Things to do in Purani Dilli to experience its most authentic form

The streets of Purani Dilli hold magic and secrets that it shares with only those who seek. The place takes you into a rich and authentic Delhi experience, something you will not get in the sophisticated and posh side of the city. If you want to experience Delhi in its full glory, Purani Dilli is the place where you should head. And while you are there, do not forget these things to do in Purani Dilli to enrich the experience.

1. Street Food

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It is impossible not to talk about street food when it comes to Old Delhi as the two are almost synonymous. Explore the soul-satisfying street food right from the famous chole bhature, and chaat to golgappe and sweet. Just a sight of the stalls of chole kulche, chaat bhandar, and Mughlai delicacies will leave you drooling all over the place. Treat your taste buds with flavours here.

Natraj Dahi Bhalla -  near Bhai Mati Das Chowk, Khemchand Adesh Kumar's Daulat ki Chaat - Dariba, Kinari Bazaar and Daryaganj, Lotan Chole Wala - Chawri Bazaar, Bishan Swaroop Chaat - 1421, Near Ashish Medicos, Chandni Chowk

2. Try the scrumptious kebabs

Even though street food has been mentioned before, the nawabi kebabs deserve their own mention here. There is no place to find the most authentic and finger-licking delicious non-vegetarian kebabs other than Chandni Chowk and Jama Masjid. The walled street of Matia Mahal is always filled with the aroma of chicken changezi, mutton korma, and the best kebabs you have ever had. Shops like Qureshi Kebab Corner, Karim’s, Lalu Kebabee, Al Jawahar, and more are ruling the hearts of kebab lovers.

3. Visit the iconic Red Fort

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The picture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site has been etched in our minds, so don’t forget to visit and see the spectacular beauty up close if you haven’t already. The architectural marvel is a sight to behold. The complex has various museums – Subhash Chandra Bose, The 1857 Uprising, the Yaad-E-Jallian Museum, Drishyakala Museum, Unsung Indian Liberation Soldiers, Azadi Ke Diwane Museum, and the Archeological Museum.

4. Capture the local life on the streets

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If you are visiting Purani Dilli, do not forget to capture the real essence of the streets with your camera. Even non-photographers use their phone cameras to get the chaos of everyday life. The streets are packed with stores, historical marvels, ancient jharokhas, overhead wires, and new restorations – all can be seen with the camera lens, capturing the best shots. The backdrop of Jama Masjid gives magnificent sights.

5. Shop from Chandni Chowk

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No one ever has said no to budget shopping. Chandi Chowk is the perfect spot to shop without burning a hole in your pocket, especially if you are shopping for a wedding. Everything – from accessories to dress materials, is available at affordable prices. The best thing is that the dupes of Designer Lehengas are reasonably rated. Besides Chandni Chowk, you can stroll around Dariba Kalan, Khari Baoli, Cycle Market, and Chor Bazar.

6. Visit religious spots

Purani Dilli is full of culture, heritage, and religious spots. There are temples, gurudwaras, mosques, and churches in proximity. The diverse praying spots are so near to each other and sacred. You cannot miss the spectacular view from Jama Masjid, the langar at Gurudwaras, and a visit to the Jain temple.

7. Haveli tours

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The ancient havelis of Purani Dilli represent the old grandeur of the past era. Though most of these are in deteriorated condition, they have so much to offer about Delhi's past – what can be better for history buffs? For more detailed information, have a guided tour. Haveli Dharampura in Chandni Chowk is perfect for experiencing the complete Purani Dilli in one place and a Mughal lifestyle too. Are you a Ghalib fan? Ghalib ki Haveli is just the spot for you, then. It has the poetic treasures of Ghalib.

8. Paranthe wali gali

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Purani Dilli seems incomplete without the Paranthe wali gali. Here, you will find not just the new parantha shops, but also generations-old and the finest ones in the area. These shops have some unique options including gajar parantha, meva parantha, papad parantha, rabdi parantha, and even kela parantha which the local people love. Some of these might sound bizarre but are definitely worth a bite. Served with makkhan, curry, or tamarind chutney, they taste heavenly with a glass of lassi on the side.

9. Catch the sunrise/sunset from Khari Baoli

Khari Baoli has a roof that boasts an amazing view of the sun on the horizon. From here, you can experience the fragrance of the spice bazaar – the largest in Asia. You might have seen the photos from here all over Instagram now but the actual view is beyond beautiful making this place a must-visit.