Preserving the antiquity of Delhi , Chandni Chowk may be a bustling neighbourhood that’s one among the oldest within the capital . A vibrant bazaar that’s buzzing with activity, Chandni Chowk may be a labyrinth of narrow alleyways that are full of small shops, either selling delicious servings of snacks, sweets and savouries or offering budgeted deals on a number of products, including clothes. This medieval shopping site is stocked almost everything under the sun, and you’ll get a fine selection of perfumes, jewellery, electronics, candles, lifestyle goods and idols of gods and goddesses. Moreover, it also plays host to at least one of the most important wholesale markets in Delhi, during which visitors can get huge discounts on several items.
Chandni Chowk is probably hottest for its food, which was relished by personalities like Nehru , Gandhi , Atal Behari Vajpayee, et al. . As you explore the culinary riches of the market, start with the Old Famous Jalebi Wala, near the metro station. Sample piping hot soft and syrupy jalebis as you soak in Delhi winters. Food lovers can head to the Paranthe Wali Gali for an immersive experience. A noodle-thin lane lined with shops selling fresh and hot paranthas (stuffed flatbread), it’s a must-visit. Next comes kachori-aloo (deep-fried pastry served with potato gravy) and dahi bhalla (deep-fried snack served with yoghurt). If you’re visiting in summers, a tall glass of spiced lemonade never goes amiss. A highlight of the food scene of Chandni Chowk is rabri faluda (a sweet thick milk dish served with vermicelli). Many of the shops here are quite 100 years old and preserve a taste of medieval Delhi that creates one fall crazy with the place.
Chandni Chowk was constructed by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan within the 17th century. Sprawled right opposite to the Red Fort, it provides a fine view of the Fatehpuri Mosque.
The name “Chandni Chowk”means moonlight place and therefore the market is named so as during the rule of Shah Jahan , the world had a tree-lined canal, which reflected the moon.