Why Are Lodhi Garden And Khan Market In Delhi Famous? Away From The Busy Streets Of Delhi
BY Sibashree Jan 30, 2026
“Mera kaat kaleja dilli Mera kaat kaleja dilli Lai gayi kaat kaleja dilli Mui dilli le gayi…” Though the context is different, for me, this No One Killed Jessica song sums up Delhi these days. Even if “Incredible India” calls Lodhi Garden “A green oasis in the heart of Delhi,” the official CPCB report marks the AQI at 283, or poor. Furthermore, in a YouTube video published on the “Newslaundry” channel, the vlogger recorded an AQI between 336 and 340, meaning the air quality was very poor. Amidst this, the good news is that the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has launched a waste management and cleanliness drive in Lodhi Garden. This initiative will help maintain the cleanliness of the garden without impacting its ecology. Nevertheless, the Lodhi Garden has always been a public place in Delhi, offering respite from the noise and traffic of Delhi. Here’s to a calm day in Delhi at the Lodhi Garden and nearby Khan Market. Lodhi Garden: Location, Entry Fee, Timing, Official WebsiteAddressMain Lodi Road, Beside India International Centre, New Delhi, Delhi - 110003Entry FeeNilPhotography FeeNilTimings6:00 AM - 7:30 PMOfficial WebsiteDELHI TOURISMPhotography AllowedYesNearest Metro StationJLN Metro Station What Is The Lodhi Garden? The Lodi Garden is a green escape on the Lodi Road in South Delhi. It is between the Safdurjung’s Tomb and Khan Market. Covering an area of 90 acres, this Garden is home to many tombs from the Lodi, Sayyid, and Mughal dynasties. However, it is beyond a place where history breathes through the Indo-Islamic architecture. With gardens, exercise machines, walking paths, and running tracks, it is a popular place for outdoor fitness activities. Also, it is a paradise for art lovers, thanks to its stunning sculptures and art installations. What Is The History Of The Lodhi Garden? The history of this beautiful garden goes back to the 15th century. It was the burial ground of the Lodhi lords. The most significant tombs here are those of Sikandar Lodhi and Mohammed Shah. The tombs and ruins were earlier scattered around the village of Khairpur till 1931. However, in 1936, the villagers were moved from the village, and this monument was created. The tombs had exotic and native trees around. Furthermore, the garden got its name from Lady Willingdon Park after the name of the British Viceroy’s wife. It was named the Lodhi Garden in 1947 after India’s independence, in memory of the tombs present here. However, the current form we see today is the work of American architects Joseph Allen Stein and Garrett Eckbo in 1968. They added the rose garden, bonsai park, the lake with a fountain, and a glasshouse. A Brief Historical Timeline Of The Lodhi Garden 1414–1451 (15th Century)• Becomes a burial site for the Sayyid Dynasty• The Tomb of Muhammad Shah was built in 1444. 1451–1517• The Lodhi Dynasty (1451–1526) used the tomb.• Included the Sheesh Gumbad and Bara Gumbad. 1517–1518• Ibrahim Lodi built the tomb of his father, Sikandar Lodi, after his death in 1517. 1936• The Khairpur Village is cleared, and a landscaped park called the Lady Willingdon Park is constructed. 1947• India became independent, and Lady Willingdon Park was renamed Lodhi Garden. 1968• J.A. Stein and Garrett Eckbo enhance the Lodhi Garden as a public place with various additions. Present Day• The Archaeological Survey of India protects it for the preservation of its Sultanate-era architecture and diverse flora. Visiting The Lodhi Garden: The Tombs And Architecture To See Whenever I am in Delhi, I make a point to visit the Lodhi Garden. I love the calming effect and the scent of history here. I also take random walks in the park, and each time, the park surprises me with something new. Even if it is nothing else, a wildflower which I have not seen before, will smile at me. Or a squirrel will greet me and then will be gone in a blink. Also, irrespective of the direction of your entrance (East, West, North and South), you will find ancient buildings here. 1. The Tomb of Sikandar Lodi To The North The magnificent Tomb of Sikandar Lodi is to the north. It is one of the oldest garden tombs of India. Furthermore, it has an octagonal structure. Also, despite its Indo-Islamic architecture, it has small domed pavilions or Chattris, which werea signature of the Rajput architecture. Also, the Overhanging Eaves or Chajjas and supporting brackets seen here come from the Rajput legacy. 2. The Sheesh Gumbad In The Centre The Sheesh Gumbad stands like a witness to time amidst the greenery of the park. It is a domed building with a cube shape. The interior of the dome ceiling is decorated. Furthermore, from the arched openings on the four sides of the tomb, you will get amazing views of the park. The only problem I feel is the presence of selfie-obsessed visitors. They somehow ruin the mood and do not understand the somberness of the place. I even found some pre-wedding shots going on there. Call me an old-school! But these things irritate me. 3. Bada Gumbad Or Bara Gumbad To The South Bada Gumbad has an architecture similar to the Sheesh Gumbad. However, living up to its name, this tomb is bigger than Sheesh Gumbad. It is also one of the oldest full-domed buildings in the country, and it serves as a beautiful entrance to the adjacent Jama Masjid. 4. The Jama Masjid Or The Friday Mosque This mosque was built in the 15th century, and it has the typical redstone architecture, which was a signature of the Lodhi era. Furthermore, here you will notice amazing geometric designs and calligraphy on the arches and columns. 5. The Tomb Of Muhammed Shah On The Southern End The Tomb of Muhammad Shah is the oldest in the garden, and it is located on the southern end of the park. You have to walk through a covered walkway to reach this tomb in an octagonal shape. Along with these major tombs and architecture, the park also has many old tombs, structures and ruins. Furthermore, with the recent expansions, there are dedicated Yoga lawns, herb gardens, rose gardens and a glasshouse. Moreover, there are exercise machines. Also, the trees here are home to a handsome population of squirrels, chipmunks and various species of birds. You will especially notice eagles spiralling over the park. Some Practical Tips For Visiting The Lodhi Garden The Lodhi Garden is a free public space with the richest diversity of plants, historic architecture, and ruins. So, it is a budget-friendly place to visit. It is easily accessible by autos and metro routes. Here is more on how to reach the park, basic amenities and nearby attractions. How To Reach The Lodhi Garden? The Lodhi Garden is close to four metro stations. Station NameMetro LineDistance Jor BaghYellow Line1.4 KmKhan MarketViolet Line1.6 KmJangpuraYellow Line4.2 KmJLN StadiumViolet Line2.6 Km From these metro stations, you can take autos. If you are coming from Jangpura or the JLN Stadium, you can even book Uber to avoid negotiations with the local drivers. How Much Time Is Required At The Lodhi Garden? I don’t have an answer to that. From an hour to the entire day, the time you spend here will depend on your intent of visit. It takes around 20 minutes to complete a walk around the park. However, if you want to appreciate the tombs and their architecture, it will take longer. Also, the rich community of trees here always asks you to stay a little longer. Moreover, the Lodhi Garden is a popular picnic spot. Is There A Toilet At Lodhi Garden? Yes, there are toilets at Lodhi Garden, and they are well-maintained. Are Food And Drinks Available At Lodhi Garden? There is no permanent stall of official setup for food and drinks at Lodhi Garden. However, you will find vendors selling snacks, drinks, ice cream, and the famous chats of Delhi at the entrance. Furthermore, inside the park, you will find many wandering vendors who will set up their stalls on a tripod instantly and make mouthwatering chats and snacks for you. You can even pack your food and have at the Lodhi Garden for a picnic vibe. Irrespective of where you get the food from, please be careful about the waste disposal. However, if you are really hungry and want to gorge on proper Delhi food, head to the nearby Khan Market. What Are The Places To Visit Near The Lodhi Garden? You can combine your day in the Lodhi Garden with a visit to the Safdarjung Tomb and the Khan Market. Also, you can explore the nearby Lodhi Art District. 1. The Safdarjung Tomb It is the tomb of the Mughal Empire Vazir Safdarjung, and it shows a mix of the Persian and Indian styles of architecture. It has a beautiful marble and red stone architecture. Moreover, built in 1754, it was the last monumental Mughal garden tomb in Delhi. 2. The Khan Market You will find all the designer and branded clothes at the Khan Market. It is a high-end shopping district, and it brings you back to the present after a date with history in the Lodhi Garden. Furthermore, it is the place to have a posh coffee date, an upscale luncheon, or an artisan cake tasting. You must try the wood-fired pizzas at the restaurants here. Moreover, if you really want to enjoy the evening in South Delhi, Khan Market is the place to be. The bars and lounges here come to life after sundown. How To Reach Khan Market? You can walk for ten minutes from the north entrance of the Lodhi Garden, or you can take an auto from the south entrance. Moreover, there is a metro station, called Khan Market, on the Violet Line. 3. The Lodhi Art District The Lodhi Art District is a few blocks south of the Lodhi Garden. It was the last housing estate the British had built in India. However, today, it is a place that belongs to the Indian artists. You will find more than 50 street artworks and murals here. Take an auto or walk for 15 minutes to reach the Lodhi Art District from Lodhi Garden. Where To Stay Near Lodhi Garden? If you want a luxury experience, you can stay at The Lodhi. Furthermore, there are many budget-friendly accommodations near Lodhi Garden. These are Hotel O Maharaja Inn and Evergreen Delhi Bed and Breakfast. Finding A Place To Relax In The Heart Of Delhi Delhi, the capital of India, has endless attractions in the true sense. From the Jantar Mantar to Humayun’s Tomb, it is a living tapestry of history and human culture. However, whenever you feel overwhelmed with the bustling crowd and noise of Delhi, you can visit the Lodhi Garden and catch your breath. Read Also: Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit [Updated 2024] Dark Tourism in India Exploring Shadows and Must-Visit Sites Varkala Beach: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go