Spices of Khari Baoli, Delhi
Said to be Asia's largest wholesale spice market, a crowded lane of sacks and godowns near the Red Fort in Old Delhi.
Traded and grown here
Best time: October to March, when Delhi is cooler.
Khari Baoli is a long street in Old Delhi, near Fatehpuri Masjid and Chandni Chowk, that has been a wholesale market for dry goods for centuries. Today it is best known for its spice trade, which supplies shops and kitchens across north India.
Spices and trade
Sacks of red chilli, turmeric, cumin, coriander, black pepper, cardamom, cloves and dried ginger line the street, with dried fruit, nuts and herbs. Traders sell by the kilo to shops and caterers, and many also grind and blend masalas to order.
The place and its people
The market is a working wholesale quarter. Porters carry sacks through narrow lanes, and the dust of chilli can make visitors cough. Many of the shops belong to families that have traded in the same lane for generations.
Visiting
Go early on a weekday, wear closed shoes and carry a scarf or mask. The rooftop views over the lanes are sometimes offered by shopkeepers, and small amounts can be bought for the kitchen.
A trail idea for Khari Baoli, Delhi
- Fatehpuri Masjid end Start where the street meets the mosque and head along the sacks.
- A chilli dealer See the range of reds, from mild to very hot, and ask about the varieties.
- A masala grinder Watch whole spices ground for the day's orders.
- Chandni Chowk Finish with street food in the neighbouring lanes.
Written by the EveryMasala desk with AI assistance. Background: "Khari Baoli" on Wikipedia. Opening hours, markets and tours change; check locally before travelling. If something is wrong, tell us.
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