Paharganj

The basics

At the heart of Paharganj is the Main Bazaar, a long road flanked with shops, restaurants, and hotels. Shops closest to the railway station tend to sell suitcases and goods marketed toward domestic travelers, but as you go deeper in, you’ll start coming across places selling hippie clothes, tapestries, and souvenirs, alongside ultra-cheap backpacker hotels. Even if you aren’t staying here, it’s a great place to shop, and it's featured on plenty of shopping tours.

Things to know before you go

• Paharganj is a must-visit for travelers looking to pick up bohemian clothes or inexpensive souvenirs.
• Wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen, as much of the market is outdoors.
• Main Bazaar is wheelchair accessible, but many of the shops have steps up from the street.
• Don’t forget to haggle; most shops here have flexible pricing.

How to get there

The Main Bazaar of Paharganj is located where New Delhi and Old Delhi converge. It’s just across the street from the New Delhi Railway Station and about a 10-minute drive from Connaught Place. The closest metro stations are at Jhandewalan (on the Blue Line) and New Delhi Metro Station (on the Yellow Line and Airport Line).

When to get there

Like many markets in Delhi, Paharganj is officially closed on Mondays, though a number of shops still remain open. It tends to be crowded all the time, owing largely to its proximity to the train station and its constant influx of passengers. Visiting before noon will likely get you the best deals (as some sellers like to give deals to the first customer of the day for good luck).

Alternatives to Paharganj

While many backpackers flock to Paharganj for its budget-friendly accommodations, there are plenty of other little pockets with good deals in Delhi. Other areas to find bargain rooms include Connaught Place nearby, Karol Bagh (popular with Indian travelers), and Majnu-ka-Tilla, a Tibetan neighborhood a bit further out.