In the middle of Delhi’s constant buzz and beautiful chaos lies a circular haven that somehow feels timeless — Connaught Place, lovingly called CP. It’s not just a location on the map; it’s an emotion, a memory lane, a shopping spree, a food hunt, and for many, the very soul of Delhi.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a daily commuter, or a nostalgic Delhiite, CP has a way of making you feel like you’ve arrived somewhere special.
A Slice of Colonial-Era Charm
Built in 1933 and named after the Duke of Connaught, CP was designed as a showpiece of British colonial architecture. The grand white colonnades, the circular structure, and the symmetry still make it one of the most recognizable landmarks in India.
Divided into Inner Circle, Middle Circle, and Outer Circle, it’s like a giant round puzzle that somehow everyone learns to navigate. Every turn reveals something new — from age-old bookstores and iconic restaurants to gleaming brand stores and buzzing cafés.
Shop Till You Drop (or Sit for Chai)
CP is a shopper’s paradise. Want to splurge on Zara or H&M? They’re right there. Looking for budget-friendly treasures from Janpath? Just a 5-minute walk away. Want authentic handicrafts or quirky indie brands? CP’s got them all.
From street-style earrings and jhumkas to high-end perfumes, from bookstores like Oxford Bookstore to sneaker shops, this is the place where luxury and street-style hold hands.
Food, Chai & Everything in Between
You can’t talk about CP without talking about food. Whether you’re craving a classic Indian thali at Saravana Bhavan, kebabs at Khan Chacha, milkshakes at Keventers, or a cozy café vibe at Cha Bar, CP delivers.
There are rooftop restaurants for breezy evenings, street food vendors for golgappas and momos, and dessert stops like Wenger’s that have been winning hearts since 1926.
For chai lovers? You’re never too far from a kettle, a kulhad, and a warm conversation.
Culture, Cinema & That Classic CP Feeling
CP isn’t just about shopping or eating — it’s a cultural hub. Walk into Indian Coffee House and you’ll feel like time has paused. Watch a film at Regal or Rivoli and catch a piece of history (even if they’ve now modernized). Visit Jantar Mantar, just a few steps away, and touch astronomy from the 18th century.
In the evenings, artists and musicians often gather near the Central Park amphitheatre, filling the air with tunes and poetry. There’s always something going on — a protest, a flash mob, a flea market, or just people hanging out on the benches.
Easily Connected, Forever Busy
CP is the beating heart of the Delhi Metro too. With Rajiv Chowk being one of the busiest metro stations, it connects people from all corners of the city. But don’t let the crowd fool you — there’s an unspoken rhythm to CP. Somehow, everyone finds their way.
Why CP Is More Than a Place
For students, CP is the post-class hangout spot. For couples, it’s where dates turn into memories. For tourists, it’s a crash course in Delhi’s spirit. For professionals, it’s the place to grab coffee between meetings. For everyone, it’s a feeling — of belonging, of beauty, of Delhi.
So, whether you’re walking under its white pillars, sipping chai on a bench, catching up with friends, or just watching the world go by — remember, in CP, you’re never alone. You’re always part of something bigger.
