Mughal Gardens, Delhi
The numerous parks and garden in Delhi traces back to primarily, the Mughal legacy- the Mughals, famous for a discerning aesthetic sense and fad for magnificent architecture, were also very fond of landscaped garden. After the British established their empire in India and made Delhi their capital, they set about designing and decorating the city after their heart. Meaning, they set about designing parks and garden all over the city, perhaps to make it look more like their own capital back home (the parks and garden in England need no new applaud). The Mughal garden in Delhi are located within the premises of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the residence of the first citizen of the India- the President.
Structure of Mughal Gardens
Main Garden
This garden has been divided into grids with two strips each running vertically from North to South and from East to West respectively. The junction of these grids has been adorned with lotus-shaped water fountains (six in all). The enthralling cascade is set such a monotone speed that it appears to be frozen and presents a wondrous spectacle. At the centre, there are stands fed with bread crumbs for stray birds to feed from.
Terrace Garden
At a slightly elevated ground, on each side of the main garden are two longitudinal strips of green patch. The centre is ornamented with a sparkling waterfall which flows inwards to give it the feel of a well. The western tips are adorned with arbours whereas the eastern tips harbour two elaborated designed sentinel posts.
Long Garden
Also called the ‘Purdah Garden’, this is to the west of the Main Garden. Circumferenced by 12 feet high walls, this is essentially a rose garden housing several rose beds and ecstatic rose varieties. The central pergola is covered with rose shrubs, grave vines and bougainvillaeas.
Very close by is situated the Circular garden, with blooming flowers; the horticulture office, greenhouses, nurseries, collection of bonsais etc.
Highlights of Mughal Gardens
- Plant Varieties - 60 to 101 types of bougainvillaeas are grown in the gardens which span over a vast 15 acres. Even the grass that shadows all the plant species present at the Mughal gardens are a particular type of doob grass that is grown extensively in Calcutta and its surrounding regions. Documents point toward the fact that the grass planted in these gardens was initially being brought from Calcutta itself.
- Unique Trees - There are over 50 different shrubs, vines and trees spread all over the impressive Mughal Gardens of Delhi. Some of the most attractive and exotic trees located in the place include Moulsiri tree, flower-bearing torch tree, and Golden rain tree.
- Bird's Eye View - The real beauty of the gardens is apparent only from the first story of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, where tourists can witness the three-storied style of the garden in depth. The first is a rectangular garden, followed by a long and circular structure. Each of these structures has a unique collection of plants, trees and herbs that visitors can enjoy a view of.
Best Time To Visit Mughal Gardens
The garden only opens for a short period of time during the festival of Udyanotsav between the months of February and March. The time and the dates of which change annually and are announced shortly before the visits commence. We recommend you to check online for the same before visiting.
Tips For Visiting Mughal Gardens
- The best time to visit the Mughal Garden is during the festival time.
- You should check the timing and date of the festival online before visiting the garden.
- You will have to submit your belongings including briefcase, water bottles, and bags before entering the garden. Therefore, it is better to leave your valuables at home.
- You are not allowed to touch or pluck any flower in the garden. Make sure that you keep that in mind.
How To Reach Mughal Gardens, Delhi
By Metro: Take a metro going to Central Secretariat Metro station which lies on the violet and yellow lines of the metro system in Delhi. From there, you can walk to the Rashtrapati Bhavan or take an auto.
By Taxi: Taking a taxi is another very convenient method to reach Mughal Gardens. Board one for the Rashtrapati Bhavan or book online.
By Bus: Catch a bus going to areas near the Rajpath or Rashtrapati Bhavan. For more details, check the local bus station.
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