From medieval period, Delhi has always been the most important trading center in Northern India. Many of its localities, like Sheikh Sarai and Yusuf Sarai, derive their names from the ancient trading towns of Delhi. Today, instead of market towns, there are number of shopping complexes, hubs, whole sale markets scattered all over the Delhi city.

Shopping is always on top of the itinerary chart for any tourist visiting Delhi. There are whole shebang of items of tourist choice, such as jewelry, carpets, handicrafts, precious stones, silks and silver ware - all synonymous with India. Connaught Place, Karol Bagh and Chandni Chowk are the principle shopping areas. Baba Kharak Singh Marg, near Parliament Street is dotted with multiple emporiums, offering the famous handicraft artifacts of different states of India. under one roof at government-controlled prices.
The distinct feature of Delhi market is that every shopping hub has its own ambience and specialty. Haus Khas Village, Connaught Place and Chandni Chowk have distinct features and have their own special attractions, yet each of them showcases an appearance of this historical city. To know the real culture and traditions of city, the best way is to stroll or wander around through its market places, for it is here that contemporary culture is most visible to the visitors.