If you’re headed to Delhi and looking for that perfect blend of ancient ruins, hip cafés, indie fashion, and local color—Hauz Khas needs to be on your radar. Tucked into the heart of South Delhi, Hauz Khas is like the lovechild of Mughal grandeur and Brooklyn cool. It’s one part medieval relic, one part art gallery row, and 100% unforgettable.
Whether you’re a history nerd, fashion lover, street food explorer, or just want that Instagram-perfect shot—Hauz Khas hits different.
What’s So Special About Hauz Khas?

By Nvvchar at [http://en.wikipedia.orgen.wikipedia], CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Once known as Hauz-e-Alai, this neighborhood is steeped in centuries-old history. The centerpiece? The iconic Hauz Khas Complex, which includes:
- A medieval Islamic seminary and tomb built during the Khalji dynasty
- The “Royal Tank” (literally what Hauz Khas means in Urdu), a massive reservoir built by Sultan Alauddin Khalji to supply water to nearby Siri Fort
- Ancient domed buildings and mosques surrounded by tranquil walkways and lakeside views
And then—boom!—you step out and you’re in the middle of a buzzing urban village packed with:
- Quirky art galleries
- Indie fashion boutiques
- Cozy rooftop cafés and vibey bars
- Street murals and boho vibes everywhere
Hauz Khas Village: Delhi’s Cool Kid
In the 1980s, designers like Bina Ramani gave Hauz Khas Village a glam makeover by moving in with high-end boutiques. Fast forward to today, and the place is crawling with everything from chic rooftop pubs and live music bars to vegan cafés and tattoo studios.
Expect:
- Boutiques selling hand-stitched saris, streetwear, and handcrafted jewelry
- Coffee spots that double as co-working zones
- Art installations, live music gigs, and cultural festivals
- An international crowd of backpackers, expats, and stylish locals
More Than Just a Pretty Face

By Prateek Gupta – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Hauz Khas isn’t just about sipping iced lattes next to a 700-year-old tomb (though that’s a thing). It’s surrounded by lush greenery—like the sprawling Deer Park and Rose Garden—perfect for long walks, morning runs, or a chill picnic with a view of Mughal domes.
Nearby landmarks worth checking out include:
- Siri Fort Auditorium for live shows
- Chor Minar (“Thieves Tower”)—where heads of criminals were displayed (yep, medieval Delhi was wild)
- AIIMS & Safdarjung Hospital (in case you need a top-tier hospital nearby—peace of mind, right?)
Shopping & Nightlife Vibes
- E Block Market: Your go-to for local groceries, street snacks, and essentials
- G Block and Aurobindo Market: More shopping, more food, fewer crowds
- Bars & Lounges: Whether it’s a sundowner cocktail or craft beer night, HKV (as locals call it) has your nightlife covered
How to Reach Hauz Khas
By Air: Land at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), then grab a cab or take the airport metro to Hauz Khas.
By Metro: Hop on the Yellow or Magenta Line and get off at Hauz Khas Metro Station. From there, it’s a short tuk-tuk ride or 10-minute walk to the village.
By Road: Book an Uber/Ola from anywhere in Delhi-NCR—it’s well connected via major roads like Aurobindo Marg and Outer Ring Road.
Local Tip: If you’re heading to Hauz Khas Village, ask your cabbie to drop you at the Deer Park Gate—it’s the most scenic route in.



