Chandni Chowk – Why It’s Famous and How It Got Its Iconic Name

Chandni Chowk – The Heart of Old Delhi

When someone says “Yeh Chandni Chowk se liya hai,” you know it’s something special. From wedding lehengas to spicy street food, Chandni Chowk is not just a market—it's an experience. But have you ever wondered why Chandni Chowk is so famous or how Chandni Chowk got its name Chandni Chowk?

Let’s dive into the story of one of India’s most iconic markets.

What is Chandni Chowk?

Chandni Chowk is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Delhi, located in the heart of Old Delhi, right in front of the Red Fort. It was built in the 17th century by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and designed by his daughter Jahanara Begum.

That’s right, royal daughters in those days were not just sipping sherbets—they were designing marketplaces.

Why is Chandni Chowk So Famous?

1. A Shopper’s Paradise

Chandni Chowk is like a maze of galis filled with shops selling everything under the sun—bridal wear, jewelry, electronics, books, fabrics, silverware, and more. Each lane has its own specialty.

• Dariba Kalan for silver jewelry

• Kinari Bazaar for wedding accessories

• Bhagirath Palace for electronics and lighting

• Ballimaran for shoes and eyewear

Just make sure you don’t lose track of time or your shopping list—or your cousin who came along and got lost two lanes back.

2. Heaven for Food Lovers

Chandni Chowk is where diets go to die. The street food here is legendary.

• Paranthe Wali Gali serves stuffed parathas with enough butter to make your gym trainer cry.

• Old Jalebi Wala serves jalebis that are hot, crispy, and slightly addictive.

• Natraj Dahi Bhalla and Kuremal Kulfi are names that every food lover swears by.

Don’t forget to carry water, patience, and maybe a few tissues. The food is spicy, but so is the experience.

3. A Mix of Faiths and Cultures

Chandni Chowk reflects the diversity of India. In a short walk, you can find a mosque, a temple, a gurudwara, and a Jain temple—all peacefully co-existing.

• Jama Masjid – One of India’s largest mosques

• Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib – Offering peace and langar

• Gauri Shankar Temple – Dedicated to Lord Shiva

• Lal Mandir (Jain temple) – Famous for its bird hospital

It’s like a spiritual buffet, all in one place.

How Chandni Chowk Got Its Name Chandni Chowk

Now let’s answer the real question—how Chandni Chowk got its name Chandni Chowk.

Back in the Mughal era, the central part of the market had a water canal running through it. This canal reflected the moonlight during the night, and the market used to shine with a silvery glow. The word “Chandni” means moonlight, and “Chowk” means square or marketplace.

So, the name Chandni Chowk literally means “Moonlight Market” or “Moonlit Square.”

Imagine shopping under the moonlight, with the sound of water flowing beside you. Quite romantic, right? Today, the canal is gone, but the name—and the charm—remains.

Fun Realities of Chandni Chowk

• You’ll enter from one lane and come out from somewhere you didn’t even plan to go.

• Asking for directions usually leads to more confusion—but also some great food spots.

• Bargaining is not just allowed—it’s expected.

• It’s the only place where you can buy a lehenga, a light bulb, and a plate of chole bhature—all within 200 steps.

Basically, Chandni Chowk is the original version of Amazon, but with real humans and real chaos.

Places to Visit Near Chandni Chowk

• Red Fort – Right at the entrance of the market

• Raj Ghat – The resting place of Mahatma Gandhi

• Chawri Bazaar – Known for printing and stationery

• Fatehpuri Masjid – Built by Shah Jahan’s wife

• Spice Market (Khari Baoli) – Asia’s largest spice market

And if you're brave enough, take a cycle rickshaw ride—it’s bumpy, exciting, and feels like a mini rollercoaster.

Final Thoughts

Chandni Chowk is not just a marketplace—it's a feeling. It’s where history, culture, chaos, and charm come together. It may not have the shiny malls or air conditioning, but it has a soul. A loud, colorful, beautiful soul.

So next time someone asks you why Chandni Chowk is so famous or how it got its name, just tell them: because it was born to shine—first under moonlight, now under fairy lights.