The magic of film is best felt in a theatre in front of the big screen. Frankly, there’s nothing quite like the scent of buttery popcorn in the air and the communal thrill of sharing laughs and gasps when there is a plot twist. Luckily, there are over 50 cinemas in New Delhi, from multiplexes to smaller, single-screen halls, where you can watch all your favourite indie films, blockbusters and flicks. To ensure you have the best movie-watching experience, we’ve rounded up seven of the best cinemas in Delhi, both old and new, that ooze cinematic charm.
1. PVR
With over 1000 locations in 112 cities, PVR INOX is the largest film exhibitor in India as a result of the merger of the two chains in 2023. PVR offers a range of cinemas depending on the viewing experience.
If you’re looking for a romantic date idea, the luxurious PVR Premiere in Saket and Vegas Dwarka are some of the best cinemas for couples in Delhi. They have super comfy armchairs, screening a range of movies, from Bollywood and regional films to Hollywood. Whereas for watching big blockbusters, PVR Priya has a state-of-the-art IMAX screen with laser.
📍 Various locations across Delhi
2. INOX
Similarly, INOX has countless cinemas scattered across the city that offer a range of services including 4DX, IMAX, Luxe and Gold, as well as Playhouse for the kids. Each INOX cinema has its own appeal, but INOX Nehru Place is definitely one of our top choices. Located in the commercial hub of Nehru Place, it has incredible sound quality and a great selection of new movies and blockbusters in various languages.
📍 Various locations across Delhi
3. The Movie Hall
Located inside the Air Force Station, the Movie Hall screens a new film every week. It is only for IAF members and personnel and their families. Tickets here are a lot more economical in comparison to the big chains so if you meet the requirements, you should add this spot to your favourite cinemas list. Food or beverages are not allowed and big bags, purses and other similar items are also not permitted inside the hall.
📍 AF Station shopping complex, 110003, Lok Kalyan Marg, New Delhi, Delhi 110011
4. Delite Cinema
With two modern auditoriums (Delite and Delite Diamond), Delite Cinema in Chandni Chowk had North India’s 1st largest DOLBY ATMOS screen. It opened in 1954 as the tallest building of the town with Raj Kapoor’s Angarey. Nowadays, it offers state-of-the-art amenities as the building was completely restored. Delite screens first-run movies. There’s also a luxurious café and Indian restaurant on site where you can meet your loved ones and enjoy a great meal after a tension-filled action movie or nostalgic film.
📍 Gate No. 4, Govind Ballabh Pant Hospital, 1 G B, Asaf Ali Rd, Delhi Gate, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi, 110002
5. Liberty Cinema
Located near the Indian Oil Petrol Pump in Karol Bagh, this single-screen cinema offers a range of Hindi movies. With great sound and picture quality, although it’s not a multiplex with super modern facilities, it’s a great spot for your next outing with friends. If you pay a bit extra, you can get seats in the balcony to fully enjoy the big screen magic.
📍 19-B, New Rohtak Rd, Block 21 B, Dev Nagar, Karol Bagh, New Delhi, Delhi, 110005
6. Cinepolis
Cinepolis is one of the biggest movie theatre chains in the world, also boasting seven locations in Delhi. It’s widely popular for offering a modern and comfortable movie-watching experience. One of our top picks is Cinepolis Janak Cinema in Janakpuri that frequently screens films in different languages, as well as international cricket tournaments. What’s more, you can also grab a pre-movie snack or a post-movie bite at the food court of “The Janak” to get the full mall experience.
📍 Various locations across Delhi
7. Sunset Cinema Club
Any Sunset Cinema Club location across Delhi-NCR should be your go-to spot if you like open-air experiences or drive-in screenings. It’s particularly popular for dates or outings with friends to watch movies under the stars.
📍 Various locations across Delhi