India’s No.1 Wedding-Season Central: Everything You’ll Find In Chandni Chowk

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Delhi’s Chandni Chowk needs no introduction. With over 2,000 stores that thousands flocking every day to shop from, it has become the capital's go-to place, especially during the festive and wedding seasons. In fact, folks from across the country too make their way here for occasions! Knowing that you’ll be heading there soon, (or are bound to, at least once in your life) here’s a guide to the best of the best you’ll find in the lanes of purani dilli.

ProTip: The closest metro stations are Chandni Chowk on the yellow line, exit from gate no. 5, which is closest to the “Katra Bazaars” (main road), and Chawri Bazar on the yellow line, exit from gate no. 3 which is closest to Nayi Sadak. You can even reach Lal Quila, or Jama Masjid metro stations which are on the violet line closest to the Red Fort and Jama Masjid. 

Wherever you get off, you’ll find rickshaws and motor rickshaws galore, that'll take you from one end to the other, so carry cash, water, and patience!

Where To Eat

Dilliwalas love to eat, and old Delhi stands testomony to that, with hundreds of options to choose from, dating back to before Independence! You’ll find classic age-old shops here with recipes and dishes passed down from generations. Here’s everything you must check out.

Jung Bahadur Ki Kachori

Located a little inside inside Paranthe Wali Gali, Jung Bahadur Ki Kachori is a small kachori outlet, selling delicious, piping hot kachoris. The place has gathered more attention recently, as I remember going there in college, when a sweet aunty recommended it. They only sell kachoris, mainly three kinds, and you can buy yourself a sweet drink from a nearby convenience store if you have a low spice tolerance level. Now, they have multiple outlets throughout Chandni Chowk, but we'd recommend the OG place only, with their best-selling Daal Kachori.

Price For Two: INR 120

Ved Prakash Lemon Wale

If you find yourself needing a quick, icy, sweet refresher in the middle of your shopping spree while navigating through the narrow lanes of Moonlit Square then Ved Prakash Lemon Wale is the perfect spot. The shop was established 150 years ago and is currently run by the seventh generation of the family. The location of the establishment is also great, as it's on the main street overlooking Red Fort. They are open seven days a week from 10:30 AM to 11:00 PM and sell the most re-energising lemon soda.

Price For Two: INR 50

Giani Di Hatti

Probably among the most recommended, Giani Di Hatti is one of the most iconic places selling sweet and scrumptious Rabri Falooda. Established in 1956, this place is the first of the many outlets that were later called 'Gianni's Ice Cream', founded by Giani Gurcharan Singh, who migrated from Faislabad in Pakistan to Delhi. They do not accept online payments of any kind, so you must carry cash, while visiting. Everything is freshly prepared, and you can always customise the sweetness, by asking for more vermicelli.

Price For Two: INR 200

Shyam Sweets

Over 100 years old, this place serves the best sweet and savoury snacks. Their sugar-free snacks will surprise you, as they taste just as good as the sweet ones, perfect for anyone cutting down on sugar. They are known for their Bedmi Pur' and Matar Kachori. It is a perfect stop for sweet lovers, and you should definitely end your meal with their  delicious lassi.

ProTip: Check out our list of the best mithai shops in Delhi NCR here.

Price For Two: INR 150

Kakke Di Hatti

Attracting locals, and tourists alike, Kake Di Hatti is also another iconic space that has served wholesome ghar ka khaana for more than two decades now. They are famous for their North Indian food, and there is always a huge line in front of the establishment. The shop has gained many accolades over the years, and they are known for making the biggest naan, thus being a favourite spot for food bloggers.

Price For Two: INR 300

Aslam Chicken Corner

Completing close to 25 successful years and a definite hotspot during Ramadan, Aslam Chicken Corner sells the most creamy, juicy, and well-done butter chicken. Everything is cooked in Amul butter with a secret recipe and secret ingredients, or what the owner refers to as khandani masale. The service is literally lightning fast, and along with butter chicken, we'd highly recommend their kebabs as well.

Price For Two: INR 1,200

Old Famous Jalebi Wala

Might be the first major food outlet you encounter after passing through all the religious places, Old Jalebi Wala sells hot, sweet, and the kind that will come in your dreams jalebis with cold rabri. There is always a flock of people around the shop and these jalebis are thick, so be prepared to be pleasantly surprised if you have only had the thin-crispy ones. 

Price For Two: INR 250

Natraj Dahi Bhalla Corner

Relatively closer and opposite to the Paranthe Wali Gali, Natraj Dahi Bhalla corner, serves amazing dahi bhalla and chaat. The shop was established around 1940 and is now a family legacy and business. They only sell dahi bhalla and tikki at extremely economical prices and are open till 9:30 PM. The service is quick, and the place is a must-visit whenever you are in Chandni Chowk.

Price For Two: INR 120

Kanwarji Baigrath Mal

Chandni Chowk offers some iconic sweets, and this sweet shop is a microcosm of that art. You can find amazing malpua and ghevar here, and everything is made in desi ghee. They also fulfill bulk wholesale orders for weddings, and you can stock up on namkeens and sweets for your home as well. We'd recommend there Soham Halwa and Pista Lauj.

Price For Two: INR 220

Haji Nadeem Shahi Sheermaal

Near Jama Masjid, this shop sells sweet dry fruit bread, which is packed with five different kinds of dry fruits and nuts. Originally from Meerut, the owner has been selling sheermaal and naan khatai in Chandni Chowk, with five different kinds, everything dipped in desi ghee. The sweet bread is supposed to be really good for your health, and is definitely a delicacy that you ought to try once.

Price For Two: INR 50

Special Mentions

Motey Lala Ki Dukaan: Been around since 1930, they sell a range of Indian mithais, especially famous for their desserts, made in pure milk. Their most famous dishes are Palang Tod Barfi, Rabri Malai, and Kesar Doodh. 

Price For Two: INR 120

Shri Balaji Chaat Bhandaar: This establishment is now run by the eighth generation and is almost 200 years old. They offer special chaats, that are made from sand-roasted potatoes.

Price For Two: INR 100

Shri GiriRaj Ji Rabri Lassi Wala: Located on Nayi Sadak, this place serves all kinds of lassis, famous for its Rabri lassi, and Faaluda. A perfect spot to take a break from your lehenga shopping.

Price For Two: INR 200

Chaina Ram Sindhi Halwai: This place has the longest line that we saw after the Apple Store launch. They sell different kinds of Ghevar (Malai and Plain), and are also famous for their Motichoor Laddos and Gujiya. 

Price: Starting at INR 800

Where To Shop

For Jewellery

When it comes to jewellery in Chandni Chowk, you’ll find several shops on the main road market, but it must be known that Chandni Chowk has a whole market dedicated to jewellery called Dariba Kalan. With everything from gem bracelets to sets costing lakhs, to intricate kundan and polki imitation work, you’ll find it all.

Dau Dayal And Sons

Just 20 steps in the lane of Dariba Kalan, and you will find Dau Dayal And Sons. The outside display is enough to lure one inside, and the owner, who is the seventh generation running the establishment, will welcome you with jaljeera even before you can sit. They have 92.5 silver jewellery, with every design, and piece made in-house. They offer rings, bangles, bracelets, huge neckpieces, beautiful earrings, and more, and keep in mind that the shop is only closed on Sundays.

Price: Starting at INR 700

Shri Ram Hari Ram Jewellers

This one is among the oldest shops for jewellery, selling excellent high-quality silver jewellery including rings, neck pieces, bangles, bands, and bracelets. You can also find coins, silver clutches, and gold paintings, with unique designs that are really worth your money. 

Price: Starting at INR 1,200

Ratan Chand Jwala Nath

Most renowned and recognisable places for jewellery shopping, it was established in 1752 and does a great job at customising jewellery. You can find your statement pieces here, including rings, necklaces, and earrings, and you do not have to worry about the quality here, with extremely reasonable marking price.

Price: Starting at INR 1,200

Raghubar Dayal And Sons

Another silver and gold jewellery shop amongst the long chain of shops in Dariba Kalan, we'll highly recommend this one for your intricate gold jewellery pieces and coins. Their earring and neckpiece collection is stunning, selling 92.5 silver with great designs and prices.

Price: Starting at INR 800

Bridal Jewellery By Gjint

Running since 1793, Bridal Jewellery By Gjint is an established name in the market. They are the perfect spot to find your wedding jewellery, offering imitation jewellery with trendy designs and styles. Their prices fit across budgets, and their neckpieces with intricate kundan work are perfect, if you are looking for affordable jewellery for your big day.

Price: Starting at INR 700

Anil K Seth And Sons Jewellers

This shop would prove to be a haven for silver jewellery lovers, selling some artisanal pieces that will be conversation starters every time. They have been published in multiple magazines, and have some exceptional neckpieces at economical prices.

Price: Starting at INR 700

For Ethnic Wear And Wedding Lehengas

People come to Chandni Chowk to shop for weddings, and festivities. Teeming with shops the size of a matchbox to a palace, you’ll find everything ethnic, traditional, and the newest and best trends here. At first glance, it’s overwhelming, but once you know where to go and what you want, you’ll be alright! Although you can find lehenga shops all around, Nayi Sadak has the most known ones, with a series of local stores as well as high-end ones.

Wedding shopping, fabrics and stitched clothes start at INR 500 or lower and go all the way up to grand prices of 4-5 lakhs!

Sudhir Bhai Saree Wale

A one-stop for every bride-to-be, this shop is known for its excellent designer wear. From Sabyasachi to Torani, they match everything to the tee, so if you are looking for looks that match celebrities, then this is where you will find them.

Price: Starting at INR 45,000

Asiana Couture

Collaborating with big names in the industry like Payal Keyal, this label is growing like no other. The shop in itself is a beauty, with their team making the shopping experience extremely smooth. They assist you with everything, based on your budget, and give great recommendations. So, if you want to look regal on your wedding day, then you must check out Asiana's collection. Also,  don't forget to make an appointment, before going.

Price: Starting at INR 80,000

Indu Fashion

Indu Fashion, located in Nayi Sadak is a fashion label that is owned and designed by Shubham Sharma. The place is divided into two floors, the first for wedding gowns and the second for bridal lehengas. They have some regal designs, which ought to make your special day, a little more special.

Price: Starting at INR 30,000 

OOS

A breath of fresh air, in the hustle and bustle of the market, OOS is a women-led contemporary apparel shop that does modern yet rooted in celebration clothing on a budget. Their collection includes kurtas, lehengas, suits, gowns, indo-western options, and more, with sophisticated designs with a subtle hint of bling.

Price: Starting at INR 7,000

Aggarwal's RK Impex

If you're taking the 'outfit from scratch' route, or a designer looking to source materials for your creations, Aggarwal's RK Impex has everything from laces to beautiful gota patti. They have a huge collection of lace; everything is sold in wholesale, with the second generation running the shop.

Price: Starting at INR 150

Siyonee

Siyonee offers everything from suits and sarees to really pretty lehengas and wedding gowns. The shop is located on the way to Nayi Sadak from the Paranthe Wali Gali, perfect for wedding shopping and gifting purposes, with a price range that fits a range of budgets.

Price: Starting at INR 395

House Of Surya

House of Surya is a label that is going global, recently spotted at Delhi Times Fashion Week. It is a one-stop destination for all your wedding needs and creates some of the most stunning lehenga sets that you'll ever see. A prior appointment is highly recommended, and they also have sarees if you're opting out of lehengas this wedding season.

Price: Starting at INR 10,000

Shop for Spices At Khari Baoli

In Khari Baoli, you can find a chain of shops selling raw, grounded spices and dry fruits at wholesale rates. There are many date shops as well, with every ingredient of super high quality. You can also find some exquisite spices there, with multiple shops selling almost similar stuff, so don't forget to haggle and buy your best offer. We'd highly recommend Lahore Dry Fruits, and Sawan Dry Fruits.

Things To Do

While the main thing to do in Chandni Chowk, that extends all the way from Fatehpuri Masjid to the Lal Quila, is to shop, still there are still a couple of tourist-y things you can do here if you decide to explore the area and not shop.

Red Fort

Exclusively visiting Lal Qila, or after your shopping spree at Chandni Chowk, Red Fort is always a great place to indulge in some history and architecture. It is closest to the place and is always jammed with locals and tourists.

Price: INR 35 (for Indians), INR 500 (for foreigners)

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday (9:30 AM to 4:30 PM)

Haveli Dharampura

A Mughal architectural beauty that's been converted into a luxury hotel and restaurant with several activities. You can indulge in high-tea and kite flying here. 

Jama Masjid

Built by Shah Jahan, this is one of the biggest mosques in India. Hundreds of people visit here everyday to pray, explore, and find some peace and solace.

Timings: Open all days of the week (7 AM to 12 PM)

Ghalib Ki Haveli

Residence of the 19th-century Urdu poet, Mirza Ghalib, this haveli is now a heritage sight with artefacts, literature, and a story that reflects the decline of the Mughal Era. 

Price: INR 52

Timings: 11 AM to 6 PM (Closed on Monday)

Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib

One of nine historical gurudwaras in Delhi, established by Baghel Singh to mark the martyrdom of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur. A definite visit to pray and offer service.

Special Mentions

For footwear, check out Ballimaran market. For Fabrics, go to Katra Neel. If you wish to indulge in ittars, and find dupes for high end fragrances, then go to Gulab Singh Johrimal. Vintage crafts for home decor, and Bhagirath Palace market for lights! 

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An opinionated fashion & beauty writer who follows a strict pros & cons framework for her recommendations; loves discovering new fashion trends, writing & recommending them, while constantly keeping a pulse on what’s the latest that’s happening in the lifestyle space. Writer & editor with 4 years of experience that’s also always on the lookout for their next cup of coffee and book.