18 Amazing Things You Can Not Afford To Miss During Your Next Trip To The Gem Of The City- Old Delhi

When someone mentions Delhi, the first image that pops up is of our beloved Purani Dilli, with its packed lanes, the majestic Jama Masjid, and the Red Fort standing proud, not to mention the aroma of the appetising food. Old Delhi is a whole other world to explore from the posh, sophisticated city lifestyle we've been living. It’s desi, it’s enriching and it’s got the best food spots basically It's a total VIBE! It's Dilli at its finest. So if you want to see and fall in love with the other side of the city, we've got you covered with this list of unmissable things to do while you're here.

1. Explore The Modern Vibes Of Omaxe Chowk 

This place is lit AF! Omaxe Chowk is your one-stop destination for all things extra. Imagine an urban hub where history and modern vibes collide. From street food to international cuisines, Omaxe Chowk is where your foodie dreams come true. Whether you’re in the mood for some retail therapy or have a wedding shopping checklist to complete, this place has got it all. Plus, the vibe here is amazeballs, making it the ultimate hangout spot in Old Delhi. You'll be coming back for more, guaranteed!  

2. Dive Into Delhi’s Most Flavorful Market Adventure!

Picture Credits: Daniyal Ahmed

Khari Baoli is a sensory overload in the best way possible! This spice market is filled with mood-lifting aromas that will have you shook by the sheer variety of spices, dried fruits, and herbs. It's a spice lover’s paradise, offering everything from exotic flavours to aromatic delights. Whether you're a foodie or just want to experience the lit essence of Old Delhi, Khari Baoli is where you'll find spices that will make your day flavourful.

3. Discover Delhi’s Oldest Church 

Picture Credits: utkarsh516

St James Church is the oldest church in Delhi, offering those peaceful vibes and a serene escape from the city’s hustle. With its stunning, historical architecture, this church feels like stepping into a vintage movie scene. The peaceful ambiance and classic design will make you feel like you’re drifting back in time. Perfect for some quiet time with yourself. This historic gem invites you to relax and soak in its timeless beauty. If you’re a history buff or just seeking some quiet, St James Church is a must-visit for a touch of old-world charm and serene reflection.

4. Pay Tribute At The Serene Memorial Of Mahatma Gandhi

Picture Credits: Shikha Rawat

Raj Ghat is a peaceful homage to Mahatma Gandhi, India’s Father of the Nation. It is a deeply serene place, it marks the spot where Gandhi was cremated in 1948. Surrounded by lush gardens and simple, elegant design, it offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle. The simplicity of the black marble platform, inscribed with Gandhi’s name, invites you to pause, reflect, and appreciate his profound impact. 

5. Kathika Cultural Centre  

Lit performances, beautiful cultural displays, and immaculate vibes – that's Kathika Cultural Centre for you! This place is a fave for anyone looking to dive deep into the artistic side of Delhi. From traditional dances to modern art exhibitions, every visit here is an eye-openeing experiencce. It's like stepping into the vibrant culture of Dilli! If you’re into arts and culture, or just want to experience something extra, Kathika is where you need to be. 

6. Step Into the Chaotic Charm of Chawri Bazaar 

Picture Credits: faaron18

Chawri Bazaar is famous for its vibrant energy and cray-cray chaos! This bustling market is a sensory overload of colours, sounds, and so (cannot stress this enough) delicious food. From glittering jewellery to intricate textiles, it’s a treasure trove of extra finds. If bargaining is your jam, then this bazaar is your paradise. Whether you’re hunting for unique souvenirs or just soaking in the lively atmosphere, Chawri Bazaar offers a shopping experience that’s both mood-boosting and unforgettable. 

7. Go Door Hunting at Naughara Gali

Picture Credits: Rinku Roy Choudhury

Naughara Gali in Chandni Chowk is an alluring and hushed alley with 9 houses whose intricate doors are the main attraction. It’s charming, quaint, and totes authentic! This narrow alley is packed with colourful havelis and aesthetic architecture that’ll give you major main character vibes. It’l be like walking through a Sanjay Leela Bhansali set! The old-world charm here is perfect for those Insta shots that scream “vintage chic.” Naughara Gali is your ticket to a bygone era of Delhi. Don’t miss out!

8. Dive Into History At The Partition Museum 

Picture Credits: Anshul Saini

The Partition Museum offers a profound exploration of one of India’s most significant historical events. Delve into the powerful stories and artefacts that vividly depict the impact of the partition of India. Each exhibit presents a moving narrative, providing insight into the personal and collective experiences of those affected. This museum is an essential visit for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of this era. It’s a space for thoughtful reflection and deeper understanding, offering a poignant connection to the past. Ideal for those seeking an impactful and educational experience, the Partition Museum is a journey into history that will leave a lasting impression.

9. Daryaganj Sunday Book Market

Picture Credits: ankit kadam

Daryaganj Sunday Book Market aka Mahila Haat is where bookworms get their fix and slay their reading lists! Every Sunday, this market transforms into a crazy paradise of old and new books. From rare finds to popular titles, you’ll be shocked by the variety, dirt cheap prices and extra deals. It’s like stepping into a vintage bookstore from a Bollywood movie, with every stall offers a new adventure. Whether you’re a casual reader or a hardcore bibliophile, Daryaganj’s market is a must-visit for those looking to expand their literary horizons. Totes worth the visit for some bookish bliss!

10.Devour The Famous Street Food Of Saddi Old Dilli 

Purani Dilli is a paradise for all the food lovers out there just because the list of the soul-satisfying food that it has for you to gobble would go on and on. Every lane in the Chandni Chowk is packed with golgappas to the chaat to chole bhature to sweets that no matter how much you try your heart won't be able to resist. The chaat bhandar, Mughlai delicacies, the hot chole kulche stalls and *drum rolls* DAULAT KI CHAAT. We are already drooling over the names. A street food trail is a must when you come here to satisfy your cravings.  

11. Take The Haveli Tours 

These Havelis, or large palaces, dot the alleyways of Old Delhi, evoking the grandeur of the past era. Even though the majority of them are in poor condition, they serve as a reminder of our great past. If you are more of a history buff, you may schedule guided heritage tours around these Havelis or a royal stay at Haveli Dharampura to experience the Mughal lifestyle. Don't miss Ghalib Ki Haveli, which is not just a haveli but also houses the treasures of the Urdu poet Ghalib.

12. Relish The Scrumptious Kebabs 

Picture Credits: Mehul Bhai

You won't find superior authentic kebabs or other mouth-watering non-vegetarian food at any place other than Purani Dill’s Jama Masjid or Chandni Chowk. The tempting aroma of Mughlai delicacies pervades Matia Mahal, a street within the walled city. There's Karim's, Qureshi Kabab Corner, Al Jawahar, Lalu Kebabee and other renowned eateries serving the best flavours from the darbar of the Badshahs. It's not too late to take your foodie buddies over for a kebab night or a Dawaat here! 

13. Bathe In The Serenity By Taking A Walk Through Religious Spots 

Picture Credits: Ranjeet chauhan

Purani Dilli is unique in that it is always filled with culture and heritage. Nowhere else could one envision temples, mosques, churches, and gurudwara existing in such close proximity. As you walk through the Red fort, there is Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir, adjacent to it is Gauri Shankar Temple, an eight hundred-year-old structure. Continuing down the lane, there is Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, Saint Baptist Church opposite it, and at the end lies the Fatehpuri Mosque. There is Jama Masjid too! So near, so secular, so diverse, and yet so sacred. The langar at Gurudwara, the picturesque view from Jama Masjid, and a peaceful visit to the Jain temple are all must-visit places. Folks! Just go for the spiritual escape you need.

14. Go On A Shopping Spree Through Chandni Chowk

Picture Credits: yarrowart

Dilliwalas are always in for budget shopping and Chandni Chowk is just the right place for them especially if it's about wedding shopping. You will find everything from jewellery to dress material at affordable rates, but what is super famous here is the DESIGNER LEHENGAS at very affordable prices. One must explore other markets like Khari Baoli, Dariba Kalan, Cycle Market or even the Chor Bazaar. A little daunting but this shopping spree is worth taking!

15. Visit The Red Fort

Picture Credits: Avinash Wadhawan

If you haven't already, you should pay a visit to this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site that bears witness to our country's history. The Red Fort erected by Mughal emperor Shahjahan is not just an architectural marvel, but it also has emotional and national importance because it is only from here that the Prime Minister hoists the National Flag. Five new museums on Subhash Chandra Bose, Jallianwala Bagh, the 1857 uprising, unsung Indian liberation soldiers, and Indian art were opened in the complex recently. So when are you planning your history-filled trip to the Red Fort?

16. Savour The Paranthas From Paranthe Wali Gali

Picture Credits: abhigyanshekhar

This one is a no-brainer. Isn't it true that Old Delhi and Paranthe wali Gali are synonymous? 
Here you will find several of the finest, generations-old parantha shops. They have not just the quintessential paranthas, but also a large variety of unthinkable combos including Kela Parantha, Gajar Parantha, Papad Parantha, Meva Parantha, and Rabri Parantha, which are served with Makhan, tamarind chutney, or curry. So let's go on a paratha binge with some lassi on the side. Doesn’t that sound like pure bliss?

17. Grab Your Cameras & Get Clicking The Busy Streets 

Picture Credits: smilee_boy100

All the in-house photographers should use their cameras to capture the chaos of everyday life at Purani Delhi. Since there is so much going on all around you, there is a LOT to click. Streets with intertwined overhead wires, crammed stores, ancient jharokhas, historical marvels, or new restoration - everything is seen through the lens, allowing you to get the greatest shots. In the backdrop, the Jama Masjid also provides a magnificent sight. So, when are you going to get your hands on your own Delhi 6 vibes through your cameras?

18. Gaze At The Sunset From The Rooftop At Khari Baoli

Picture Credits: jacob

Khari Baoli boasts roofs that provide a beautiful sunset and sunrise view amidst the chaos and fragrance of Asia's largest spice bazaar. The stunning photos from here have already created a buzz, but for now, let's just sit and enjoy the serene and solid sunset. Gaze at the world from here, hustle and bustle from a rooftop while the spices ‘spice up’ your mood. Obviously, don’t forget to take some pictures of the view for your feed.

So all the Dilliwalas out there if you haven't done all this in Purani Dilli, are you even a proper Dilliwala! Just tick off this list now.