Chandni Chowk is one of the oldest and busiest market place of Delhi. Located in Old Delhi, this city was laid out by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1650. The city got its name "Chandni Chowk" due to the canal which runs down in its middle. This canal reflects the moon light which is known as ‘Chandni’ in the Hindi language. This area is mainly known as a shopping area, ideal to buy things like saris, books, jewellery, shoes, electronics and many other things. It has also prospered and grown through ages and the present market symbolizes the development through three centuries. You can easily get there using the Delhi metro.
In this article we will tell you how to explore Chandni Chowk area in New Delhi, India.
Digambara Jain Temple
It's best to start the journey at the eastern end of Chandni Chowk where you can visit the Digambara Jain Temple. This temple was made in 16th century. The devotional room on the first floor has statues of Lord Mahavir, Lord Parasnath and other revered Jain figures. In the temple compound you can also see a bird hospital where you can donate money.
Gauri Shankar Temple
The Gauri Shankar temple was built in honour of Lord Shiva. The Lingam situated in this temple is believed to be 800 years old. The temple also houses the statue of Shiva, Prvati and their sons, Ganesh and Kartik.
Jalebiwala
As you continue walking, an ancient sweet shop on the corner of Chandni Chowk and Dariba Kalan Road comes into view . The name of the shop is Jalebiwala and the shop is a one century-old shop which had served its customer delicious sweets and sticky Jalebis. This shop is a must visit for everyone who comes to visit Chandni Chowk.
Bazaar
Along the Dariba Kalan Road, you'll be able to find the bazaar. Here you can find exquisite jewellery, Gold, Silver and custom jewellery, which are its main attraction.
Kinari Bazaar
The spot where Dariba Kalan Road curves to the left, there is a lane to the right which is popularly known as Kinari Bazaar. This market is famous for its wedding paraphernalia like bridal accessories and glittering decorations.
Svetambara Jain Temple
Near the junction of Naughara Gali Lane at a slight diversion there is Svetambara Jain Temple. It has sacred images and carvings including that of Lord Parasnath.
Paratha Wali Gali
When you turn left back to Kinari Bazaar, you will soon be enveloped into the delicious smell of varieties of Paratha. Paratha is stuffed Indian flat bread. The lane which houses shops specialized in making parathas is known as Paratha Wali Gali. It is said that any stuffing that you can ever imagine inside flat bread can be found here.
Sunheri Masjid
After coming back from Parathawali Gali, turn right and walk till you reach Sunheri Masjid. It is an 18th century mosque. Below is a painting of Sunheri Masjid.
How to travel by metro in Delhi
If you’re not sure how to travel around Dehli, you also have the option of taking the Delhi metro; and we’re here to help you know how!
The Delhi metro is run by Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Limited (DMRC).The DMRC began operating in December 2002 and since then it had efficiently connected the entire city of Delhi with their air-conditioned trains.
There are three ticket options provided by DMRC which are as follows:
- Token: Tokens are single journey tickets which are valid only one way. The minimum token is of 8 INR and maximum is of 30 INR. It is valid only for the day when it is purchased.
- Smart Card: Smart Cards are also known as travel cards. It is the most convenient option for frequent or daily commuters. While purchasing the card, a security deposit of 50 INR is paid. The minimum recharge is 100 INR and maximum is 1000 INR. It is valid for one year from the date of purchase.
- Tourist Card: The tourist card is of 2 types i.e. 1 day cards and 3 day cards. The security deposit of 50 INR is done at the time of purchase of the card. The value of 1-day cards is 100 INR and 3-day card is 300 INR.
The tickets for metro train can be bought at the entrance of any metro train station.The amount you spend on your card will depend on the distance you travel.
The metro train starts from 6 am and runs till 11 pm. Trains reach a station at an interval of every 12 minutes. At peak periods the time gap between the trains are 2 or three minutes.
And just so you know, Seats cannot be reserved for any person before boarding the train. In the train some seats are usually reserved such as:
- For elderly people: 2 seats in each compartment
- For Handicapped people: 2 seats in each compartment
- For Ladies: 4 seats in each compartment
If you want to read similar articles to How to Explore Chandni Chowk area in Delhi, we recommend you visit our Travel category.