chandni Chowk , Delhi. Here are a few places where you can enjoy this delightful dish:
1. Kulcha Wala Outside Arts Faculty: This humble cart outside Arts Faculty in North Campus has been serving Matra Kulcha for over three decades. For just ₹25, you get two coriander-sprinkled, greased kulchas served with tangy green pea gravy. Don’t forget to try their homemade carrot or mango pickle
2. Nai Sadak, Chandni Chowk: While lesser-known, Nai Sadak in Chandni Chowk has numerous small stalls selling Matra Kulcha. For only ₹20, you’ll get two fluffy kulchas and a bowl of spicy white chickpea chaat. It’s a must-try street food option in Delhi.
3. Nukkadwala: Nukkadwala brings authentic street flavors from all over India. Although not as famous, their Matra Kulcha is worth a taste.
Parathe waali galli
Paranthe Wali Gali (literally “the bylane of flatbread”) is a narrow street in the Chandni Chowk area of Delhi, India. Established in 1650 during the reign of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, it’s renowned for its series of shops selling paratha, an Indian flatbread. This foodie’s paradise offers the best variety of paranthas, making it a must-visit spot for anyone craving authentic Indian flavors.
Ved parkash lemon
Pandit Ved Prakash Lemon Wale, a 150-year-old shop in Chandni Chowk, serves the best lemon soda (also known as Banta soda) in the area. Their Banta soda is so popular that they’ve even started manufacturing their own Lemon brand called ‘Casco’. Despite being located on the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk, they manage to serve chilled and tasty Masala Shikanji to hundreds of people every day. Their Masala Banta combines sweet and salty flavors and is priced at ₹25 per glass. You can find them at Chandni Chowk Rd, Katra Nagpuri, Katra Asharfi, Old Delhi, New Delhi, Delhi 110006, open from 11 am to 11 pm.
shree ram kanji corner
Shree Ram Kanji Corner is a must-visit spot in Chandni Chowk, Delhi. After strolling through the bustling lanes and indulging in shopping, you’ll likely feel tired. That’s when this place comes to the rescue! Their Kanji Vada, a refreshing minty and flavorful drink, will rejuvenate you. It’s the perfect energy booster for your Chandni Chowk journey. You can find Shree Ram Kanji Corner near Haldiram’s, at Kucha Mahajani, Chandni Chowk. A glass of Kanji Vada costs ₹40.
Daulat ki chaat
Daulat Ki Chaat, also known as the “snack of wealth,” is a delightful seasonal treat found in the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk, Delhi. Khemchand Daulat ki Chaat is a famous spot in Chandni Chowk where you can savor this delicacy. Address: Naughara Jain Temple Kinari Bazar Gali Paranthe wali, Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi, Delhi, 110006. The preparation is labor-intensive, and it can only be made during the cool weather (typically from October to March), as it would melt in the heat. Daulat Ki Chaat is a seasonal delight, so plan your visit during the winter months to experience its unique flavor.
CHaina Ram Sindhi Halwai
With regards to immortal dessert shops and a sweet heritage that traverses more than a long period, Chaina Ram Sindhi Confectioners remains a notable name in the core of Delhi. This loved foundation, frequently just known as “Chaina Ram,” has been fulfilling sweet desires beginning around 1901.
Chaina Ram’s story is an excursion through time, beginning in the clamouring paths of Chandni Chowk. What started as an unassuming sweet shop has developed into an incredible candy store, praised for its stunning customary desserts, nankeens, and bites. Their notable Karachi Halwa, Soan Papdi, and firm Aloo Bhujia have become inseparable from credible Sindhi flavours.
The enchantment of Chaina Ram lies in their steady obligation to quality and revered recipes. They gladly maintain the customs of their predecessors, guaranteeing that each nibble of their delicious manifestations is a nostalgic encounter. Whether you’re searching for happy joys or a sweet treat for your everyday desires, Chaina Ram has a variety of choices to look over.
SHOPPING
Let me guide you through its bustling lanes and highlight some must-visit areas:
Dariba Kalan: Known for its exquisite silver jewelry, Dariba Kalan is a treasure trove for those seeking traditional adornments.
Kinari Bazaar: If textiles and trims are on your list, Kinari Bazaar won’t disappoint. Explore its colorful fabrics and intricate embellishments.
Nai Sarak: Book lovers rejoice! Nai Sarak is a haven for literature enthusiasts, offering a wide range of books and educational materials.
Chawri Bazar: Need paper products or wedding cards? Chawri Bazar is your go-to spot.
Delhi is commonly considered one of India’s top dining destinations, with an increasing number of diverse restaurants joining the scenario. Of course, North Indian food culture is the most common. On the other hand, dishes from all around India and the world have become increasingly popular. Here is a selection of the top best restaurants in Delhi for all budgets and preferences.
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