How long does it take to walk through Lodhi Garden and the Art District?

A complete walk usually takes between 90 and 120 minutes. This includes time to photograph the murals in Lodhi Colony and explore the major tombs like Bara Gumbad and Shish Gumbad within the gardens.

Is Lodhi Garden free to enter?

Yes, Lodhi Garden is a public park and is completely free to enter. There are no ticket requirements for visiting the historic tombs located inside the park grounds.

When is the best time to visit the Lodhi Art District?

The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight is softer for photography and the temperature is more comfortable. Avoid midday during the summer months due to extreme heat.

Can I take professional photos in the Lodhi Art District?

Personal photography with smartphones or cameras is generally permitted and very popular. However, for commercial shoots or professional equipment, you may technically need permission from the local authorities or the St+art India Foundation.

Is the Lodhi Art District safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Lodhi Colony is one of Delhi's most secure and upscale residential neighborhoods. It is well-patrolled and very safe for solo travelers during daylight hours.

What is the nearest metro station to Lodhi Garden?

The nearest metro station is Jor Bagh on the Yellow Line. Alternatively, the JLN Stadium station on the Violet Line is closer to the Lodhi Art District side of the neighborhood.

Are there places to eat near the Lodhi Art District?

Yes, Khanna Market and Meherchand Market are adjacent to the art district and offer a variety of options, from traditional Indian snacks to trendy cafes like Devan's and Elma's.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Delhi is a city of layers, where centuries of history coexist with a modern, pulsating creative energy. On this self-guided walking route, you will experience the perfect fusion of these worlds. The journey begins in the heart of Lodhi Colony, India's first open-air public art district. Here, the traditional symmetry of the colonial-era architecture serves as a massive canvas for local and international muralists. As you wander through the residential blocks, you will discover towering artworks that touch on themes ranging from climate change and gender equality to local Indian culture and abstract geometry. This neighborhood stroll offers a refreshing alternative to the typical sightseeing circuit, allowing you to explore the evolution of urban expression in India. Transitioning from the vibrant colors of the street art, the route leads you into the serene expanse of Lodhi Garden. This 90-acre park is not just a green lung for the city but a repository of 15th-century architectural marvels. You will encounter the grand tombs and mosques of the Sayyid and Lodhi dynasties, which ruled Delhi before the Mughals. The contrast is striking: one moment you are standing before a contemporary mural of a Kathakali dancer, and the next, you are beneath the massive stone dome of a 500-year-old mausoleum. This walking tour Delhi highlights the seamless blend of the old and the new that defines the capital's character. Whether you are a photography enthusiast looking for the perfect shot, a history buff interested in the pre-Mughal era, or simply a traveler seeking a peaceful escape from the city's chaos, this route provides a comprehensive cultural experience. Because the art district is an active project, the murals are subject to change, ensuring that every visit offers something new to discover. This self-guided adventure allows you to set your own pace, pausing for a coffee in the local markets or lingering in the shade of an ancient Banyan tree. For those looking for a unique walking tour Delhi, the Lodhi Art District and its neighboring gardens offer an unparalleled window into the city's artistic soul.

Highlights

Explore India's first public art district with over 50 massive murals

Discover the architectural transition from the Sayyid to the Lodhi dynasties

Photograph the iconic 'Lotus' and 'Mother India' murals

Wander through 90 acres of lush greenery in the historic Lodhi Garden

Admire the intricate tile work and massive domes of Shish Gumbad and Bara Gumbad

Experience the peaceful atmosphere of Delhi's most beautiful urban park

Tour Stops (6)

Khanna Market Road

Welcome to the entrance of Lodhi Colony, a neighborhood that has become a symbol of Delhi's modern cultural revival. Built in the 1940s to house government officials, the architecture here is characterized by high arches and symmetrical courtyards. As you start your walk along Khanna Market Road, notice how the local life blends with the emerging art scene. This market is a local favorite for snacks and essential wares, providing a grounded contrast to the grand murals you are about to see. The project to transform these walls was initiated by the St+art India Foundation, turning a quiet residential area into a world-class gallery. Keep an eye out for the smaller details—the way the sunlight hits the yellow-washed buildings and the occasional street food vendor setting up for the day.

Lodhi Art District

You are now in the heart of India’s first open-air art district. Look around and you will see that the walls have been reclaimed as canvases for social and cultural storytelling. From the hyper-realistic portrait of 'Mother India' to abstract explorations of the environment, these murals are created by artists from across the globe. Please note that street art is inherently temporary; some murals may have faded or been replaced by new commissions since your last visit, making each walk a unique experience. This area is a living community, so as you admire the scale of the artworks, you'll also see the daily rhythms of the residents. It is a rare place where high art and everyday life coexist so harmoniously. Take your time to explore the side alleys between the blocks, as many hidden gems are tucked away from the main road.

Shah Tomb, Delhi

As you leave the colorful murals behind and enter the vicinity of the gardens, you encounter the Tomb of Muhammad Shah. This structure dates back to 1444 and is a classic example of Sayyid dynasty architecture. Notice the octagonal plan, a design feature that was quite popular during this era before the Mughals introduced more complex geometric styles. The tomb is surrounded by eight smaller 'chhatris' or umbrella-shaped domes, which give it a regal silhouette against the sky. It is a somber yet beautiful reminder of the dynasties that shaped Delhi long before the British colonial influence seen in the surrounding streets. The transition from the 21st-century murals to this 15th-century tomb happens in just a few steps, illustrating Delhi's incredible historical density.

Lodhi Garden

Step into the lush expanse of Lodhi Garden, a 90-acre park that serves as a sanctuary for both locals and history. Originally known as Lady Willingdon Park during the British era, it was landscaped to highlight the medieval monuments scattered across its grounds. As you walk the winding paths, you will see joggers, yoga practitioners, and families enjoying the shade of ancient trees. The garden is home to over 50 species of birds and a wide variety of botanical life. It’s the perfect place to reflect on the art you’ve just seen. The layout of the park allows the historic tombs to emerge naturally from the landscape, creating a sense of discovery as you move through the greenery. This is often cited as the most beautiful park in Delhi, and it’s easy to see why.

Bara Gumbad

Standing before you is the Bara Gumbad, or 'Big Dome.' Built in 1494 during the reign of Sikandar Lodhi, this structure is a bit of an architectural mystery. While it looks like a tomb, no graves have been found inside. Instead, it is believed to have served as a grand gateway to the attached mosque. Take a moment to look at the mosque’s facade—the intricate plasterwork and Quranic inscriptions are remarkably well-preserved. The Bara Gumbad represents the pinnacle of Lodhi-style architecture, characterized by its massive proportions and the use of gray quartzite with red sandstone accents. The courtyard here often feels like a stage set, frozen in time, offering a quiet space for contemplation away from the city's noise.

Shish Gumbad

Our final stop is the Shish Gumbad, or 'Glass Dome.' Its name comes from the glazed blue tiles that once covered its exterior, glinting like glass in the sun. While only a few patches of these tiles remain today, you can still imagine how striking this building must have appeared in the 15th century. Like many structures in this park, the identity of those buried inside remains unknown, though the architectural style suggests they were high-ranking officials of the Lodhi dynasty. This tomb mirrors the Bara Gumbad in scale but features a distinct two-storied appearance from the outside. As you conclude your walk here, you are just a short distance from the Jor Bagh Metro station, making it easy to continue your exploration of Delhi or head back to your starting point.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Lodhi Art District is the premier destination, featuring over 50 murals by global artists. A self-guided walk through the residential blocks between Khanna Market and Meherchand Market allows you to see the best of India's first open-air gallery at your own pace.