Sanjay Van: The Urban Jungle

Location: Vasant Kunj-Munirka, South Delhi

Attraction: A vast urban forest offering nature trails, bird watching, and a tranquil escape from city life. Known for its dense greenery and eerie legends.

Tucked away in the heart of South Delhi, Sanjay Van is a sprawling green forest, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. This urban jungle, part of the Aravalli range, stretches over 783 acres, making it one of the largest green spaces in the city. Early mornings are the best time to visit, when you can spot a variety of birds, including peacocks, and enjoy a peaceful walk along its winding trails. Despite its serene atmosphere, Sanjay Van has a mysterious aura, with many tales of hauntings adding to its offbeat charm.

Hauz Khas Village: A Blend of History and Hipster Vibes

Location: Hauz Khas, South Delhi

Attraction: A historic complex with a 13th-century water reservoir, medieval monuments, and a vibrant nightlife scene. Popular for its cafes, art galleries, and scenic lake views.

Hauz Khas Village is where the old meets the new. This quirky neighborhood is home to medieval monuments, including a 13th-century water reservoir, a mosque, and a tomb, all surrounded by lush greenery. But it’s not just about history here—Hauz Khas Village is also a hub for Delhi’s trendy cafes, art galleries, and boutiques. It’s a place where you can enjoy a peaceful afternoon by the lake, followed by a lively evening in one of its many bohemian bars.

Agrasen ki Baoli: The Ancient Stepwell

Location: Hailey Road, Near Connaught Place, Central Delhi

Attraction: An ancient stepwell with a unique architectural design. Offers a peaceful retreat in the midst of the city, with an intriguing and mysterious atmosphere.

Right in the middle of Delhi’s hustle lies Agrasen ki Baoli, a stepwell that’s both ancient and eerie. Located on Hailey Road near Connaught Place, this 60-meter long and 15-meter wide stepwell is a hidden gem that many Delhites walk past without noticing. The stepwell is steeped in history, with its origins believed to date back to the time of the legendary king Agrasen. Today, it’s a popular spot for photography and a peaceful escape from the city’s noise. But beware—locals say the deeper you go, the more you feel an unsettling silence.

Mehrauli Archaeological Park: A Walk Through Time

Location: Mehrauli, South Delhi

Attraction: A historical park filled with ruins, including the Tomb of Balban, Jamali Kamali Mosque, and Rajon Ki Baoli. A journey through Delhi’s rich medieval history.

Just a stone’s throw from the Qutub Minar, Mehrauli Archaeological Park is a treasure trove of history that’s often overshadowed by its famous neighbor. This vast park is dotted with ruins dating back over a thousand years, including the Tomb of Balban, Jamali Kamali Mosque, and Rajon Ki Baoli. What makes this place truly special is the sense of discovery you get as you explore its hidden paths, with each corner revealing a piece of Delhi’s rich past.

Lodhi Art District: The Open-Air Gallery

Location: Lodhi Colony, South Delhi

Attraction: India’s first open-air art district, featuring vibrant murals and street art by local and international artists. A must-visit for art enthusiasts.

In the midst of Delhi’s concrete jungle lies Lodhi Art District, India’s first open-air public art district. This vibrant area between Khanna Market and Meharchand Market in Lodhi Colony has transformed ordinary walls into spectacular canvases. Street artists from around the world have contributed to this project, creating murals that reflect everything from social issues to abstract art. Walking through this area feels like you’ve stepped into a living art gallery, making it a must-visit for art lovers.

Majnu Ka Tilla: Little Tibet in Delhi

Location: Near ISBT Kashmere Gate, North Delhi

Attraction: A Tibetan refugee colony known for its cultural vibrancy, offering Tibetan cuisine, handicrafts, and the serene Tibetan Monastery. A slice of Tibet in Delhi.

Majnu Ka Tilla, often referred to as “Little Tibet,” is a Tibetan refugee colony located near the North Campus of Delhi University. This small but bustling area is a world away from the rest of Delhi, with its narrow lanes, colorful prayer flags, and the sound of Buddhist chants filling the air. It’s the perfect place to experience Tibetan culture, sample authentic momos, and shop for unique handicrafts. The Tibetan Monastery here is also a peaceful spot for meditation and reflection.

Nizamuddin Basti: The Spiritual Heart of Delhi

Location: Nizamuddin West, South Delhi

Attraction: A spiritual and cultural hub, home to the Nizamuddin Dargah, where Sufi qawwalis are performed. The area is rich in history, with narrow lanes and ancient structures.

Nizamuddin Basti, named after the Sufi saint Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, is a spiritual and cultural enclave in South Delhi. The area is home to the famous Nizamuddin Dargah, where qawwalis (Sufi devotional music) are performed every evening, drawing visitors from all walks of life. The basti’s narrow, winding lanes are filled with a sense of history, with ancient tombs, mosques, and traditional Havelis around every corner. The community here is known for its hospitality, making it a warm and welcoming place to explore.

Bhuli Bhatiyari Ka Mahal: The Haunted Hunting Lodge

Location: Near Jhandewalan Metro Station, Central Delhi Ridge

Attraction: A 14th-century hunting lodge shrouded in mystery, known for its eerie ambiance and ghostly legends. An offbeat spot for those interested in Delhi’s haunted history.

If you’re fascinated by the paranormal, Bhuli Bhatiyari Ka Mahal is the place for you. This 14th-century hunting lodge, located in the middle of the ridge area near Jhandewalan, is infamous for its ghostly legends. The deserted ruins, surrounded by dense forests, create an eerie atmosphere that’s sure to give you goosebumps. Despite its spooky reputation, it’s a peaceful place during the day, offering a glimpse into Delhi’s forgotten past.

Khirki Masjid: The Hidden Mosque

Location: Near Saket, South Delhi

Attraction: A 14th-century mosque with a unique fortress-like design. It’s a hidden gem with intricate stonework and quiet, enclosed courtyards, perfect for history buffs.

Khirki Masjid, located near Saket, is a hidden architectural marvel from the 14th century. Unlike other mosques in Delhi, Khirki Masjid has a unique design with its four courtyards covered by domed roofs, giving it the appearance of a fortress. This lesser-known mosque is often devoid of tourists, allowing you to explore its intricate stonework and quiet interiors in solitude. It’s a perfect spot for history buffs and those interested in Delhi’s Islamic architecture.

Tughlaqabad Fort: The Forgotten Citadel

Location: Tughlaqabad, South-East Delhi

Attraction: A massive fort built in the 14th century, offering panoramic views and a sense of adventure. The fort’s vast, largely deserted grounds are perfect for exploration and photography.

Once a grand fortress, Tughlaqabad Fort now stands in ruins, telling the tale of Delhi’s medieval past. Built by Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq in the 14th century, this massive structure was intended to be an impregnable citadel. Today, it’s a lesser-known site that offers stunning views of the surrounding area and a sense of adventure as you wander through its crumbling walls. The fort is vast and largely deserted, making it a perfect place for those looking to escape the city’s crowds and explore Delhi’s history.