A Self-Guided Walking Tour Through Old Delhi
- Jack Thompson
- 4 days ago
- 6 min read
Spices, Stories & Sacred Spaces in One Unforgettable Day, A Self-Guided Walking Tour through Old Delhi I have got you covered here today.
Hi its me Jack your backpacking architect friend 👋🏻 and welcome to the chaotic charm (I use charm loosely) of Old Delhi; a sensory overload of sound, scent and soul. This self-guided walking tour takes you through the architectural and cultural heartbeat of the capital, exploring temples, mosques, markets and Mughal marvels. It's a day for the strong walkers, curious minds and I want to say the totally insane. So if for some reason like me you are part of that totally insane, a person who thought it would be a good idea to explore one of the most densely populated spots on planet earth then lets get ready to go for a walk. Jokes aside this is a journey that will stay with you for a long time.
Event: A Self-Guided Walking Tour Through Old Delhi
Start Point: Chandni Chowk Metro Station
Walking Distance: Approx. 5–6 km
Time Needed: 5–6 hours (longer if you stop often; which you should)
Who it’s for: Adventurous walkers, lovers of history, architecture enthusiasts, photographers and foodies
First Stop: Chandni Chowk, The Artery of Old Delhi
Exit the Chandni Chowk Metro Station and you’re instantly dropped into a buzzing 17th-century street grid designed by Mughal princess Jahanara. The main street of Chandni Chowk is a sensory rollercoaster; dodge rickshaws, weave through crowds and soak up the atmosphere. Bust out to the main street and then head your way to the Red Fort (we are not going there until later though).
Must-sees on Chandni Chowk:
Ghantaghar (Clock Tower); Though the original tower is long gone, this historic intersection remains the beating heart of Old Delhi.
Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib; A powerful Sikh shrine built on the martyrdom site of Guru Tegh Bahadur. Free to enter, serene to experience.
Shri Gauri Shankar Temple; Just down the road, this 800-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva features a striking lingam said to be over 800 years old.
Spice Markets (Khari Baoli); Walk west towards Asia’s largest spice market. Expect to sneeze, sniff, and smile your way through alleys filled with chillies, cardamom, and turmeric towers.
Fatehpuri Masjid; A beautiful 17th-century mosque built by one of Shah Jahan’s wives. It’s a quieter spot to reflect and rest after a full-on day.
Watch Your Pockets Here It’s thrilling and packed. Keep your valuables close; I recommend a solid anti-theft daypack or hidden pouch ... or lock your backpack.
Hidden Gem: Jain Shwetambar Derasar
Tucked behind the bustling bazaars is the serene Jain Shwetambar Shri Sambhavnath Prabhu Derasar. You’ll find this beautiful marble temple hidden in a narrow bylane. It’s a peaceful pause amidst the chaos. Look out for the delicate carvings and mirror work – it’s a quiet masterclass in temple craftsmanship.
Street Food Stop: Jung Bahadur Kachori Wala
By now, you’ve earned a spicy snack. This iconic street stall is famed for its kachoris; deep-fried dough balls filled with lentils and spices, served with tangy chutney. It's fast, fiery and fantastic.
Tip: Stand and eat like a local. Avoid touching your mouth with your fingers – napkins optional, adventure required, always carry hand sanitiser to clean your hands before eating.
Next: Jama Masjid; The Mughal Icon
A short walk south brings you to Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques. Commissioned by Shah Jahan in 1656, its red sandstone and white marble minarets are an architectural symphony. Climb the southern minaret for panoramic views across Old Delhi; hazy, hot, and unforgettable.
Modest clothing is essential. You may need to rent a robe (available on site). Don't let the guy take your shoes and then sell them back to you! You can carry them or put them in your bag or even leave them outside but you should NOT be paying to get them back!
Want to know more about Jama Masjid, check my video.
A Self-Guided Walking Tour Through Old Delhi, The Final Stop: Red Fort (Lal Qila)
Cross the road (use the pedestrian subway or overpass – it’s chaos out there) to reach Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Shah Jahan in 1639, it’s a fortress-palace showcasing the height of Mughal power and urban planning.
Stroll through Lahori Gate, Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas and the elegant Moti Masjid inside. The Mughal water systems, arched pavilions and the marble inlay details are stunning.
Want to know more about The Red Fort, check my video.
Stay Recommendations:
Haveli Dharampura
For those wanting to sleep where history lives; Haveli Dharampura is your answer. A restored 200-year-old haveli turned boutique hotel; it’s an architectural jewel in the Chandni Chowk maze. Think jharokhas, inner courtyards and Mughal arches with modern comfort. Buried deep in the thick of it all, its not for the faint of heart as it is in one of the most busy places on planet earth, but it will give you a stay you will never forget!
Two Green Park
Tucked away in a quieter pocket of South Delhi, Two Green Park is a brilliant mid-range option for travellers who want to escape the chaos without losing connection to the city's cultural heart. It’s clean, calm, and effortlessly stylish; think leafy surrounds, minimalist interiors, and a rooftop terrace that feels worlds away from the horns of Connaught Place.
It’s ideal for backpackers who’ve outgrown bunk beds, digital nomads looking for peace to edit footage, or couples seeking a softer landing in the capital (and a soft landing in New Delhi is not a bad idea ... trust me). You’re close to Hauz Khas, Safdarjung Tomb, and not far from Lodhi Art District; all while staying in a residential zone that gives you a slice of real Delhi life.
The Leela Palace
If you're going to splurge in India, let it be here. The Leela Palace isn't just a hotel; it’s an architectural ode to India's royal past; all domes, marble, and Mughal-inspired symmetry; yet somehow perfectly modern. Think Versailles meets Vastu.
Set in the diplomatic enclave of Chanakyapuri, it offers a peaceful, high-security bubble away from Delhi's bustle; but still puts you within reach of Rashtrapati Bhavan, Lodhi Gardens, and the best of Lutyens' Delhi. From rooftop infinity pools to a pillow menu (yes, really), it's the kind of place you check into when you want to feel like a maharaja... or just need a moment of quiet opulence between dusty temples and tuk-tuk rides.
Perfect for explorers who want to experience India without compromising comfort; or creators looking to script in luxury.
Final Tips for the Day
Wear good walking shoes – cobbled lanes and uneven paths ahead
Bring a reusable water bottle (but buy sealed bottled water only)
Keep small change for street food and donations at religious sites
Watch your pockets; invest in travel-safe gear [affiliate links again here]
Be culturally respectful; remove shoes before entering temples or mosques
Stay hydrated – Delhi can get very hot, very fast
Bonus: Discover more of New Delhi
I have been documenting the architecture of New Delhi on YouTube; watch the videos, feel the buzz and walk it with us virtually before your trip at @backpackersblueprint.
Head to our New Delhi Page on Backpacker’s Blueprint for more architectural gems in and around the city.
Let Old Delhi take you on a journey; from Mughal might to market madness. It’s loud, it’s beautiful, it’s layered, and it’s everything we love about architecture and human stories in motion.
Ready to walk it? Let me know how your day out goes, tag us in your posts and don’t forget to watch your pockets.
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