Old Delhi: Food Walk, Spice Market & Rickshaw to Haveli Lunch

Summary

Rickshaw rides, spice scents and stories over lunch in old delhi

You’ll wander Old Delhi’s tangled streets with a local guide, taste safe street food straight from buzzing stalls, ride a rickshaw through markets bursting with color and spices, then share stories and home-cooked dishes inside an old family haveli. Expect laughter, surprises and moments you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me was the hum — not just noise, but this living thrum under my feet as we slipped into the narrow lanes of Old Delhi. Our guide (he called himself “your local friend,” which felt about right) waved us off the main road and suddenly we were dodging carts stacked with marigolds and men shouting prices I couldn’t catch. The air had this mix of frying batter and cardamom — honestly, I was hungry before we even started the official food walk. I tried some kind of crispy bread with potato inside from a street stall; he promised it was “safe street food” and I didn’t get sick, so there’s that.

We stopped at Khari Baoli, which is apparently Asia’s biggest spice market. It’s impossible to describe unless you’ve stood there: sacks of red chili piled up like mountains, turmeric dust floating in sunlight, people scooping up cumin by the kilo. My nose tingled for hours after. There was this old merchant who let us smell his tea leaves — he said something about his family being here since the 1700s. I probably grinned too wide but it felt special. Then came the rickshaw ride — wild, jolting, hilarious. At one point I thought we’d tip over but our driver just winked at me.

The last stop was Masterji Kee Haveli. You have to take your shoes off at the door (I hesitated; my socks didn’t match). Inside it was quiet and cool after all that chaos outside. We sat on cushions around a low table while someone’s auntie brought out dish after dish — lentils, something sweet with rosewater… I still think about that meal sometimes when I’m hungry late at night. Our guide told stories about growing up here; his hands moved as much as his voice did.

I guess what surprised me most was how quickly Old Delhi went from overwhelming to sort of comforting once you’re in it. It’s messy and loud but also warm in a way that sneaks up on you — like you’re part of someone else’s daily life for a few hours. If you’re looking for a day trip in Delhi that isn’t just checking sights off a list, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Old Delhi culture and markets

• Meet local guides in Old Delhi
• Walk through local bazaars
• Interact with multi-generation business owners
• Visit Khari Baoli spice market
• Take rickshaw ride to Masterji Kee Haveli
• Tour Masterji Kee Haveli mansion
• Enjoy traditional home-cooked meal

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for the Old Delhi food tour?

No, hotel pickup is not included; you’ll meet at the designated meeting point near Old Delhi.

How long does the Old Delhi food walk & haveli lunch last?

The experience typically lasts several hours depending on group pace and traffic conditions.

Is street food on this tour safe to eat?

Yes, only safe street food is offered during tastings according to the tour description.

What is Masterji Kee Haveli?

It’s an old private mansion in Old Delhi where one family has lived for generations; you’ll have lunch or dinner there.

Are vegetarian options available during the tour?

The tour features traditional Indian home-cooked meals which usually include vegetarian dishes.

Do I need to dress modestly for this day trip in Old Delhi?

Yes—shoulders and knees should be covered; women are advised to carry a scarf.

Is public transportation available near the meeting point?

Yes—the nearest metro station (Yellow Line) or Uber/taxi can bring you close to the start location.

Will we visit Khari Baoli spice market on this tour?

Yes—the itinerary includes time exploring Khari Baoli spice market with your guide.

What’s included

Your day includes guided walking through Old Delhi’s bazaars and heritage spots, rickshaw rides between neighborhoods, tastings of safe street food along the way plus bottled water or fresh lemonade in summer. You’ll visit Khari Baoli spice market before ending at Masterji Kee Haveli for a complimentary home-cooked lunch or early dinner with your hosts before returning to your starting point.