As life seems to assume its regular pace in the new (ab)normal, one thing that the
pandemic has definitely taught us is to appreciate the elegance of nature and the delight it has to offer. When the world had come to an abrupt halt, it was nature that had kept us alive, the sweet melody of birds and the surprisingly clean air of Delhi made us realise the beauty that our fast paced life was deprived of.
Here is a list of gardens in Delhi one must visit to rejuvenate one’s mind, body and soul. Delhi is blessed with many such beautiful spaces that allow us to appreciate Nature and let it be our teacher as we learn to grapple with the new, pandemic stricken world.
1. Sunder Nursery
Timings: 7 AM to 6 PM
Located in Nizamuddin East, Sunder Nursery is in an archaeological site developed in the early 20th century when the Imperial Delhi complex was being planned and constructed. The gargantuan complex has several structures including three nationally protected monuments, together with pavilions, tombs and other remnants of the Mughal era. Initially, it was used as a place for propagating trees and other plants to be used in the new capital city. It was also used for testing species brought from other parts of India and from overseas, to pick those which successfully thrive in Delhi’s climate. Even today, as Delhi is trying to grapple with the pandemic, this complex has become a famous spot for people looking for an escape from Covid blues and discover the resplendent beauty of various species of flowers blooming here, set against glorious heritage monuments.
2. Nehru Park
Timings: 5:30 AM to 7:30 PM
Spread over an area of 80 acres, this park, situated in the Chanakyapuri Diplomatic Enclave of
New Delhi was established in 1969 and is a popular spot for running, jogging, yoga and even ‘Music in the Park’ concerts organised by the NDMC. The park also houses a statue of the leader of the Russian leader Vladimir Lenin, which is visited every year on April 22 by members of Left oriented Political parties to commemorate his birth. The park is well maintained and houses several varieties of vegetation like Gulmohar, Pines, Ashoka, Palm, Neem, Champa and other seasonal plants. The liveliness and simultaneous serene ambience of the park makes it one of Delhiites’ favourites.
3. Garden of Five Senses
Timings: 9 AM to 5:30 PM
Inaugurated in February 2003, garden of Five Senses is located in Said-Ul-Ajaib village of Saket, and is designed to appeal to all your senses. Currently in full bloom, the garden celebrates the fervour of Spring Season in a splendid flower show every year. Moreover, the annual Garden Bazaar deals with the sale of flowers, plants, organic items, medicinal plants, gardening accessories, etc. and makes this garden a perfect spot for those wanting to revel in the bountiful ecstasies of nature.
4. Lodhi Garden
Timings: 5 AM to 8 PM
Formerly known as the Lady Willingdon Park, this garden occupies an area of over 90 acres in Lodhi
Estate. Lodhi Garden is a city park commissioned by Sikander Lodhi, an emperor of the Lodhi dynasty. The primal structure, Bada Gumbad shares its plinth with a mosque and an exquisite Mehman Khana. The garden boasts its beauty with over 50 species of butterflies and birds and 100+ species of trees. The garden is maintained by the
Archaeological Survey of India and a small area of the garden has been demarcated as the National Bonsai Park.
5. Deer Park
Timings: 5 AM to 8 PM
Named after famous social worker Aditya Nath Jha, the park is situated in Hauz Khas village and is a
renowned spot for walking, jogging and weekend outings. Famously known as Deer Park, it houses a famous lake and extraordinary flora and fauna. Together with District Park and Rose Garden, it makes up one of the largest green areas in New Delhi and is often referred to as ‘the lungs of Delhi’. The Park has many different wings i.e. Rose Garden, Deer Park, Fountain & District Park, Old Monuments and Hauz Khas Art Market, and is therefore perfect for a day out.
