This Delhi Neighbourhood Makes Time Out’s List Of World’s Coolest For 2026; See Where It Stands

Delhi’s Humayunpur has secured a place on Time Out’s list of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods for 2026. The South Delhi area has been ranked 16th on the global list.

The neighbourhood was recognised for its mix of food, local businesses, shopping and entertainment. Its strong Northeastern influence is also a major part of what makes Humayunpur different from many other parts of the city.

Humayunpur Has A Strong Northeastern Influence

Humayunpur’s present-day character took shape over several decades. After farmland in the area was sold in the 1960s, workers and students from Nagaland, Manipur, Assam and other Northeastern states began settling there.

Their presence has played a major role in shaping the neighbourhood’s food and shopping scene. Time Out describes the Northeastern community

as one of the key influences on the area.

Today, Humayunpur has become a popular spot for people looking for regional food and other experiences that are not always easy to find elsewhere in Delhi.

The Area Has More Than 50 Food Spots

Food is one of Humayunpur’s biggest draws. Time Out says the neighbourhood has more than 50 kitchens serving a wide range of dishes.

Visitors can find Naga thalis, Korean ramen, Tibetan momos and seafood dishes, among other options. The area also has shops selling Asian cooking ingredients and beverages from the Northeast.

Food is not the only reason people visit. Humayunpur has also added several smaller businesses and entertainment spots over the years.

Shopping And Entertainment Add To Its Appeal

The neighbourhood has skincare stores, streetwear outlets, tattoo parlours, karaoke spots and photo booths. This mix has helped give the area a character that goes beyond its food options.

Some places can be reached only after walking up a steep slope lined with wires, but that has not stopped Humayunpur from becoming a destination for food lovers and visitors exploring different parts of Delhi.

Time Out Used Several Factors For The List

Time Out said its 2026 list was based on nominations from its network of experts working in cities around the world.

Editors then reviewed the nominated neighbourhoods using factors such as food and drinks, nightlife, independent businesses, community and how enjoyable the area is to live in.

Humayunpur ranked 16th, placing it among neighbourhoods from cities across Asia, Europe, North America, South America and Australia.

Seoul’s Jongno 3-ga Takes The Top Spot

Jongno 3-ga in Seoul, South Korea, was placed at No. 1 on the list. Rabat’s L’Ocean and Lima’s Barranco took the second and third spots.

The top 20 neighbourhoods were:
1. Jongno 3-ga, Seoul, South Korea
2. L’Ocean, Rabat, Morocco
3. Barranco, Lima, Peru
4. Saint-Henri, Montreal, Canada
5. Casco Viejo, Bilbao, Spain
6. Gelemiş, Antalya, Türkiye
7. Konurbağı, Istanbul, Türkiye
8. Jing’an, Shanghai, China
9. Príncipe Real, Lisbon, Portugal
10. Lavapiés, Madrid, Spain
11. Capitol Hill, Seattle, US
12. Humber Bay Shores, Toronto, Canada
13. Mitte, Berlin, Germany
14. Carrer de la Llibreteria, Barcelona, Spain
15. Oosterparkbuurt, Amsterdam, Netherlands
16. Humayunpur, Delhi, India
17. East Austin, Austin, US
18. Gràcia, Barcelona, Spain
19. Chapinero, Bogotá, Colombia
20. Kreuzberg, Berlin, Germany