India is a land of extraordinary contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modern innovation, and natural wonders coexist with vibrant cities.
Delhi is a hub of Indian handicrafts, traditional artwork, and contemporary designs, making it one of the best cities to explore local artisans, handmade goods, and unique souvenirs. From government emporiums to artist villages, here’s a guide to Delhi’s best places for arts and crafts lovers.
1. Dilli Haat – The Ultimate Craft Bazaar
Location: INA Market, South Delhi
Timings: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Open every day)
Entry Fee: ₹30 (Indians), ₹100 (Foreigners)
Why Visit?
✅ Open-air craft market with artisans from all over India.
✅ Shop for handwoven textiles, pottery, jewelry, and wooden carvings.
✅ Live cultural performances, folk dances, and craft workshops.
✅ Try regional foods from different states of India at the food stalls.
✔ Must-Buy Items:
✔ Madhubani & Warli paintings
✔ Kashmiri Pashmina shawls
✔ Handcrafted wooden toys & jewelry
✔ Pro Tip: Visit during festivals like Diwali & Christmas for special craft exhibitions.
2. Crafts Museum & Hastkala Academy – A Traditional Craft Heritage
Location: Bhairon Marg, Pragati Maidan
Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹20 (Indians), ₹200 (Foreigners)
Why Visit?
✅ Live craft demonstrations from rural artisans.
✅ Explore a stunning collection of textiles, folk paintings, and tribal artifacts.
✅ Visit the Hastkala Academy (Handicrafts School) for craft workshops.
✔ Must-See Exhibits:
✔ Lippan Art from Gujarat
✔ Phulkari Embroidery from Punjab
✔ Gond & Pattachitra Paintings
✔ Pro Tip: Shop at the museum gift store for authentic tribal crafts.
3. National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) – India’s Top Art Museum
Location: Jaipur House, India Gate
Timings: 11:00 AM – 6:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (Foreigners)
Why Visit?
✅ See works by Raja Ravi Varma, Amrita Sher-Gil, and M.F. Husain.
✅ A perfect mix of traditional & contemporary Indian art.
✅ Special art exhibitions and installations throughout the year.
✔ Pro Tip: Attend an art appreciation session hosted by the museum.
4. Janpath & Tibetan Market – Best for Budget Craft Shopping
Location: Near Connaught Place
Timings: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Closed on Sundays)
Why Visit?
✅ Shop for Tibetan jewelry, brass statues, wooden masks, and wall hangings.
✅ Affordable prices, but bargaining is a must!
✅ Find unique bohemian, tribal, and hippie-style artifacts.
✔ Must-Buy Items:
✔ Tibetan Thangka paintings
✔ Handmade incense & prayer flags
✔ Brass & bronze statues of Hindu deities
✔ Pro Tip: Go early in the morning for the best deals before crowds arrive.
5. Cottage Emporium – Government-Backed Authentic Crafts
Location: Janpath, Connaught Place
Timings: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Closed on Sundays)
Why Visit?
✅ Government-run store selling authentic Indian handicrafts.
✅ No bargaining needed – fixed & fair prices.
✅ Great selection of silver jewelry, carpets, and metal crafts.
✔ Best For: Travelers looking for genuine, high-quality souvenirs.
✔ Pro Tip: Visit during festive sales (Diwali, Independence Day) for discounts.
6. Hauz Khas Village – Delhi’s Artist Hub
Location: Hauz Khas, South Delhi
Timings: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Why Visit?
✅ A bohemian art district filled with art galleries, craft boutiques, and cafes.
✅ See works of contemporary Indian artists & sculptors.
✅ Visit Indie art studios and designer craft shops.
✔ Must-Visit Art Galleries:
✔ Delhi Art Gallery (DAG) – Featuring rare Indian modern art.
✔ Art Positive Gallery – Showcasing experimental and contemporary works.
✔ Studio Art Gallery – Best for sculpture lovers.
✔ Pro Tip: Combine your visit with lunch at a rooftop café overlooking the lake!
7. Kala Ghoda Festival (Delhi Edition) – Art, Music & Handicrafts
Where: Select Citywalk, Saket & DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj
When: February (Annual Event)
Entry Fee: Free
Why Attend?
✅ Live craft workshops, street art & interactive installations.
✅ Shop from local artisans showcasing handmade crafts.
✅ Experience artistic performances, music shows & cultural dances.
✔ Pro Tip: This is a limited-time event, so check dates before planning.
8. Delhi Haat Pitampura – A Mini Dilli Haat
Location: Pitampura, North Delhi
Timings: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Why Visit?
✅ Less crowded alternative to Dilli Haat INA.
✅ Traditional handicrafts from Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh & Bengal.
✅ Seasonal craft fairs & folk performances.
✔ Best For: A peaceful craft shopping & cultural experience.
Best Time to Explore Delhi’s Arts & Crafts Scene
Event/Festival |
Best Month to Visit |
What to Expect? |
Dilli Haat Craft Fair |
Throughout the year |
Handmade crafts from all over India |
Surajkund Mela |
February |
Asia’s biggest craft festival |
Kala Ghoda Festival (Delhi Edition) |
February |
Contemporary & folk art exhibitions |
Lodhi Art Festival |
January – February |
Live murals & street art |
Why Explore Delhi’s Art & Craft Scene?
✅ Authentic Indian handicrafts – From handmade jewelry to tribal paintings.
✅ Meet real artisans & support local crafts.
✅ Unique souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else.
Whether you’re looking for traditional crafts, modern art, or quirky handmade pieces, Delhi has it all!
Which art & craft spot are you excited to visit first?