Old Delhi Food Tour: Paranthe Wali Gali & Spice Market

Summary

Authentic Street Food Walk in Chandni Chowk

If you want to taste Delhi’s real flavors, this tour takes you through the city’s oldest streets. You’ll eat where locals eat, learn stories behind every bite, and feel the pulse of Old Delhi. It’s messy, lively, and full of surprises—just bring your appetite and a sense of adventure.

What’s the experience like?

Right as we stepped into Khari Baoli, the air hit me—spicy, earthy, almost sweet. It’s not just a market; it’s a maze of burlap sacks and voices. Our guide, Ramesh, waved us over to a stall where dried red chilies piled up like tiny mountains. He let us pinch a bit of cumin between our fingers. I swear, I could still smell it on my hands hours later. The traders here move fast, but if you pause, you’ll spot grandmothers haggling over cardamom or a kid sneaking a whiff of cinnamon. It’s busy, loud, and somehow comforting.

Chandni Chowk’s chaos is something you feel in your bones. Rickshaws honk, shopkeepers call out, and the scent of frying samosas drifts by. We ducked into a tiny shop for jalebis—hot, sticky, and gone in two bites. There’s this old man near the corner who’s been selling chai for decades; he poured us tiny glasses, and I could taste ginger and something floral. Even the walls here seem to hum with stories. It’s easy to lose track of time wandering these lanes, eyes darting from silk saris to trays of sweets.

We took off our shoes at Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib. The marble floor felt cool underfoot. Inside, the singing was soft but steady. Volunteers handed out plates of simple dal and roti—no questions asked. I sat cross-legged next to a family from Punjab and a student from Kerala. There’s a quiet kindness here that sticks with you. Our guide explained the history, but honestly, it was the feeling of community that hit hardest.

Naughara was a surprise—nine old houses painted every shade you can imagine. It’s tucked away, and if you blink, you’ll miss it. The doors are carved, and the windows have colored glass. A local woman sweeping her stoop smiled and pointed us toward a tiny Jain temple at the end. It’s peaceful, a world away from the market noise.

Paranthe Wali Gali is where my stomach really woke up. The cooks move fast, flipping dough and stuffing it with everything from spiced potatoes to crushed almonds. We tried three kinds—one with paneer, another with banana (sounds odd, but trust me), and a classic aloo. The parathas come out hot, with pickles and a little bowl of curd. I left with greasy fingers and a grin. There’s a reason food lovers keep coming back here.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Old Delhi's Food and Culture

• Visit Khari Baoli spice market
• Explore Chandni Chowk market
• Visit Seesh Ganj Gurudwara
• Tour Naughara traditional houses
• Taste parathas at Paranthe Wali Gali

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, most stops offer vegetarian options—especially at Paranthe Wali Gali and during the langar meal at the Gurudwara.

How much walking is involved?

You’ll be on your feet for a few hours, with breaks for food and chai. The lanes are narrow and busy but manageable if you’re moderately fit.

Can I join if I have food allergies?

Let us know your allergies when booking. We’ll do our best to help, but cross-contamination is possible in busy street kitchens.

What should I wear?

Comfortable shoes are a must. Dress modestly for the Gurudwara (shoulders and knees covered), and bring a scarf to cover your head inside.

What’s included

Your ticket covers all tastings—parathas, snacks, chai—as well as bottled water and a brunch stop. We also include coffee or tea along the way. Our guide handles all the details so you can just enjoy the ride.