Lodhi Garden is the Delhi that locals use to breathe, a large green park where medieval tombs rise from lawns, flowering trees and shaded paths, and it is free to enter. The monuments date from the fifteenth and early sixteenth centuries, when the Sayyid and Lodi dynasties ruled Delhi, and their architecture, with its domes, arches and carved stone, influenced the Mughal buildings that followed. The Bara Gumbad, a large domed tomb with an attached mosque, and the Sheesh Gumbad, with remnants of blue glazed tile, stand near the centre, while the tomb of Muhammad Shah and that of Sikandar Lodi lie in separate enclosures with their own walls. The gardens were laid out in the twentieth century around the monuments and are kept immaculately, with a lake, a bonsai area and a glasshouse nearby. Early mornings bring joggers and walkers, and weekends bring families and picnics. It is an easy, restful way to see authentic early Indo-Islamic architecture without paying or queuing.
How to visit
The garden is in central south Delhi, near Lodhi Road, and the nearest metro stations are Jor Bagh and Khan Market, each a short walk or auto ride away. It is open daily from early morning until evening and entry is free, with no ticket. Mornings and late afternoons are the best times, when the air is cooler and the light is soft on the tombs.
What to expect
The park is large, so wear comfortable shoes, and expect to share paths with joggers, yoga groups and, at weekends, families. Parakeets, peacocks and squirrels are common. Food is limited inside, so bring water, and carry a hat in warm weather. The tombs can be viewed from outside and, in most cases, entered, though some enclosures may be closed at times.
Making the most of it
Combine the walk with the Lodhi Art District murals nearby for a morning of old and new Delhi, or finish at Khan Market for lunch. If you like photography, the early light on the Bara Gumbad is the classic shot. On a smoggy day check air quality before spending long outdoors, since this is mostly an outdoor visit.
What to expect
The experience
A free stroll through landscaped gardens with medieval tombs and a mosque.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, in the cooler months from October to March.
How long
One to two hours.
Tips
Wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and check air quality on smoggy days.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants an unhurried, free visit with early Indo-Islamic architecture.
- Families
- Plenty of space to run and picnic, with no ticket needed.
- Couples
- A romantic walk among tombs and trees.
- Pair with
- The Lodhi Art District murals and Khan Market lunch.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
Is Lodhi Garden free?+
Yes, entry is free, and the garden is open daily from early morning until evening.
What can I see at Lodhi Garden?+
The Bara Gumbad and its mosque, the Sheesh Gumbad and the tombs of Muhammad Shah and Sikandar Lodi, set in landscaped gardens.
When is the best time to visit?+
Early morning or late afternoon, when it is cooler and the light is softest.
How do I get there?+
Jor Bagh and Khan Market metro stations are the closest, each a short walk or auto ride away.
Is it good for children?+
Yes, the lawns and paths give them plenty of room, and the tombs are interesting for older children.
