Whether it is artisan crafts, ethnic wear, jewellery or leather products, the historical capital of the country is the place you need to include in your travel plans this year.
Even if retail therapy is in the top of your list, don’t miss the amazing street food Delhi is known for. Though the list of shopping destinations are long, Connaught Place, Karol Bagh and Chandni Chowk are the three shopping markets you can’t afford to give a miss and here you can get a glimpse of beautiful jewellery, carpets, invaluable stones and hand-made works. The top markets in the city are like a treasure trove and all you need is yogic patience (not necessarily a fat wallet) to dig through heaps of clothes and knick knacks amid the noise and crowd.
Chandni Chowk is where we headed first which does not only give you a feel of old Delhi, but also serves up a delicious assortment of Delhi street food. Getting lost in the narrow alleys is an experience in itself. It is the best place to buy ethnic Indian wear and the market remains open on all days except Sundays. Head to Katra for fabrics and Bhagirath Palace area for a huge range of electronics.
Lajpat Nagar, also known as Central Market was our second stop. Being one of the oldest markets in the country, the place is abuzz with shoppers swarming around its roadside stalls and showrooms.
One of the main attractions here are the Mehendiwalas, who will apply beautiful Henna designs to your hands in no time. Central Market remains closed on Mondays.
Sarojini Market is a bustling market which attracts mostly college-going and middle-class crowds where you can find everything from western garments, accessories, bags, footwear to leather products at ridiculously low prices.
The market stocks up on the country’s latest fashion trends and if you don’t find it in Sarojini, it either doesn’t exist or it is a trend which is long out of style. It is one of those places where you find the best value for your money and remember to haggle well!
But don’t make the mistake of visiting this market on a Sunday as it is overflowing with people and activity (we learnt it the hard way). Khan Market though known for their high-end shops and branded outlets, has a loyal following and it is closed on Sundays. Located in South New Delhi, this is not the place if you are looking for a bargain. However, it is a must-visit and it is not far from India Gate, New Delhi’s most iconic structures. It was built to commemorate the 70,000 Indian soldiers who died during World War I.
Janpath Market, which is adjacent to Palike Bazaar is great for budget shopping and is a haven for handicrafts, clothes and curio.
While Delhi is justifiably proud of its history, the city also has plenty of contemporary appeal, which lies in the vibrant maze of bazaars and markets other than monuments and heritage buildings. So if you are a serious shopper, Delhi should mandatorily figure in your itinerary and there can be no second thoughts on it.