Chandni Chowk
North India Region
Chandni Chowk, meaning "Moonlight Square," is a historic market in Old Delhi, India, established in 1650 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and designed by his daughter Jahanara Begum. Originally featuring a half-moon shaped square with a reflecting pool and water channels that shimmered under moonlight, the market was a grand commercial hub with 1,560 shops arranged in a distinctive pattern. It was renowned for its silver trade, earning the nickname "Silver Street." Over time, the reflecting pool was replaced by a clock tower, known as Ghantaghar, which remains the market's central landmark. Chandni Chowk was a prominent route for imperial Mughal processions and has retained much of its historical character despite modern congestion. The market comprises three main bazaars-Urdu Bazaar, Johri Bazar, and Fatehpuri Bazar-each with its own unique history and cultural significance. The surrounding streets, known as kuchas and katras, historically housed guilds and merchant communities, contributing to the area's rich architectural and social fabric. Today, Chandni Chowk remains one of India's largest wholesale markets and a vibrant center for shopping and heritage tourism.
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Tip: The best time to visit Chandni Chowk is early morning or late evening to avoid heavy crowds and traffic congestion. Visitors are advised to explore the market on foot to fully experience its narrow lanes and diverse shops. It is recommended to purchase tickets or plan tours in advance if visiting nearby attractions like the Red Fort. Discounts may be available for group tours or with certain travel passes. Carrying cash is advisable as many small vendors may not accept cards. Modest clothing and comfortable footwear are recommended due to the market's bustling nature.
Interesting facts
- •Chandni Chowk was originally designed with water channels to reflect moonlight, giving the market its name meaning 'Moonlight Square'.
- •The market was once known as 'Silver Street' due to its thriving silver trade.
- •The central reflecting pool was replaced by a clock tower called Ghantaghar in the 1870s, which still stands today.
- •The Urdu language is said to have been named after the 'Urdu Bazaar' section of Chandni Chowk, meaning 'encampment market'.
- •Chandni Chowk was a major route for Mughal imperial processions and grand displays of emperors.
History
Chandni Chowk was established in 1650 during the founding of Shahjahanabad, the Mughal capital, by Emperor Shah Jahan.
Designed by his daughter Jahanara Begum, the market originally featured a reflecting pool and water channels sourced from the Yamuna River, creating a shimmering moonlit effect that inspired its name.
Over centuries, the pool was replaced by a clock tower in the 1870s, and the market evolved into three distinct bazaars: Urdu Bazaar, Johri Bazar, and Fatehpuri Bazar.
It served as a key commercial and cultural hub during the Mughal era and witnessed significant events such as imperial processions and the Delhi Durbar of 1903.
Despite damage during the Indian Rebellion of 1857 and subsequent urban changes, Chandni Chowk has retained its historical significance and remains a vibrant marketplace.
Place Guide
Ghantaghar (Clock Tower)1870s
The central landmark of Chandni Chowk, built in the 1870s replacing the original reflecting pool. It serves as a historic meeting point and symbol of the market.
Urdu Bazaar17th century origins
The stretch from Lahori Gate of the Red Fort to Chowk Kotwali, historically an encampment market that lent its name to the Urdu language. It was heavily damaged during the 1857 rebellion.
Johri Bazar17th century origins
The middle section of Chandni Chowk, historically known for its jewelry shops and commercial activity.
Fatehpuri Bazar17th century origins
The western section of Chandni Chowk leading to Fatehpuri Masjid, named after the mosque and known for diverse shops and bazaars.