Chandni Chowk is Asia’s oldest and busiest market that has been operating since the 17th century. The market was established by the then Emperor Shah Jahan. Today, the Chandni Chowk has become a nationwide tourist attraction for its wild marketing experience.
Narrow lanes, a vibrant atmosphere, and colourful shops for textiles, spices, electronics, and street food at Chandni Chowk, etc are what it offers you at the first site. However, the explorers go within the time and look for the cultural impact the market has created on the Indian soil.
The area comes under the top historical places in India. More notably, this market is surrounded by several historical landmarks such as Red Fort & Guru Ganj Sis Gurudwara. Tourists or locals- Chandni Chowk famous shops are heaven for all of you who want some vibrant colours in life.
History of Chandni Chowk:
The Chandni Chowk was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. The Chandni Chowk was originally designed as a square chowk with a pool at its centre. The water in the pool used to reflect the moonlit sky and therefore the Emperor gave the name Chandni Chowk.
In the 17th century, when the Mughal Era was at its peak, the Chandni Chowk was a grand hub for traders around the whole of Asia. However, traders used to come here from all around the world. From then on, it had turned out to be a fine attraction because of its grand bazaars, colourful roads, and opulent shops.
Chandni Chowk has seen Indian political & societal development. During the 1857 revolt against the British Colonial, Chandni chowk was heavily involved as well.
From the 17th century itself, the market started to accumulate a diverse range of trade. These Includes silk, food, clothing, jewellery, grains, sweets, and accessories. Also, the famous food in Chandni Chowk Delhi became global as well.
The historical Chandni Chowk has undergone revamp several times. This has impacted its architecture, businesses, culture, and language. While visiting here, you will witness a perfect mix of Persian, British, and Indian heritage.
The recent renovation was proposed by Indian government authorities to change Chandni Chowk famous food, overall vibe & architecture. The idea was to preserve its centuries-old culture and bring modernization.
What Not To Miss in Chandni Chowk Market?
(1) Kinari Bazaar:
Kinari Bazar is famous for its traditional treasure of Indian fabrics and trinkles. Anyone who loves the clothing and accessories section must visit this place for their intricate laces, borders, and adornments.
(2) Chor Bazaar:
Chor Bazar is the famous market for a range of antique and vintage items. The market is also a good choice for second-hand goods. Want a unique collection for your homestay? ‘Chor Bazaar’ is a fascinating place for you then.
(3) Fatehpuri Market:
The Fatehpur market is famous for its wholesale dry fruits, spices, and nuts. The aroma of slices all around with a range of dried fruits makes everyone fall in love with its culinary delight.
(4) Chawri Bazaar:
Chawri Bazaar is the centre of stationery supplies in Delhi. Paper, wedding cards, printing, and decorations are the USPs of this market.
(5) Khari Baoli:
Kahir Baoli is Asia’s largest spice market and is a heaven of colours & aromas. You will get an extensive range of spices, herbs, dry fruits, and nuts. Many of you may not have heard of it.
(6) Bhagirath Palace:
Bhagirath Palace is all about electrical and lighting. Anything related to electricity, you will find here easily. This market is a hub for your electronic and electrical needs, from home to the lab.
(7) Katra Neel:
Katra Neel is a market for clothing materials specialised in fabrics & textiles, this market is for people who seek quality and a diverse range of cloth materials.
(8) Ballimaran Market:
Ballimaran Market is your one-stop destination for footwear shops. If you’re a shoe lover, you can easily fall in love with the variety of shoes, sandals, and other footwear available here.
Places to visit near Chandni Chowk:
(1) Omaxe Chowk:
Omaxe Chowk is the new era of revolution in Chandni Chowk. Recently the Govt. of India and similar associations decided to give a renovation to the centuries-old market. The condition was to preserve the culture and traditions of Chandi Chowk.
The Omaxe Chowk is built as a mixture of British, Indian, and Mughal cultures. As the idea was to preserve the culture, Omaxe has created an exclusive impression as a result.
The Chandni Chowk Omaxe now has one of the biggest malls in India- Omaxe Mall. The structure reflects the rich culture of the Indian subcontinent as well as keeps its feet in a warm technological future with several attractive selfie points to enjoy.
Moreover, Omaxe Chowk has one of the biggest food courts in Delhi which offers worldwide cuisine as well as famous food in Chandni chowk Delhi. It is the best Mall in Delhi to visit.
(2) Red Fort:
The Red Fort is a structure made up of Red Sandstone. The structure belongs to the Mughal Period. Emperor Shah Jahan built it when he changed his capital city from Agra to Delhi in 1639.
Earlier, the Red Fort was the living home for the Mughal Royal family and government officials. Here the Mughal government used to have all legislative proceedings as well.
The soothing structure is now a UNESCO site and is now a museum to display the artefacts of Indian history. Most importantly, it still has a great influence on Indian polity as the Prime Minister of India unfurls the Indian flag on Independence Day each year.
(3) Jama Masjid:
The Jama Masjid is the largest Mosque in India which has a seating space for 25000 people. This Jama Masjid is also known as Masjid-I Jahan-Numa which means Mosque which commands a view of the world.
The Mosque was also built by Emperor Shah Jahan and he was personally involved in this matter. The story says that he made the main chamber of the Mosque higher than his throne to remember that God is above all.
The structure is spread across 1200 sq metres and has a 25000 people capacity. It has 3 gateways, 4 towers, and 2 forty-metre-high minarets. For note, the Jama Masjid is also made up of Red Sandstone and Marble.
5. Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib:
The famous Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib is the famous martyrdom site for the ninth Sikh guru Tegh Bahadur. Baghel Singh who was the military general of Punjab Cantonment built it in 1783. The ninth guru was killed and beheaded by the emperor Aurangzeb.
The site is devotional for the whole Sikh community. Notably the Sikh regiment of the Indian army salutes at Sis Ganj Sahib before the President.
6. Urdu Park:
Urdu Park is a green land dedicated to promoting Urdu literature and traditions. The park has beautiful landscapes, greenery, and a couple of beautiful sceneries to spend ample quality time here.
If you want a vacation from the hustle and honking of the city, Urdu Park will welcome you with lovely sunsets, poetic people, and heart-warming moments of life.
Best Time to Visit in Chandni Chowk:
- Go in the early morning to see a less-crowded Chandni Chowk to explore the beauty of this place.
- Evenings are when Chandni Chowk comes to life with its vibrant colours & illuminated shops.
How to Reach There?
- Come to the Chandni Chowk Metro Station.
- Take a city bus that will leave you there.
- Auto-rickshaws are also a good alternative for reaching there.
Tips for Visiting Chandni Chowk:
- Negotiation is a must-follow rule.
- Carry only the comfortable clothing.
- Explore the market on foot.
- Respect the local customs always.
- Don’t miss to try the local street food.
- Beware of scams and pickpockets.
- Visit the popular landmarks mentioned above.
Conclusion:
Exploring Chandni Chowk is an experience in life. The charm this place holds is rarely seen elsewhere. The Chowk has been operating since the 17th century and still is the biggest flourishing market of all time.
On exploring Chandni Chowk, remember to try the local street food and go to one of the biggest food court Delhi– Dawatpur, Omaxe Chowk. Besides the hustle, the market has some very beautiful places nearby where you can relax your soul for the next day.
