Connaught Place, or CP, is a bustling commercial and cultural epicenter nestled, literally, in the heart of New Delhi. With its grand architectural design, diverse array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, and its central role in the daily lives of Delhiites and tourists alike, Connaught Place embodies the essence of urban dynamism.

As one of India’s most iconic destinations, CP beckons you with its storied past, thriving present, and promises of unforgettable experiences.

In this blog, we delve into the multifaceted allure of Connaught Place, exploring its historical significance, architectural splendor, economic vitality, and cultural resonance.

History

The genesis of Connaught Place traces back to the early 20th century when it was conceived as a focal point of Lutyens‘ Delhi, envisaged to be a standout feature of the new capital’s architectural landscape.

Construction commenced in 1929 and culminated in 1933, under the direction of architect Robert Tor Russell. Originally named after Prince Arthur, 1st Duke of Connaught and Strathearn, the plaza was later renamed Rajiv Chowk in 1995, in honor of former Prime Minister of India, Rajiv Gandhi.

In its early years, Connaught Place attracted traders from the Kashmere Gate area, establishing commercial establishments that still endure to this day.

The plaza burgeoned into a bustling marketplace, frequented by residents and royalty alike. Regal cinema, the first in Connaught Place, became a hub for various cultural events, while eateries such as Kwality and United Coffee House introduced continental and Mughlai cuisines to the area.

Post-independence, Connaught Place continued to evolve, witnessing the introduction of innovative services such as the Phatphat Sewa, a Harley Davidson rickshaw service that ferried visitors to attractions like the Red Fort and Chandni Chowk.

The 1970s saw significant developments with the construction of Palika Bazaar, Delhi’s first underground market, and the emergence of State Emporiums on Baba Kharak Singh Marg.

Through the decades, CP has retained its status as a vibrant commercial and cultural hub, embodying the dynamism and spirit of India’s capital city.

Interesting Fact: Connaught Place is ranked as the ninth most expensive office location globally as of July 2018, commanding an annual rent of $1,650 per square meter ($153/sq ft).

Architecture

Connaught Place blends colonial influences with elements of Georgian and Victorian styles.

Designed by architect Robert Tor Russell, Connaught Place was constructed between 1929 and 1933 as part of the urban planning efforts for the new capital city of India. The architectural concept aimed to create a grand commercial and business center that would serve as the focal point of the city.

Architecturally, Connaught Place draws inspiration from the Royal Crescent in Bath, designed by John Wood the Younger in the late 18th century.

While the Royal Crescent comprises a semi-circular three-story residential structure, Connaught Place encompasses two floors, forming an almost complete circle intended to accommodate commercial establishments on the ground level and residential spaces above.

At its core, CP features a circular layout, inspired by iconic architectural structures like the Royal Crescent in Bath, England.

This circular design was intended to facilitate efficient traffic flow and provide a visually appealing environment for visitors. The circular shape is divided into two concentric circles, known as the Inner Circle and the Outer Circle, with radial roads emanating from a central park.

The buildings in CP exhibit a uniform architectural style characterized by colonnaded facades, arched windows, and ornate detailing.

The use of red sandstone for the facades adds to the grandeur of the structures and imparts a sense of continuity and coherence to the overall design.

The Inner Circle of CP is lined with imposing commercial buildings, housing retail outlets, restaurants, offices, and other businesses.

These buildings typically feature two stories, with shops and establishments on the ground floor and offices or residential spaces on the upper floor. The colonnades along the ground level provide shelter from the elements and create a covered walkway for pedestrians.

The Outer Circle of CP comprises primarily commercial and office spaces, with buildings arranged along the perimeter of the circular layout.

The architecture of the Outer Circle buildings follows a similar style to those in the Inner Circle, with colonnaded facades and decorative elements contributing to the visual appeal of the area.

What to Expect at Connaught Place

Here are the key features and attractions of CP:

Circular Layout: Connaught Place is distinguished by its circular architectural design, featuring inner and outer circles connected by radial roads. This layout facilitates efficient traffic flow and creates a central focal point for the area.

Colonial-Era Architecture: The buildings in CP showcase colonial-era architecture, characterized by grand facades, colonnades, and ornate detailing. The architecture reflects the British influence on urban planning in India during the early 20th century.

Shopping: Connaught Place is renowned for its diverse array of shops, ranging from high-end boutiques to street vendors selling clothing, accessories, electronics, books, and handicrafts. The area is a shopper’s paradise, offering something for every taste and budget.

Dining: CP boasts a wide selection of restaurants, cafes, and eateries serving a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, Continental, and street food. From fine dining establishments to casual cafes, there’s no shortage of culinary delights to explore.

Entertainment: The area is home to numerous entertainment venues, including cinemas, theaters, and performance spaces. Visitors can catch the latest blockbuster movies, enjoy live music performances, or attend cultural events and festivals.

Historical Landmarks: CP is surrounded by several historical landmarks, including Jantar Mantar, an ancient astronomical observatory, and Agrasen ki Baoli, a centuries-old stepwell. These sites offer glimpses into Delhi’s rich history and heritage.

Central Park: At the heart of CP lies Central Park, a lush green oasis amidst the bustling cityscape. The park provides a tranquil retreat where visitors can relax, unwind, and enjoy a leisurely stroll amidst verdant surroundings.

Street Performers and Artists: CP is often enlivened by street performers, musicians, and artists showcasing their talents. Visitors can enjoy impromptu performances, live music, and art displays as they explore the area.

Cultural Events and Festivals: Throughout the year, the place hosts a variety of cultural events, festivals, and exhibitions celebrating art, music, dance, and literature. These events showcase the vibrant cultural scene of Delhi and attract visitors from all walks of life.

Connectivity: With its central location and well-connected transportation network, it serves as a major transportation hub in Delhi. It is easily accessible by metro, bus, taxi, and auto-rickshaw, making it convenient for visitors to explore other parts of the city.

Tourist Attractions Near Connaught Place

You can explore a plethora of tourist attractions near Connaught Place that offer diverse experiences ranging from historical landmarks to cultural sites and modern entertainment venues. Here are some noteworthy attractions located in close proximity to Connaught Place:

India Gate: A majestic war memorial honoring Indian soldiers, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and featuring the eternal flame of the Amar Jawan Jyoti.

Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Palace): The official residence of the President of India, showcasing impressive architecture and sprawling Mughal-style gardens, designed by Edwin Lutyens.

National Museum: One of India’s largest museums, housing a diverse collection of artifacts spanning thousands of years of Indian history and culture.

Jantar Mantar: An ancient astronomical observatory built in the 18th century, featuring large-scale instruments used to observe celestial phenomena.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib: A prominent Sikh gurdwara offering a peaceful sanctuary for visitors of all faiths, known for its community kitchen serving free meals to all.

Hanuman Temple (Hanuman Mandir): One of the oldest Hindu temples in Delhi, dedicated to Lord Hanuman and attracting devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace.

National Gallery of Modern Art: Showcasing an impressive collection of modern and contemporary Indian art, including works by renowned Indian artists and temporary exhibitions.

How to Reach Connaught Place

You can reach Connaught Place in New Delhi by metro or road.

CP is served by the Yellow Line and the Blue Line of the Delhi Metro. Here’s how you can reach the place by metro:

Yellow Line: If you’re traveling from areas like North Delhi, South Delhi, or Gurgaon, you can take the Yellow Line of the Delhi Metro. Get off at the Rajiv Chowk Metro Station, which is located right beneath Connaught Place. From there, you can directly access the inner circle of Connaught Place via underground walkways.

Blue Line: If you’re traveling from areas like Noida or East Delhi, you can take the Blue Line of the Delhi Metro. Get off at the Rajiv Chowk Metro Station, which serves as an interchange station for both the Blue Line and the Yellow Line. You can then follow the same route as mentioned above to reach Connaught Place.

To reach CP by road, you can use various modes of transportation, including buses, taxis, or private vehicles. it is well-connected by road to different parts of Delhi and the surrounding areas. Here’s how you can reach CP by road:

Bus: Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) operates several bus routes that connect Connaught Place to different neighborhoods and areas across Delhi. You can check the DTC website or use the Delhi Public Transport app to find the bus routes that pass through the route.

Taxi: You can hail a taxi or use ride-hailing services like Uber or Ola. Taxis are readily available throughout Delhi, and you can easily find one to take you to Connaught Place from anywhere in the city.

Private Vehicle: If you’re traveling by car or two-wheeler, you can drive to CP using GPS navigation or by following road signs. Connaught Place has multiple parking facilities available, including underground parking lots and surface parking areas, where you can park your vehicle while exploring the area.

Conclusion

Connaught Place stands as more than just a commercial center; it is a living testament to the dynamic spirit and cultural richness of New Delhi.

From its inception as a colonial-era architectural marvel to its evolution into a thriving hub of commerce, culture, and community, Connaught Place has remained a symbol of Delhi’s resilience and vitality. Its enduring popularity among locals and tourists alike underscores its timeless appeal and significance in the fabric of the city.