Chandni Chowk

12:34:11 pm

Delhi,Delhi

29°C / Clear

Situated in the old part of Delhi, Chandni Chowk is one of the oldest markets in the city which is a chaotic wholesale market lined by porters and hawkers exuding medieval bazaar vibes. Popular for offering every kind of goods as well as food, Chandni Chow is an important historical site. Located opposite the Red Fort, It was built by the Mughal ruler of India Shah Jahan back in the 17th century.

Offering a fell of old Delhi shopping, Chandni Chowk has a wide network of crisscrossed narrow streets with shops jostling for space. Ever since it came into existence, this place has been rightly called a “shoppers paradise” in Old Delhi. During its initial days, in the 17th century, a tree-lined canal used to run through its center, reflecting the moon. Hence, it was known as “Chandni Chowk” which means “Moonlight Place”. From clothes to perfumes, and from jewelry to idols of deities, Chandni Chowk has got it all.

This vibrant market deals in everything that shoppers might think of buying. As it is a wholesale market, shoppers can get huge discounts on everything they desire to purchase. Most of the retailers shop from here. Apart from shopping, Chandni Chowk is equally famous for its street food, eateries, and snacks. It has been rightly said, “Arre Janaam Dilli Aaye Aur Chandni Chowk Nahi Dekha to kya hi Dekha?”

Best Time To Visit Chandni Chowk

Chandni Chowk is located right in the heart of Delhi. The best time to visit Delhi is between the months of October and March because of the cool weather during this time period. Between February and March, the weather remains pleasant and the air clean. Visiting Delhi during summer should be avoided because of extreme temperatures. Monsoon season is also a good time to visit Chandni Chowk.

Hotels Near Chandni Chowk – Adotrip

History of Chandni Chowk

The eldest daughter of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and Empress Mumtaz Mahal, Jahanara Begum designed the bazaar of Chandni Chowk.

Initially, the bazaar was divided into four parts; Jhri Bazaar, Ashrafi Bazaar, Urdu Bazaar, and the Fatehpuri Bazaar. During the golden era of the Mughal Empire, the splendor of this market had spread all over the world. Merchants from Europe and Asia used to visit the market frequently.

The most enchanting aspect of this bazaar was the sparkling reflection of the moon in the tributary river of the Yamuna, which flowed through the center of Chandni Chowk. Wide platforms were installed by the canal where the residents loved to sit and converse for hours. Royals passing through the market was a common sight in those times.

Stretching from the Red Fort to Fatehpuri Masjid, 1500 shops of all kinds had initially opened up along the 1.3-kilometer-long road. All the shops were made in the shape of a half-moon.

Chandni Chowk Tour Packages – Adotrip

Major Attractions Near Chandni Chowk

Discover the soul of Chandni Chowk through these iconic landmarks

2–5 Minutes

Approximately 200 m

Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib

One of Sikhism's most revered shrines, this historic gurudwara commemorates the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur and welcomes visitors with its serene ambience and community kitchen.

5 Minutes

Approximately 700 m

Jama Masjid

One of India's largest mosques, Jama Masjid is an architectural masterpiece built by Shah Jahan, offering stunning city views from its towering minarets and a peaceful spiritual atmosphere.

5 Minutes

Approximately 500 m

Red Fort

A UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Emperor Shah Jahan, the Red Fort is one of India's most iconic Mughal monuments, featuring magnificent architecture, museums, and historic significance.

How to Reach Chandni Chowk

To reach Chandni Chowk, you'll need to cover significant distances from major cities. Here are the most convenient ways to travel to Chandni Chowk.

By Air

The nearest airport to Chandni Chowk is Indira Gandhi International Airport, which offers excellent domestic and international connectivity. From the airport, taxis, Airport Metro, and Delhi Metro provide easy access to Chandni Chowk.

Nearest Airport to Chandni Chowk: Indira Gandhi International Airport – Approximately 20 km

Second Nearest Airport: Hindon Airport, Ghaziabad – Approximately 30 km

Third Nearest Airport: Chandigarh International Airport – Approximately 255 km

By Train

Old Delhi Railway Station is located adjacent to Chandni Chowk, making it the most convenient railhead. New Delhi Railway Station and Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station also offer excellent connectivity.

Nearest Railway Station to Chandni Chowk: Old Delhi Railway Station – Approximately 1 km

Second Nearest Railway Station: New Delhi Railway Station – Approximately 3 km

Third Nearest Railway Station: Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station – Approximately 9 km

By Road

Chandni Chowk is well-connected through Delhi's extensive road network. DTC buses, taxis, auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws, and private vehicles provide convenient access from all parts of the city.

Connaught Place to Chandni Chowk: Approximately 4 km

India Gate to Chandni Chowk: Approximately 6 km

Red Fort to Chandni Chowk: Approximately 1 km

By Metro

Delhi Metro is one of the fastest ways to reach Chandni Chowk. Chandni Chowk Metro Station on the Yellow Line is the nearest station, while Lal Quila and Chawri Bazar stations are also within walking distance.

Nearest Metro Station to Chandni Chowk: Chandni Chowk Metro Station – Approximately 300 m

Second Nearest Metro Station: Lal Quila Metro Station – Approximately 500 m

Third Nearest Metro Station: Chawri Bazar Metro Station – Approximately 700 m