Diwali In Delhi: Where To Find The Best

Sweets

And Savouries

Quick Summary

Ready to flex your Diwali spread like a true Delhiwala? This guide is your cheat code to the city’s iconic halwais and mithai joints where tradition and modernity thrive. Whether you’re squad-deep or rolling solo, get the lowdown on where to grab the freshest laddoos, crispy jalebis, and chatpata namkeens without waiting in line.

Deep Dive

Which Diwali can ever be complete without its snacks and sweets? When it comes to Diwali in Delhi, its food is perhaps as memorable as diyas, string lights, and rangolis. From age-old halwais tucked in the narrow alleys of Chandni Chowk to popular sweet chains spread across the city, Delhi’s little and big shops transform into a thriving hub every year. This guide offers practical recommendations to make your Diwali sweet shopping hassle-free, local or not.

Historic Sweet Shops In Chandni Chowk

If you want to sample old favourites, then head over to Chandni Chowk, which is the heart and soul of Delhi’s street food as well as mithai. You will find iconic places like Ghantewala Halwai, dating back to 1790, which is famous for its sweets like sohan halwa, motichoor laddoos, and rabri. There’s also Chaina Ram Sindhi Confectioners, another legendary shop, sought after for its rich besan laddoos and dry fruit sweets. Then there is the Old Famous Jalebi Wala serving hot, ghee-rich, crispy jalebis.

These shops maintain recipes passed down through generations, ensuring an unmatched Diwali experience. Expect long queues, especially during Diwali, so plan your visit early in the day. Many shops (you can call and ask) offer online ordering, allowing you to skip the lines and enjoy their treats at home.

Popular Sweet Chains

You can also go to Delhi’s popular sweet chains, which have multiple stores across the city. Kaleva offers a vast range of sweets, including gulab jamun, panjiri, and dry fruit mithai, with outlets located throughout the city. Bikanervala and Haldiram’s, with branches across the city, are renowned for their extensive selection of sweets and savouries. 

Take your pick from the popular kaju katli, gulab jamun, and laddoos, as well as savoury snacks like kachori and namakpar. You will also find their Diwali gift boxes to be especially popular if you are short of time and need a quick gift. Bansal Sweets in Pitampura is another favourite, known for consistently delicious besan laddoos and festive treats.

Speciality Jalebi Stops

Jalebi lovers have multiple spots in Delhi to satisfy their cravings. Standard Burfee in Karol Bagh and Tilak Nagar offers fresh, soft jalebis paired with creamy rabri. Aside from Old Famous Jalebi Wala in Chandni Chowk, there’s Gulab Sweets in Pitampura too. Another one is Bangla Sweet House in Gole Market, which is praised for its variety of Bengali sweets, including chanar jilipi (paneer jalebi) and kesar jalebi.

The Savouries To Complement Your Sweets

The best place for namkeen is Haldiram’s and Bikanervala, which offer an assortment of namkeens such as bhujia, sev, and moong dal, packaged in festive boxes. Local halwais in Chandni Chowk and Old Delhi make traditional snacks like chikki, kaju katli, and mathri daily. There are also shops like Manohar Bikaneri dotting the city, known for their assorted package of savouries and sweets.

Markets in Rajouri Garden and Laxmi Nagar are full of small shops selling homemade-style farsan, masala peanuts, and khakhra, often made with secret family recipes. Street vendors also sell spicy sev mixtures and fried snacks. However, prices and offerings may differ across locations, even within Delhi.

Local Markets To Explore

Chandni Chowk is the epicentre for Diwali shopping, offering not just sweets but also festive essentials like diyas and ethnic wear. Dariba Kalan is famous for silver jewellery, and Kinari Bazaar stocks vibrant fabrics and decorative items. Bengali Market, despite its name, is a hotspot for North Indian sweets and savouries, with iconic shops like Nathu’s Sweets and Bengali Sweet House. Rajouri Garden and Laxmi Nagar have neighbourhood shops that create homemade sweets and snacks, often preferred by locals.

Gifting Options: Hampers And Online Options

With convenience the norm of the century, online gifting options have surged, making Diwali shopping hassle-free. Places like Ferns N Petals (FNP) and IGP offer curated hampers combining sweets, dry fruits, and savouries, delivered fresh and beautifully packaged. Many traditional shops like Bikanervala now offer online ordering, enabling customers to get their favourite Diwali treats delivered to their doorstep. This is particularly convenient for sending festive wishes to loved ones across cities.

Getting The Best Before The Rush

For a smooth Diwali sweet shopping experience in Delhi, timing your visit is crucial. Try to go early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds and coming back home empty-handed or running pillar to post to get your hands on the last-minute mithai. 

While most shops accept digital payments, carrying some cash is wise for smaller vendors. If you’re buying in bulk, placing advance orders ensures availability and timely delivery. Many shops provide festive gift packaging, but if you prefer eco-friendly options, it’s best to check in advance or bring your own reusable boxes. 

Don’t hesitate to ask for samples before you make the purchase – traditional halwais are usually happy to let you taste before you buy. Make sure you also chat with shopkeepers about their specialities and seasonal must-haves; their insider tips can help you discover exclusive Diwali treats.

Diwali Sorted With Mithai And Namkeen

Diwali in Delhi is a celebration of taste and tradition. The city’s sweet shops and markets offer a rich variety of sweets and savouries, from historic halwais to modern chains. Whether you prefer time-tested classics or innovative treats, Delhi’s festive offerings ensure every palate is delighted. This Diwali, explore these iconic locations and enjoy authentic flavours that make the festival truly special.