A Long Weekend in Delhi

Vandita Bajaj, Class of 2020

A much-needed long weekend is finally here (even though mid-term break just got over)! With no more mid-term deadlines to meet or tests to prepare for, here are some ways to utilise this time to explore Delhi.

1. For a dramatic history lesson, attend the Sound and Light Show at Red Fort

Nearly three hundred and seventy years old, the Red Fort has witnessed history being made both within and outside its walls. It was the center during Shahjahan’s reign, the site of the end Mughal rule, and part of the spectacle of the grand Delhi Darbar of 1911. In independent India, it is a symbol of sovereignty, and the grandeur of the past. The sound and light show in the evening showcases events across time that are connected to the history of India. The Fort comes alive to tell you its story!

Pro-Tip: You could make an entire day of the visit. Besides the portions of the complex that open to the public and the Red Fort Museum (located in what was formerly Mumtaz Mahal’s Palace), you can roam around the streets of Chandni Chowk and admire the havelis or check out the bustling wholesale markets. Entry tickets are priced at ₹35 for Indians and ₹500 for individuals of other nationalities.

Nearest Metro Station: Lal Qila (Violet Line): Getting there

Price: ₹80 per person and ₹500 for Other Nationalities(on Saturday, Sunday, and Government Holidays). Tickets can be purchased from the counter up to an hour prior to the show.

Timings: 7:00 – 8:00PM (Hindi Show) and 8:30 – 9:30PM (English Show)

2. Sample the famous chaat at Bengali Sweet House

This place is an institution when it comes to the quintessential Delhi Chaat. Don’t forget to try the Mix Chaat which has the crispy flaky papdi, pillowy soft bhallas and the ultimate gastronomic delight — golguppas. If you are feeling greedy, indulge in some fried Aloo Chaat or end it on a sweet note with sugary Jalebis.

It gets extremely crowded during lunch and in the evening, so you might have to wait for a table (but, it will be so worth it!). It is a self-service restaurant but please don’t get the golgappas to your table: stand next to the counter and let the vendor serve you.

Nearest Metro Station: Mandi House (Blue Line): Getting There

Price: All the chaat items are less that ₹ 80 a plate (exclusive of taxes)

Timings: 8AM – 11PM

3. Gorge on Delhi’s best Butter Chicken at Gulati’s

This legendary restaurant opened its doors in 1959 and has been a foodie favourite since. It is paradise for those who relish non-vegetarian kebabs. But don’t worry, if you are a group of vegetarian friends, there is a spot in the food-haven of Pandara Road for you too: head right next door to Veg Gulati’s to sample some delights.

Nearest Metro Station: Khan Market (Violet Line): Getting There

Price: A full portion of Butter Chicken along with Naan will cost you ₹ 950 (exclusive of taxes)

Timings:12 noon- 12 midnight

Pro-tip: I suggest ordering a half portion of the Butter Chicken, not because it is cheaper, but because they are extremely generous with the butter and cream. Instead, try out some of their kebabs. They have plenty of options for vegetarians, the Paneer Tikka Platter (₹ 500) is as good if not better than the non-vegetarian options. In case everything seems too tempting and you are unable to decide, they also have an all-you-can-eat Buffet Lunch at ₹ 729+taxes.

4. Enjoy the sun at Sunder Nursery next to Humayun’s Tomb

Touted as New Delhi’s answer to New York’s Central Park, the complex has fifteen Mughal monuments and is spread across ninety acres. Restoration work has been carried out over the past ten years by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture. The garden boasts myriad flower varieties and indigenous tree species.

Pro-tip: If you are planning a visit then include Humayun’s Tomb in the itinerary since it is right next to it! Try and go as early as possible to avoid the weekend rush and enjoy a leisurely walk across the complex.

Nearest Metro Station: JLN Stadium (Violet Line): Getting There

Price: ₹ 30(Indians) ₹500 (Other Nationalities)

Timings: 9AM – 4PM (Closed on Sundays)

5. Check out Champa Galli

What started out as a jamming venue for a group of friends and up-and-coming artistes earning it the name Bakedha (disturbance), now resembles a European alleyway with a reading room (The Reading Room) and quaint little cafes (Jugmug Thela being the oldest one on the block). The champa plants used by Blue Tokai (an artistic coffee shop) to decorate the space lend the place its name.

Pro-tip: There aren’t too many food options but rest assured whatever is available is simple and tasty. Don’t forget to check out Jugaad, a small store selling knick-knacks like diaries, bags, bookmarks, etc. The store stocks products made by NGOs working with underprivileged women and children; all profits are donated to charity.

Nearest Metro Station: Saket (Yellow Line): Getting There

Price: A cup of coffee and a snack would cost you approximately ₹ 550

Timings: 11AM – 8:30PM

Don’t forget to attend Professor Rita Kothari’s book launch on Friday, the 30th of March at the India International Centre, Max Mueller Marg!

Pro-Tip: Since the eating joints at India International Centre are Members-Only, walk down to the nearby India Habitat Centre and enjoy a meal at the iconic All American Diner (for those of you who watch Riverdale or know the Archie’s comics universe, it is the closest you are going to get to Pop’s Chock-lit shop) or the food court, Eatopia, which offers it’s bakery items at half the price post 8:30PM; remember to get some choco-chip muffins back to campus!

Nearest Metro Station: Jor Bagh: Getting There

Price: Entry is free!

Timings: 6:30 pm onward

Not ready to head out this weekend? Check out our list of movies, TV shows, and music albums to catch up on!

The author is an Arts & Culture staff writer at The Edict.