Lodhi Garden, Delhi: The Ultimate Visitor Guide

In the heart of Delhi lies Lodhi Garden, a vast urban park named after the Lodhi-era tombs that dot its landscape. The park is not just a popular spot among morning walkers and picnickers but is also one of the city's most significant cultural and historical landmarks. Many people visit Lodhi Garden for a casual stroll but miss out on the park’s deeper offerings.

From centuries-old architecture and rich biodiversity to scenic photography spots, this guide will help you make the most of your visit. We'll show you how to reach Lodhi Garden, what to look out for, and how to explore it on your own with a self-guided audio tour.

Reaching Lodhi Garden

Lodhi Garden is located about 2.5 km west of Humayun's Tomb on the Lodhi road. It spans 90 acres between Khan Market and Safdarjung's Tomb and has multiple entry gates.

Nearest Metro

• The most convenient metro stations to reach Lodhi Garden is Jorbagh on the Yellow line

• Other close stations are JLN Stadium and Khan Market on the Violet line. You can take a short auto-rickshaw ride or enjoy a pleasant 10-15 minute walk to reach the garden entrance.

Entry Gates

There are about 8 entry gates for the garden. The main gates are Gate no. 1 on Lodhi Road (South side) and Gate no. 4 on Subramania Bharti Marg (North side)

Parking

• There are designated parking areas near Gate no. 1, Gate no. 4 and Gate no. 7 (West side).

• The parking is free of charge. But given the garden's popularity among locals, parking spaces may fill up during weekends and holidays, especially in the morning hours.

Timings

Lodhi Garden welcomes visitors from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The garden remains open all seven days of the week, including public holidays.

Tickets

One of the best things about Lodhi Garden is that entry is completely free for all. There are no tickets required to explore this historical gem.

History of Lodhi Garden

Lodhi Garden derives its name from the Lodhi dynasty, the last rulers of the Delhi Sultanate before the Mughal conquest. The garden is home to the tombs of Muhammad Shah and Sikander Lodhi, prominent Afghan rulers who governed northern India from 1451 to 1526.

In the 15th and 16th centuries, this area was developed as a burial ground close to the religious site of Nizamuddin Dargah and was named 'Bagh-i-Jud'.

After centuries of neglect, it became home to a village called Khairpur, and was cleared in 1936 during British-era redevelopment to create the "Lady Willingdon Park, named after the wife of the then Governor-General of India.

After India gained independence in 1947, it was renamed Lodhi Garden to honor its historical connection to the Lodhi dynasty.

Things to do in Lodhi Garden

Today the Lodhi garden is home to many heritage buildings and extensive flora and fauna. There are a range of things to do and explore inside, both as a visitor and as a local.

Explore 500-Year-Old Monuments

Walk among stunning Lodhi-era tombs like the Bara Gumbad, Sheesh Gumbad, and the tomb of Sikandar Lodhi.

Join Fitness & Social Groups

Spot locals doing yoga, jogging in groups, or gathering for book clubs, theater practice, and wellness meetups.

Enjoy Nature & Wildlife

Visit the butterfly park, duck pond, bonsai garden, and shaded walking paths surrounded by lush greenery.

Capture the Scenery

Bring out the photographer in you (no camera fees!) for pre-wedding shoots, birding, and nature photography.

Walking Route

Follow this route to cover all the major attractions inside the garden.

• Start at Gate No. 1 near IMD

• Explore National Bonsai Park (A)

• Visit the Herbal Garden (B)

• Head to the Tomb of Muhammad Shah Saiyyid (1)

• Pass by the Butterfly Park (C)

• Head to the Bara Gumbad Complex (gateway, mosque, and guest house) (2)

• Step down the staircase towards Sheesh Gumbad (3)

• Pass by the Rose Garden (E)

• Explore the walled Tomb of Sikandar Lodhi (4)

• Walk by the Duck House (D)

• Conclude at the Athpula Bridge

Walking time: ~1 hour

After Your Visit

After exploring Lodhi Garden, you can extend your historical and cultural tour by visiting these nearby attractions:

• Safdarjung's Tomb (1 km)—A magnificent Mughal monument, last of the monumental charbagh gardens

• Lodhi Art District (1 km)—An open-air public art gallery, featuring vibrant murals

• Khan Market (1 km)—A premium shopping destination with restaurants and cafes

• India International Centre (1.5 km)—Known for cultural events and exhibitions

• India Habitat Centre (1.5 km)—A cultural hub with art galleries and dining options

• Humayun's Tomb (3.5 km)—UNESCO World Heritage Site

Places to Eat near Lodhi Garden

• Lodhi Colony

  • Indian Accent

  • Mesa at Lodhi

  • Carnatic Cafe

• Khan Market

  • Khan Chacha

  • Wok In The Clouds

  • Big Chill Cafe

  • Perch