3 Days in Old Delhi for Family Fun

Old Delhi is like stepping into a living history book with flavors, sounds, and sights that kids and adults alike will love. From the narrow lanes filled with mouth-watering street food to the grand Red Fort, there's something here for everyone in the family. I've spent countless afternoons wandering these streets, and I can tell you - the energy is contagious.

Delhi, delhi
3 Days
Family
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Eating jalebi at Chandni Chowk right out of the fryer
Riding a cycle rickshaw through Kinari Bazaar's colorful lanes
Watching the sunset from Jama Masjid's minaret
Trying the famous parathas at Paranthe Wali Gali

Best Time to Visit

OctoberFebruary

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Day 1

Day 1 in Old Delhi

Dive into the heart of Old Delhi with its bustling streets, historic landmarks, and mouthwatering street food. Today is all about soaking in the chaos and charm of this vibrant area.

Activities

Explore the Red Fort
Explore the Red Fort

Start your day at the iconic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 17th century, this massive red sandstone fort is a symbol of India's rich history. Wander through its grand halls, gardens, and museums to get a glimpse of Mughal grandeur.

Netaji Subhash Marg, near Chandni Chowk9:30 AM - 4:30 PM (closed on Mondays)₹35 for Indians, ₹500 for foreigners
Tips:
  • Arrive early to avoid crowds and heat
  • Hire a guide for deeper historical insights
Chandni Chowk Food Walk
Chandni Chowk Food Walk

Head to Chandni Chowk, one of Delhi's oldest and busiest markets, for a food adventure. Try iconic spots like Paranthe Wali Gali for stuffed parathas, Natraj's for their legendary dahi bhalla, and Old Famous Jalebi Wala for crispy jalebis. The narrow lanes are packed with flavors and history.

Chandni Chowk, near Red Fort11:00 AM - 2:00 PM (best before lunch rush)₹200-500 per person
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking
  • Carry cash as many stalls don’t accept cards
Jama Masjid and Surroundings

Visit Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, with its stunning courtyard and minarets offering panoramic views of Old Delhi. Afterward, explore the lively lanes around it, filled with spice markets, fabric shops, and more street food. Don’t miss Karim's nearby for their famous kebabs.

Jama Masjid, opposite Red Fort7:00 AM - 6:30 PM (non-prayer times for tourists)Free (₹300 for camera ticket)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly to enter the mosque
  • Climb the minaret for the best views

Must Try Foods

Aloo paratha at Paranthe Wali Gali
Dahi bhalla at Natraj
Kebabs at Karim's

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Old Delhi Railway Station (1 km, 10-15 mins by rickshaw)
Nearest Bus Stop
Red Fort Bus Stop (frequent buses from major areas)
Metro Station
Chandni Chowk Metro Station (Yellow Line, 5 mins walk to Red Fort)
Cab Availability
Easy to find, but auto-rickshaws are quicker for short distances

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Day 2

Day 2 in Old Delhi

Dive deeper into Old Delhi's rich history and vibrant culture with visits to iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and mouthwatering street food.

Activities

Raj Ghat and Gandhi Memorial
Raj Ghat and Gandhi Memorial

Start your day with a peaceful visit to Raj Ghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. The serene black marble platform marks the spot of his cremation. Walk around the beautifully landscaped gardens and soak in the historical significance. Nearby, the Gandhi Museum offers fascinating insights into his life and legacy.

Raj Ghat, near Delhi GateMorning, around 9-10 AM to avoid crowdsFree entry
Tips:
  • Dress modestly as a sign of respect
  • Carry water as it can get warm
Heritage Walk in Kinari Bazaar

Step into the chaotic charm of Kinari Bazaar, a hidden gem known for its wedding decorations, traditional fabrics, and glittering trinkets. This narrow lane is a sensory overload with vibrant colors, the sound of bargaining, and the smell of street food. Perfect for picking up unique souvenirs like embroidered fabrics or handmade jewelry.

Kinari Bazaar, near Chandni ChowkLate morning, around 11 AM when shops are fully openFree to explore (shopping varies)
Tips:
  • Bargain politely—it’s part of the experience
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking
Lunch at Karim's

No visit to Old Delhi is complete without a meal at Karim's, a legendary eatery serving Mughlai cuisine since 1913. Try their melt-in-your-mouth kebabs, rich mutton curry, and fluffy naan. The no-frills setting adds to the authentic experience.

Karim's, near Jama MasjidLunchtime, around 1 PM₹500-1000 per person
Tips:
  • Arrive early to avoid the lunch rush
  • Don’t miss the mutton burra (spicy grilled chops)

Must Try Foods

Mutton Burra at Karim's
Kulfi Falooda at nearby street stalls
Bedmi Puri with Aloo Sabzi

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Delhi Junction (2 km, 10-15 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Delhi Gate Bus Stand (frequent buses to major areas)
Metro Station
Chawri Bazaar (Yellow Line, 5-10 mins walk to Kinari Bazaar)
Cab Availability
Autos and cabs readily available; use apps like Uber or Ola for convenience

Day 3

Hidden Gems of Old Delhi

Dive deeper into Old Delhi's lesser-known treasures, from historic havelis to bustling markets and unique cultural spots.

Activities

Explore Naughara Gali and Havelis

Step into the quiet charm of Naughara Gali, a narrow lane lined with beautifully preserved havelis (traditional mansions). The colorful facades and intricate carvings offer a glimpse into Old Delhi's aristocratic past. Don't miss the Jain Temple here, a serene spot with stunning glasswork.

Naughara Gali, near Kinari BazaarMorning, around 9-10 AM, when the light is perfect for photosFree (donations welcome at the temple)
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes for uneven lanes
  • Ask locals about the havelis' histories—they love to share stories
Spice Market and Khari Baoli

Get lost in Asia's largest spice market, where the air is thick with the aromas of cardamom, saffron, and dried chilies. Khari Baoli is a sensory overload, with sacks of spices piled high and vendors eager to explain their uses. Stop by the iconic Gole Hatti for their legendary chole bhature.

Khari Baoli, near Fatehpuri MasjidLate morning (11 AM-1 PM) to avoid the midday heatFree to explore; spices start at ₹50 per 100g
Tips:
  • Cover your nose if sensitive to strong smells
  • Bargain politely—prices are often inflated for tourists
Sunset at Nigambodh Ghat

End your day by the Yamuna River at Nigambodh Ghat, one of Delhi's oldest cremation grounds. It's surprisingly peaceful at dusk, with the golden light reflecting off the water. Watch locals perform rituals and take a quiet moment away from the chaos.

Nigambodh Ghat, near ISBT Kashmere GateEvening, around 5:30-6:30 PM (varies by season)Free
Tips:
  • Dress modestly as it's a religious site
  • Avoid photography during ceremonies

Must Try Foods

Gole Hatti's chole bhature
Kuremal's stuffed kulfi
Jalebiwala's hot jalebis

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Delhi Junction (2 km, 10-15 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Red Fort (500m, buses every 10-15 mins)
Metro Station
Chandni Chowk (Yellow Line, 5 mins walk to Naughara Gali)
Cab Availability
Autos and cycle rickshaws everywhere; Uber/Ola work but may avoid narrow lanes

Travel Tips

Start early to beat the crowds at popular spots - Old Delhi wakes up with the sun
Wear comfortable shoes - you'll be walking on uneven surfaces all day
Carry small change for rickshaws and street food stalls
Don't miss the evening light show at Red Fort - kids love it

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