Secret Shoppers’ Haunts in New Delhi: 6 unusual, must-visit places

From classic to offbeat – take in this city’s sights and sounds. Cached between the capital’s Old and New are skilled food vendors, charming decor markets and cultural spots where legends were born.

1. Chill & Chai Ensconced inside one of the many tiny, winding bylanes of Khirki Extension is this concept cafe, where you can also buy pretty craft-centric pottery, utensils and organic consumables. The money from the sales goes to the respective artisans. Where: S17, Khirki Extension Road, New Delhi 12 Tel: (0) 8587883948

2. Naim & Sons Are you a metal head? This blink-and-miss stall stocks all kinds of kitchen utensils of different shapes and forms that will stoke childhood nostalgia. Pick up brass, aluminium and copper tumblers, bowls and ladles. Where: 1003 Chawri Bazar, Chandni Chowk, Chawri Bazar Road, New Delhi 06Tel: (0) 9210715747

3. Mirza Ghalib Ki Haveli The legendary poet’s home is as intriguing as his verses on love and the ironies of life. In this makeshift museum, find replicas of handwritten letters and decorations he used to set up his abode. Where: Galli Qasim Jan, Ballimaran, Lal Kuan Bazaar, New Delhi 06

4. Sulabh International Museum of Toilets Call it educational or amusing, but the WC’s history can’t be ignored. See arrangements of Harappa civilisation, Victorian bejewelled lavatories and public loos from around the world. Where: Mahavir Enclave, Palam Dabri Marg, New Delhi 45Tel: (011) 25031518

5. Litti.in The countryside-inspired mud hut with handpainted patterns on the wall creates an interesting paradox. While the interiors are arty, the singular cuisine of Bihari food is humble, unpretentious yet delicious. Where: Shop 1A, C10, Ground Floor, Malviya Nagar, New Delhi 17Tel: (0) 9650114758

6. Murthal Located about 50 km from the city, this village is famous for its roadside stalls that serve the meanest parathas, chola bhaturas and kulchas. As is tradition, remember to wash down your meal with a jumbo glass of lassi or chaas. Where: Murthal Village, Sonepat District, Haryana, National Highway 01

Also read: Secret Shoppers’ Haunts in Mumbai: 6 unusual, must-visit places…