Paharganj is not Paris

No, indeed, and people who end up in Paharganj are not interested in the Champs Elysees. So there. Many  Delhi travelers, the so-called backpacker crowd, hang out in Delhi's cheap hotel district Paharganj near New Delhi railway station. I wonder what the locals think about these Rastafari Europeans who wear torn clothes, Arabic fluffy pants, skimpy tshirts, or see guys with long hair and earrings. Observing it all, it seems the Westerners dress what they consider to be "ethnic" style, while the locals probably think we have a screw loose and not all our cups in the cupboard. Talk about cultures clashing.

SAM'S CAFE roof top terrace of the V.... Hotel

For people like us, who live in Delhi, Paharganj is a great place to visit one of the many rooftop terrace restaurants, usually part of a hotel. The food is mostly pretty shitty, but if you like the January and February sunshine and enjoy simple ginger tea, it's a great place to hang out.
To me, the best part about Paharganj are the side streets and alleys where you can find many old Havelis, crumbling and decaying, but still beautiful. Middle-class Delhites wouldn't come to this part of Delhi if the devil chased them, they consider it too sleezy and beneath them. But that is where all the photo opportunities are!!!! Get dirty, people!

How come on photos everything
always looks so romantic, clean and quiet?
Roof top view over main bazar

Lots of bull traffic here too

You can buy everything under the sun in Paharganj, but always be careful not to step into a pile of cow dung. And of course be prepared for all the hustling business man. It's part of the fun. Smile and keep moving. They are used to it. But definately buy some of the beautiful deities out of wood, brass, marble, or glass. Or at least a door knob, come on.

Pay attention when you stumble around!

When you come by metro , you must stop at the Rama Krishna mission, a beautiful place of worship for those who are seeking higher grounds, espcially VIVEKENANDA fans, There is a nice book shop on the premises with super cheap material that will keep  your minds and souls spinning for many months to come. Check it out!

It is worth a visit. Even though one cannot walk in the
garden surrounding the prayer hall.

Remember to take your shoes off in the prayer hall

This cafe is right around the corner from the mission,
and though it is tiny, it is a favorite hang out
with tourists.

Politics and Religion , that is India.