Full Day Old Delhi Experience: Temples, Food, Culture & People

Your day begins at 8:00 AM with a hotel pick-up and a short 30‑minute drive to Connaught Place, Delhi’s colonial-era commercial hub. From here, you will board the metro for a quick 15‑minute, two-stop ride to Chawri Bazaar, where the pulse of Old Delhi immediately surrounds you.

At Chawri Bazaar (30 minutes), you step into a maze of narrow lanes alive with brassware shops and wedding card printers. This market has been a hub of trade and craftsmanship for centuries, and walking through it offers a vivid introduction to the energy and chaos of Old Delhi.

The first spiritual stop is Sant Charan Das Ji / Peepal Mahadev (20 minutes). Nestled under a sacred Peepal tree, this shrine is a quiet corner of devotion amid the bustle. It reflects how faith and daily life intertwine in Delhi, with locals stopping by for blessings before continuing their routines.

Next, you visit the ChitraGupt Temple dedicated to the deity believed to keep records of human deeds. This temple is unique in its mythology, reminding visitors of the moral balance that underpins Hindu belief. Its architecture and atmosphere invite reflection on the values of accountability and justice.

From there, you continue to Naya Mandir (20 minutes), a hidden Jain temple showcasing exquisite carvings and serene courtyards. Jain philosophy emphasizes non-violence and simplicity, and this temple embodies those ideals. It is a quiet retreat that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding chaos of the bazaar.

The ISKCON Chipiwara Temple (20 minutes) is your next stop. Vibrant and full of devotional energy, it offers a glimpse into Krishna worship in Old Delhi. The chanting, colorful interiors, and spiritual warmth make this temple a lively highlight of the morning.

By late morning, you arrive at Jama Masjid (45 minutes), India’s largest mosque built by Shah Jahan in the 17th century. Its grand Mughal architecture, vast courtyard, and towering minarets are awe-inspiring. Guests can climb the steps for panoramic views of Old Delhi, experiencing both the scale of the mosque and the city it anchors.

Lunch is included in the tour (1 hour), with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available at Karim’s or Al Jawahar. These legendary eateries serve authentic Mughlai cuisine — kebabs, korma, and biryani — dishes that carry forward centuries of culinary tradition from the Mughal court.

After lunch, you stroll through Naughara (20 minutes), a picturesque lane of nine colorful Jain houses. This hidden corner is perfect for photographs and storytelling, offering a glimpse into the lives of merchant families who once shaped Old Delhi’s trade.

Paranthey Wali Gali (20 minutes) comes next, where stuffed parathas have been served for generations. Each paratha is a piece of culinary history, and tasting them connects you to the flavors that have made this street a landmark in Delhi’s food culture.

At Sis Ganj Gurudwara (30 minutes), you encounter Sikh heritage and values. This shrine commemorates Guru Tegh Bahadur’s martyrdom, and its langar, or community kitchen, embodies Sikh principles of equality and service. Guests witness faith expressed through hospitality and shared meals.

A cycle rickshaw ride (30 minutes) then carries you through the bustling lanes toward Khari Baoli. This ride is an experience in itself, offering a sensory immersion into Old Delhi’s streets — the sights, sounds, and rhythm of daily life.
Khari Baoli and Gadodia Market (45 minutes) await with towering sacks of spices, from chilies to saffron. As Asia’s largest spice market, it is a place where history, commerce, and aroma converge. Guests learn about the spice trade that has shaped Delhi’s cuisine and global connections.

The afternoon continues with St. Stephen’s Church (30 minutes), a 19th-century Gothic revival structure. Its stained glass windows and colonial architecture tell the story of Delhi’s Christian community during the British era.

Finally, you visit St. Mary’s Church (30 minutes), one of Delhi’s oldest churches, built in 1863. This quiet sanctuary offers insight into the city’s colonial past and the diverse faiths that coexist within its walls.
The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel or accommodation, leaving you with vivid memories of Old Delhi’s food, faith, and heritage woven together in a single, immersive journey.