Delhi is a city of contrasts, and nowhere is that contrast more vivid than in Hauz Khas Village. Imagine crumbling 14th-century ruins standing tall beside graffiti-splashed cafes or serene deer parks a short walk from buzzing bars and designer boutiques. What was once a medieval reservoir is now the capital’s trendiest pocket, where history, art, food, and nightlife collide. Therefore, here are 6 unmissable things to do in Hauz Khas.
1. Hop into stunning restaurants and cafes
The cramped, colourful streets of Hauz Khas feature artsy cafes, street food vendors, high-end restaurants, lively bars, and hole-in-the-wall eateries that ensure gastronomic delight. Hauz Khas eateries offer something for all budgets and all kinds of food enthusiasts, whether you’re craving authentic South Indian food, wood-oven pizzas, Tibetan cuisine, a Mediterranean platter, or some hot, spicy momos, right out of a paper plate.
If romantic, chic places are your vibe, visit Mia Bella for its fairy lights and lake view. For lively music, aesthetic interiors, and unique drinks, you should spend an evening at Imperfecto. Naivedyam offers authentic South Indian cuisine in a traditional setting, while Lama Kitchen is a go-to for excellent Tibetan food. And if you love tea, cosy spaces, and book cafes, The Tea Room is the perfect hideout.
2. Visit the Hauz Khas Fort
Explore the ruins of the Hauz Khas fort, as seen in every Delhiite’s Instagram dump. Created by Firoz Shah Tughlaq, the fort features thick stone walls, arched gateways, and open courtyards. Once a grand fort in the 13th century, its ruins now feature weathered walls and domes, surrounded by an ancient mosque, a madrasa, and several pavilions overlooking the water reservoir. Among the stone alleyways and rubble, an unmissable light and sound show is hosted every evening by the state government’s Tourism Department.
3. Walk around the Hauz Khas lake
If there is only one thing you take from us, let it be this: take an evening walk around the epicentre of Hauz Khas—its glimmering lake. Surrounded by dense trees, swans, peacocks, rabbits, and the quiet buzz of others soaking in the same twilight magic, it’s an experience that simply cannot be missed. This serene lake was built in 1284 by Alauddin Khalji to supply water to the nearby Siri City.
4. Visit the Delhi Art Gallery
Featuring works from famous artists such as Amrita Sher-Gil, M.F. Husain, J.P. Gangooly, and Laxma Goud, the gallery was founded with a vision to make art more accessible, meaningful, and relevant. They regularly host informal chat sessions, movie screenings, workshops, and curated walkthroughs. Additionally, the gallery believes that art should be inclusive. This is why they organise an event called ‘Abhas’, specifically designed for people with disabilities. They employ tactile aids and a Braille book, allowing participants to engage with art through their sense of touch rather than sight.
5. Go on a shopping spree
Amongst the crowded, graffiti-covered lanes of Hauz Khas Village, you will find yourself surrounded by a multitude of shopping opportunities. The eclectic market is home to a range of indie shops that offer delightful treasures. From independent boutiques and concept stores to handcrafted jewellery and rare collectables, each corner holds something unexpected. Tucked behind narrow staircases and hidden in compact spaces that feel like dead ends, these shops often lead to surprising finds.
For vinyl and record players, visit Pagal Records. If you’re intrigued by vintage maps, Bollywood posters, and postcards, All Arts is a slice of heaven. Some other trendy shops worth exploring are A Touch of Gold, Tatsat, Nasty Small Room, Ogaan, Farha Khan, and Huckleberry Hangers.
6. Get tickets to an escape room
In the heart of Hauz Khas Village, you’ll find an escape room called The Hidden Hour. Currently, they offer two challenges- Lost on an Island and Quarantine Zone. The place is perfect for date nights, team building, or simply gaining bragging rights.