Hauz Khas Delhi: Village, Ruins, and Nightlife Guide

Hauz Khas Village is one of Delhi's most compelling urban contradictions — a 14th-century reservoir complex and Mughal-era madrassa now surrounded by boutique shops, rooftop bars, and design studios that have transformed a medieval ruin into one of South Delhi's most fashionable addresses. The juxtaposition is jarring and wonderful, with ancient arched archways framing views of young Delhiites sipping cocktails beside the water.

The Hauz Khas reservoir (hauz means reservoir, khas means special or royal) was built by Sultan Alauddin Khalji in the 14th century to supply water to the Siri Fort. The surrounding complex includes the Firuz Shah's madrassa and tomb — architecturally significant structures that are inexplicably often deserted even while the surrounding commercial district heaves with visitors. The deer park adjacent to the complex provides a green sanctuary surprisingly close to the restaurants and galleries.

The commercial village itself sells everything from antique furniture and vintage textiles to contemporary fashion and handmade jewellery in a warren of lanes that rewards slow browsing. Evening brings a different energy — the rooftop bars fill from 7pm, and several excellent restaurants have made Hauz Khas a dining destination for the city's creative class seeking somewhere less touristy than Khan Market.