Sunder Nursery Delhi, tucked away next to the majestic Humayun’s Tomb in the heart of Delhi, is like a well-guarded secret garden, waiting to be explored by history buffs, nature lovers, and those seeking an escape from the bustling city life. This 16th-century park, once known as Azim Bagh, has a captivating story that spans centuries, a remarkable revival, and a plethora of attractions that make it one of Delhi’s hidden treasures.
A Journey Through Time: The History of Sunder Nursery
Centuries ago, during the Mughal era, Sunder Nursery was born as Azim Bagh, a sprawling garden created to capture the essence of paradise on earth. However, as the pages of history turned, so did the name and purpose of this enchanting place.
It was the British who played a significant role in shaping the destiny of this green oasis. In the early 20th century, Alick Percy Lancaster, a British horticulturist, took charge of Sunder Nursery to experiment with exotic trees that would later grace the avenues of New Delhi. And that’s how this garden got its ‘Nursery’ designation. The ‘Sunder’ part of its name comes from the ‘Sunder Burj’ tomb located on its premises.
The park’s fortunes fluctuated over the years, but it remained a testament to time until the Aga Khan Trust for Culture stepped in with a vision for its revival in 2007. A decade of painstaking restoration work transformed this 90-acre patch of land into a thriving ecosystem of history and nature, opening its gates to the public in 2018.
Architectural Gems and Historical Monuments
As you wander through Sunder Nursery, you’ll discover a remarkable fusion of architectural styles, each telling its tale of Delhi’s diverse heritage. The park is dotted with 20 historical monuments that stand as witnesses to its rich past.
Among these, you’ll find the awe-inspiring Sunder Burj, a 16th-century tomb adorned with star-shaped patterns on its roof and intricate inscriptions on its walls. As you venture further, you’ll encounter a 500-meter-long water canal reminiscent of the Taj Mahal at Agra, graced with Mughal regalia, including ten handcrafted lotus-shaped marble fountains.
The Central Vista, inspired by the 16th-century Grand Trunk Road, offers a unique historical perspective as you walk in the footsteps of the past. Lakkarwala Burj, another red sandstone monument, adds to the park’s grandeur, surrounded by a rose garden boasting 30 varieties of beautiful flowers from around the world.
Beyond these, Sunder Nursery houses treasures like Sunderwala Mahal, Mirza Muzaffar Hussain’s Tomb, and Batashewala Mahal, each with its unique charm. While Batashewala Mahal may be in a state of disrepair, it offers a serene spot for birdwatching, particularly during the early morning and evening hours.
Nature’s Bounty: Flora and Fauna
Sunder Nursery isn’t just about history; it’s a thriving hub of biodiversity. With over 300 species of trees, it has earned the distinction of being Delhi’s first arboretum, featuring rare trees like the Pink Cedar—the only one of its kind in Delhi. The garden nurtures 20,000 saplings, 4,200 trees, and 20 acres of nursery beds, creating a haven for flora and fauna alike.
Step into this lush oasis, and you’ll find yourself among 40 butterfly species and 80 bird species, all calling Sunder Nursery their home. As you explore, you might catch glimpses of colorful butterflies and the sweet songs of various birds, reminding you of the harmonious coexistence of nature and history.
Activities and Delights: What to Do in Sunder Nursery
Sunder Nursery is not just a place to admire from a distance; it’s an interactive haven for visitors of all ages. Families, friends, fitness enthusiasts, and nature lovers will find a multitude of activities to enjoy.
Stroll through the manicured gardens, play a game of frisbee on the soft carpet grass, or cycle along designated trails. Yoga enthusiasts can practice their poses amidst the serene surroundings, and book lovers can lose themselves in a good read while lying on the grass.
For history enthusiasts, the Mughal-era tombs and lakes offer an opportunity to step back in time. Picnic lovers can find perfect spots near the romantic lakes and monuments, creating cherished memories with loved ones.
As a photographer, I must say that Sunder Nursery is a dream come true. Its vivid colors, intricate details, tranquil water bodies, and diverse landscapes provide endless opportunities to capture the essence of this historical and natural wonder.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Before you embark on your Sunder Nursery adventure, here are some practical tips to enhance your experience:
How to Reach Sunder Nursery:
- Sunder Nursery is conveniently located near Humayun’s Tomb, making it accessible from all parts of Delhi.
- If you’re using public transportation, the nearest metro stations are Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium (violet line) and Indraprastha Metro Station (pink line).
- For those driving, parking is available on both sides of the park.
Sunder Nursery Delhi Photos/Images
Timings and Entry Fees:
- Sunder Nursery is open all year round, but the timings vary:
- April – September: 7 am to 7 pm (last entry at 6.30 pm)
- October – March: 7 am to 6 pm (last entry at 5.30 pm)
- Entry fees:
- For Indian/SAARC visitors: Rs. 35
- For Foreign Tourists: Rs. 100
- Children between 5-12 years: Rs. 15
- Senior Citizens (above 60 years): Rs. 15
- Children under 5 years: Free Entry
- Physically Challenged Visitors: Free Entry
- Wheelchairs are available free of charge for those in need.
Places to Eat
While packing a picnic basket is a great idea, Sunder Nursery also offers dining options. Fab Café, part of the Fabindia chain, is known for its conscious eating concept, offering healthy options with no refined sugars or oils. You can dine in the café or carry your eco-friendly meal to enjoy anywhere in the park. Fab Café is a top choice for a delightful brunch amidst nature.
Additionally, there are food kiosks and weekend organic markets where you can purchase snacks, drinks, or freshly prepared food items.
Sunder Nursery Delhi Contact Information
- The official website of Sunder Nursery Delhi is https://www.sundernursery.org/
- You can contact Sunder Nursery Park at 011 407 00700 or mail them at info@sundernursery.org
Nearby Attractions
If you have more time to spare, consider exploring nearby attractions like Humayun’s Tomb, where history and architecture come alive. On Thursdays, you can immerse yourself in a Qawwali session at Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah, a unique spiritual experience.
For those with a thirst for knowledge, nearby destinations like Millennium Park Delhi, National Zoological Park, Purana Qila, National Science Centre, National Handicrafts and Handlooms Museum, National Gallery of Modern Art, Rashtrapati Bhawan, and India Gate await your visit.
People Also Read
- Snow World Noida
- EOD Adventure Park Mayur Vihar
- Chokhi Dhani Noida
- Fun N Food Village Delhi
- Adventure Island Delhi
- Worlds of Wonder Noida
- Nehru Planetarium Delhi
- Museum of Illusions New Delhi
- ISKCON Temple Delhi
- Waste to Wonder Park Delhi
- Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya
- Just Chill Water Park Delhi
- Garden Of Five Senses
Location Map For Sunder Nursery Delhi
FAQs
Where is Sunder Nursery located?
Sunder Nursery is situated adjacent to Humayun’s Tomb in Nizamuddin, New Delhi, Delhi.
How can I reach Sunder Nursery by metro?
The nearest metro stations to Sunder Nursery are Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium Metro Station (violet line) and Indraprastha Metro Station (pink line). From there, you can easily reach the park.
Is Sunder Nursery open on Sundays?
Yes, Sunder Nursery is open seven days a week, including Sundays.
Can I bring my food to Sunder Nursery?
Yes, outside food is allowed in Sunder Nursery, making it a great spot for a picnic with homemade goodies.
Is there a parking facility at Sunder Nursery?
Yes, Sunder Nursery offers paid parking facilities for both cars and two-wheelers. Car parking costs Rs. 100 for four hours on weekdays and Rs. 200 on weekends and gazetted holidays. Two-wheeler parking is Rs. 35 for four hours.
Are wheelchairs available at Sunder Nursery?
Yes, Sunder Nursery provides wheelchairs free of charge for visitors who require them.
What is the best time to visit Sunder Nursery?
The best time to visit Sunder Nursery is during the winter months and on weekdays to avoid crowds.
What are the timings of Sunder Nursery?
Sunder Nursery is open from 7 am to 7 pm from April to September, with the last entry at 6.30 pm. From October to March, it’s open from 7 am to 6 pm, with the last entry at 5.30 pm.
Conclusion: Sunder Nursery – Where Delhi’s Heart Beats
In Sunder Nursery, Delhi’s heart beats to the rhythm of history, nature, and culture. It’s not just a park; it’s a living testament to the coexistence of time-honored traditions and the beauty of the natural world. So, pack your picnic basket, charge your camera, and embark on a journey through this green oasis in the heart of Delhi. Sunder Nursery welcomes you with open arms, ready to reveal its hidden wonders and create lasting memories.