Delhi may look like a bustling junction of alleys and soaring buildings, but nestled between the concrete towers are several green spaces perfect for leisurely walks. With stunning picturesque spots and cool shades much needed for respite, we bring you some of the best parks in New Delhi.
1. Asola-Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary
The Asola-Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary stands on the outskirts of south Delhi along the Aravalli hills on the Delhi-Haryana border. The sanctuary is spread over 32.71 sq km and has a ticketed entry system. Inside, the sanctuary holds a 2-km long nature trail and houses several lakes. One of the best parks in Delhi, the park boasts an abundance of lush green cover. It is further home to several species of birds and animals. You can easily spot up to 80 different types of butterflies alone!
2. Lodhi Gardens
Lodhi Gardens is one of the most popular parks in Delhi. This is a beautiful spot for early morning and evening walks. The garden is designed around tombs dating back to the Lodhi era and features over 100 tree species. These trees are then home to around 50 bird and butterfly species. Don’t miss the Athpula Bridge when you visit this garden. Built during Akbar’s reign, this 8-pier bridge stretches over tranquil lakes within the garden, enhancing its historic charm.
3. Aravali Biodiversity Park
Spread over 153 hectares, the Aravali Biodiversity Park is the result of the collective efforts of the Gurgaon Municipal Corporation and its citizens. What was once a wasteland has now become a lush green park. The park and its 2 ponds are home to many different species of flora and fauna. You’ll find peacocks, porcupines, jackals, and nilgai thriving in this protected ecosystem.
4. Yamuna Biodiversity Park
The Yamuna Biodiversity Park stands on the western banks of the Yamuna River. It covers about 457 acres and has been divided into 2 zones: a visitor zone and a nature reserve zone. The looped trail around the visitor zone lets you see and learn about this park’s 1,500+ species of flora and fauna. It’s truly a bird-watcher’s dream site. There lies also a herbal garden, a Nature interpretation Centre, a butterfly conservatory, and an amphitheatre.
5. Nehru Park
Nehru Park is a green oasis spread across 80 acres in the elite Chanakyapuri diplomatic enclave. The park was designed in 1969 in the memory of India’s first Prime Minister. It’s a popular place to picnic with friends and family or go for a morning run. You’ll find beautifully laid walkways, a green-carpeted lawn, and a children’s playground. The park also hosts organised yoga, other fitness classes, and cultural events.
6. The Garden of Five Senses
The Garden of Five Senses is an enchanting garden with a multi-sensory experience. The garden has everything from angular rocks to cascading waterfalls and the tranquil pools of Neel Bagh. A series of rock carvings and sculptures stand out against this backdrop. It houses a formal Mughal-styled Garden and a food court overlooked by thoughtfully furnished terraces. The garden further showcases almost 200 exotic plants, including several endangered flowering plants.
7. National Rose Garden
The National Rose Garden in Chanakyapuri was designed as a tribute to Indo-African relationships. One of the lesser-known green parks in Delhi, the garden boasts over 60 rose varieties, ranging from hybrid variants to delicate tea roses. Keep an eye out here for green, even black roses!