Nestled in the heart of Old Delhi, Chandni Chowk stands as one of India’s oldest and busiest markets, a testament to the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
This bustling marketplace, with its narrow winding lanes and countless vendors, offers a sensory overload — from the tantalizing aromas of street food to the vibrant colours of textiles and jewelry.
Whether you’re hunting for traditional Indian wear, unique souvenirs, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Chandni Chowk promises an unforgettable journey. Step into this lively bazaar and experience the true essence of Delhi, where history, culture, and commerce blend seamlessly.
In India most people shop traditionally, going physically to the market, making the Indian markets a tourist attraction. In this article, I am sharing my experience with one such market in Delhi.
This is a must-visit place for the shopaholics. It is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Old Delhi. Jahanara, daughter of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, designed Chandni Chowk in the 17th century.
During that time, the market featured canals that reflected the moonlight to enhance its beauty. Now, the canals are closed. It is also India’s largest wholesale market.
The original Chandni Chowk is a half-moon-shaped square. The straight road with shops on either side, currently known as Chandni Chowk Bazar was once a shallow water channel connected to the Yamuna.
Chandni Chowk is very famous for its silver merchants, which gave the name ‘Silver Street’ to Chandni Chowk. There was a pool in the center of Chandni Chowk. Later, they replaced the pool with a clock tower, known as ‘Ghantaghar’ in the local language.
Chandni Chowk covers the area from the Lahori gate of Red Fort to Fatehpuri Masjid.
I reached Chandni Chowk by metro. The first glimpse I had was of the typical Indian Market. People roamed from one shop to another and the shopkeepers were busy convincing their customers to buy stuff from their shop.
Chandni Chowk features three markets (bazaars): Urdu Bazar, Johri Bazar, and Fatehpuri Bazar.
Firstly, I visited the Urdu Bazar. Urdu Bazar covers the area from the Lahori Gate of the Mughal royal palace to Chowk Kotwali near Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib. This market is also called ‘the encampment market.’ After enjoying the atmosphere at Urdu Bazar, I reached Johri Bazar.
It covers Chowk Kotwali to Ghantaghar. ‘Johri’ is a person who makes ornaments. This market got its name as the majority of shops are in jewelry. Here at Johri Bazar, every jewelry shop has its display of ornaments where Johri has placed their best designs to attract customers.
I can feel the attractive smell of scent sticks coming from the shops. Moving further, I reached Fatehpuri Bazar. It lasts from Ghantaghar to Fatehpuri Masjid. This market is called so because it is near Fatehpuri Masjid.
After roaming in all three markets it’s time to eat something. Chandni Chowk has more than 1,000 varieties of sweets. The locals told me that there are lots of famous spots to try the local popular food such as ‘Parathe Wali Gali’, Gol Hatti, Natraj Dahi Bhalle, and Shiv Mishthan Bhandar.
It is also a hub of large varieties of books, clothing, electronics, consumer goods, shoes, and leather goods. I came to know that there are so many tourist places that are within walking distance from Chandni Chowk such as Jama Masjid, Fatehpuri Masjid, Bhagirath Palace (the biggest market for electrical goods in India), and many more.
Another market I visited was Dariba Kalan. It is famous for its silver and gold jewelry. This market also offers trophies, medals, shields, mementos, and related stuff. In the south of this market lies Bazaar Guliyan.
Bazaar Guliyan is a hub of metallic and wooden statues, sculptures, bells, and handicrafts.
