Lodhi Garden: A Local Guide to Delhi’s Favourite Park 2026
Even if you have limited time in Delhi, make sure you visit Lodhi Garden. It is Delhi’s most beautiful heritage park and it’s mesmerizing.
Lodhi Garden is a tiny ecosystem of the very best of Delhi: historic monuments, numerous species of flora and fauna, and it holds a special place in the hearts of locals.
There is something magical about Lodhi Garden. Even Delhiites, who are used to seeing tombs and historic ruins everywhere, love this park.
Visiting Lodhi Garden: Overview
Lodhi Garden is an 80 acre public park located in South Delhi. It contains tombs and ruins from two of India’s ruling dynasties, the Sayyids and Lodhis (1414-1526).
Throughout the garden you’ll find well preserved tombs dating back to 1444, including those of rulers Muhammed Shah Sayyid and Sikandar Lodhi. Lodhi Garden also contains the ruins of two mosques, a madrassa, a walled garden and a 16th century arched bridge built by Mughal emperor Akbar.
Besides the historic monuments, the park is home to over 200 species of trees, 40 species of flowers and numerous Indian birds.
Many trees have small plaques with QR codes so you can get information on age, blooming season, and botanical and common name of the tree.
- Hours: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm, daily
- Cost: free
- Location: Lodhi Road (between Amrita Shergill Marg & Max Mueller Marg), New Delhi
Lodhi Garden History
Originally the land that Lodhi Garden is on was part of a royal burial ground with many tombs. In fact, there were hundreds of these tombs in South Delhi.
Later two villages developed in the same area, built around the existing monuments.
In 1936 Lady Willingdon, the wife of the British Viceroy (India was under British colonial rule at the time) had the villages razed to make room for a public garden.
Originally the gardens were called Lady Willingdon Park, but after independence the name was changed to Lodhi Garden. The park was redesigned in 1968 by J.A. Stein, a respected architect who designed other buildings in the vicinity.
What to Expect at Lodhi Garden
Lodhi Garden is located in the most prestigious part of Delhi, called Lutyens Delhi. Some of the city’s wealthiest real estate abuts the park grounds.
This is the most beloved park in Delhi. On any given day you will find locals walking the paths, doing yoga, playing soccer, picnicking and enjoying the beauty of the gardens.
Local musicians often come here to play, and I’ve come across impromptu Indian music performances while visiting on the weekends.
Although the park is large, it’s very walkable with paved and dirt paths, and there’s plenty of shady spots. You can see everything in 1 hour, but you may want to linger longer.
Make sure you have your camera with you – this is one of the most picturesque spots in Delhi.
Lodhi Garden has several entrances, but I prefer the main entrance (where the parking is) at Gate 1. It leads you directly to the largest tomb complex, and is just an awesome first view of the park.
There’s a couple of toilet facilities, but I’ve never used them so have no idea how clean they are. You can’t purchase food inside Lodhi Garden, but there’s usually street food stalls outside.
Across Lodhi Road in Lodhi Colony (5 minutes walk from the gardens), there are excellent restaurants like Jamun and Guppy, one of Delhi’s most famous restaurants.
How To Get To Lodhi Garden
If you are staying in South Delhi, the easiest way to get to Lodhi Garden is by Uber or auto rickshaw. Both are widely used in Delhi and reliable.
For longer distances the best way is by Delhi metro. It’s an excellent system and easy to use. The nearest metro station to the park is Jorbagh (Yellow line, exit from Gate 2). It’s a 10 minute walk.
What Else to See Nearby
Lodhi Garden is close to some of Delhi’s best sites and attractions. You can even walk to some of them:
- Lodhi Art District: India’s first outdoor art district. There are over 50 huge murals on social themes, all in a quiet residential enclave. It’s across the street from Lodhi Garden and free.
- Safdarjung Tomb: The last garden style tomb built in India. It’s just up the road from Lodhi Garden. Entry free of INR 300.
- Khan Market: A vibrant, upscale market with many shopping and dining options. One of Delhi’s favourite social and shopping spots.
- Dilli Haat INA: Delhi’s favourite Indian handicrafts market. It’s a pedestrian zone and has an excellent outdoor food court. Entry fee of INR 100.
Where To Stay Nearby
Lodhi Garden is in a beautiful and affluent part of South Delhi called Lutyens Delhi. These are my favourite hotels nearby:
- Taj Mahal, New Delhi (luxury): Beautiful 5 star hotel in a very walkable area. Great location for exploring Delhi. Rooms with odd numbers have views of Delhi’s greenery and parliament buildings.
- Lutyens Bungalow (mid-range): Lovely boutique heritage property beside Lodhi Garden. Outdoor pool, beautiful gardens and breakfast is included.
- YWCA International Guest House (budget): There are no good budget options in Lutyens Delhi, but you can reach Lodhi Garden by auto rickshaw from the YWCA. Rooms are large with private bathrooms and AC. The location is excellent, close to many 5 star hotels.
Last Words on Lodhi Garden: A Local Guide to Delhi’s Favourite Park
Lodhi Garden is one of the most captivating places in Delhi. I love that there’s so much history here, but it’s also a beautiful green space full of trees, birds and flowers.
Even if you only have a day or two in India’s capital, make sure you visit Lodhi Garden. It’s easy to get to, free and a perfect way to experience Delhi’s history in a relaxing setting.
