From wedding shopping to tourist sight-seeing, one cannot experience Delhi holistically without going to Chandni Chowk once- living history, remnants of royalty, or a heaven for food lovers. Imagine strolling through the famed Chandni Chowk, one of the finest living historical markets in the world constructed during the Mughal era, as the moon’s mystical glow illuminates hidden alleyways and regal facades.
When Shahjahan was constructing his capital Shahjahanabad (Old Delhi), he entrusted Jahanara Begum with the project of building the central market, envisioned to be immortal in history. She conceived the concept of Chandni Chowk or the “Moon-Lit Square,” owing to a canal running through the middle of the market, which would reflect the moonlight, illuminating the entire street. This isn’t just any ordinary walking tour. It’s a chance to experience the mesmerizing transformation of Chandni Chowk after dark, when the bustling markets take on an entirely new persona under the soft moonlight. Your expert Walk Leader® will regale you with fascinating tales that whisk you back through the centuries as you marvel at the silver shops of Dariba Kalan, the “lane of impeccable pearls” and discover tales of power, romance, and wars associated with it.
The Mughal fascination with food extended beyond mere sustenance; it was a reflection of their cultural identity, a symbol of power and sophistication, and a means of cultural exchange and integration. The Mughal culinary legacy continues to influence and shape various regional cuisines in South Asia and beyond. An extension of this legacy lies in the range of food dishes that can be found in Chandni Chowk by the time sun sets. From chaat to Parathas, our walk leader® will have stories to tell that will help you make sense of the past of food items that we often take for granted. With this walk, inhale the intoxicating aromas wafting from the legendary Parathe Wali Gali-a place which has been graced by the presence of famous bollywood stars and pertinent political personalities.
According to Beto, a Japanese traveler, this canal was a lover’s destination at night. Amorous couples who had wished to keep their affairs away from prying eyes had met here in secret and disappeared among the confusing maze of alleyways, shops and houses on either side to elude observers and spies.Discover hidden lovers’ lanes once frequented by amorous couples escaping prying eyes (remember that mughal history is all about stories of love, revenge, betrayal and much more drama!).
“Chandni Raat mein Chandni Chowk ” promises a heritage walk of contrasts. At times, you’ll find yourself in the crowded Kinari Bazaar- a market specialising in the selling of borders or laces for lehengas, and suddenly transported to the realm of quietness in the lane of Naughara (the lane of beautiful nine houses). You’ll experience the hustle and bustle of the spice market, but will also step into the serenity and spirituality around Sish Ganj Gurudwara, a structure significant for its martyrdom, bravery, and courage.
But that’s merely a glimpse of the enchantment awaiting you. Moonlight has the power to transform the landscape of various historical monuments. As the moon casts its magic over majestic Mughal-era havelis and imposing colonial buildings like that of the Town Hall, their stories will captivate you in a whole new light.
From the Khazanchi Haveli’s chronicle of Mughal rise and fall, to the Fatehpuri Mosque’s commanding presence at the end of the iconic street – every monument has a spellbinding tale to share and in their nocturnal glory, these tales become even more soul-stirring. But remember, these tales will translate into moving experiences only when one sees them through the eye of a Delhite. See Delhi from Eye of Delhite® and make every step of the walk count!
A completely different aura surrounded the cultural fabric of Chandni Chowk in the evenings. Mehfils were an important part of the 18th century Mughal culture and were organized by nobles regularly in the evenings. Individual havelis also became a hub for organizing these mehfils.There were also a number of public women, dancing girls and courtesans, who performed in mahfils. With stops like Khazanchi’s Haveli, this experience will take you back to the charms of these mahfils- mannerisms and etiquettes of these mahfils will come to life as stories unfold in historic havelis of Chandni Chowk.As you reach the culmination of Chandni Chowk, a striking contrast awaits at Fatehpuri Mosque. To the right, the legendary Khari Baoli (Spice Market) glows with warm halos of light- naturally, the artificial ones, Yet look overhead, and the domed minarets are awash in the moon’s soft, opalescent white beams. One moment, the monument basks in earthly tones from the fiery bazaars. Next, it’s draped in cool, heavenly moonlight. This juxtaposition perfectly captures the coexistence of spiritual and commercial energies defining Old Delhi’s essence. From dawn’s first bazaar sparks to evening azaan calls echoing through lamp-lit alleys, Chandni Chowk personifies the endless dance between divinity and delicious indulgence.
Experiencing Chandni Chowk in moonlight is similar to tasting bits and pieces of the social life of the 18 th century Delhi. With stories instilling fascination and amuse , and lively contemporary realities, have an experience to cherish for a long amount of time.
Don’t let this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity slip away. Walk with Us® on the “Chandni Raat mein Chandni Chowk Walk” and experience Old Delhi’s crown jewel in a way few ever have. Soak in the richness of culture, savor authentic flavors, and create cherished memories that will forever bind you to the magic of Chandni Chowk by moonlight.
Spots are limited, so secure your place today! Contact us to book this unforgettable immersion into the beating heart of Delhi’s ancient soul.
You can reach us on +91 989 969 2790 or email share@delhiwalks.in
