Introduction

Heritage walk through the endless labyrinth of Old Delhi is a great way to get a glimpse into the city’s 350 years of documented history. Such a walk is organized by The Indian National Trust for Art & Cultural Heritage (INTACH Delhi Chapter) in collaboration with Heritage Society of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, Delhi Tourism and Transport Development Corporation, on Saturdays and Sundays. The walk begins around 8 in the morning from Shri Digambara Jain Lal Mandir and Bird Hospital in front of the Red Fort, and takes you through a time warp into the Middle Ages. Stroll past Gauri Shankar Temple, State Bank of India, Central Baptist Church, Gurdwara Sisganj, Sunehri Masjid, Paranthe Wali Gali, Nau Ghara, Katra Khushal Rai, Digambara Temple, Dharampur, and Gali Gulian.

You can walk by and learn about many places of historic, religious, and architectural importance, intricately designed havelis, gateways and arches. Wade through crowds of beggars, small shops selling kebabs and other Mughlai delicacies, street vendors, and hawkers hawking caps, religious posters, and rosary. Stop at Raj Ghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and continue to Jama Masjid that stands sentinel over Old Delhi. It is the greatest mosque in India, and definitely the largest, with a courtyard capable of accommodating 25,000 worshipers. Follow it up with a cycle-rickshaw ride through the lanes and by-lanes of the colorful bazaars of Chandni Chowk. A trip to Chandni Chowk is incomplete without splurging on traditional Indian snacks and other specialty. Fork your way to Paranthe Wali Gali and treat your palate to some stuffed paranthas (Indian bread) served piping hot with dollops of pure ghee on it. This includes an amble down Dariba Kalan – the jeweler’s street, and the embroidery and brocade market of Kinari Bazaar.

A walk through these haunts from a forgotten era, built by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan, evokes a sense of nostalgia and timelessness. Let the guide tell you about the fascinating history of these crumbling havelis, point out the architectural elements and shed light on its inhabitants and their way of life. One such ruined mansion belonged to the eminent 19th century Urdu poet Mirza Ghalib. This tour enables interaction amid the walkers, a great exchange of information, and an insight into the historical richness of the Old Delhi’s walled city.

Special Attributes

It is an easy guided walk through the meandering lanes of Old Delhi's walled city. Let the guide tell you about the fascinating history of the crumbling havelis, point out the architectural elements, and shed light on the royal families that lived here and their way of life. 

Nuisance

Beggars, pick pockets, hawkers, and touts

Dressing restrictions

Wear anything you are comfortable in, avoid wearing short or revealing clothes since you will be strolling through crowded bazaars.

Connectivity

Interstate bus, train, metro-rail, taxi or auto-rickshaw

Enjoyed by

A treat for history lovers; Families, Backpackers

Exposure

You will be outdoors and walking through narrow lanes. If you are taking the tour during the day, you will have to be under the harsh sun. So, it is best to carry your sunglasses, sunblock cream and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

May, June, July, August

Facilities

Since it is a guided tour, you can have a better insight into the places and their complex history.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Walk close to your group and avoid taking a stroll or exploring all by yourself. Be wary of hawkers and beggars all along.

Type of site

A walking tour past the heritage sites of Old Delhi