Coolest Delhi neighbourhoods you should explore
Delhi is a treasure trove of ancient history and culture, so make the most of your trip when here. While there are some ancient neighbourhoods in the capital, there are some neighbourhoods so cool that you will feel like visiting them more than once. Here is our pick of the coolest Delhi neighbourhoods that you should definitely explore when in the city.
Old Delhi
Your visit to Delhi will not be complete if you miss visiting Old Delhi! A favourite spot among tourists and locals, it was founded by the Shah Jahan in 1638, and that’s the reason why its original name was Shahjahanabad. Although you might not get to witness the grandeur of Mughal era now, Old Delhi still lures and captures the imagination of visitors. Then, there are prominent monuments, such as the Jama Masjid and Red Fort that are situated nearby and can easily be visited on the same day.
Connaught Place
Connaught Place is an iconic landmark of Delhi and is popular with all travellers. Earlier, it was a thick forested area, then the Britishers decided to set up a commercial centre in the area. Its architecture features circular structures, adorned with Palladian arches and Georgian-style columns, which were inspired by the Royal Crescent of Bath, England.
Now, it’s a famed shopping district and is dotted with many well-known restaurants and quality bars. People visit this neighbourhood for the ultimate cinema experience; it also has a sprawling park that is perfect for an idle stroll.
Hauz Khas Village
It’s one of Delhi’s hippest neighbourhoods and also features some of the interesting Mediaeval history. Known for buzzing nightlife and amazing cafes, it’s an ideal place to hangout and spend time with friends. It was a prominent site during the Delhi Sultanate of the 13th century, and had a large water reservoir that used to provide water to the adjacent city of Siri. Built on the orders of the then Sultan of Delhi, Alauddin Khilji, it is also home to a mosque and an Islamic seminary. Today, this place is dotted with art galleries, luxury boutiques, night bars, restaurants, and makes for a great place to explore.
Lodhi Colony
It’s undoubtedly one of the upscale neighbourhoods that you should explore when in Delhi. This place will transport you back to the 1940s, as it was the last residential area that was built during the British reign. When in this neighbourhood, don’t miss the Lodhi Gardens that features the ruins of 15th century monuments. Then, there is the Indian Habitat Centre situated close to this place, and the venue hosts some of the capital’s amazing art exhibitions and cultural events.
Majnu ka Tila
Fondly known as the Little Tibet, Majnu ka Tila is located on the banks of the Yamuna river. This neighbourhood was set in 1959 during the Tibetan Rebellion against China started in Lhasa. During this time, many natives fled Tibet and settled here. Initially, a refugee camp was set up here and later, in 1960, the Indian Government officially allocated the land for Tibetan refugee settlement. Today, this area is popular for its eating joints and pretty cafes that serve delectable Nepali, Tibetan, and other Asian cuisine.
Nizamuddin
To escape the chaos of everyday life, people from all walks of life visit Nizamuddin West, which is home to the famous and much revered dargah (mausoleum) of Sufi saint Hazrat Nizamuddin; it also hosts live qawwalis sessions (Sufi devotional songs) every Thursday evening. Take some time out when in Delhi to visit this neighbourhood for an insightful experience.
Then, there is the cooler Nizamuddin East where one can find various places to see and eat. You can even opt to stay here as you will find some of the city’s best accommodation options here.
Paharganj
There might be traffic and noise to distract you, yet Paharganj is evolving as a sought-after place for many and all for the right reasons. The neighbourhood is an old market area that dates back to the 18th century. As per the reports, it was once the only market that was situated outside the walled city and the Mughal capital of Shahjahanabad, which is now known as Old Delhi. At that time, it was the city’s largest grain market. Today, it’s a hotspot for backpackers looking for budget accommodation options, and has also become a great spot for bargain shopping.