What to eat, where to go: Here’s how to make the most of Delhi’s winter
This cold season, we give you a cut and keep guide on how you can make the best of food, events and activities in the city.
Delhiites would agree that there is nothing better than the good ol’ Dilli ki sardi. While it is a great time to just stay in bed, brew a hot cuppa and read a book by your favourite author; it is also perfect for heading out and exploring the vibrant city (something that summer doesn’t allow us to do). So, give old favourites like Dilli Haat a break, and go visit hidden gems in the Capital. Be it a scrumptious breakfast at Old Delhi, or warm noodles and soups at Majnu Ka Tila, make this Delhi winter worth it.
What to eat:
The Old Delhi Breakfast
This winter, don’t miss the bedmi poori at Shyam sweets (Chawri Bazaar) and the paya nihari at Haji Shabrati Nihari Wale (Jama Masjid). We suggest that you reach early morning as these delicacies are only available for a limited time and tend to run out really soon. It’ll be worth the effort.
Midday Snacking in Daryaganj
Jaipur Namkeen Bhandar at Delhi Gate might be known for serving the city’s most famous kachori, but hey, don’t forget to try their bread pakoras too. Dipped in a hot aloo ki subzi, a plate of bread pakoras will cost you just Rs. 14
Coastal Curries in INA
If you love coastal food, Kerala Hotel in INA is perfect for hot and fresh curries. While the prawn and crab variants are delicious, one can also try the Biryani here (and ditch the usual suspects like Karim’s and Matka Peer for once).
Noodles and Soups at Majnu Ka Tila
Kham, Ama, Dolma , Rigo, Busan — the list of restaurants in this vicinity are endless. From Chinjabi (Chinese and Punjabi) flavours to authentic Korean delicacies, take a trip through the busy bylanes and find your favourite.
Delhi University fests
Star performances, lively crowds, delicious food and fun activities are just some of the elements that make DU fests the biggest parties on campus. Hosted across various colleges, the fests happen across the season and are known to attract thousands of attendees from all over the city. Check out college websites and keep yourself updated on the fests.
Christmas Markets
Winter means colourful Christmas markets. So, do make a trip to Annual Delhi Winter Mela (Saket) and the Great Grand Winter Carnival (Pitampura). One can not only shop their heart out, but also enjoy various fun activities with their family and friends, while gorging on sumptuous food.
Republic Day
Showcasing India’s military might, culture and social heritage, the Republic day celebrations are something you should definitely not miss. The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan is expected to be the chief guest of 2017’s grand celebration.
Surajkund Crafts Mela
Set to be held in February, the Surajkund Crafts Mela is a festival to recognise and promote traditional art and artists from across the country. Apart from beautifully decorated stalls, the fest is also known for its grand themes, local and international performances, camel rides and other engaging activities.
Head outdoors:
Paddleboarding at the Hidden Lakes
Give this winter a fun spin with paddleboarding at Asola Bhatti. This can be done in group or individual hosting sessions.
Boating at Naini Lake, Model Town
We’ve all indulged in a boat ride or two at Purana Qila and India Gate, but Naini Lake in Model Town isperfect for soaking up the winter sun while peddling away in the calm waters. Evenings are a great time to take a walk around the lake and enjoy the lights too.
Birdwatching
Winters are a great time as a variety of migratory birds flock to the city. The Delhi Ridge, Surajpur Bird Sanctuary and Biodiversity Park, Sultanpur National Park, Asola Bhatti and Okhla Bird Sanctuary are just some of the great spots one can choose from for birdwatching.
Food and Heritage walks
Want to explore the city and its hidden gems and don’t know where to start? Just pick one of the many heritage and food walks that happen across the Capital and make the most of your day. These walks take you from the bylanes of Delhi 6 to the wide paths of Lutyen’s Delhi and are surely worth a try.
Street shopping
Although most might agree that every weather is great for a little retail therapy, winters are a time when our street markets really shine. From Sarojini Nagar to Tibetan Market, take your pick and indulge a little maybe?
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