Best Street Food in Chandni Chowk – What and Where to Eat
Discover Chandni Chowk's famous street food, from traditional parathas and chaat to sweets and savoury snacks, with guidance on food lanes, local specialities and hygiene.
+91 9910402252
admin@chalbanjare.com
Discover how to spend three days in Delhi with a day-wise sightseeing plan covering historical landmarks, local markets, food experiences and practical transport tips.
The best places to visit in Delhi in 3 days include Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Humayun's Tomb, India Gate, Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. These attractions represent different periods of Delhi's history, religious traditions and modern urban culture. Three days also provide opportunities to explore museums, gardens, shopping markets and local food without concentrating every activity into a rushed schedule.
For a practical three-day Delhi sightseeing itinerary, explore Old Delhi on the first day, Central and New Delhi on the second, and South Delhi on the third. This geographical arrangement helps reduce unnecessary journeys between distant attractions.
Red Fort, also known as Lal Qila, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built during the reign of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Its imposing red sandstone walls, ceremonial gateways and surviving palace structures make it one of Delhi's most important historical landmarks.
Visitors can explore the accessible sections of the fort and learn about its architectural and historical significance. Allow approximately 90 minutes to two hours for a comfortable visit.
Jama Masjid is among Delhi's most significant Mughal-era mosques. Its large courtyard, red sandstone architecture and marble details attract visitors interested in religious heritage and historical buildings.
The mosque is located near Chandni Chowk, making it convenient to visit during an Old Delhi walking tour. Allow around 30 to 45 minutes, subject to prayer arrangements and visitor restrictions.
Chandni Chowk is one of Delhi's oldest commercial districts, known for jewellery, textiles, spices, traditional sweets and narrow market streets. Visitors can explore selected lanes, observe local trading traditions and enjoy regional food specialities.
The market can become crowded during weekends and festive periods. Walking is generally more practical than using a private vehicle within the busiest lanes.
Humayun's Tomb is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognised for its monumental architecture and symmetrical garden layout. The complex contains the main mausoleum and several smaller historical structures.
It is particularly suitable for visitors interested in Mughal history, architecture and heritage photography. Allow approximately 90 minutes to two hours.
India Gate is a major war memorial located along Kartavya Path. It commemorates Indian soldiers who died during the First World War and related military campaigns.
The surrounding avenues are popular for sightseeing and evening walks. Visitors can also explore the nearby National War Memorial, subject to current access and security arrangements.
Qutub Minar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mehrauli. The complex contains the tall minaret, Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Iron Pillar, Alai Darwaza and other historical structures associated with the Delhi Sultanate.
Visitors can explore the monument grounds and examine the intricate stone carvings and inscriptions. Climbing inside the minaret is not permitted. Allow approximately one to two hours.
Lotus Temple is known for its distinctive flower-shaped architecture and peaceful prayer hall. Located in the Kalkaji area, it welcomes visitors from different religious backgrounds.
Visitors should maintain silence inside the prayer hall and follow photography restrictions. The temple normally remains closed on Mondays.
Swaminarayan Akshardham is a large cultural and spiritual complex known for its detailed stone architecture, exhibitions and landscaped surroundings.
Visitors can explore the main monument and choose from available cultural experiences. Strict security arrangements apply, and mobile phones, cameras and various electronic items are restricted. Allow several hours if planning to attend exhibitions.
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is an important Sikh place of worship near Connaught Place. It is known for its golden dome, sacred sarovar and community kitchen, where langar is served.
Visitors should cover their heads, remove their shoes and maintain respectful behaviour. Allow approximately 30 to 45 minutes for a short visit.
Lodhi Garden combines landscaped walking paths with historical structures associated with the Sayyid and Lodhi periods. It is a pleasant destination for walking, photography and relaxed sightseeing.
The garden is particularly enjoyable during cooler mornings and late afternoons when weather and air-quality conditions are suitable.
Planning recommendation: Select three or four principal attractions each day, with additional nearby stops only when time permits. Large complexes such as Red Fort, Qutub Minar and Akshardham require substantial sightseeing time, so avoid treating them as quick photography stops.
Begin your Delhi 3 days itinerary in Old Delhi, where Mughal-era monuments, traditional bazaars and historic food streets are located close together. The first day focuses on Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk and Raj Ghat, with enough time to explore the area's heritage without rushing. Walking and short metro or cab journeys are generally the most practical ways to travel between these attractions.
Start the morning in Chandni Chowk, one of Delhi's oldest commercial districts. The area contains traditional shops, religious buildings, narrow market lanes and food establishments associated with Old Delhi's trading history.
Enjoy breakfast at an established local eatery. Popular options include chole bhature, stuffed parathas and traditional snacks, although individual restaurants follow different opening hours.
Explore selected lanes rather than attempting to cover the entire market. Many retail shops open later in the morning, so this early visit is better suited to breakfast, photography and observing the neighbourhood.
Continue to Red Fort, one of Delhi's most significant historical landmarks. Built during the reign of Shah Jahan, the fort served as an important centre of Mughal imperial life.
Visitors can explore the accessible palace structures, gateways and courtyards while learning about the fort's architecture and historical importance. Allow approximately two hours for security checks and sightseeing.
Confirm current entry arrangements before visiting, particularly around major national events when security restrictions may affect access.
Travel towards Jama Masjid, one of Delhi's important Mughal-era mosques. Its large courtyard, red sandstone construction and marble architectural details make it a worthwhile stop for visitors interested in religious heritage.
Dress modestly and follow the mosque's visitor instructions. Tourist access may be restricted during prayers, particularly around Friday congregational worship.
Allow approximately 30 to 45 minutes, although religious activities may require adjustments to the schedule.
Old Delhi is an excellent place to experience traditional local food. Chandni Chowk is associated with chaat, parathas, jalebi and sweets, while the streets around Jama Masjid and Matia Mahal are known for kebabs, biryani and Mughlai dishes.
Choose an established restaurant with good hygiene standards and allow enough time for queues. During summer, an indoor dining break can provide welcome relief from the heat.
After lunch, travel towards Raj Ghat, the memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. The memorial is surrounded by landscaped grounds and offers a quieter atmosphere than the crowded streets of Old Delhi.
Visitors can pay their respects and explore the accessible memorial area. Allow approximately 30 to 45 minutes, with additional time for the journey.
Maintain respectful behaviour and follow any security instructions.
Travellers interested in local history can use the remaining afternoon to explore selected heritage streets around Old Delhi or visit another nearby attraction, depending on opening hours and available energy.
Those travelling with children or senior citizens may prefer returning to the hotel for a rest break. Old Delhi involves considerable walking, and extending the day unnecessarily can make the following two days less comfortable.
Spend the evening enjoying dinner near your hotel or exploring a convenient local market. Travellers staying around Central Delhi can also visit Connaught Place for restaurants and cafés.
Avoid adding distant monuments after a full day in Old Delhi. Keep the evening flexible, particularly if you plan to start early the following morning.
Day 1 travel recommendation: Keep the first day focused on Old Delhi and nearby attractions. The area is best explored partly on foot, with metro or cab transfers for longer journeys. Avoid carrying heavy luggage through the crowded market streets.
The second day of your Delhi itinerary focuses on Central and New Delhi's important landmarks, religious attractions, museums and shopping districts. India Gate, the National War Memorial, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib and Connaught Place provide a balanced sightseeing experience without requiring extensive travel across the city. Travellers interested in museums or architecture can also include selected nearby attractions.
Begin the day at Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, an important Sikh place of worship near Connaught Place. The complex is recognised for its golden dome, sacred sarovar and community kitchen, where langar is served.
Visitors can observe the prayer hall and learn about Sikh traditions and community service. Heads must be covered and shoes removed before entering.
Allow approximately 45 minutes to one hour, including time for entry arrangements.
Continue towards Connaught Place, one of Delhi's principal shopping and commercial districts. Its circular layout, white colonnaded buildings, restaurants and retail stores reflect the planned development of New Delhi during the British period.
Visitors interested in historical science can include Jantar Mantar, an eighteenth-century astronomical observatory located nearby. Its large masonry instruments were designed for astronomical measurements.
Allow approximately 30 to 45 minutes for Jantar Mantar. If shopping is a priority, spend more time exploring Connaught Place and nearby Janpath instead.
Travel towards India Gate and Kartavya Path. India Gate is a major war memorial commemorating Indian soldiers who died during the First World War and related campaigns.
Visitors can walk through designated public areas and explore the nearby National War Memorial, subject to current access arrangements.
The area is largely outdoors, so morning or late-afternoon visits are more comfortable during warmer months. Allow approximately one hour for a relaxed visit.
Enjoy lunch around Connaught Place, Khan Market or another convenient location along your sightseeing route. These areas have restaurants serving North Indian, regional Indian and international cuisines.
Choose a restaurant that does not require a major detour. A comfortable lunch break is especially useful after walking around India Gate and the surrounding avenues.
Delhi has several museums that offer opportunities to learn about India's history, arts and culture. Choose one based on your interests rather than trying to visit several museums in a short afternoon.
Allow approximately 90 minutes to two hours for one museum. Check its opening days, exhibitions and visitor arrangements before travelling.
Return towards Connaught Place and Janpath if you want to shop for clothing, accessories, handicrafts or souvenirs. Janpath Market is particularly popular for street shopping, while Connaught Place offers established retail stores.
Individual market stalls have different closing times, and some shops may remain closed on particular days. Carry a working digital payment option along with a small amount of cash.
Complete the day with dinner in Central Delhi. Visitors can choose traditional North Indian food, casual cafés or other cuisines according to their preferences.
If you have already explored Connaught Place thoroughly, consider returning to your hotel rather than adding another shopping stop.
Day 2 travel recommendation: Choose one museum and keep shopping flexible. Visitors particularly interested in India Gate photography may prefer visiting the memorial in the late afternoon and moving the museum visit earlier in the day.
The third day of your Delhi 3 days itinerary focuses on South Delhi's historical monuments, religious architecture and landscaped heritage spaces. Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, Humayun's Tomb and Sunder Nursery offer different experiences, but the attractions are spread across several neighbourhoods. A carefully organised route helps make the most of the day without spending excessive time in traffic.
Begin your final sightseeing day at Qutub Minar in Mehrauli. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an important example of Delhi Sultanate architecture.
The complex includes Qutub Minar, Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Iron Pillar, Alai Darwaza and other historical structures. Visitors can explore the grounds and examine the architectural details, although climbing inside the minaret is prohibited.
Allow approximately 90 minutes to two hours. Morning visits are particularly useful during warmer months because much of the complex is outdoors.
After Qutub Minar, continue towards Lotus Temple in the Kalkaji area. The journey crosses busy parts of South Delhi, so travel time depends on traffic and the chosen transport mode.
A private cab is convenient for direct travel, while metro users can plan a connection towards Kalkaji Mandir Metro Station and complete the remaining distance using walking routes or local transport.
Lotus Temple is a Bahá'í House of Worship known for its distinctive flower-shaped architecture. Visitors can admire the exterior and enter the prayer hall for silent reflection, subject to the temple's visiting arrangements.
The temple welcomes visitors from different religious backgrounds. Silence is expected inside, and photography restrictions may apply.
Allow approximately 45 minutes to one hour. The temple normally remains closed on Mondays, so visitors travelling on that day should choose an alternative attraction.
Enjoy lunch around Kalkaji, Nehru Place or another convenient location along the route towards Nizamuddin.
After lunch, continue towards Humayun's Tomb. Avoid choosing a restaurant that requires a significant detour, as the afternoon includes another large historical complex.
Humayun's Tomb is one of Delhi's most important Mughal-era monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The complex features a large central mausoleum, symmetrical gardens and several smaller historical structures.
Visitors can explore the pathways and admire the architectural features that influenced later Mughal garden-tomb designs. The monument is particularly suitable for history enthusiasts and heritage photographers.
Allow approximately 90 minutes to two hours. Carry drinking water because sightseeing involves substantial outdoor walking.
Sunder Nursery is a landscaped heritage park located near Humayun's Tomb. It contains restored monuments, gardens, walking paths and water features.
The park is a pleasant place to relax after visiting historical monuments. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk, explore the accessible heritage structures or spend time in the landscaped surroundings.
Allow approximately one hour or longer if you prefer a relaxed experience. Check current entry arrangements and closing times before visiting.
Travellers more interested in spiritual architecture and cultural exhibitions can replace part of the South Delhi itinerary with a visit to Swaminarayan Akshardham.
The complex is known for its detailed architecture, cultural exhibitions and evening water show. Visitors should allow several hours, particularly when including the exhibitions.
Akshardham is located away from the main South Delhi route, so it is not practical to add a full visit after Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, Humayun's Tomb and Sunder Nursery. Replace at least two of these stops if Akshardham is a priority.
The complex remains closed on Mondays, and mobile phones, cameras and various electronic items are restricted inside.
Day 3 travel recommendation: This is a full sightseeing route involving long transfers and considerable walking. Families with children, senior citizens and visitors travelling during summer may prefer visiting only Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple and Humayun's Tomb, keeping Sunder Nursery optional.
Shopping, local food and evening activities are an important part of a three-day Delhi trip. The city offers traditional bazaars, organised handicraft markets, modern shopping districts and restaurants serving cuisines from different parts of India. Instead of visiting every market separately, choose shopping and dining areas close to your daily sightseeing route.
Chandni Chowk is known for traditional textiles, jewellery, wedding shopping, spices and local food. Its narrow market lanes contain different trading areas, each associated with particular products.
Visitors can explore Dariba Kalan for jewellery-related shopping and Khari Baoli for the wholesale spice trade. The area is crowded, especially during festivals and wedding shopping periods.
Many traditional shops remain closed on Sundays, although individual businesses follow different schedules.
Janpath Market is located near Connaught Place and is popular for affordable clothing, fashion accessories, handicrafts and souvenirs.
Visitors should compare prices and inspect products before purchasing. Bargaining is common at some street stalls, while established shops may follow fixed prices.
Janpath is convenient for Day 2 because it can be combined with Connaught Place and nearby Central Delhi attractions.
Sarojini Nagar Market is popular for affordable clothing, footwear and accessories. It attracts shoppers interested in budget fashion and bargain purchases.
The market can become very crowded, especially during weekends. The main market generally observes a Monday closure, although individual businesses may operate differently.
Travellers should allow additional time for browsing and avoid carrying unnecessary valuables through crowded lanes.
Dilli Haat INA is an organised market featuring handicrafts, textiles and regional food stalls. It provides an opportunity to explore products associated with different Indian states.
The market is suitable for families and visitors who prefer a more structured shopping environment. Entry charges may apply, and stall selections can change over time.
It can be combined with South Delhi sightseeing when time permits.
Lajpat Nagar Central Market is known for ethnic clothing, fabrics, footwear, accessories and wedding-related shopping.
It is a useful option for travellers interested in traditional Indian clothing. The market can become crowded during festive seasons, and many shops observe a Monday weekly closure.
Choose this market instead of Sarojini Nagar or Janpath if ethnic wear is your main shopping interest.
Delhi's food culture includes influences from Punjabi, Mughlai, North Indian and several regional cuisines. Traditional street food is especially popular around Old Delhi and established commercial markets.
Delhi offers several evening experiences, from illuminated landmarks to restaurants, shopping districts and cultural programmes.
Practical recommendation: Choose one main shopping market each day rather than travelling between several distant markets. For food, select busy and hygienic establishments, drink safe water and avoid uncovered items that have been standing in the heat.
Travelling around Delhi over three days is manageable with a combination of metro services, app-based cabs, auto-rickshaws and walking. The Delhi Metro is particularly useful for longer journeys between well-connected neighbourhoods, while private vehicles provide greater comfort for families and groups. The best transport choice depends on your sightseeing route, hotel location and willingness to walk.
The Delhi Metro connects many important areas across Old Delhi, Central Delhi, South Delhi and neighbouring parts of the National Capital Region. It helps visitors avoid road congestion during busy commuting periods.
Travellers can use available QR-based tickets, eligible travel cards and other accepted ticketing options. Short-duration tourist travel cards may also be available, but current prices, validity and conditions should be confirmed with Delhi Metro Rail Corporation.
Begin at Lal Qila or Chandni Chowk Metro Station and explore Red Fort, Jama Masjid and the surrounding market streets on foot. These attractions are located within the Old Delhi area, although crowded lanes can slow movement.
Use a cab or suitable public transport connection to reach Raj Ghat. Return towards your hotel or a convenient dining area after completing sightseeing.
Walking and metro connections are generally more practical than repeatedly driving through Old Delhi's narrow streets.
Start around Gurudwara Bangla Sahib and Connaught Place. Rajiv Chowk Metro Station is useful for accessing Central Delhi.
Continue towards India Gate and the National War Memorial using a cab, auto-rickshaw or a suitable combination of metro and walking. If visiting a museum, choose one located conveniently along the route.
Complete the day around Connaught Place or Janpath to avoid unnecessary cross-city travel.
Begin at Qutub Minar in Mehrauli. Metro users can travel towards Qutab Minar Metro Station and use a short road transfer to reach the monument.
Continue towards Lotus Temple in Kalkaji, followed by Humayun's Tomb and Sunder Nursery near Nizamuddin. This route involves longer transfers than the first two days.
A private cab may be more convenient for families and groups, while independent travellers can combine metro journeys with auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs.
A private cab offers door-to-door transport and can be convenient for families, senior citizens and groups travelling together. It also provides flexibility when sightseeing plans change.
However, traffic congestion and parking restrictions can still increase travel time. Some monuments require visitors to walk from designated vehicle drop-off points.
Before booking, confirm the vehicle category, daily hours, kilometre allowance, parking charges, tolls, driver allowance and additional costs.
App-based cabs are useful for individual transfers between hotels, restaurants and attractions. Auto-rickshaws are convenient for shorter journeys from metro stations to nearby monuments.
Fares vary according to distance, demand and traffic. Use the meter where applicable or confirm the fare before starting if a metered auto-rickshaw journey is unavailable.
Organised sightseeing buses can be an alternative for travellers who prefer a structured route. Delhi Transport Corporation publishes a Delhi Darshan service covering selected landmarks, although routes, fares and operating arrangements should be confirmed before booking.
Such tours generally follow fixed schedules and provide limited time at individual attractions. They are better suited to travellers who want a broad introduction rather than detailed exploration of every monument.
Recommended approach: Use metro and walking routes for Old Delhi and Central Delhi, while considering a private cab for the more widely spaced attractions in South Delhi. This combination can provide a practical balance between cost, comfort and sightseeing time.
The cost of a Delhi 3 days trip depends on hotel standards, transport choices, food preferences and the attractions included. Travellers can plan an economical trip using public transport and budget accommodation or choose a more comfortable experience with private cabs and mid-range hotels. For a realistic budget, calculate accommodation, meals, sightseeing tickets, local transport and a small contingency separately.
Hotel prices vary according to location, travel dates, room category and availability. The following amounts are broad planning estimates rather than confirmed live rates.
A three-day itinerary generally requires two hotel nights when travellers arrive on the first morning and depart on the third evening. Arriving the previous night or departing the following morning may require an additional night.
For a balanced three-day itinerary, staying near a convenient metro station can reduce travel time and expenses.
Delhi offers economical street food, casual restaurants and premium dining options. Food expenses depend on where you eat and the number of meals included.
For three days, a food allowance of approximately ₹1,800–₹4,500 per person may be practical for a mixture of economical meals and casual restaurant dining. Premium restaurants will increase the total.
Delhi Metro is generally an economical option for travelling between major sightseeing districts. Actual fares depend on distance, route and ticketing method.
For rough planning, travellers relying mainly on metro services can allocate approximately ₹300–₹750 per person across three days. Additional auto-rickshaw and cab journeys should be budgeted separately.
Visitors planning extensive road travel may spend considerably more, particularly when using private cabs during peak traffic periods.
Private sightseeing vehicles are generally priced according to vehicle category, booking duration, kilometre allowance and additional charges. The total cost also depends on the number of passengers sharing the vehicle.
Request a complete quotation covering driver allowance, parking, tolls, additional kilometres and extra hours. Avoid assuming that a quoted daily rate includes every expense.
Some of Delhi's most important landmarks are free to visit, while protected monuments and cultural exhibitions require paid tickets.
Ticket prices may differ for Indian and foreign visitors, and separate charges can apply for exhibitions or special experiences. Confirm current rates through official attraction information before travelling.
The following estimates are intended for domestic travellers sharing a hotel room, staying two nights and completing three days of sightseeing. They exclude travel to Delhi, substantial shopping and premium activities.
These are indicative planning estimates rather than package quotations. Solo travellers may spend more on accommodation, while families and groups can share room and vehicle expenses.
Budget recommendation: Accommodation and private transport are usually the largest variable expenses. Choosing a conveniently located hotel and following a well-organised sightseeing route can help control costs while leaving enough time to enjoy Delhi's attractions.
The best time to visit Delhi for a three-day sightseeing trip is generally during the cooler months, particularly February and early March when outdoor conditions are often comfortable. However, seasonal weather, air pollution, monument opening hours and weekly closures can affect your itinerary. Since three days involve several outdoor attractions, checking these conditions before departure is essential.
Red Fort is generally visited during daytime monument hours, commonly listed as approximately 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Published information about Monday closures has varied, so travellers should confirm the current Archaeological Survey of India schedule before visiting.
Allow approximately 90 minutes to two hours. Security preparations around Independence Day and other major events may affect access.
Qutub Minar is generally open throughout the week during designated monument visiting hours. Morning visits are preferable during warmer months because much of the complex is outdoors.
Allow approximately one to two hours. Climbing inside the minaret is not permitted.
Humayun's Tomb is generally open throughout the week during designated monument visiting hours. The complex contains extensive gardens and historical structures, so comfortable footwear is important.
Allow approximately 90 minutes to two hours for sightseeing.
Lotus Temple normally remains closed on Mondays. Its visiting hours vary by season, and access to the prayer hall is subject to visitor arrangements.
Visitors should maintain silence inside and follow photography restrictions. Allow approximately 45 minutes to one hour.
Swaminarayan Akshardham is normally open from Tuesday to Sunday, with first entry currently listed from 10:00 AM and last entry at 6:30 PM. The complex remains closed on Mondays.
General entry to the mandir complex is free, while exhibitions and the evening water show have separate ticket arrangements. Mobile phones, cameras and various electronic items are restricted inside.
Allow several hours if planning to explore the exhibitions. Confirm current visitor arrangements and water show timings before travelling.
Jama Masjid is an active mosque, and tourist access may be restricted during prayers and religious occasions. Visitors should dress modestly and follow local instructions.
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib generally welcomes visitors throughout the day and night, subject to security arrangements. Heads must be covered and shoes removed before entering.
Final travel recommendation: A three-day Delhi itinerary provides a good balance of historical sightseeing, cultural attractions, local food and shopping. By dividing the city into manageable areas, choosing suitable transport and keeping enough flexibility for weather and traffic, visitors can explore Delhi comfortably without unnecessary rushing.
Get customized Delhi tour planning designed around traffic flow, seasonal weather comfort, heritage site exploration time, and realistic city pacing. Whether you are visiting for historical monuments, cultural experiences, food walks, shopping districts,
⚡ Quick Response | 💰 Free consultation | 🕒 24×7 expert support
