Heritage Parks and Gardens of Delhi: A Historical Exploration
Delhi’s green spaces are ecological repositories and historic sites layered with centuries of narratives. Join me as we walk through Lodi Garden and the Delhi Ridge to decode the intersection of urban ecology and medieval history.
A collage from our heritage walk in Lodi Garden, a 15th-century park that holds magnificent tombs from the Sayyid and Lodi dynasties.
The octagonal tomb of Mohammad Shah Sayyid in Lodi Garden. Its design, with a central dome surrounded by chhatris (kiosks), is a classic example of Sayyid-era architecture.
The Bara Gumbad and its adjacent mosque in Lodi Garden. This imposing square tomb is a fine example of Lodi architecture and likely served as a gateway to the mosque.
The Sis Gumbad, or 'Glass Dome', in Lodi Garden, so named for the blue glazed tiles that once adorned it. The identity of the person buried inside remains a mystery.
The fortified tomb of Sikander Lodi, the last great ruler of the Lodi dynasty. Located within a walled garden, it is an important precursor to later Mughal garden-tombs.
The serene lake in Lodi Garden, on which the Mughal-era Athpula bridge stands. The garden was beautifully landscaped by the British in 1936.
A collage from our walk in Hauz Khas and the adjoining Deer Park. This tour explores the 14th-century madrasa and tomb complex of Firoz Shah Tughlaq, set against a now-trendy urban village.
A group looks out over the Hauz Khas, or 'Royal Tank', originally built by Alauddin Khalji to supply water to his capital city of Siri.
Exploring the L-shaped madrasa (Islamic seminary) built by Firoz Shah Tughlaq on the edge of the tank. It was once one of the largest and most important centers of learning in the Islamic world.
The tomb of Firoz Shah Tughlaq, located at the junction of the two wings of the madrasa. The ceiling is adorned with Quranic inscriptions.
About Delhi's Green Lungs: Parks, Gardens, and Sanctuaries
We do not simply admire the landscaping; we examine the architectural intention behind the Mughal and Lodi era tomb-gardens. These sessions involve walking on uneven historical ground for approximately two hours, so wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for a critical discussion rather than a passive sightseeing tour.
History in Delhi is not limited to masonry and forts. The city’s gardens, like Lodi Garden and Sunder Nursery, serve as essential case studies in how we manage heritage, nature, and memory. My walks through these spaces are designed to unpack the colonial and pre-colonial layers that define our current urban landscape.
The Historical Ecology of Delhi
When we walk through the Delhi Ridge or the historic parks of South Delhi, we are navigating an ecosystem that has been reshaped by multiple dynasties. The Lodi Garden, for instance, offers a distinct view of the Sayyid and Lodi architectural transitions. During our walk, we identify the shift from early octagonal tombs to the more complex square structures, observing the use of quartzite and limestone.
Beyond the Manicured Lawn
Many visitors see a park; we look at the 'why' behind the placement of tombs near natural water sources or Sufi Dargahs. We discuss the 1936 transformation into Lady Willingdon Park and how the British colonial administration interacted with existing medieval structures. We also explore the 'Green Lungs' of the city—the Delhi Ridge—and the critical role it plays in Delhi’s geography and environmental history.
What to Expect
These sessions are interactive. I encourage participants to bring their own observations, whether you are a student of history, a local resident, or someone interested in architectural heritage. We move at a pace that allows for observation and debate. Please note that these are not leisurely strolls; they are intensive history tours that require physical activity and an appetite for critical inquiry. Come prepared to question the narratives usually presented on plaques.
Kanika Singh
I’m Kanika. My work bridges the gap between archival history and the physical spaces we walk through every day in Delhi. I believe that understanding these gardens requires us to look past the manicured lawns to the centuries of political and social shifts buried beneath.
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