Discover Old Delhi Market and Cuisine With Our Guide ( 2026 )

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Discover Old Delhi Market and Cuisine With Our Guide ( 2026 )

Welcome to Old Delhi, famously known as Dilli 6, a lively maze of centuries-old bazaars, irresistible street food, Mughal-era architecture, and unmatched cultural charm. For travelers and shoppers, the Old Delhi market is a paradise—buzzing with history, colors, aromas, and an endless variety of products. From spices and jewellery to fabric, stationery, electronics, and souvenirs, Old Delhi markets offer something for everyone.

Whether you’re exploring hidden lanes for delicious food or hunting for the best deals on silver jewellery and traditional attire, this guide helps you navigate the best markets in Old Delhi with ease.

Overview: Old Delhi Market

At the heart of this historic area lies Chandni Chowk, one of India’s oldest and busiest marketplaces. Established during the Mughal era, Chandni Chowk continues to thrive as Delhi’s commercial backbone. Each lane here specializes in different products—making your shopping experience easier when you know where to go.

From wedding shopping in Chawri Bazaar to spice shopping in Khari Baoli, and from silver jewellery in Dariba Kalan to budget-friendly accessories in Ballimaran, the Old Delhi market showcases the true essence of India’s trading heritage.

Best Markets to Explore in Old Delhi (With What to Buy)

1. Bhagirath Palace, Chandni Chowk

Shop for: Lights & Lamps
One of Asia’s largest lighting markets, Bhagirath Palace is the ultimate destination for chandeliers, decorative lamps, fairy lights (starting at just ₹35), steampunk fixtures, and vintage lighting pieces. Ideal for interior designers, homeowners, and photographers.


2. Kinari Bazaar, Chandni Chowk

Shop for: Sequins, Zari Borders, Latkans & Costume Jewellery
A haven for fashion designers and brides-to-be, this vibrant market sells:

  • Embellishments

  • Decorative borders

  • Buttons

  • Potli bags

  • Affordable silver jewellery

Perfect for wedding trousseau and DIY clothing projects.


3. Chawri Bazaar, Chandni Chowk

Shop for: Wedding Invites & Brass/Copper Ware
Looking for classy wedding cards? Chawri Bazaar offers thousands of designs—from minimalist to heavy premium styles. You’ll also find antique brass and copperware, including lamps, trays, kettles, and home décor.

Hidden Gem: A vintage store selling old gramophones and quirky antiques.


4. Khari Baoli – Asia’s Biggest Spice Market

Shop for: Spices, Herbs, Dry Fruits & Aam Papad
This bustling lane fills the air with the aroma of cardamom, cinnamon, saffron, red chillies, nuts, tea, and herbs. It’s a must-visit food lover’s paradise and a great place to buy spices at wholesale rates.


5. Dariba Kalan

Shop for: Silver Jewellery
A 17th-century jewellery street known for high-quality silver, jadau, kundan, and handcrafted ornaments. Prices are 20–25% cheaper than most Delhi jewellery stores. Ideal for gifting and bridal shopping.


6. Chor Bazaar, Jama Masjid

Shop for: Shoes, Clothes, Sports Goods & Fashion Accessories
Open only on Sundays from 6 AM, Chor Bazaar is perfect for bargain hunters. You’ll find:

  • Branded shoes (Zara, Steve Madden, Clarks)

  • Jackets, jeans, t-shirts

  • Antique items

  • Sports goods

Everything at unbelievably low prices.


7. Ballimaran Market, Chandni Chowk

Shop for: Spectacle Frames & Sunglasses
Known for affordable optical products, this market sells frames in every style—from classic to funky. Great for bulk buyers and fashion enthusiasts.


8. Katra Neel, Chandni Chowk

Shop for: Fabrics & Readymade Garments
Previously famous for indigo cloth, Katra Neel now offers:

  • Cotton

  • Silk

  • Handloom

  • Linen suits (stitched for as low as ₹4,000!)
    A dream market for shoppers looking for variety at wholesale prices.


9. Kucha Choudhary Market

Shop for: Photography Gear & Accessories
Known as Delhi’s photo market, this place sells:

  • DSLR cameras

  • Vintage cameras

  • Lenses

  • Tripods

  • Memory cards

  • Kodak film

A must-visit for photographers and content creators.


10. Chatta Chowk (Meena Bazaar)

Shop for: Souvenirs
Located near the Red Fort, this Mughal-era covered bazaar sells:

  • Shawls

  • Handicrafts

  • Paintings

  • Jewellery

  • Diaries & souvenirs

Prices are on the higher side due to tourism, but the items are beautiful and unique.


11. Nai Sadak

Shop for: Books & Stationery
A paradise for students and book lovers. You’ll get:

  • Notebooks

  • Imported stationery

  • Second-hand books

  • Competitive discounts

  • Wrapping paper & craft supplies


12. Sadar Bazaar

Shop for: Household Goods & Party Supplies
One of Delhi’s largest wholesale markets selling:

  • Party props (neon cubes, masks, quirky decor)

  • Toys

  • Crockery

  • Artificial jewellery

  • Home products

A fun and chaotic place with everything you can imagine.


🍽 Where to Eat in Old Delhi – Best Food Spots

Exploring Old Delhi market is incomplete without tasting its legendary cuisine. Try:

  • Paranthe Wali Gali – Stuffed parathas

  • Karim’s Jama Masjid – Mughlai dishes

  • Jalebi Wala (Dariba Kalan) – Hot jalebis

  • Natraj Dahi Bhalle – Creamy chaat

  • Kuremal Kulfi – Stuffed kulfis

  • Lotan Chole Kulche – Delhi’s oldest spicy chole-kulche

Food here is a cultural journey in itself!


Why Visit Old Delhi Market?

  • Largest traditional shopping hub in Delhi

  • Wholesale rates for almost everything

  • Historic bazaars with Mughal charm

  • Endless street food options

  • Perfect for photography & cultural tours

  • Heaven for brides, designers & creators

Conclusion

Exploring the Old Delhi market is like stepping into a living museum—where every lane tells a story, every shop hides a secret, and every bite of food carries generations of tradition. Whether you’re a traveler, a foodie, or a shopping enthusiast, Old Delhi offers an unforgettable experience.

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I am Om. I am a Travel Consultant and a licensed Tourist Guide ( Approved by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India), I am living in Rishikesh. I set up this blog to share my tips and experiences for traveling to inspire and help you to travel Himalayas & Spiritual Places in India.

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