Things to do / Highlights

Explore tombs

Located near the entrance of Lodhi Gardens, the spectacular Tomb of Mohammed Shah was constructed in loving memory by his son, Ala-ud-Din, or Alam Shah, in the 1400s. Admire the Hindu architecture of the massive tomb with chhatris (pavilions) encircling the dome, arches, and decorative terraces, providing panoramic views of the sprawling gardens. Scope out the impressive glass dome of Shisha Gumbad and the Muslim architecture of this impressive mosque.

Admire the gardens and nature

Put your photography skills to work while wandering through the enchanting rose garden featuring 5,000 rose plants of varying colours and species. Enjoy wandering the grounds admiring the different varieties of trees while listening to the melodious songs of native birds in the distance.

Enjoy leisure activities

Whether visiting Lodhi Gardens to relax on the expansive lawn or people watch, the garden provides visitors with the chance to enjoy a leisurely day away from the crowded streets of Delhi. Play a game of cricket or badminton, or read one of your favourite literary pieces on a picnic blanket. Stroll through the palm forest in search of monuments of historical figures and immaculate fountains.

What to eat

Pack a blanket and prepare to indulge in a picnic on the grounds of the lovely Lodhi Gardens. If you prefer to try out street food, tantalizing, authentic Indian delicacies, or international cuisine, there are countless restaurants and stands at the nearby Khan Market and Claridge’s Hotel.

Dhaba

Diners can enjoy mouthwatering Indian cuisine, including butter chicken, kanastree baingan, and tiffin chicken in a rustic, truck stop-themed restaurant. Located in the upscale Claridge’s Hotel, Dhaba is 10 minutes away from the nearest metro. From the immaculate Lodhi Gardens, it is just one-minute drive away.

Sevilla

Enjoy dining al fresco under the starry night on the marble terrace of Sevilla, also located in Claridge’s Hotel. Indulge in delicious Mediterranean cuisine, including Spanish tapas and paella or Italian penne alla Siciliana, margherita pizza, Chilean seabass, and more. Lodhi Gardens is just a 10-minute walk away.

Things to buy

A vacation is not complete without a day spent visiting the local market or shopping centre. While in Delhi, check out the bustling Khan Market. It is full of vendors selling authentic Indian treasures alongside international brands like Apple, Nike, and more. Enjoy scouring the stands for unique souvenirs to take home, including postcards featuring Delhi’s dazzling attractions.

Indian spices

Bring home exotic spices that were coveted for centuries, resulting in the Silk Road trade route throughout Asia. Spices such as cardamom, cumin, cinnamon, and red chilli are the ideal gift to buy for those interested in the culinary arts.

Assamese Silks

Look through the beautifully woven and intricately decorated Assamese silk saris available in vibrant fuschias, turquoises, emeralds, marigolds, and more. Admire the intricate beadwork and skilled embroidery on silk scarves created by talented craftspersons throughout Delhi.

Tea

Don’t leave Delhi without purchasing tea so flavourful you can taste the tea leaves and spices used with each sip. Pick up jasmine, Ceylon, or chai full of warm cinnamon tones harvested in the lime-green terraced slopes of surrounding tea farms.

Meenakari and Kundan jewellery

Browse through the stands at Khan Market for beautiful chandelier earrings accented with colourful gemstones to bring home for jewellery lovers. Search through the stalls selling thick, bejewelled golden necklaces fit for an Indian princess.

Travelers tips

The dusty streets of Delhi are bustling with people and animals, and it can be overwhelming for visitors. To get away from the craziness, escape to the enchanting Lodhi Gardens, where you can indulge in the beautiful surroundings in tranquillity. En route to the gardens, make certain to heed some of the warnings below.

Beware of pickpockets

Since the gardens span over a large area and are filled with locals and tourists, pickpockets can easily take advantage of the situation. Be on your guard, especially in the summer when attendance rises for unsavoury types looking to try out schemes on unsuspecting visitors.

Dress comfortably

Temperatures can be unbearable during the peak of summer. Pack a scarf or hat or buy one from the nearby Khan Market. This will help shield you from the sun’s harmful rays and assist in preventing heatstroke. Also, try to find a place under a tree or a nearby fountain in the gardens for a refreshing break during your visit.

Stay hydrated

With temperatures soaring in Delhi during the summer months, heatstroke and fainting are very possible. Pack bottles of water in your purse or backpack before heading to Lodhi Gardens. If you forget, don’t worry since there are street carts and areas near Khan Market where you can acquire water.

Beware of animals

There are many stray dogs traversing the bustling streets of Delhi, so it should be of no surprise to find some wandering the open spaces of the lush Lodhi Gardens. Be cautious since they can be very territorial. Also, be on guard for monkeys that frequent the gardens since they have been known to steal ice cream treats from unsuspecting visitors.

How to get there

Like every sprawling metropolis, Delhi’s population is dependent on local transportation for its daily commuting needs. To be able to reach any point of interest or destination, consider hopping aboard the metro, colourful autorickshaw, or bus before opting for a taxi or Uber. You can download the Moovit app to access information on train and bus lines, along with real-time departure and arrival times. Keep your eyes peeled as pickpockets can easily hide within plain sight in overcrowded commuter areas.

Metro

The newly introduced metro system is becoming an increasingly popular and inexpensive way to commute throughout Delhi. Travel on the yellow line to the JNL Stadium station to reach the beautiful Lodhi Gardens. For information on routes and fares, refer to the Delhi Metro page.

Bus

With over 2,000 buses providing services throughout Delhi, visitors can travel easily throughout the city. The only downside is they are usually overcrowded and lack air conditioning, making it unbearable during the warmer months. This inexpensive transportation option can provide interesting memories while en route to your destination. Get onboard bus 400, 522, 522A or 794 to commute to Lodhi Gardens.

Taxi

Taxi companies such as Ola and Taxi Hire having been serving Delhi for years. Although a pricier option, taxi is an excellent choice for those who appreciate travelling in comfort to their destination. Taxis can be hailed in the street or called from businesses and hotels for the convenience of the travelling public. Do some research and choose a reputable company that won’t take advantage of tourists.

Uber

The popular car-hire service has recently opened up for business in Indian cities, including Delhi. Be certain to download the app to hire a car that can take you to popular destinations like Lodhi Gardens.

Autorickshaw

With no need to call ahead, autorickshaw owners can be approached in the street and hired for transportation. Fares are reasonable since other commuters share the ride. Make certain to find out the fair from the driver before boarding, especially if travelling in different areas of Delhi to prevent too much of an increase to commuting costs.

Lodhi Gardens information

Lodhi Gardens

Address: Lodhi Road, Lodhi Gardens, Lodhi Estate, New Delhi, Delhi 110003, India

Opening hours: April - September: 5am - 8pm (daily); October - March: 6am - 8pm (daily)

Cost: Free

Department of tourism: Delhi Tourism