From budget shopping to cultural thrills, Old Delhi offers countless experiences that won’t cost a rupee. Whether you're a student, traveller, or smart shopper, this guide helps you explore the best of Chandni Chowk — all for free. With insights from SavePlus India, discover hidden gems and saving hacks that make every step through Old Delhi rich with value.

Visit the Majestic Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid, a 17th-century architectural marvel, is one of India’s most iconic mosques, built by Emperor Shah Jahan. Located in the heart of Old Delhi, it serves as a serene retreat from the city's hustle. The structure is adorned with intricate carvings, red sandstone, and white marble domes. Entry to the mosque is free for all visitors, promoting accessibility and inclusivity. It's a peaceful place to reflect, explore Islamic heritage, and enjoy panoramic views of Chandni Chowk.

• Climb up the minaret for panoramic views of Chandni Chowk. A small fee applies for the climb, but the bird’s-eye view of Delhi’s rooftops is a reward in itself.
  
  
• Admire the Islamic calligraphy and marble inlay work inside. The detailed ornamentation on the walls offers insight into Mughal artistry and Persian design.
  
  
• Perfect for history buffs, photographers, and architecture lovers. Whether you're interested in culture or Instagram-worthy frames, Jama Masjid offers it all.

Pro Tip: Visit early morning or at sunset for crowd-free views and softer lighting that enhances photography.

Seek Peace at Gauri Shankar Temple

Gauri Shankar Temple, situated near the Digambar Jain Lal Mandir, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its calm atmosphere and intricate sculptures draw devotees and tourists alike. As a spiritual landmark, it reflects India’s deep-rooted temple traditions. The temple is most vibrant during festive days like Shivratri. Open to all, this sacred site invites you to experience peace amidst urban chaos.

• Experience morning aarti or evening prayers in tranquility. The devotional chants and temple bells add a calming rhythm to your visit.
  
  
• Marvel at the silver-plated Lingam and lotus carvings. Symbolizing purity and strength, the silver idols showcase India’s sacred craftsmanship.
  
  
• Explore during festivals like Mahashivratri for colorful rituals. The temple glows with energy during major Hindu celebrations, enhancing the spiritual vibe.

Pro Tip: Dress modestly and leave your footwear outside for a respectful and uninterrupted temple experience.

Explore Khari Baoli – Asia’s Largest Spice Market

Khari Baoli is a sensory overload — India's oldest and largest spice market that remains a hub for wholesale traders and retail visitors. Dating back to the 17th century, it showcases a vast collection of Indian spices, dry fruits, herbs, and aromatics. Walking through its narrow lanes is like stepping into a fragrant history book. It's a perfect spot for cultural photography and learning about Ayurveda. Entry is free, and learning opportunities are abundant.

• Walk through alleys filled with authentic Indian masalas. From garam masala to asafoetida, vendors display bold spices used in Indian kitchens.
  
  
• Learn about traditional Ayurveda herbs and oils. Sellers often share insights about the medicinal use of neem, ashwagandha, and more.
  
  
• Snap Instagram-worthy photos of spices in bulk. The vibrant hues of red chillies and turmeric provide a perfect visual contrast for photos.

Pro Tip: Visit during weekdays to avoid the wholesale rush and enjoy leisurely conversations with local traders.

Window Shop for Rare Books at Nai Sarak

Nai Sarak connects Chandni Chowk to Chawri Bazaar and is famed for its collection of academic and literary treasures. A paradise for students, it’s lined with bookstores that house school guides, competitive exam materials, and regional literature. The joy of flipping through hard-to-find books is unmatched, especially in today’s digital age. The best part? Browsing is free, and you’re never rushed. It’s a peaceful spot for readers to reconnect with printed words.

• Find old school textbooks, Hindi novels, and Sanskrit scriptures. Many shops carry rare editions unavailable online or in commercial bookstores.
  
  
• Interact with shopkeepers offering local reading suggestions. Many owners are bibliophiles themselves and gladly recommend must-read titles.
  
  
• Smell the nostalgia of yellowed pages and dust jackets. The air carries the familiar scent of aging paper — a treat for any book lover.

Pro Tip: Check during exam seasons — March and September — when book availability and deals are at their peak.

Observe Food-Making in Paranthe Wali Gali

Paranthe Wali Gali is a narrow, bustling food lane in Chandni Chowk known for serving generations-old recipes. This iconic destination offers a culinary spectacle, even if you choose not to eat. Watch cooks effortlessly roll, stuff, and deep-fry parathas stuffed with unusual fillings like rabri, banana, and even karela. The aromas alone are enough to entice. Best of all, observing this vibrant street kitchen is entirely free.

• Witness centuries-old cooking traditions in action. The techniques used here have been passed down through multiple family generations.
  
  
• See how banana, rabri, and papad parathas are made. You’ll be surprised by the variety of fillings, each carefully seasoned and cooked.
  
  
• Absorb the sizzle and aroma of desi ghee in the air. The sound of frying and the scent of spices make it a sensory feast.

Pro Tip: Return during Holi or Diwali to see the festive makeover and seasonal specialties on the menu.

Admire Street Art Near Ajmeri Gate

Delhi’s street art movement has brought color and creativity to formerly neglected spaces. Near Ajmeri Gate, you’ll find bold murals depicting Indian freedom fighters, cultural icons, and Mughal history. These government-commissioned artworks turn public walls into educational exhibits. A simple walk here can turn into a visual storytelling experience. It’s a new-age way to learn about Indian history for free.

• Discover colorful wall art on government and railway buildings. These large-scale paintings bring forgotten stories to the public eye.
  
  
• Click portraits of freedom fighters and Mughal motifs. Capture visual tributes to Rani Laxmi Bai, Bhagat Singh, and more.
  
  
• Explore after sundown to see illuminated works. Some murals feature solar-powered lights that enhance their visibility at night.
  

Pro Tip: Combine this visit with a metro ride from Chawri Bazaar or New Delhi station for convenience.

Sit in Silence at Sis Ganj Sahib Gurudwara

Sis Ganj Sahib is one of the most revered Gurudwaras in Delhi, built on the site where Guru Tegh Bahadur was martyred. A visit here provides a deep spiritual experience, free from commercial distractions. The Gurudwara welcomes all, offering peace, shelter, and a sense of belonging. Visitors are encouraged to sit quietly, listen to hymns, or participate in Langar. The atmosphere exudes devotion, unity, and warmth.

• Listen to kirtans and hymns inside the prayer hall. The soft, rhythmic music calms the mind and lifts the spirit.
  
  
• Volunteer or partake in the free langar for a spiritual meal. Enjoy simple yet hearty food served with love by volunteers.
  
  
• Learn about Sikh history and resilience through the shrine. The museum's on-site highlights Sikh values, martyrs, and community service.

Pro Tip: Cover your head and wash your hands before entering to respect Gurudwara customs.

Capture Red Fort’s Outer Beauty for Free

The Red Fort, though ticketed inside, allows free access to its vast outer complex. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a monument of India’s independence and Mughal glory. Its red sandstone walls and colossal gates are ideal for capturing vivid images. Morning visits allow you to experience it in golden sunlight. The atmosphere around the fort often includes artists, musicians, and street vendors.

• Shoot wide-angle frames of the fort's towering red walls. The scale and symmetry of the fort make it a photography favorite.
  
  
• Observe local artists sketching the façade. Many creatives use the site as inspiration for drawings and portraits.
  
  
• See patriotic decorations before Republic Day and Independence Day. Flags, lights, and floral arrangements adorn the surroundings during national holidays.

Pro Tip: Visit early on national holidays to catch police band rehearsals or flag ceremonies nearby.

Attend Qawwali at Nizamuddin Dargah

Though slightly outside Chandni Chowk, Nizamuddin Dargah is a spiritual landmark offering soulful Sufi music for free. On Thursday evenings, qawwals perform devotional songs in front of a live audience. The rhythmic clapping and poetic lyrics create a transcendent atmosphere. The Dargah also attracts writers, musicians, and pilgrims. It's a cultural escape that doesn’t cost a rupee.

• Listen to powerful Sufi poetry in live vocal harmony. Qawwali sessions start after evening prayers and go on into the night.
  
  
• Watch the crowd sway under moonlit courtyards. The audience often joins in, adding to the emotional intensity of the music.
  
  
• Join travelers and locals for a spiritual evening. You'll find a diverse crowd united by devotion and music.

Pro Tip: Arrive by 7 PM for good seating and carry a scarf or cap to cover your head.

Walk the Chandni Chowk Heritage Trail

Chandni Chowk's recent redevelopment has made it friendlier for pedestrians, with wider walkways and organized traffic flow. The area now includes cleaner public spaces, historical signboards, and aesthetic lighting. Walking this trail allows you to absorb centuries of culture, from Mughal architecture to British influences. It’s a rich, free history lesson through India's past and present. Explore at your pace while enjoying street sounds and scenes.

• Discover havelis, silver shops, and iconic eateries along the way. Each turn unveils historic buildings and local marketplaces unchanged for decades.
  
  
• Observe craftsmen and vendors preparing wares early morning. Watch as artisans handcraft silver jewellery or tailor traditional outfits.
  
  
• Perfect for selfies, slow walks, and casual history buffs. The trail offers cultural storytelling ideal for solo or family exploration.

Pro Tip: Use the Chandni Chowk metro station as your starting point for a smooth and budget-friendly commute.

Conclusion

Exploring Old Delhi doesn’t require a lavish budget — just curiosity, culture, and this guide. From majestic monuments to vibrant markets and spiritual sanctuaries, the experiences are priceless yet free. Let SavePlus India be your compass for smart travel and savings. Walk away with memories, not bills — and make every Delhi moment count without spending a rupee.

FAQ

What is the best time to explore Old Delhi for free?
Morning hours (8 AM–11 AM) on weekdays are best to avoid crowds and enjoy peaceful sightseeing.

Are these locations safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, but it's advisable to explore during daylight and stay in well-populated areas.

Can I use public transport to reach Chandni Chowk affordably?
Absolutely. Delhi Metro is the cheapest and most efficient way to reach Old Delhi.

Is photography allowed at these heritage and religious sites?
Yes, except inside prayer halls. Some places, like the Jama Masjid, may charge a camera fee.

Are these free attractions open during national festivals?
Yes, but they may be crowded or have limited access on public holidays like Independence Day.