Dilli Haat History, Hidden Gems, Best Time to Visit and Photography

Dilli Haat is an open-air craft bazaar and cultural complex located in the heart of Delhi, designed to celebrate Indias rich diversity of handicrafts, traditional arts, and regional cuisines. It was established by the Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC) and is located in INA (Indian National Academy), with a second branch in Pitampura.

Key Features of Dilli Haat:

1. Handicrafts and Artworks:
   • Dilli Haat is a haven for artisans and craftsmen from across India, offering a wide range of handmade goods such as textiles, wooden carvings, pottery, brass works, stone carvings, handlooms, and embroidery.
   • The market is organized with separate stalls dedicated to various states, giving visitors a chance to explore the diversity of Indias craftsmanship in one place.
2. Regional Cuisines:
   • A unique aspect of Dilli Haat is its collection of food stalls representing regional cuisines from all corners of India. Visitors can enjoy Rajasthani, Punjabi, South Indian, Bengali, Mughlai, and Northeastern dishes, including street food like chole bhature, samosas, dosa, and kulfi.
   • Its a place where you can taste authentic and regional food without traveling across the country.
3. Cultural Events and Performances:
   • Dilli Haat regularly hosts cultural events such as folk music, dance performances, and art exhibitions that celebrate Indian traditions. Visitors can experience the vibrancy of classical music and dance forms from various states in a lively and engaging setting.
   • The market occasionally holds craft fairs and workshops where visitors can witness live demonstrations of traditional crafts and learn about the skills involved.
4. Vibrant Atmosphere:
   • The entire ambiance of Dilli Haat is designed to reflect traditional Indian village markets, with colorful stalls, thatched roofs, and cultural decor. The open-air design allows for a relaxed shopping experience.
   • There is also an art gallery at Dilli Haat where visitors can view or purchase local art and sculptures.
5. Shopping Experience:
   • Dilli Haat is known for its affordable pricing compared to high-end boutiques and malls. It offers visitors the opportunity to buy traditional and authentic handicrafts directly from local artisans.
   • It is a perfect place for those looking to buy souvenirs, gifts, and decor items that represent Indias cultural heritage.

Popular Items to Buy:

• Textiles: Kashmiri shawls, Kanjeevaram silk, Bandhani saris, and hand-woven carpets.
• Handicrafts: Wooden figurines, brass and copper artifacts, pottery, and jewelry.
• Home Décor: Traditional wall hangings, embroidered cushions, and decorative items.
• Jewelry: Beaded, silver, and semi-precious stone jewelry crafted by artisans from different states.

Accessibility and Opening Hours:

• Location: Dilli Haat INA is located near the INA Metro Station in South Delhi.
• Opening Hours: Dilli Haat is open every day from 10 AM to 10 PM.
• Entry Fee: There is a nominal entry fee for Dilli Haat, typically around ?30 for adults and ?10 for children.

History of Dilli Haat:

Dilli Haat was established by the Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC) in 1994 to promote Indias rich and diverse cultural heritage. The concept of Dilli Haat was designed as a traditional open-air market that would showcase the vast range of Indian handicrafts, handlooms, and regional cuisines while providing a platform for local artisans and craftsmen from different parts of India to display and sell their work.

The first Dilli Haat was opened in the INA (Indian National Academy) area of South Delhi, strategically located near a popular shopping and residential district. The design of Dilli Haat is inspired by a traditional village market, with thatched roofs, open-air stalls, and vibrant decor, creating an atmosphere that reflects the essence of rural and urban India.

Over time, Dilli Haat became more than just a market; it evolved into a cultural hub where people could experience live cultural performances, craft exhibitions, and food from across India. It provided a unique space where regional diversity could be celebrated and showcased in one location.

In 2008, the second branch of Dilli Haat was inaugurated in Pitampura, North Delhi, further extending the reach of this vibrant cultural market. This expansion helped Dilli Haat continue its mission of promoting Indias traditional handicrafts and cuisines to a larger audience.

Dilli Haat became a symbol of Indias heritage, not just through its handicrafts and food but also through its live cultural events. Over the years, it has remained a must-visit destination for tourists, shoppers, and locals alike.

Legacy: Today, Dilli Haat stands as an iconic landmark in Delhi, promoting Indian craftsmanship and regional diversity while providing a platform for artisans to sell their products directly to the public. It also continues to serve as a venue for cultural events and festivals, making it an integral part of the cultural fabric of the city.

Dilli Haats history is a reflection of Indias dedication to preserving and promoting its traditional arts and crafts, while also embracing the modernity of urban life. It has become a key space for artisans, artists, and cultural enthusiasts to gather and share the richness of Indian culture.

Best Time to Visit Dilli Haat:

The best time to visit Dilli Haat largely depends on the weather and your personal preferences. However, the following are some general guidelines:

• Winter (November to February):
  • This is the best time to visit Dilli Haat, as the weather is pleasant and cool. The open-air market and outdoor seating at food stalls become more enjoyable when the temperatures are mild.
  • There are also more cultural events and performances during this time, making it a lively and vibrant period to experience Dilli Haat.
• Monsoon (June to September):
  • While monsoon can bring relief from the heat, it can also make the visit a bit challenging due to rain and humidity.
  • If you dont mind a little rain, its a less crowded time to visit, but be prepared for wet conditions.
• Summer (March to May):
  • Summer can get quite hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F) in Delhi. The heat can make it uncomfortable to explore the outdoor market.
  • However, if you prefer a quieter experience with fewer tourists, summer can be a good time, though its advisable to visit early in the morning or later in the evening.

Things to Do at Dilli Haat:

1. Shopping for Handicrafts:
   • Dilli Haat is a great place to shop for a wide range of traditional handicrafts from across India. Visit the stalls for ethnic textiles, wooden carvings, brass jewelry, pottery, handwoven fabrics, and traditional home décor.
   • You can find items like Kashmiri shawls, Madhubani paintings, block-printed fabrics, brass sculptures, and terracotta figurines.
2. Taste Regional Cuisines:
   • One of the highlights of Dilli Haat is its food stalls, which serve regional delicacies from all over India. Dont miss out on tasting South Indian dosas, Rajasthani dal baati churma, Mughlai kebabs, Bengali sweets, and chole bhature.
   • You can also enjoy Northeastern cuisine, Gujarati snacks, and North Indian chaats at the food stalls.
   • Try the sweets like kulfi, jalebi, or peda for a delightful finish to your meal.
3. Cultural Performances:
   • Dilli Haat regularly hosts folk dance and music performances from various states of India. These live shows offer a glimpse into Indias rich cultural heritage.
   • Depending on the time of your visit, you may catch performances such as Rajasthani Kalbeliya dance, Kathak or Bharatanatyam dance, and traditional music.
4. Craft Workshops:
   • Dilli Haat often organizes craft workshops and demonstrations where you can learn the art of block printing, pottery making, embroidery, and weaving.
   • Participate in these hands-on experiences to learn more about Indias traditional crafts.
5. Photography:
   • Dilli Haat offers plenty of photo opportunities, from the colorful handicraft stalls to the traditional architecture and vibrant decor. Dont forget to capture the cultural performances, intricate craftwork, and delicious dishes.
   • The lively atmosphere, with its bright colors and textures, makes for fantastic photo backdrops.
6. Explore the Art Gallery:
   • The art gallery at Dilli Haat showcases traditional Indian paintings, sculptures, and photography. If youre interested in Indian art, this is the perfect spot to admire local and regional artwork.
7. Enjoy the Ambience:
   • Take your time to wander around and soak in the traditional market atmosphere. The open-air setting, with thatched roof stalls, colorful displays, and open spaces, provides a relaxing and authentic experience of Indian markets.
   • Sit at one of the cafes or open spaces to enjoy the surroundings.

Attractions at Dilli Haat:

1. Handicraft Stalls:
   • The market is divided into several sections, each representing a different region of India. You can explore products like Kashmiri shawls, Rajasthani block prints, Madhubani art, North Eastern bamboo crafts, and Jaipur blue pottery.
2. Food Stalls:
   • The food stalls are a major attraction of Dilli Haat, offering regional street food like Samosas, Pav Bhaji, Pani Puri, Dosas, Biryani, and Chaat. Dont miss the chance to taste a variety of Indian delicacies in one place.
3. Cultural Events and Exhibitions:
   • Dilli Haat is known for its cultural performances such as classical dance, folk performances, and musical events. These performances change regularly and highlight the diversity of Indias cultural traditions.
   • It also hosts exhibitions that focus on different crafts and art forms, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of Indias cultural heritage.
4. Traditional Jewelry Stalls:
   • The stalls at Dilli Haat feature a variety of traditional Indian jewelry, including silver, brass, and semi-precious stone jewelry. You can find unique pieces such as Kundan, Meenakari, and Terracotta jewelry.
5. Handwoven Textiles:
   • India is famous for its handwoven textiles, and Dilli Haat is home to a variety of them. From Kanchipuram silks to Khadi, Banarasi saris, and Pashmina shawls, theres a wide selection of textiles that capture Indias fabric heritage.

Photography at Dilli Haat:

• Allowed: Photography is generally allowed at Dilli Haat, including of the vibrant stalls, handicrafts, and cultural performances. Its a great place for snapping colorful and lively scenes of traditional Indian arts and crafts.
• Permission: For professional or commercial photography, you may need to seek prior permission from the authorities or DTTDC (Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation), especially if you plan to set up equipment or conduct photo shoots.
• Respect the artisans: Be respectful of the artisans work and ask for permission before taking close-up shots of their crafts or products.

Entry Fee at Dilli Haat:

• For Adults: ?30
• For Children: ?10
• For Foreign Nationals: ?100
• The entry fee is quite affordable, contributing to the maintenance of the space and providing funds for organizing various cultural events and activities.

Safety Tips for Visiting Dilli Haat:

1. Watch your belongings: As Dilli Haat is a popular tourist destination, its important to stay alert and keep an eye on your belongings. Use locks or zippers for bags, and try to avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
2. Stay Hydrated: If visiting during the summer months, make sure to drink plenty of water as the heat can be intense, especially in the open-air areas.
3. Be cautious of crowds: Weekends and holidays can be crowded, so be mindful of your personal space, especially in food areas and when exploring the handicraft stalls.
4. Wear comfortable clothing: Dilli Haat requires a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and breathable clothing, particularly during the hotter months.
5. Avoid taking photos of individuals without permission: Always ask artisans or performers for permission before taking their photographs, especially in close-up or portrait-style images.

Famous Food at Dilli Haat:

1. Rajasthani Dal Baati Churma: A famous dish from Rajasthan, it features baked baatis (wheat rolls) served with dal (lentil curry) and a sweet churma made of crushed wheat, sugar, and ghee.
2. Mughlai Kebabs: Dilli Haat offers a variety of kebabs, including seekh kebabs, reshmi kebabs, and shami kebabs. These are tender and flavorful, often served with naan or rumali roti.
3. South Indian Dosas: Crispy dosa (a savory pancake) filled with a spiced potato mix and served with sambar (lentil soup) and coconut chutney.
4. Bengali Sweets: Dont miss out on rasgulla, sandesh, and mishti doi (sweetened yogurt), which are traditional Bengali desserts that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
5. Chole Bhature: A hearty dish from Punjab, chole bhature consists of spicy chole (chickpea curry) paired with deep-fried bhature (fluffy bread). Its a popular North Indian street food.
6. Pani Puri: This famous Indian street food consists of crispy, hollow puris filled with spicy pani (water), tamarind chutney, and potatoes. Its a must-try for any food lover!
7. Kebabs and Tikkas: Enjoy a variety of grilled meats, including chicken tikka, paneer tikka, and seekh kebabs. These are deliciously spiced and grilled to perfection.
8. Kulfi: A traditional Indian ice cream, kulfi comes in different flavors such as pistachio, mango, rose, and saffron. Its the perfect treat to cool down after a meal.
9. Northeastern Cuisine: Dilli Haat offers Northeastern Indian dishes, such as momos (dumplings) and thukpa (noodle soup), which are a hit with both locals and tourists.
10. Gujarati Farsan: Enjoy a variety of Gujarati snacks, such as khandvi, dhokla, and handvo, which are perfect for a light meal or snack.