Old Delhi, India

Old Delhi, historically known as Shahjahanabad, is a vibrant heartland of culture, architecture, and living history founded by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1639.

Dominated by majestic monuments like the Red Fort and the iconic Jama Masjid, this centuries-old walled city offers an intensely sensory journey through narrow, bustling alleyways that have retained their traditional character for generations. The area remains a profound reflection of Delhi's rich heritage, where grand historical landmarks stand side-by-side with lively residential neighborhoods and bustling markets that showcase the city's unique, enduring soul.

Surrounding the magnificent Jama Masjid is a labyrinth of legendary commercial streets and bazaars, each famed for its distinct trade and vibrant atmosphere. Streets such as Meena Bazaar offer traditional handicrafts, apparel, and Islamic art, while nearby Chandni Chowk and Dariba Kalan showcase centuries-old traditions of intricate silver jewelry, perfume, and textiles. Food enthusiasts flock to the renowned Matia Mahal street, directly opposite the mosque's main gate, which comes alive with the irresistible aromas of historic Mughlai cuisine, kebabs, and authentic sweets. Together, these dynamic markets create an unforgettable commercial hub where ancient traditions and daily trade seamlessly intertwine.

Jama Masjid Road

Sikh men wearing characteristic blue robes (bana), turbans (dastar), and orange sashes

Women dancing in the street to the sound of a drum

North side of the mosque

Balaji Temple The Shri Venkateshwara Balaji Mandir in RK Puram serves as a primary destination for devotees of Lord Venkateshwara in New Delhi, bringing the sacred traditions of Tirupati to the capital region. Renowned for its authentic South Indian Dravidian architecture and serene atmosphere, this shrine offers a tranquil sanctuary away from the city's frantic pace. Though located in South Delhi rather than the historic enclave of Old Delhi, it stands as an essential spiritual hub where traditional rituals, intricate stone carvings, and daily prayers maintain a profound connection to Southern Indian Hindu heritage. In contrast, Old Delhi houses its own distinct religious landmarks and local shrines dedicated to Lord Balaji (a form of Vishnu or Hanuman, depending on the specific neighborhood mandir) tucked within its historic, centuries-old alleys like Chandni Chowk. While the RK Puram Balaji Temple presents a sprawling, classical temple complex experience, Old Delhi’s Balaji shrines reflect the intimate, living history of Shahjahanabad, integrated directly into the daily trade and vibrant neighborhood life of the old city. Together, both settings demonstrate how deep-seated devotion to Lord Balaji flourishes across different architectural styles and urban landscapes throughout the National Capital Region.

Street vendor deep-frying kachoris The photo shows a street vendor deep-frying kachoris, a popular spicy stuffed Indian snack, in a large wok-like pan (kadhai) on the roadside.

Dariba Kalan Road

Dariba Kalan Road Dariba Kalan Road, nestled in the historic district of Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi, is one of Asia’s oldest and most celebrated treasure troves for fine jewelry. Originating in the 17th century during the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, its Persian name translates roughly to "unripe pearl," reflecting its centuries-old legacy as a premier market for precious gems, silver, and gold. Connecting the main artery of Chandni Chowk to the majestic Jama Masjid, this narrow, bustling lane preserves a distinct Mughal-era charm through its vintage shopfronts, ornate wooden doors, and vibrant, sensory atmosphere. Today, Dariba Kalan is world-renowned primarily as a sprawling wholesale and retail hub for exquisite handcrafted silver ornamentations, traditional bridal sets, and detailed Kundan or Meenakari jewelry. Beyond silver trinkets, antique utensils, and gemstones, the street is also famous for housing generational shops selling ittar—authentic, non-alcoholic botanical perfumes steeped in ancient traditions. Walking down Dariba Kalan offers visitors an immersive journey into India’s rich artisanal heritage, where age-old craftsmanship and bustling local commerce continuously thrive side by side.

Trophy House The photo shows a small shop specializing in the sale and display of sports trophies, awards, and commemorative mementos.

Street vendor displaying and selling a variety of casual apparel and undergarments The photo shows a street vendor displaying and selling a variety of casual apparel and undergarments, such as tank tops, t-shirts, shorts, and folded clothing laid out on a sheet on the pavement in front of closed storefront metal shutters.

Street market scene The photo shows a bustling narrow street market scene in Dariba Kalan, a historic wholesale and retail market area in Old Delhi, featuring shops like Sindhi Hira Jewellers and Sri Mahadev Enterprises.

Crowded, narrow street scene The photos shows a crowded, narrow street scene in Dariba Kalan, Chandni Chowk, Delhi, featuring old buildings, dense overhead power lines, bicycle rickshaws, pedestrians, and storefronts such as B.M. Jewellery.

Traditional Indian chaat and snacks The photo shows a bustling street food stall serving traditional Indian chaat and snacks. These counters typically serve local specialties like aloo chaat, dahi bhalla papdi, golgappe (pani puri), kalmi vada, and pakodi bharke golgappe.

Vendor selling a colorful assortment of plastic household and kitchenware The photo shows an outdoor market street scene with a vendor selling a colorful assortment of plastic household and kitchenware—such as basins, bowls, baskets, buckets, and scoops—laid out on the ground.

Crowded store specialized in artificial and traditional bridal jewelry Padmawati Jewellers is a wholesale and retail store specializing in artificial and traditional bridal jewelry.

Mobile street cart loaded with fresh citrus fruits The photo shows a mobile street cart (thela) loaded with fresh citrus fruits (such as oranges or mausami) and a manual hand-press juice extractor.

Shop displaying various silver-plated and metal-crafted religious idols The photo shows a small retail shop displaying various silver-plated and metal-crafted religious idols, framed deity pictures, and gift items.

Stall displaying a large variety of accessories The photo shows a bustling outdoor street market stall displaying a large variety of accessories, including hair bows, hair clips, headbands, and decorative trinkets.

Street food vendor's cart The photo shows a street food vendor's cart, featuring piles of crispy fried snacks like pani puri, papdi, and fryums along with a deep-frying pan.

Street vendor selling a large assortment of colorful sewing threads The photo shows a street vendor sitting on the ground and selling a large assortment of colorful sewing threads, spools, and related tailoring or haberdashery supplies.

Outdoor textile and saree market The photo shows a vibrant outdoor textile and saree market, featuring colorful traditional sarees and fabrics displayed on racks and pavement stalls.

Stall filled with imitation gold and artificial jewelry The photo shows a bustling street market stall filled with imitation gold and artificial jewelry.

Stall selling traditional Indian snacks The photo shows a street food stall operated by Balaji Kachori Bhandar (BKB), famous for selling traditional Indian snacks like kachoris and puris.

Street food vendor preparing golgappa The photo shows an Indian street food vendor preparing golgappa (also known as pani puri, puchka, or gupchup), a popular crisp-fried hollow flatbread snack filled with potatoes, chickpeas, and flavored water.

Chandni Chowk Road

Chandni Chowk Road Chandni Chowk Road is the quintessential historic artery of Old Delhi, originally designed in 1650 by Princess Jahanara, the daughter of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Meaning "Moonlight Square," it was famously planned around a grand grand canal that reflected the moonlight, dividing the bustling market into vibrant merchant zones. Today, it remains one of India’s busiest, most famous commercial thoroughfares, stretching from the iconic Red Fort through a dense, labyrinthine network of specialized bazaars that have preserved their historic trade lineages for centuries. Strolling along Chandni Chowk Road offers a captivating, sensory dive into India’s rich cultural and economic heritage, where wholesale markets for spices, textiles, electronics, and street food operate side by side. Following a major revitalization project in recent years, key sections of the road have been transformed into a pedestrian-friendly promenade that highlights its historic architecture and prominent multi-religious places of worship, including historic gurdwaras, temples, and mosques. From sampling legendary street food at Paranthe Wali Gali to admiring the vibrant street commerce, Chandni Chowk Road stands as an enduring symbol of Delhi’s living history and vibrant urban soul.

Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib, situated in the heart of Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi, is one of the most revered and historically significant Sikh shrines in India. It marks the exact site where the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, was publicly executed on November 11, 1675, under the orders of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Guru Tegh Bahadur stood steadfastly against forced religious conversions to defend the freedom of conscience and faith for all communities, earning him a immortalized place in history as a champion of human rights. First established as a small shrine in 1783 by the Sikh military leader Baghel Singh, the site preserves precious historical relics, including the well from which the Guru used to bathe and the trunk of the banyan tree beneath which his execution took place. Architecturally striking with its gleaming golden domes and elegant white marble, the complex stands as a sanctuary of peace amidst the intense energy of Old Delhi. Inside the main prayer hall, continuous recitations of sacred scriptures and devotional music create a deeply spiritual ambiance for pilgrims of all backgrounds. In keeping with the core Sikh principles of selfless service and universal equality, the Gurdwara operates a legendary langar—a free community kitchen—that serves hot, wholesome meals to thousands of visitors daily, regardless of their faith, caste, or social standing.

Stall with piles of packaged and loose socks The photo shows shoppers browsing through an outdoor street market stall displaying stacks of socks and apparel on a sidewalk.

Heavily embroidered bridal lehenga The photo shows an ornate, heavily embroidered bridal lehenga (traditional South Asian wedding skirt and outfit) in deep red and maroon, featuring intricate zari work, beadwork, and traditional motifs.

Shoe and footwear stall This photo shows a bustling shoe and footwear stall crowded with shoppers.

Indian bridal lehenga and groom sherwani wedding set The photo shows an Indian bridal lehenga and groom sherwani wedding set displayed on mannequins in a storefront window.

Pink and rani-colored bridal lehenga set The photo displays an ornate pink and rani-colored bridal lehenga set alongside a vibrant orange-red bridal ensemble on display inside an Indian ethnic wear boutique.

Red and pink bridal lehenga The photo shows an ornate, traditional red and pink bridal lehenga (an Indian festive and wedding skirt set) with intricate handwork, embroidery, and a matching embellished dupatta.

Mahavira Bhavan Mahavira Bhavan, also known as Mahavir Bhawan or Baradari, is an ornate historic landmark situated along the main thoroughfare of Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi. Built in 1910 by Late Shri Gokul Chand Nahar, this magnificent structure serves as one of Delhi's oldest Sthanaks (prayer halls and centers) for Swetambar Jains. Featuring grand white marble staircases leading to its principal assembly spaces, the building boasts a distinctive architectural facade with delicate arched openings and intricate balconies, showcasing the rich, hybrid architectural heritage that flourished in early 20th-century Shahjahanabad. Beyond its striking visual aesthetic, Mahavira Bhavan functions as a vital cultural, educational, and spiritual sanctuary managed by the Shri S. S. Jain Bhawan Trust. The complex encompasses a spacious rest house (Dharamshala), community schools, and a renowned library that houses rare religious texts and handwritten manuscripts. Serving as a frequent venue for prayer assemblies hosted by visiting Jain monks (Munis), it stands as a testament to the enduring presence and philanthropic legacy of Old Delhi's historic Jain community.

Preparing and selling fresh, sliced pineapples The photo shows an Indian street vendor preparing and selling fresh, sliced pineapples from a red-topped cart.

Street food vendor selling fresh corn The photo shows a street food vendor selling fresh corn on the cob on a busy outdoor market stall, featuring stacks of yellow corn cobs and cooking equipment.

Street vendor preparing traditional Indian kulfi The photo shows a street vendor preparing traditional Indian kulfi (a frozen dairy dessert) using a metal-and-ice cooling cart.

Traditional jaljeera or shikanji drink cart The photo shows a street vendor operating a traditional jaljeera or shikanji drink cart. Jaljeera is a popular traditional Indian spiced cumin and mint/coriander beverage, or shikanji (spiced lemonade), commonly sold from portable carts to beat the heat. The large earthenware pot (matka) is often wrapped or adorned with fresh green leaves (such as mint) to keep the contents cool, accompanied by mixing containers and spices.

Street food vendor selling sweet potatoes and star fruit The photo shows a street food vendor selling sweet potatoes (shakarkandi) and star fruit (kamrakh or amrak) from a round cart.

Street vendor with fresh, sliced brown coconuts A street vendor carries a large metal tray filled with fresh, sliced brown coconuts.

Woman trying on a bridal lehenga The photo shows a woman trying on an ornate, champagne-colored or nude-gold bridal lehenga (a traditional South Asian skirt, choli blouse, and dupatta set) inside a crowded clothing or bridal boutique, while a tailor or assistant helps adjust the hem on the floor.

Street food vendor selling freshly cut sliced pineapples The photo shows a street food vendor selling freshly cut sliced pineapples displayed on a red table.

Street vendor selling boiled and roasted corn The photo shows a street vendor selling boiled and roasted corn on the cob (known locally as bhutta) from a pushcart.

Street vendor selling popcorn and roasted peanuts The photo shows a bustling street market scene featuring a street vendor selling loose snacks like popcorn and roasted peanuts from large bags and display bins.

Street vendors selling mobile phones and accessories The photo shows street vendors selling mobile phones and accessories at a makeshift table.

Public orientation and street map of the historic Chandni Chowk market The photo shows a public orientation and street map of the historic Chandni Chowk market in Old Delhi, India, installed by the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation (SRDC).

Street food vendor selling roasted peanuts, popcorn, and puffed rice The photo shows a street food vendor selling roasted peanuts, popcorn, and puffed rice (muri / phula), often enjoyed as a classic roadside snack known locally as "timepass" food.

Street vendor selling fresh water chestnuts The photo shows a street vendor selling fresh water chestnuts (Trapa natans), commonly known as singhara or paniphal in India.

Street vendor selling Indian bangles and bracelets The photo shows a vibrant street market stall piled high with traditional sets of colorful and ornate Indian bangles and bracelets.

Street vendor selling crispy, hollow fried spheres known as panipuri The photo shows a large stack of crispy, hollow fried spheres known as panipuri (also called golgappa or phuchka), a popular South Asian street food.

Fresh lemon or citrus/mausami juice cart The photo shows a mobile street vendor cart (such as a fresh lemon or citrus/mausami juice cart) stacked with green citrus fruits and drink coolers.

Stand showcasing artificial necklaces and bridal jewelry sets The photo displays an outdoor display stand showcasing traditional South Asian artificial necklaces and bridal jewelry sets.

Children's party dresses, tutus, and ruffed frocks The photo displays a vibrant assortment of colorful children's party dresses, tutus, and ruffed frocks displayed at an outdoor or market-style stall.

Stall with traditional bangles and accessories The photo shows an outdoor street market scene where shoppers browse and inspect traditional bangles and accessories at a red-covered table stall.

Dr. H.C. Sen Marg Road Dr. H.C. Sen Marg is a prominent historical street in Old Delhi that serves as a vital connecting corridor between the Chandni Chowk main road and the busy Old Delhi Railway Station (Delhi Junction). Named in honor of Dr. Hem Chandra Sen—a pioneer who established one of the first allopathic medical practices in Shahjahanabad near Fountain Chowk—the road carries deep historical significance reflecting the early modern transformation of the old city. Historically, this area was associated with notable estates like that of Begum Samru, and today it acts as a dynamic link through which commuters, merchants, and travelers seamlessly transition between Old Delhi's historic core and the bustling transit hub of the railway station. Beyond its transport utility, Dr. H.C. Sen Marg is embedded within the vibrant commercial and cultural fabric of the walled city. Lined with a mix of traditional market stalls, budget accommodations, eateries, and commercial offices, the street displays the characteristic energy, sights, and sounds of Old Delhi. It also sits in close proximity to major cultural landmarks, including the historic Hardayal Municipal Heritage Public Library and Chandni Chowk's main bazaars. As a bridge between 19th-century colonial infrastructure development and ancient neighborhood markets, Dr. H.C. Sen Marg stands as an enduring emblem of daily life and transit in Old Delhi.

Street food stall serving Nagori Chai, faluda, bun maska, and kulfi This photo shows a traditional street food stall, famous for serving items like Nagori Chai, faluda, bun maska, and kulfi.

Colorful traditional Indian clothing and garments hanging from stalls The photo shows a bustling outdoor street market filled with colorful traditional Indian clothing and garments hanging from stalls.

Street food vendor selling sweet potatoes and starfruit The photo shows a street food vendor's basket containing sweet potatoes (shakarkandi) and starfruit (kamrak), which are a popular combination sold by street vendors in India.

Ivory-colored and red men's Sherwani set The photo shows an ivory-colored and red men's Sherwani set, a traditional South Asian wedding outfit for a groom.

Street vendor selling laminated religious picture prints and posters The photo shows a street vendor selling laminated religious picture prints and posters of Hindu deities.

Street vendor's display of packaged mobile phone accessories The photo shows a street vendor's display of packaged mobile phone accessories, cases, or screen protectors laid out on the pavement.

Street cobbler The photo shows a street cobbler (or mochi) sitting on the ground and repairing footwear with various tools and polish cans around him.

Street food vendor cooking and serving flatbreads The photo shows a street food vendor cooking and serving flatbreads (chapatis or parathas) from a portable metal cart.

Traditional dry fruit, spice, and snack shop This photo shows a traditional dry fruit, spice, and snack shop.

Eastern entrance gate of the historic Fatehpuri Masjid The photo shows the eastern entrance gate of the historic Fatehpuri Masjid and surrounding dry fruit and sweet shops along the edge of Chandni Chowk and Khari Baoli in Old Delhi.

Roadside currency exchange and cash-handling stall The photo shows a roadside currency exchange and cash-handling stall displaying various denominations of Indian Rupee (INR) banknotes and coins.

Street food vendor serving lassi and kachoris This photo shows a street food vendor serving traditional Indian treats like lassi and kachoris.

Street food stall serving traditional sweet treats and beverages The photo shows a street food stall serving traditional sweet treats and beverages like rabdi lassi or kheer served in clay cups (kulhars) resting on a bed of ice.

Dry fruit, nut, and spice shops The photos shows bustling dry fruit, nut, and spice shops.

Buying spices at one of the shops

Vendors selling second-hand or wholesale clothing The photo shows a busy open-air street market, featuring vendors selling second-hand or wholesale clothing piled on tables and carts, with shoppers, auto-rickshaws, and motorcycles passing through narrow commercial lanes.

People browsing and buying small potted plants from a street vendor The photo shows people browsing and buying small potted plants from a street vendor.

Street vendor selling stainless steel pots, pans, and kitchen utensils The photo shows a street vendor selling stainless steel pots, pans, and kitchen utensils.

Street vendor fluffing raw cotton The photo shows a street vendor fluffing raw cotton to make traditional items like quilts (razai) or mattresses.

Storefront of an optical shop The photo shows the storefront of an optical shop named Surendra Opticals in Chandni Chowk, Delhi, offering computerized eye testing, spectacles, sunglasses, and contact lenses.

Rickshaw Ride

Rickshaw ride from the western end of Chandni Chowk to Jama Masjid

Surroundings of the Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid

Street vendor with various glass perfume bottles The photo shows a traditional street vendor sitting behind a small wooden display box filled with various glass perfume bottles (ittar/attar).

Street food vendor selling Shahi Sheermal The photo shows a street food vendor selling Shahi Sheermal—a traditional sweet flatbread made with saffron and rich ingredients—at a stall named Mohd. Farhan Meerut Walo Ka Shahi Sheermal located near Jama Masjid in Old Delhi.

Street food stall preparing and selling kebabs and tikkis The photo shows a bustling street food stall preparing and selling fried and grilled snacks like kebabs and tikkis.

Vendors selling a large variety of dates, nuts, and dry fruits The photo shows an outdoor market street scene with vendors selling a large variety of dates, nuts, and dry fruits from open-air display mounds and boxed packages, typical of preparations during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

Historic Kutub Khana Anjuman-e-Taraqqi-e-Urdu bookstore The photo shows the historic Kutub Khana Anjuman-e-Taraqqi-e-Urdu bookstore located at 4181, Urdu Bazar, near Gate No. 1 of the Jama Masjid in Old Delhi.

Street vendor selling red onions, ginger, and green chilies The photo shows a street vendor pushing a wooden handcart loaded with fresh produce, primarily red onions, ginger, and green chilies.

Street vendor selling fresh pineapples and pineapple slices An Indian street vendor is selling fresh pineapples and pineapple slices from a pushcart.

Street food vendor preparing and selling fresh fruit The photo shows a street food vendor preparing and selling fresh fruit (such as orange or citrus slices) arranged in small portions.

Woman wearing a black niqab and a headband The photo shows passengers sitting inside a yellow and green auto-rickshaw (or tuk-tuk), including a woman wearing a black niqab and a headband, alongside an auto-rickshaw driver in the front. The inscription on the headband worn by the passenger is written in stylized Arabic script and reads "يا زينب" (Ya Zainab). This expression means "Oh Zainab" and refers to Zainab bint Ali, a historical and religious figure who is highly revered in Islam, especially within the context of Islamic commemorations and processions (such as those during Muharram).

Street food stall displaying large trays of fried snacks and chicken dishes The photo shows a bustling street food stall displaying large trays of fried snacks and chicken dishes, such as fried chicken or pakoras (crispy fritters).

Street food stall selling Shahi Tukda and Turkish kunafa The photo shows a street food stall selling Shahi Tukda and Turkish kunafa near Jama Masjid in Old Delhi.

Street food stall known for its charcoal-grilled kebabs and Mughlai dishes This photo shows Qureshi Kabab Corner, a famous street food stall near Jama Masjid in Old Delhi, known for its charcoal-grilled kebabs and Mughlai dishes.

Live poultry market stall The photo shows a live poultry market stall where vendors sell live chickens and roosters kept in stacked metal cages.

Person wearing a black abaya and niqab The photo shows a person wearing a black abaya and niqab with floral or embroidered detailing near the hem and cuffs.

Man in traditional attire carrying a young child The photo shows a man in traditional attire carrying a young child while walking down an outdoor street market or bazaar scene with other family members.

Woman wearing a traditional ethnic outfit The photo shows a woman wearing a pale green traditional ethnic outfit with a matching head covering (dupatta or sari pallu), holding an infant in her arms.

Woman wearing a black niqab and abaya holding a young child in her arms The photo shows a woman wearing a black niqab and abaya holding a young child in her arms, standing next to a young girl in patterned dark clothing.

Traditional roadside sugarcane juice cart The photo shows a traditional roadside sugarcane juice cart (ganne ka ras stall) equipped with a mechanical or motor-driven cane-crushing press and bundles of fresh sugarcane stalks.

Outdoor street market with men's clothing The photo shows an outdoor street market with men's clothing displayed on racks and tables along the sidewalk.

People browsing and sorting through large piles and displays of secondhand footwear and sneakers The photo shows people browsing and sorting through large piles and displays of secondhand footwear and sneakers at an outdoor street market.

Mandi House Roundabout

Natya Shastra public art installation Located at the Mandi House Roundabout in New Delhi, India, the Natya Shastra public art installation is a striking celebration of classical Indian artistic heritage. Conceived by artist Nehmat Mongia and brought to life by Space Story 360, this magnificent sculpture draws its core inspiration from the Natya Shastra, the foundational ancient Sanskrit treatise on the performing arts. The installation beautifully weaves together the multi-faceted realms of classical Indian dance, drama, music, literature, and fine arts. Through intricate carved figures, emotive expressive faces, traditional musical instruments, and a prominent open book, the artwork serves as a dynamic visual ode to centuries of storytelling and artistic expression. This impressive sculpture was installed as a key feature of Project PARI (Public Art of India), an initiative dedicated to enhancing Delhi's urban landscape by introducing cultural heritage and art into public spaces. Situated in Mandi House—a iconic neighborhood widely celebrated as the heart of New Delhi's cultural and theatrical scene—the sculpture engages daily commuters and pedestrians alike. By transforming a busy traffic junction into an open-air gallery, the Natya Shastra installation seamlessly bridges India’s rich artistic history with modern city life, fostering a deeper public connection with the nation's vibrant heritage.

See Also

• Gurdwara Bangla Sahib, Old Delhi
• Raj Ghat Memorial, Old Delhi

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Source

• Shahjahanabad - Wikipedia

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Location