As the temperature starts to dip in the capital city, the warm winter sun offers respite from the chill. Paired with an overcast sky, this time is ideal for hosting picnics in Delhi’s lush green parks. And these five picnic spots in New Delhi double as the perfect lawns to do so! By Bayar Jain
1. Sunder Nursery
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Located at a stone’s throw distance from the historic Humayun’s Tomb at Nizamuddin, Sunder Nursery is a beloved picnic spot in the city. Part of this 70-acred land’s charm resides in its proximity to architectural marvels. Bordered by Humayan’s Tomb in the south and Purana Quila in the north with Grand Trunk Road winding its way on the western side, this landscaped space was initially designed to cultivate greens and experiment with flora species that were to be used throughout the city. Today, more than 266 native trees and plants have been planted in a 30-acre micro-habitat zone; 373 bonsais of 34 varieties have found a home, and many water features like fountains and ponds have been introduced. Plus, one can even enjoy a meal amid scattered remains of Mughal structures including three nationally protected monuments, together with pavilions, tombs, grave platforms, wells, and a mosque platform.
2. Purana Qila
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Translating to ‘Old Fort’ in Hindi, Purana Qila is widely credited as being one of the oldest forts in the city. Situated close to Pragati Maidan and Dhyanchand Stadium, this 16th-century structure is surrounded by a thick forest cover and a moat connecting to the famous Yamuna River. With an outer wall extending roughly two kilometres, the fort houses many marvels to intrigue history enthusiasts and tourists, alike. One can soak in the grandeur of the Bada Darwaza facing the west; marvel at the jharokhas and chhatris atop Qila-i-kuhna; spot birds on a lake; or simply explore other monuments dotted around the complex like Kairul Manzil, Sher Shah Suri Gate and Sher Mandal. As the sun sets, the structures don a mesmerising garb in the form of a light and sound show.
3. Garden of Five Senses
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The 25-acred Garden of Five Senses has long been a favourite for picnics in the capital city. Designed to stimulate one’s senses, it is believed that the garden is created to depict the first city’s architecture—as is evident from the stone-walls and dome-shaped office complex. Often, the luscious green space finds itself doubling as a venue for events and festivals. On other days, however, a walk around its majestic rocks, sculptural displays, fragrant shrubs, flowered walkways and more is enticing enough. Adding to its allure are the specks of water features consisting of lilies and pergolas.
4. Deer Park
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Dubbed as a paradise for walkers and joggers, Hauz Khas’ Deer Park has all that one needs for a fun-filled family outing amid nature. Divided into numerous sections like Rose Garden, Fountain Park, District Park, and—of course—the Deer Park, this lakeside park has many revered Mughal sites within its complex as well. The park’s proximity to the 13th-century Hauz Khas Fort, and the cafe and pub-heavy Hauz Khas Market adds to its tourist appeal.
5. Nehru Park
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Located in the upscale diplomatic area of Chanakyapuri, the massive Nehru Park is spread over 80 acres of varying landscapes. While the most noticeable feature of the lawns is a life-size alloy statue of Vladimir Lenin, the other elements of the pet-friendly area are noteworthy, too. When here, one can spot numerous joggers trodding along the boundaries, children running across a rope bridge over a manmade pond, and fitness enthusiasts sweating it out on the outdoor gym equipment.
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