Connaught Place, or CP, is one of the most popular and historic places in Delhi. It is not only a commercial and financial centre, but also a heritage site, a shopping hub, a dining destination, a nightlife hotspot and a tourist attraction. Whether you are looking for history, culture, entertainment or adventure, Connaught Place has something for everyone.
In this guide, we will tell you everything you need to know about Connaught Place and why you should visit it.
History of Connaught Place
Connaught Place was built in the 1930s as part of the British plan to develop a new capital city for India. It was named after Prince Arthur, the Duke of Connaught, who was a member of the British royal family.
The architect of Connaught Place was Edwin Lutyens, who also designed other prominent buildings in Delhi, such as Rashtrapati Bhavan and India Gate. Connaught Place was designed as a circular market with two concentric rings of shops and offices, connected by radial roads and inner corridors. The outer ring was called Connaught Circus and the inner ring was called Connaught Place. The buildings were constructed in white Georgian style with arched windows and pillars.
Connaught Place soon became the centre of social and cultural life in Delhi. It hosted many important events and personalities in the pre-independence and post-independence era. For instance, it was here that Jawaharlal Nehru delivered his first speech as the Prime Minister of India on August 15, 1947. It was also here that Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated by a suicide bomber on May 21, 1991. Connaught Place has witnessed many changes and transformations over the years. It has survived fires, riots, bombings and earthquakes. It has also undergone several renovations and restorations to preserve its original charm and glory.
Today, Connaught Place is a blend of old and new. It retains its historical and architectural significance, while also adapting to the modern needs and demands of the people. It is one of the most expensive and prestigious places in Delhi. It houses many government offices, banks, multinational corporations, media houses and embassies. It also hosts many cultural events, festivals and celebrations throughout the year.
Shopping in Connaught Place
Connaught Place is a paradise for shoppers. It offers a variety of shopping options, ranging from international brands to local markets. You can find almost anything you want in Connaught Place, such as clothes, accessories, books, electronics, antiques and souvenirs. Here are some of the most popular and famous shopping destinations in Connaught Place:
Janpath Market:
Janpath Market is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Delhi. It is famous for its street shopping, where you can bargain for clothes, jewellery, handicrafts, leather goods and more. You can also find some ethnic wear and vintage items here.
Palika Bazaar:
Palika Bazaar is an underground market that sells mainly electronics and gadgets. You can find everything from mobile phones to laptops to cameras here. However, be careful of the quality and authenticity of the products, as some may be fake or defective.
Khadi Gramodyog Bhavan:
Khadi Gramodyog Bhavan is a government-run store that sells khadi products, which are made from hand-spun cotton. You can buy clothes, bags, shoes, home decor items and more here. You can also support the rural artisans who make these products.
Central Cottage Industries Emporium:
Central Cottage Industries Emporium is a state-run store that sells handicrafts from different regions of India. You can buy pottery, paintings, sculptures, carpets, furniture and more here. You can also admire the craftsmanship and diversity of Indian culture here.
Some tips and tricks for shopping in Connaught Place are:
Bargain hard: Most of the street vendors and shopkeepers will quote a higher price than the actual value of the product. You can negotiate with them to get a better deal.
Explore: Don’t limit yourself to one shop or market. Explore different areas and lanes of Connaught Place to find hidden gems and unique items.
Timing: Avoid going to Connaught Place during peak hours or weekends, as it can get very crowded and chaotic. Go early in the morning or late in the evening to enjoy a more relaxed and pleasant shopping experience.
Safety: Be aware of your surroundings and belongings while shopping in Connaught Place. Beware of pickpockets, touts and scammers who may try to cheat or rob you.
Also check out: The calming beauty of Connaught place in odd timings, Delhi!
Dining in Connaught Place
Connaught Place is a gastronomic delight. It offers a variety of dining options, ranging from fine dining restaurants to fast food outlets to street food stalls.
You can find almost any cuisine you want in Connaught Place, such as Indian, Chinese, Continental, Mughlai, South Indian and North Indian. Here are some of the most popular and famous dining destinations in Connaught Place:
Saravana Bhavan:
Saravana Bhavan is one of the best places to enjoy authentic South Indian food in Delhi. It serves delicious dosas, idlis, vadas, uttapams and more. You can also try their filter coffee and rava kesari for dessert.
Kake Da Hotel:
Kake Da Hotel is one of the oldest and most famous places to enjoy Mughlai food in Delhi. It serves mouth-watering kebabs, curries, biryanis and more. You can also try their butter chicken and dal makhani, which are their signature dishes.
Wenger’s Bakery:
Wenger’s Bakery is one of the oldest and most famous bakeries in Delhi. It serves fresh and tasty cakes, pastries, cookies, breads and more. You can also try their shami kebab and chicken patties, which are their specialties.
United Coffee House:
United Coffee House is one of the oldest and most famous cafes in Delhi. It serves hot and cold beverages, snacks, sandwiches, salads and more. You can also try their mutton samosa and waffles, which are their classics.
Parikrama - The Revolving Restaurant:
Parikrama - The Revolving Restaurant is one of the most unique and exciting places to dine in Delhi. It is located on the 24th floor of a building and rotates 360 degrees every hour. It offers a panoramic view of the city and serves Indian, Chinese and Continental food.
Some tips and tricks for dining in Connaught Place are:
Reservations: Make reservations in advance for some of the popular and busy restaurants in Connaught Place, especially during weekends or holidays. You can also check online for availability and offers.
Hygiene: Check the hygiene and cleanliness of the place before eating there. Avoid eating at unhygienic or dubious places that may cause health issues.
Reviews and ratings: Check the reviews and ratings of the place before eating there. You can also ask for recommendations from friends or locals who have eaten there before.
Budget: Choose a place that suits your budget and preference. You can find a range of options from cheap to expensive in Connaught Place.
Nightlife in Connaught Place
Connaught Place is a vibrant and lively place at night. It offers a variety of nightlife options, ranging from bars to pubs to clubs. You can find almost any type of music, ambiance and crowd in Connaught Place, such as live music, DJ nights, karaoke nights, comedy nights and theme nights.
Here are some of the most popular and famous nightlife destinations in Connaught Place:
Lord of the Drinks:
Lord of the Drinks is one of the best places to enjoy drinks and music in Delhi. It has a huge bar with a wide selection of cocktails, mocktails, beers and wines. It also has a spacious dance floor with a DJ playing Bollywood, EDM and hip-hop music.
Monkey Bar:
Monkey Bar is one of the best places to enjoy food and fun in Delhi. It has a quirky decor with a monkey theme and a pool table. It also has a delicious menu with fusion dishes like butter chicken khichdi, galouti burger and tikki tacos.
Farzi Cafe:
Farzi Cafe is one of the best places to enjoy food and entertainment in Delhi. It has a modern decor with a live kitchen and a stage. It also has an innovative menu with molecular gastronomy dishes like dal chawal arancini, vada pav slider and mishti doi shots.
The Beer Cafe:
The Beer Cafe is one of the best places to enjoy beer and chill in Delhi. It has a cozy decor with wooden furniture and posters. It also has an extensive menu with over 50 varieties of beer from around the world.
My Bar Headquarters:
My Bar Headquarters is one of the best places to enjoy drinks and party in Delhi. It has a funky decor with neon lights and graffiti. It also has an affordable menu with drinks starting from Rs 99.
Some tips and tricks for nightlife in Connaught Place are:
Dress code: Follow the dress code of the place you are going to. Some places may have a formal or smart casual dress code, while others may have a casual or funky dress code.
Entry fee: Check the entry fee of the place you are going to. Some places may have a cover charge or a minimum charge, while others may have free entry or happy hours.
Age limit: Check the age limit of the place you are going to. Some places may have a minimum age of 18 or 21, while others may have no age restriction.
Safety: Be careful of your safety and security while enjoying nightlife in Connaught Place. Avoid getting into fights, arguments or trouble with anyone. Do not drink and drive or accept drinks from strangers. Keep your phone, wallet and valuables with you at all times.
You may also like to read: Witness the Life in Connaught Place
Best Places to Stay Near Connaught Place
If you are looking for the best places to stay near Connaught Place, you have plenty of options to choose from. Connaught Place is one of the most popular and historic places in Delhi, and it offers a variety of attractions, activities and experiences for visitors.
Whether you are looking for history, culture, entertainment or adventure, Connaught Place has something for everyone. Some of the best places to stay near Connaught Place are:
The Lalit New Delhi:
This is a luxurious 5-star hotel that offers exceptional service and impeccable amenities. It is located on Barakhamba Avenue, just 0.7 km from Connaught Place. It has a huge bar, a spacious dance floor, a live kitchen and a stage. It also has an innovative menu with molecular gastronomy dishes. You can enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the 24th floor of the hotel, where there is a revolving restaurant.
Click here to book a stay at The Lalit New Delhi.
The Imperial, New Delhi:
This is another luxurious 5-star hotel that offers exquisite service and elegant amenities. It is located on Janpath Lane, just 0.7 km from Connaught Place. It has a quirky decor with a monkey theme and a pool table. It also has a delicious menu with fusion dishes like butter chicken khichdi, galouti burger and tikki tacos. You can admire the craftsmanship and diversity of Indian culture at the Central Cottage Industries Emporium, which is across the road from the hotel.
Click here to book a stay at The Imperial.
Radisson Blu Marina Connaught Place:
This is a modern 4-star hotel that offers comfortable service and convenient amenities. It is located on G - 59 Connaught Circus Radial 3’rd Road, just 0.4 km from Connaught Place. It has a cozy decor with wooden furniture and posters. It also has an extensive menu with over 50 varieties of beer from around the world. You can enjoy the historical and cultural significance of Connaught Place at the Jantar Mantar Observatory, which is just 0.5 km from the hotel.
Click here to book a stay at Radisson Blu Marina Connaught Place.
Connaught Place is the heart of Delhi and a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the best of the city. It is a place where history, culture, entertainment and adventure come together in a beautiful and vibrant way. Whether you want to shop, dine, party or explore, Connaught Place has something for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Add Connaught Place to your Delhi itinerary today and discover the magic of this iconic place.