The Mughal-era market street of Old Delhi — Kinari Bazaar for trimmings and wedding finery, Dariba Kalan for silver, Khari Baoli for spices, Nai Sarak for books and fabric.
Best time: Monday to Saturday 11:00–20:00; most of it closes Sunday
Cost: Budget
Tip: Khari Baoli is Asia's largest spice market and the smell alone is worth the walk. Go on foot or by cycle rickshaw — cars cannot move here.
Watch outRickshaw drivers and self-appointed guides receive commission from the shops they take you to, built into an inflated price. Say where you want to go and refuse detours.
A permanent government-run craft market with rotating stalls from every Indian state — textiles, metalwork, wood and regional food, at fixed and honest prices.
Watch outThe 'government emporium' scam is endemic around Connaught Place: a driver or helpful stranger takes you to a private shop styled as official. The genuine state emporiums are on Baba Kharak Singh Marg and have fixed prices.
Delhi's two great bargain markets — Sarojini for export-surplus Western clothing at extraordinary prices, Lajpat Nagar for Indian wear, shoes and homeware.
