Friday Market: West Patel Nagar

This blog is in line with our commitment to help you experience Delhi as a real Dilliwalla. Here I go..

Every locality in Delhi has a dedicated day for weekly market, though this concept is prevalent across the country in some form or the other, also known as Haat or Bazaar. In rural areas where availability of goods is not as easy, these markets serve the people with daily needs and also offer opportunity to trade locally produced goods but for the Delhiwallas only the first case applies.

                                                     A Lingerie-seller Setting up the Shop

On Fridays it takes place at West Patel Nagar. For tourists, it's more convenient to visit Monday Market at Karol Bagh (though Patel Nagar has more authentic feel). At one time, it was an event for all residents in that area, but now with the middle class getting richer, it's limited to the ones who can't afford the expensive malls and shopping centres and the old timers who don't want to let go the olden day memories.

A Crockery Seller

You get everything of daily use from home furnishing, clothing, crockery to furniture, food and spices. Most of the stuff on sale are of poor quality,  but dirt cheap and is not targeted at quality-conscious buyer. However, the spectacle is an experience in itself.

                               This Street becomes the busiest place on earth after the sunset

As the sun sets, the wave of humanity descends to this market, and you can experience some fierce bargaining taking place while the atmosphere is filled with the intoxicating smell of Chhole Bhature (a spicey north-Indian fast food). The sellers shout at top of the pitch to sell their wares while the buyers put their bargaining skills at test to become a shopping champion. You may get overwhelmed with the length of this bazaar which would easily run over more than a kilometer.

Nothing in Delhi can make your travel experience more authentic than this.

How to reach: Get down at Shadipur Depot Metro Station on Dwarka metro line. Take a man-ridden cycle rickshaw (10-20 rupees) or walk down to West Patel Nagar Bazaar on Fridays.
Caution: Female foreign travellers are advised not to venture out without a male companion or a guide. If alone, they can visit Monday Market at Karol Bagh, which is more tourist friendly. Please avoid carrying any valuables and carry minimum cash because pick-pocketing is quite common.