- Sameer Ghurye
- Updated:
In the heart of Delhi, India’s capital, lies a haven for expatriates and locals alike. Apart from its location, the various landmarks in and around Khan Market, as well as the opportunities to shop for premium Indian and international brands and sample some amazing food make this place a fantastic addition to any visitor’s itinerary. We bring you some of the major highlights from around the Khan Market area.
India International Centre
The India International Centre located a stone’s throw from Khan Market is arguably one of the must-see cultural spots in the city. Established in 1962, the centre has three facets, just like Triveni, the confluence of three rivers. Symposiums, lectures and discussions represent the intellectual stream, dance and musical events by artists from India and abroad showcase the cultural stream, and the hostel and canteen facilities for interaction and exchange of ideas between people from numerous backgrounds represent the social stream. The place is a must visit for the numerous museums and exhibition halls present, and do try to catch a program in the cultural center while you’re on site!
India International Centre, Max Mueller Marg, New Delhi, +91 11 2461 9431
Lodhi Gardens
Right next door to the Khan Market, this lush green park in the midst of the hustle of Delhi is a tranquil haven for visitors. A popular destination for fitness lovers, yoga enthusiasts and laughter club members in the mornings, the serenity of the place draws people of all ages. Named after one of the former rulers of Delhi, the gardens, house, ancient monuments and tombs of the dynasty are all visible here. The Lodi Garden restaurant offers a wonderful view to enjoy over a cup of coffee and snacks.
Lodhi Gardens, Max Mueller Marg, New Delhi
Rajpath/Rashtrapati Bhavan
Rajpath (Imperial or Royal Road) is the broad promenade that connects Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Palace) to India Gate and is the heart of the Indian capital. With broad lawns on both sides and serene open surroundings, the stretch is also the scene of the annual Republic Day parade held on 26 January. Impressive in both its layout and the architecture of the various government buildings that cover the entire stretch, this one’s surely worth a visit!
India Habitat Center
Another cultural landmark, the India Habitat Centre is an exhibition center and performance auditorium that plays host to numerous cultural and social events. It was conceived as a place to ‘to restore at every level – environment and ecological – a balanced, harmonious and improved way of life’. The Habitat’s Visual Art Center (HVAC) and library are definitely worth a visit. The National Museum, housing archeological specimens, the crafts museum showcasing craft traditions from across the country and the National gallery of Modern Art are all located within the sprawling nine-acre campus of here. The All American Diner located on the IHC campus is also one of the best places to eat in the heart of Delhi, and is open to non-members.
India Habitat center, Lodhi Road, New Delhi, +91 11 2468 2002
Purana Qila (Old Fort)
Some distance from Khan Market but reachable within 10 minutes by road, Purana Qila or Old Fort is one of the oldest structures in Delhi. Built by Sher Shah Suri, the fort is reportedly located on the site of Hastinapur, the capital of the Pandavas, heroes of the Mahabharata. The fort houses a museum of excavated artifacts, a stepped well, a mosque and hosts a sound and light show in the evening. Visitors can also take boat rides in the lake alongside the fortress walls.
Purana Qila, Mathura road, New Delhi
Shopping
Khan Market is one of the best shopping destinations for expats and visitors, with a variety of Indian and international brands present here. For ethnic Indian garments, check out Anokhi, Good Earth and the Fabindia store. Anand Stationers sells handmade paper items and Amrapali deals in Indian jewelry and precious objects infused with a modern touch of creativity and innovation.
Food
Khan market is home to some of Delhi’s renowned upscale eateries, as well as old favorites. Try out the delicious moghlai rolls and kebabs at Khan Chacha, the unique flavors of mutton berry pulao from Parsi (Zoroastrian) cuisine at SodaBottleOpenerwala, celebrity chef Ritu Dalmia’s Italian specialties at Latitude 28, or Mamagoto’s pan Asian flavors spanning everything from sushi to pad Thai. A host of other eateries, restaurants, bakeries and watering holes span the area, suited to a variety of palates and budgets.
