Old Delhi, India

Discovering the Charm of Old Delhi, India

Old Delhi, also known as Shahjahanabad, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and cuisine. This ancient city is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to India. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the best places to visit, eat, stay, and activities to do in Old Delhi.

Where to Visit

1. Red Fort (Lal Qila)

The majestic Red Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Mughal architecture. This stunning fort was built by Shah Jahan in 1648 and took around 10 years to complete.

2. Jama Masjid

One of the largest mosques in India, Jama Masjid is another iconic landmark in Old Delhi. Its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it a must-visit.

3. Chandni Chowk

This bustling street is a shopper’s paradise. From traditional clothes to jewelry, souvenirs, and street food, you’ll find everything here.

4. Qutub Minar

Located in the heart of Old Delhi, Qutub Minar is a 73-meter-tall minaret built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak in 1192.

Where to Eat

1. Karim’s

This legendary restaurant has been serving mouth-watering Mughlai cuisine since 1913. Try their famous seekh kebabs and butter chicken.

2. Al Jawahar

For a taste of traditional Old Delhi street food, head to Al Jawahar. Their falooda and shahi tukda are not to be missed.

3. Natraj Dahi Bhalla

This small eatery has been serving delicious dahi bhallas (curd dumplings) for over 70 years.

Where to Stay

1. Moustache Hostel

This budget-friendly hostel is located in the heart of Old Delhi and offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop cafe, and a lively atmosphere.

2. Hotel Broadway

For a more luxurious experience, stay at Hotel Broadway, which offers spacious rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.

Activities and Tips

1. Take a Rickshaw Ride

Explore the narrow streets of Old Delhi on a rickshaw ride. It’s an exhilarating way to see the city.

2. Visit the Spice Market (Khari Baoli)

Get ready for a sensory overload at this bustling spice market, where you can buy everything from spices to herbs and teas.

3. Attend the Sufi Qawwali Night

Experience the mystical music of Sufism at the Sufi Qawwali night held every Thursday at Nizamuddin Dargah.

4. Be Prepared for Crowds

Old Delhi is a crowded place, so be prepared to push and shove (politely, of course!) to get through the streets.

5. Respect Local Customs

Remember to dress modestly, remove your shoes when entering mosques or temples, and respect the local way of life.

Other Things of Interest

1. Street Performers

Keep an eye out for street performers like magicians, musicians, and dancers who add to the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

2. Local Markets

Explore the various markets in Old Delhi, such as Chawri Bazaar (shoes), Dariba Kalan (jewelry), and Kinari Bazaar (zari work).

3. Historical Havelis

Old Delhi is home to many beautiful historical havelis (mansions) that showcase the city’s rich architectural heritage.

Conclusion

Old Delhi is a city that will leave you enchanted, exhausted, and eager to return. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering cuisine, it’s a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the magic of Old Delhi!