In a city like Delhi that seamlessly merges Mughal history and traditions with modern-day skyscrapers, one single place embodies culture, luxury, and community: Khan Market in Delhi. Ask a Dilliwala, and they will tell you that Khan Market is not just a shopping place; it is an emotion. Located in the heart of the nation’s capital, Khan Market is an upscale market that caters to fashion, flavours, and flair.
Whether you are a native or a traveller chasing the allure of the bustling city, Khan Market in Delhi deserves to be on your list. But why does this place hold so much significance?
A Market with a Story
Khan Market has a history behind it, named in honour of freedom fighter Abdul Jabbar Khan and was first established (post-Partition) in 1951 as a refugee settlement for families displaced by Partition. Today, it is one of the most expensive real estate spaces in India and ranks alongside shopping locations like 5th Avenue and Oxford Street.
Still, despite its high-end retail space, Khan Market in Delhi has managed to hang onto its intimacy. The U-shaped double-storeyed arrangement is itself a strong sense of building community. You will often see café customers being acknowledged by name. Shopkeepers here are often engaging with long-time customers with warmth and affection, and treat their customers like their own “Family”.
What is Khan Market in Delhi famous for?
Khan Market in Delhi is famous for its curated combination of both high-end and eccentric, the kind of combination which urges you to stay longer than you originally planned to. On one hand, you have shops in Khan Market selling sensational designer sarees alongside revealed crevices containing rare stationery; the selection is extraordinary.
Fashionistas would put a stamp of approval on high-end boutiques like Fabindia and Anokhi, foodies line up patiently outside of SodaBottleOpenerWala or Chatterhouse. Are you in search of a peculiar candle, a French novel, or maybe a decorative Bohemian lamp? You can find all of this and everything else here.
Books, Beauty, and a Bit of Brilliance
Khan Market in Delhi features Faqir Chand Bookstore, a bookstore with a soul, which is one of the market’s most beloved spots. You can immerse yourself in hardcovers and paperbacks as you sip coffee in the café above. Whether you’re looking for novels from abroad or something lesser known, this is your dedicated space.
On the opposing end of the market, you will find doorways of Forest Essentials and Kama Ayurveda. This is more than shopping, it’s retail therapy to the fullest.
Where Food Tells Its Own Story
What? Are you planning to visit the Khan Market in Delhi, and haven’t tried the food? For many, it’s not just food, it’s a “Steal The Show Experience”. From dim sums at Mr. Choy to the funky drinks at Out Of The Box, each meal is a bomb of flavour.
And if you’re on a low budget? Walk to UPSC Lane. The spicy Kalash Ji ke Samose or the tangy treats from Prachu Chaat Bhandar are local legends.
Getting to Khan Market, Delhi
To reach Khan Market from Indira Gandhi International Airport, you can get on the Airport Express, switch to the Violet Line, and alight at Khan Market Metro Station. From there, it’s only a 10-minute walk.
If public transport isn’t your thing in Khan Market in Delhi, then you can take a cab, which is quicker than public transport.
Khan Market in Delhi: Click Photos for Instagram
Don’t forget to take a camera. With cute little bookshops, contemporary art galleries, and that well-known Khan Market tunnel of shopping with natural light, it is an Instagram/Snapchat memory for sure.
And if you are in the neighbourhood of Khan Market, then you should visit India Gate, Lodhi Gardens, or the National Gallery of Modern Art.
Make Great Memories in Khan Market
For first-time visitors, Khan Market in Delhi is a kind of magical experience, and not in a bad way, but in a great way! It is not just a retail therapy stop, but it is also part of the changing face of Delhi, just like Connaught Place as it has a rich history & food.
Khan Market always has a “WOW” factor attached to it, whether you are sipping coffee by yourself, at a hair salon, or looking in awe at rare novels for sale.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best time to visit Khan Market in Delhi?
Khan Market in Delhi is less crowded on Weekdays. Mornings or early evenings give the best ambience and photo ops.
2. Is Khan Market expensive?
Khan Market in Delhi is famous for both its cheap and expensive rates. Some stores are high-end, but you’ll also find affordable food joints and quirky budget-friendly corners.
3. Are pets allowed in Khan Market?
Yes, pets are allowed as it’s one of the most pet-friendly areas.
4. Is parking available near Khan Market?
Yes, but it’s a bit tricky during peak hours. Arrive early or consider public transport.