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Bikaner House: A beautiful space for a photo op!
With its plush greenery and Edwardian architecture, Delhi is an absolute delight for residents and tourists alike. Bikaner House is an iconic space in Delhi. It has been recently refurbished, yet maintains its gorgeous Rajasthani old-world charm. It hosts many events year-round, but a weekly staple is the Sunday Market.
Designed by Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker, the building has loads of character. It’s the perfect backdrop for creative exhibits, as well as leisurely jaunts. There is an in-house design store called VAYU, a beautiful garden called CHANDNI BAGH, an art space, a huge lobby or BAITHAK for multiple uses and a restaurant (currently a branch of Jaipur’s famous LMB).
Farm-fresh organic produce
The Sunday Market began about 6-8 months ago and has proven a success. My in-laws are some of the regular visitors for the natural farm produce. The initiative seeks to promote organic and home-made goods, including home-made spreads, quiches, croissants, almond milk, fresh vegetables, flowers, forest produce, tea, pickles and oils. They also offer handicrafts such as kites, traditional paper toys and stoneware.
I visited this market on the Sunday after Diwali. Unfortunately, many vendors weren’t displaying in the post-festival haze. A couple of Sundays have gone by since then, and I’ve been told they are back to full capacity now. Of the ones I visited, Blue Tokai coffee was my favourite. The Altitude Store had many delicious sauces and cheeses on offer. Jimmy’s Gourmet Kitchen sold yummy dips and peanut butter. The Clay Company had pretty sculpted homeware, and even offered pottery classes. I Say Organic sold fresh organic vegetables and fruits. Froggmag had pictures, photo-frames and fridge magnets; and organic tea was sold at Nuxalbari. My son’s favourite place was the handcrafted toy store, where the toys are completely old school yet fun. (They can be reached on 9953161801 for orders).
Old-school handcrafted toys
On most Sundays, Sain Almond Milk, Liter Basar, Hema’s South Indian, and The Little Farm vegetables, also have stalls. I have Sain almond milk delivered home bi-weekly, since giving up regular cow’s milk. This market is a great place to test out healthier organic options, which are usually quite expensive. Jewellery and home furnishing vendors occasionally display their wares too. Sometimes performers and artists from Rajasthan are invited to liven up the space.
Goodies from Jimmy’s Gourmet Kitchen; Delicious coffee at Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters
It’s a wonderful place to spend a Sunday morning, either alone or with family. It isn’t over-crowded; and as the winter sets in, the warm sun adds a lovely touch to the outdoor setting. Children of all ages can run around, while their parents enjoy a cup of coffee and shop. The entire space is great for young children, with the resident monkeys adding flavor! There is a parking lot inside the venue, but spots may not always be available.
I highly recommend a visit here; whether you’re a health enthusiast, a shopaholic, or just someone that enjoys a fun Sunday outing.
Must-Try:
Blue Tokai Coffee
Farm Fresh Vegetables
Sain Almond Milk
Jimmy’s Gourmet Kitchen Dips
Handmade Toys
Spicy Sauce from The Altitude Store
Day & Timings: Sundays
9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Market Rating: 4/5
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