Paharganj Market is a lively and busy destination located in close vicinity to Central and Old Delhi. This market is a heaven for budget travelers, offering affordable accommodations, a variety of dining options, and a collection of shopping opportunities.
The streets of Paharganj entice with their chaotic appeal, offering a mix of bars, bakeries, and shops selling everything from trendy bags and footwear to unique mementos. With its historical significance as a former suburban market during the Mughal Empire, Paharganj holds an allure that attracts both tourists and locals alike.
Why Paharganj Market is so Famous?
Paharganj Market has gained a reputation for its pocket-friendly accommodations, affordable hotels, homestays, lodges, and a wide range of budget-friendly restaurants and food eateries.
Things to Buy in Paharganj Market
Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a book lover, or in search of exclusive home decor, this market offers a plethora of options. Here’s a closer look at the exciting categories of products you can explore:
- Bags and Footwear: From exclusive ranges of exotic handbags and backpacks at reasonable prices to customized formal shoes and ethnic Juttis, you’ll find all the chic options here.
- Jewellery: Indulge in the charisma of Paharganj’s jewelry stores, where you can discover beautiful bangles, rings, earrings, and handmade beaded necklaces. Some shops even offer silver jewelry and accessories made with semi-precious stones, showcasing both quality and fashion.
- Clothing: From daily wear clothes available for less than $3 USD to shops offering wedding dresses for rent/purchase, embroidered textiles, and colorful woolens, you’ll find a collection of stylish choices.
- Home Decor: Discover eye-catching cushion covers, wall hangings, and carved wooden statues. Guru Handicraft Emporium is a well-known shop offering delicate home furnishing items, including classic and antique masterpieces.
- Books: Explore an extensive variety of books, ranging from cultural and modern novels to fiction and non-fiction works. Don’t miss the famous Jackson’s Bookstore, known for its mixed variety across different subjects.
- Ittar (Natural Perfume): Discover Ittar in boxes, bottles, and roll-ons, featuring scents like sandalwood, lemongrass, rose, and lavender.
- Mehendi (Henna) Artists: Engage with talented Mehendi artists along the roadside, who create spectacular henna designs for hands and legs. This traditional art form adds a creative touch to your visit.
Why You Should Visit Paharganj Market?
Paharganj Market is a must-visit destination for several persuasive reasons. It offers affordable leather products, hosts iconic restaurants, provides a vibrant Diwali shopping experience, showcases a wide range of affordable clothes and accessories, and is also home to the hidden Murti Market.
Where to Eat
Paharganj Market offers a pleasant culinary experience with its collection of eateries serving various cuisines. Here are some prominent places to satisfy your cravings:
- German Bakery: Indulge in their well-known cakes and pastries.
- Sam’s Cafe & My Bar: Enjoy affordable drinks and quick bites in a relaxed setting.
- The Shim Thur: Delight in authentic Korean cuisine.
- Rooftop Karen Cafe: Experience delicious food while enjoying the rooftop atmosphere.
- Exotic Rooftop Restaurant: Enjoy a variety of international cuisines.
- Sita Ram Diwan Chand: Visit this long-standing establishment for delicious food since 1970.
- Open Hand Cafe and Gallery: Enjoy a combination of art and delectable food.
- Leo’s Restaurant: Enjoy their diverse menu in a comfy setting.
- Cafe Festa: Indulge in a wholesome breakfast menu and multi-cuisine dishes.
Market Timings
Paharganj Market welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, opening its doors at 11 am and closing at 9 pm. However, like many markets in Delhi, Paharganj remains closed on Mondays, although some shops may still be open.
Route and Transportation
Paharganj Market is conveniently located and easily accessible through various modes of transportation.
- Metro: The nearest metro station is R.K Ashram on the Blue Line. From there, it’s a short walking distance to the market. If you’re coming from the Yellow Line, you can also get down at New Delhi Metro Station.
- Cab: For those visiting Delhi for the first time, it is advisable to hire a cab. This provides hassle-free travel within the city. Paharganj Market is about 2.8 km from New Delhi Railway Station and approximately 14.8 km from Indira Gandhi International Airport.
- Bus: If you prefer to travel by bus, you can reach Paharganj Market by different routes. From the Kashmiri Gate bus stand, take NH 44, while Vandemataram Marg and NH 48 are the routes from Indira Gandhi International Airport. If you’re coming from Nizamuddin Railway Station, Dr. Zakir Hussain Marg is the recommended route.
Things You Should Keep In Mind Before Visiting
Things to Keep in Mind before Visiting Paharganj Market include:
- Paharganj market is best explored on foot, so avoid taking rickshaws/autos inside the market.
- As much of the market is outside, wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen.
- Wheelchair users should be informed that some stores in the Main Bazaar have steps leading up from the street.
- Bargaining is common, so don’t forget to negotiate prices.
- Be mindful of your belongings as incidents of pickpocketing can occur in a crowded environment.
- Remember that only a few places are legal to acquire alcohol, and getting a beer in Paharganj may require some unique arrangements.
