There’s something about the city of djinns that fascinates everyone that steps into it. While Mumbai might be the Maximum City, we believe Delhi really is the city never sleeps. And yes while things might shut at disciplined hours, there’s still a whole other world that remains open throughout the night, welcoming us to travel, explore, eat, and romanticise the city, the way every dilliwala does. If you’re in Delhi, then here are 9 things you can do after midnight.
Delhi Folks, Here Are 9 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do Past Midnight
Eat Kebabs & Sip Kulhad Milk In This Gully
Zakir Nagar is one whole lane lined with shops that have been around for years, serving hungry foodies all the way up till 1 AM. Nahari, galouti, tikkas, mango shakes, hot kulhad milk… This area has perfected its khaandani recipes. Rumours have it that one of these kebab men also catered to Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’s get-togethers. Maybe now it’ll make the cut for you?
LBB Tip: Read more about everything you can devour here.
Catch Bangla Sahib At Its Quietest, Prettiest Hour
We can’t rave about the kadha prasad or the inner peace that pervades our being every time we’ve walked into Bangla Sahib. The very spirit of unconditional love and generosity can be felt, regardless of what religion you conform to, and that’s the greatest thing ever. If you, like us, love utter silence and the sound of uninterrupted ardaas, we’re told 4:30 - 5 AM is the best time to visit.
LBB Tip: Read an insider’s full account here.
Grab A Nightcap At Blue Tokai
Home to one of the best coffees in town, Blue Tokai is spread out pretty much everywhere in the city. And while their hours are pretty forgiving, with outlets being open till 1AM (Vasant Kunj) Why not take a long drive to the Sikandarpur Blue Tokai for a night cap. It is the only outlet that’s open 24x7 (which we’re eternally grateful for!) So the next time you can’t sleep, or you’re feeling particularly adventurous, go on there, sip your coffee, read, journal, or even play with the dogs outside!
LBB Tip: If you're on the lookout for something else, then check out these coffee places too!
Go Visit Some Buddies At JNU
Known for its hard-to-crack-entries, this university is vibrant and active throughout the night (and day) A scholarly ambiance with canteens, dhabas, and food-courts galore! JNU is one of the perfect spots to explore. Though we’d suggest you go there with someone who either lives on campus, or knows the place. Do visit their 24x7 food court for some delicious food. And while you’re at it, maybe catch a glimpse of the sunrise at Parthasarathy Rocks.
Check Into This Hostel After A Late Night
Can’t bunk at your friends? Got done at the office really late? Or not sure your PG will take kindly to you sneaking in after a night of partying? Just hop over to Hide In Hostel that lets women spend the night safely for a mere 399 bucks. Coffee, a bunk bed, a terrace, a secure environment and the company of fellow travellers… What more could your unfussy being need? In fact, you also know where you can take your broke girl pals (you can stay with them, of course) from out of town when they come visiting. A cheap staycation? We say yes.
Attend A Gig At A Club
Auro, Summer House, Privee’, and more night clubs (these ones are in CP) have always come to our rescue when we’re partying past midnight, but if you’re even later to the party, go to Playboy which is one of the city’s few venues where live music gigs happen so often – and they’re open till 3AM!
Drive Down To Murthal For Some Parathas
In Delhi and you don’t have Murthal on your bucket list?! Shame. Approximately 48 kilometres from Delhi, Murthal is known for a chain of heavenly highway dhabas, with their variety of paranthas and thick, creamy lassi. It is the ultimate destination for authentic Punjabi meals, serving 24x7. People drive down early in the morning to catch breakfast, but there are many night owls who prefer the adventure in the dead of the night!
Pull An All-Nighter At This Library/Co-Working Space
They'll be times when you're so overwhelmed with stuff to do, that you end up not doing anything at all. But you’ll be surprised at how much a change of scenery can help. Enter Ingenious Library in Dwarka. This round-the-clock space hosts free events like karaoke evenings, workshops, match screenings and more apart from just letting you work, read or study in peace when you’re bored of your room (or the internet giving up on you).
Bonus: Looking at other worker ants like you might serve as great motivation as well.
LBB Tip: Read more about this ingenious space here.
Chill At These Cool Cafes
There was a time our only bet was Pandara Road. Today, we’re spoilt for choice. Spooky Sky in Paharganj has everything from pizzas to dal makhani on a rooftop, while Horn Please in CR Park has amazing chicken rolls.
