Hotels in Paharganj are Ideal for Staying and Shopping

[Akriti Yadav]

Hotels in Paharganj are much sought after by those on a budget, backpackers, and other foreign travelers. Proximity to the railway station, shopping opportunities, coupled with a wide variety of accommodation choices makes this area quite popular with visitors. Today it may be hard to believe but during the Mughal Era (yes this place boasts of a rich history), Paharganj used to be a prominent suburb. Its location is just outside of Ajmeri Gate an entrance to the Walled City of yore. At that time, it was one among the five main markets in Delhi and had the distinction of being the only one outside the Walled City.

During the 17th century, it was the principal market for grains as well as an important collection centre of taxes for emperor’s coiffures. If one could look inside the 1857 mutiny papers, they will find special mention of Paharganj there. It was also known as Shahganj and Jaisinghpura back then. The present-day name comes from proximity to Raisina Hills the location of Rashtrapati Bhavan. Literally, this place means a HILLY NEIGHBORHOOD.

An ideal place to stay on a budget

Paharganj is known as a heaven for backpackers and has found a notable mention in various guidebooks listing the best places to stay when you are travelling on budget. Those looking for Delhi hotels near railway station generally come here. Numerous guesthouses, cheap hotels and the railway station is just a 5 min away from here. You don't have to book accommodation here because there are plenty of choices to be had. Clean and cheap accommodations make this a much-visited place. However, it won't hurt to be selective in your choices when searching for places to stay here. The food available at these places is quite good with a plethora of options.

Paradise for bargain shoppers

Shopping and eating out are two of the favorite pastimes of visitors who choose to stay at Hotels in Paharganj. So naturally, those who are using their sojourn in Delhi as just a transit point before going to other places most times don't even leave the neighborhood during their stay in national capital. Everything they may want is available right here. For example, those looking for some hot bargains on items such as jewelry, books, music, bags, handicrafts, shoes, and textile will find plenty of options. No doubt, the locality is noisy and chaotic but this does not deter the determined shoppers even a bit. Where else are you got going to find such unbelievable transaction opportunities on useful goods? Textile shops here are overflowing with bedspreads, wall hangings, and cushion covers. Similarly, at the jewelry shops a veritable treasure trove of knickknacks young people love is available including earrings, colorful bangles, and necklaces among other things.

So the next time you want to stay at Delhi hotels near railway station don't give Paharganj the miss. Hotels in Paharganj are Ideal for Staying and Shopping