Nizamuddin West

Overview

A centuries-old neighbourhood radiating from the Nizamuddin Dargah shrine, where narrow lanes lead past Sufi hospices, flower sellers, kebab shops, and the graves of poets and nobles. The area around the dargah retains an atmosphere of medieval Delhi.

Highlights

• Dargah Bazaar: Stalls selling rose petals, chadar offerings, and devotional music recordings.
• Ghalib's Tomb: The final resting place of Urdu poet Mirza Ghalib, just off the main lane.
• Kulfi and Kebabs: Street vendors selling Nizamuddin's famous kulfi (frozen dessert) and seekh kebabs.

History

The neighbourhood grew around the khanqah of Nizamuddin Auliya (1238–1325). For seven centuries it has been a centre of Sufi devotion, attracting pilgrims and poets including Amir Khusrau and Mirza Ghalib.

Visitor Tips

• Thursday evening: Time your visit for the qawwali at the dargah.
• Respectful behaviour: This is an active place of worship.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.