Hey Explorers! Dive into the Heart of Delhi — Connaught Place & Jantar Mantar Adventure 🇮🇳✨
Hello doston! Imagine stepping out of Rajiv Chowk metro station and being greeted by the iconic white colonnades of Connaught Place (CP). The buzz hits you instantly — office-goers rushing past, street vendors shouting deals, shoppers wandering with bags full, and foodies scanning for their favorite eateries. Welcome to the beating heart of Delhi!
🌟 First Stop: Attractions at Connaught Place
I started my day with a stroll through Central Park, right in the middle of CP’s circular layout. It’s a surprisingly calm spot amidst all the chaos — locals sitting with chai, youngsters strumming guitars, and tourists catching their breath before diving back into the circle.
Next, I wandered to the Hanuman Mandir, one of the oldest temples in Delhi. The energy here is unmatched — the sound of bells, chanting, and the constant flow of devotees gave me goosebumps.
Walking further, I peeked into the State Emporiums. Each one represents a different Indian state, and honestly, it felt like doing a mini-India tour. From Kashmiri shawls to Manipuri handlooms, it’s a treasure chest for anyone who loves crafts.
If you’re an art lover, CP also hides galleries and theatres where you might stumble upon an exhibition or a play. And yes, if you’re traveling with kids (or young at heart), Madame Tussauds Wax Museum can be a fun detour for those quirky selfies.
🛍️ Shop Till You Drop
No visit to CP is complete without shopping. I kicked things off at FabIndia, where racks of earthy cotton kurtas and handmade jewelry tempted me. Then came Woodland — perfect if you need sturdy shoes for all the Delhi walking.
Right around the corner, the Central Cottage Industries Emporium felt like stepping into a museum of Indian heritage — except you can buy everything! From carved wooden boxes to silk sarees, every piece screamed “take me home.”
Of course, I couldn’t skip the underground maze of Palika Bazaar. The neon-lit corridors are packed with clothes, electronics, and accessories — bargaining here isn’t just recommended, it’s survival. A quick walk from CP took me to Janpath Market, where vibrant skirts, bags, and funky jewelry spilled out of every shop. Pro tip: the vendors expect you to haggle, so bring your best bargaining game.
🍴 Foodie Heaven in CP
By now, my stomach was growling, and CP didn’t disappoint. I made my first stop at Wenger’s Deli, Delhi’s legendary bakery since 1926. A warm chicken patty and a cold coffee later, I was in heaven.
Lunch was a hearty South Indian thali at Saravana Bhavan — fluffy idlis, crispy dosas, and sambar that tasted like home. For a dose of nostalgia, I stepped into United Coffee House, a cafe that’s been serving Delhiites since the 1940s. The old-world charm here is as tasty as the chai.
Later, I couldn’t resist a kulfi at Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi Wale — imagine biting into a chilled mango stuffed with kulfi. Delhi summers instantly forgave! To end the food trail, I grabbed a spicy snack from Jung Bahadur Kachori Wale. One bite of that crunchy kachori and I knew why this tiny joint is legendary.
⏳ Time Travel at Jantar Mantar
Stuffed and satisfied, I took a short stroll to Jantar Mantar, Delhi’s astronomical playground built in 1724. Standing before the giant Samrat Yantra sundial, I couldn’t believe this structure could tell time with stunning accuracy centuries ago.
Walking among the instruments felt surreal — each one looked like a piece of abstract art, but with scientific precision behind it. The mix of history, architecture, and astronomy here makes you feel like you’re walking through time itself.
🚌 Travel Tips for This Dilli Day Out
- Start at Rajiv Chowk Metro Station — it drops you right into CP.
- Wear comfy shoes — between markets and Jantar Mantar, you’ll easily cross 10,000 steps.
- Keep your camera ready — CP’s colonnades and Jantar Mantar’s instruments are Insta-perfect.
- Carry some cash — bargaining in Janpath and Palika is half the fun.
- Best timing — visit Jantar Mantar during the day, then return to CP in the evening when the circle lights up.
🎉 Final Vibes
My day at Connaught Place and Jantar Mantar was a rollercoaster of shopping, eating, spirituality, and science. From the soulful chants at Hanuman Mandir to bargaining wars at Janpath, from buttery dosas at Saravana Bhavan to marveling at the sundials of Jantar Mantar — this is Delhi in a nutshell.
If you want to feel the pulse of the city, spend a day here. Trust me, CP will exhaust you, surprise you, and make you fall in love with Delhi’s madness — and Jantar Mantar will ground you in awe of India’s genius past.
Where to Stay: The Perfect Base for Outstation Travelers 🏨
For outstation visitors and traveler's, we recommend Hotel Aerocity Purple Orchid. It's ideal for both convenience and value.
- 🚖 Quick access: ~10 minutes by car to Delhi Airport and close to Aerocity metro for easy transfers.
- 🛏 Comfortable and Clean AC rooms with fast Wi-Fi, 24/7 front desk, Travel desk and airport transfer options.
- 🚕 30–35 mins by cab to Connaught Place.
- 🍽 On-site dining and easy access to Aerocity F&B options.
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions about Connaught Place & Jantar Mantar
What is the best time to visit Connaught Place?
Evenings are the most vibrant when the circle is lit up, shops are open late, and the food joints are buzzing. Daytime is better if you want lighter crowds.
Which metro station is nearest to Connaught Place?
The nearest is Rajiv Chowk Metro Station, an interchange on the Yellow and Blue Lines, that opens right into CP.
What should I shop for at Connaught Place?
CP is perfect for ethnic wear at FabIndia, handicrafts at Cottage Emporium, quirky budget finds at Janpath Market, and electronics or fashion at Palika Bazaar.
Is Palika Bazaar safe for tourists?
Yes, it’s safe but crowded. Bargaining is expected. Keep your belongings secure and avoid carrying valuables.
What are the timings for Jantar Mantar?
Jantar Mantar is usually open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Plan your visit in daylight for the best experience.
📍 Part of the Delhi Attractions Blog Series
Planning your Delhi itinerary? Explore more iconic spots from our series: