Experience the Chaos of Old Delhi Through a Fascinating Walking Tour

Delhi is a city full of contrasting experiences and cultures, and Old Delhi is the most authentic part of the city, where traditional history meets modernization. Walking through the bustling streets of Old Delhi is a must-do activity for all visitors. If you want to experience the real essence of Delhi, then join the 3-hour walking tour of Old Delhi. This tour is an excellent way to explore the heart of the Mughal Empire and discover the vibrant markets, historical architecture, and delicious street food.

Highlights

• Experience the chaos of Old Delhi in a 3-hour walking tour
• Visit Asia’s largest spice market
• Explore the heart of the Mughal Empire
• See the exterior of the Red Fort and Fatehpuri Mosque
• Finish off at the Sikh Temple to learn more about Sikhism

Experience

The tour begins at Connaught Place, where you will meet your experienced guide, who will take you on an informative journey to explore the chaotic streets of Old Delhi. Once you reach Old Delhi, you will be overwhelmed by the noise, mingling of people, and traffic. The city’s traffic and sound may seem chaotic, but it has its charm and is worth experiencing. As you start the walking tour, your guide will take you past the important historical sights, including the Red Fort in Old Delhi, which served as the residence of the Mughal Emperors for more than 200 years. Admire its ornate architecture and learn about its rich history. Afterward, you will visit the Fatehpuri Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Delhi. The mosque is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and has intricate designs that are worth seeing. Your walking tour will then take you to one of the most interesting markets in Asia, Khari Baoli. This market has been around for over 400 years and is known for being the largest spice market in Asia. Here, you can experience the aroma of herbs and spices from different parts of India. After visiting the spice market, the tour will stop at a rooftop to give you a special glimpse of Old Delhi from above. Taking in the panoramic view of the city from the rooftop is an unforgettable experience. Your tour will then take you to the Sikh Temple, where you will learn about Sikhism and its history. The Sikh Temple has a large kitchen, and you can witness the preparation of food for the community. The kitchen in this temple is the largest community kitchen in India, and it feeds a large number of people daily.

Tour Tips

• The walking tour of Old Delhi can be quite physically demanding, so wear comfortable shoes and clothes.
• Be prepared for the hustle and bustle of the city, it can be quite noisy and chaotic so be alert at all times.
• Carry a water bottle and wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the harsh weather.
• Try the delicious street food in Old Delhi, but make sure it is cooked and hygienic.
• If you want to, you can carry cash to buy souvenirs from the local markets.
• Book your tour in advance from the GetYourGuide website, and show your ticket to your guide at the meeting point.

Book Your Tour Now

This 3-hour walking tour of Old Delhi is a fantastic way to experience the city in all its chaos and vibrancy. The tour is informative, and the guide is knowledgeable about the history and architecture of the city. You will walk through the oldest and busiest markets of Delhi and experience the hustle and bustle of city life. Be prepared to be overwhelmed by the sights, smells, and sounds of Old Delhi. Book the tour here to have a lifetime experience discovering the heart of the Mughal Empire.

Frequently Asked Questions About Old Delhi

Old Delhi is one of the most prominent and historic regions in Delhi, India. This place has seen several rulers and empires throughout history, which has resulted in a mix of diverse cultures and traditions. Old Delhi is known for its bustling markets, mouth-watering street food, ancient architecture, and rich heritage. In this FAQ guide, we will provide answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Old Delhi.

1. What is Old Delhi?

Old Delhi, also known as Purani Dilli, is one of the iconic regions of Delhi that was established by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1639 AD. The region is an amalgamation of various cultures and traditions that have been preserved since its inception. The majority of the population in Old Delhi consists of Muslims, and this region is home to one of the largest mosques in India, the Jama Masjid. Old Delhi is known for its bustling markets, narrow lanes, ancient architecture, and unique culture.

2. What are the must-visit places in Old Delhi?

Old Delhi is a treasure trove of historic landmarks, vibrant markets, and delicious food stalls. Some of the must-visit places in Old Delhi include:

a. Red Fort

The Red Fort is an iconic landmark in Old Delhi that was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. The fort is made of red sandstone and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

b. Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India, and it was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1656 AD. The mosque is made up of red sandstone and white marble, and it has the capacity to hold up to 25,000 worshippers at a time.

c. Chandni Chowk

Chandni Chowk is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Old Delhi. The market is known for its narrow lanes, traditional shops, and delicious street food. It is a paradise for foodies and shopaholics.

d. Khari Baoli

Khari Baoli is the largest wholesale spice market in Asia, and it is located in the heart of Old Delhi. This market offers an extensive range of spices, herbs, nuts, and dried fruits at reasonable prices.

3. What is the best time to visit Old Delhi?

The best time to visit Old Delhi is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. During this time, the temperature ranges between 10°C to 20°C, and there is no humidity in the air. The winter season is also the festive season in India, and you can witness several cultural festivals and events in Old Delhi during this time.

4. What are the famous food items in Old Delhi?

Old Delhi is famous for its mouth-watering street food that attracts foodies from all around the world. Some of the famous food items in Old Delhi include:

a. Paranthas at Paranthe Wali Gali

Paranthe Wali Gali is a famous lane in Old Delhi that serves a wide range of stuffed paranthas. The paranthas here are made of pure ghee and are served with pickles, chutneys, and curries.

b. Chole Bhature at Sita Ram Diwan Chand

Sita Ram Diwan Chand is a renowned food stall in Old Delhi that serves delicious Chole Bhature. The dish consists of spicy chickpeas curry and crisp bhature that are made of flour and deep-fried in oil.

c. Kebabs at Karim’s

Karim’s is a legendary restaurant in Old Delhi that is known for its succulent kebabs. The kebabs here are made of tender meat and are marinated in traditional Indian spices before grilling.

5. What are the modes of transportation in Old Delhi?

Old Delhi is well-connected to the rest of Delhi through various modes of transportation. Some of the popular modes of transportation in Old Delhi include:

a. Metro

The Delhi Metro is the fastest and most convenient mode of transportation in Old Delhi. The metro connects Old Delhi to other parts of Delhi, making it easy for tourists to explore the city.

b. Auto-rickshaws

Auto-rickshaws are one of the most common modes of transportation in Old Delhi. They are affordable and can take you to any part of the city.

c. Cycle-rickshaws

Cycle-rickshaws are a great way to explore the narrow lanes of Old Delhi. They are affordable and can take you to any part of the city.

6. What are the safety tips to keep in mind while visiting Old Delhi?

Old Delhi is a safe place to visit, but tourists need to keep a few safety tips in mind:

a. Avoid wearing flashy jewellery and carrying a lot of cash

Tourists should avoid wearing flashy jewellery and carrying a lot of cash while exploring Old Delhi. This will make them less susceptible to thefts and pickpocketing.

b. Beware of touts and conmen

Tourists should beware of touts and conmen who may try to sell them fake goods or overcharge them. It is advisable to buy goods from reputed shops and vendors.

c. Dress modestly

Old Delhi is a conservative place, and tourists should dress modestly while visiting mosques or temples. Women should cover their heads and wear full-length clothes while visiting these places.

Book Your Tour Now

Old Delhi is a unique blend of history, culture, and tradition. The region is home to several iconic landmarks, bustling markets, and mouth-watering street food. Tourists can explore this vibrant place by taking the metro, auto-rickshaws, or cycle-rickshaws. With a few safety tips in mind, tourists can have an unforgettable experience in Old Delhi.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Old Delhi

Old Delhi is a unique and fascinating place to visit. It is a chaotic and bustling part of the city that seems to be stuck in a different era. It’s a place of contrasts, where the old and the new exist side by side, creating an intoxicating mix of sights, sounds, and smells. In this guide, we will show you how to make the most of your time as a tourist in Old Delhi.

1. Start at the Red Fort

The Red Fort is one of Old Delhi’s most iconic landmarks. It was built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and served as his residence until the mid-19th century. The fort’s impressive red sandstone walls and intricate architecture make it a must-visit attraction. You can spend a few hours exploring the various buildings and courtyards within the fort, including the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) and the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience).

2. Visit Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India and is located just a short walk from the Red Fort. The mosque was also built by Shah Jahan in the 17th century and is an impressive example of Mughal architecture. The courtyard of the mosque can accommodate up to 25,000 worshippers at once, making it one of the most popular places to pray in the city. Visitors are welcome to explore the mosque and take in its intricate details and impressive scale.

3. Explore Chandni Chowk

Chandni Chowk is Old Delhi’s most famous market and is known for its narrow streets and bustling atmosphere. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the true essence of the city. You can explore the market on foot or by rickshaw, taking in the sights and sounds of the various vendors selling everything from spices to textiles. Don’t miss out on trying some of the street food, which is some of the best in the city. Be aware that Chandni Chowk is crowded and chaotic, so it’s best to visit during the day and keep an eye on your belongings.

4. Try Some Street Food

Old Delhi is known for its delicious street food, and there are plenty of options to choose from. Some popular dishes include chaat (a sweet and spicy snack made with potatoes and chickpeas), kulfi (a type of ice cream), and paranthas (flaky, stuffed bread). You can find street food vendors all over the city, but be sure to choose one that looks clean and busy, as this is a good indicator of quality.

5. Visit the Raj Ghat

The Raj Ghat is a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, located just a short distance from Old Delhi. It is a tranquil and peaceful place where you can pay your respects to one of India’s greatest leaders. The memorial is a simple black marble slab surrounded by a beautiful garden, and it’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a little while.

6. Take a Walk Through Old Delhi’s Streets

One of the best things to do in Old Delhi is to simply walk around and soak up the atmosphere. The city’s streets are a maze of narrow alleys and colorful buildings, and there’s always something new and interesting to discover. Keep an eye out for the bizarre and unexpected, like the street that only sells wedding invitations or the tiny alleyways that seem to lead nowhere.

7. Take a Cooking Class

If you’re a foodie, why not take a cooking class and learn how to make some of the delicious dishes that Old Delhi is famous for? There are plenty of classes available, where you can learn how to make everything from kebabs to biryani. It’s a great way to learn about the city’s culinary traditions and bring a little piece of Old Delhi back home with you. In conclusion, Old Delhi is a fascinating and unique place to visit, with a rich history and culture that is unlike anywhere else in India. By following this guide, you can make the most of your time in the city and experience all that it has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or just soaking up the atmosphere, Old Delhi has something for everyone.