iBestTravel Local Puneetinder Kaur Sidhu divides her time and affection between Delhi and her home in Chandigarh. During the winter months, she spends as much time as possible in the Indian capital, seeking out doses of art, culture, and cuisine while stopping by her favorite jazz bar.
When I Have Friends in Town
I keep a list ready of popular new eateries that are spicing up the food scene in Delhi, which I consider India’s culinary capital. I try to ensure we explore at least a couple of them. However, if we’re feeling unadventurous, there’s always the retro-look Big Chill to fall back on; a perennial favorite serving hearty Italian cuisine and fantastic desserts.
A Typical Weekend in Delhi
In winter, a picnic lunch in the monument-stuffed, green grounds of the Lodi Gardens is common. More often than not, the basket holds take-away meals from one of many buzzing cafes at Khan Market, a short walk away. It could be Khan Chacha’s rolls one day, pizzas from Amici, or Thai curries from Sidewok on another. Evenings are often devoted to catching a play or performance at Kamani Auditorium or Habitat World. I also keep an eye out for interesting events scheduled at the India International Centre or the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts.
Big Nights Out in Delhi
When I’m ready for a big night out, it’s the Piano Man Jazz Club for me. This venue is a haven for music lovers, featuring regular gigs by artists from around the world. With daily performances, there’s no need to wait for the weekends for entertainment. The well-stocked bar creates a lively atmosphere, complemented by a variety of munchies to satisfy our cravings, making the experience all the more enjoyable.
Delighting in Cheap Eats
Cheap eats abound in every nook and cranny of Delhi’s expansive landscape. Notably, the top sellers are located in the vibrant alleys and lively marketplaces of Chandni Chowk in Shahjahanabad (Old Delhi), all within easy walking distance of Old Delhi’s most iconic landmark, the Jama Masjid. Darya Ganj is home to Moti Mahal, where the renowned butter chicken was born, offering sumptuous North Indian meals without breaking the bank. A wholesome breakfast at Hotel Saravana Bhavan in Connaught Place (CP) is a steal and a perfect start—great for browsing CP’s bookstores and art galleries, including the newly opened Heritage Charkha Museum.
Experience of a Delhite
I know I’m a Delhite because I can navigate my way around town with my eyes closed—translated, that means no cabbie or auto rickshaw driver can take me for a ride not of my own choosing! Moreover, I’m completely at ease with the lively chaos that defines Delhi. I may complain about the traffic and pollution, but I appreciate all that the city has to offer.
Escape the City
When I want to unwind, I head out to Chambal Safari Lodge in Jarar, near Agra, which serves as the gateway to the gharial crocodile-filled National Chambal Sanctuary. Thanks to the Yamuna Expressway, the flow of traffic has improved significantly, allowing me to reach the Lodge in roughly three hours. In warmer months, and if time permits, I’ll travel up to Kathgodam in Uttarakhand and cab it to Juniper B&B, a popular homestay at Janglia Gaon, beyond Bhimtal.
De-Stressing
For me, de-stressing means spending time with excited woofs and wagging tails. Occasionally, canine love finds me at Puppychino, the city’s first dog café. Located in Shahpur Jat village, beyond Siri Fort Auditorium, this cafe doubles as a co-working space, featuring a cordoned-off section for playful canines supervised by a trainer. Being around the animals elevates my mood, although I occasionally indulge in the coffee and pizza served to humans.
One Thing I Hate About Delhi
One thing I truly dislike about Delhi is the unforgiving summer! The heat seems to amplify the capital’s madness—a challenge I usually overlook and even enjoy when the weather is friendlier. Rising temperatures discourage any thoughts of outdoor exploration, forcing my inner foodie to take a backseat, as heading out for a snack at a neighborhood kiosk in the heat is simply not an option anymore.
