If you’re heading to India and landing in Delhi, make sure Connaught Place (aka CP) is on your hit list. This isn’t just another market—this is the beating heart of New Delhi, where British-era architecture, buzzing nightlife, high-end shopping, street food, and timeless history all collide. Think of it as India’s version of Times Square, but with colonial flair, spicy chaat, and a whole lot more character.

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What’s Connaught Place Famous For?
Connaught Place is one of the largest financial, commercial, and business centers in New Delhi—and honestly, it’s iconic. Built by the British in the early 1900s and named after Prince Arthur (yeah, royalty!), CP has retained its vintage white colonial charm while transforming into a lively destination that never sleeps.
Here’s what makes Connaught Place so dang special:
Shopping Galore: Whether you’re into brands like Nike and H&M or want quirky stuff from underground Palika Bazaar, CP’s got you covered.
Heritage Feels: The all-white Georgian buildings, colonnaded walkways, and Central Park in the middle are peak photo ops.
Foodie Heaven: Grab North Indian classics at United Coffee House, street food like chole bhature from local joints, or a boozy brunch at Social or Farzi Café.
Old-School Cool: Watch a film at one of the historic cinemas like Odeon or Rivoli.
Nightlife & Vibes: From live jazz to hip rooftop bars, CP turns up when the sun goes down.
A Quick Flashback

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Before CP became the heartbeat of the capital, this area was mostly wild brush and ridges. The British cleared the land and created a showpiece for their new capital, New Delhi. The architecture? Inspired by the Royal Crescent in Bath, England, only with a desi twist.
Originally, it was built for British officers and elite Indian families. Over the decades, it morphed into the go-to place for business tycoons, travelers, college students, and everyone in between. Even Jawaharlal Nehru and Gandhi had some deep political convos at The Imperial Hotel nearby!
Must-See Spots Inside Connaught Place
Palika Bazaar: Underground, chaotic, and full of bargains (get ready to haggle).
Central Park: Great for a breather or just people-watching.
Hanuman Mandir & Jantar Mantar: Bits of spiritual and scientific history tucked right in the chaos.
Wenger’s Bakery: Legendary pastries and Swiss chocolate since 1926.
How to Reach
By Metro: The easiest way! Hop on the Delhi Metro Blue or Yellow Line and get off at Rajiv Chowk station. Boom—you’re right in the middle of the action.
By Cab or Auto: Book an Ola or Uber (yes, they’re in India), or flag down a classic auto-rickshaw. It’s about 30–45 minutes from Indira Gandhi International Airport depending on traffic.
By Bus: Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses also go to CP, but they’re a bit chaotic for first-time travelers.



