What is the best time to visit Agrasen ki Baoli?

Early morning, around 9:00 AM, is the best time to visit to avoid large crowds and capture the best light for photography. The site can get quite busy and noisy in the late afternoon.

Is this walking tour Delhi suitable for children?

Yes, it is very family-friendly. Children often enjoy the large 'playground' feel of the Jantar Mantar instruments and the open space of Central Park, though supervision is needed near the deep steps of the Baoli.

Are there entry fees for the landmarks in Connaught Place?

Jantar Mantar requires an entry ticket (prices vary for Indian citizens and foreigners). Agrasen ki Baoli and Central Park are currently free to enter.

Can I visit these sites at night?

While Connaught Place is vibrant at night with lights and dining, Jantar Mantar and Agrasen ki Baoli typically close at sunset. The Inner Circle remains active until late evening.

Is the route wheelchair accessible?

The sidewalks of Connaught Place are generally accessible, but the historic sites are less so. Agrasen ki Baoli has no ramp or elevator access to the lower levels.

Where can I find food during the walk?

The Inner Circle of Connaught Place is famous for its dining options, ranging from historic spots like Wenger's Deli to modern international chains and traditional Indian restaurants.

How far is Jantar Mantar from Agrasen ki Baoli?

It is roughly a 1.5 to 2-kilometer walk, which takes about 20-25 minutes if walking directly through the Connaught Place circles.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Connaught Place, the pulsating heart of New Delhi, is more than just a commercial hub; it is a landscape where time-honored traditions and colonial ambitions collide. On this self-guided walk, you will peel back the layers of Delhi’s 'CP,' exploring how this Georgian-style circle was superimposed on a land rich with ancient spiritual sites and astronomical wonders. The route begins at the stark, geometric marvels of Jantar Mantar, an 18th-century observatory that looks like a collection of modern art but functions as a precise celestial clock. This walking route offers a unique perspective on the city's evolution, taking you from the scientific pursuits of Rajput kings to the spiritual fervor of one of Delhi's oldest temples. As you navigate the concentric circles of the neighborhood, the architecture tells a story of a changing empire. The white-pillared colonnades of the Inner Circle represent the pinnacle of British urban planning in India, yet just a few blocks away, you will find the serene depths of Agrasen ki Baoli, a medieval stepwell that feels worlds apart from the bustling city streets above. This neighborhood stroll is perfect for those who want to experience the vibrant energy of modern Delhi while uncovering its hidden-gems. You will explore the legacy of the Khadi movement, witness the massive scale of the national flag in Central Park, and eventually descend into the quiet, cool shadows of a 14th-century architectural masterpiece. This self-guided adventure allows you to set your own pace, stopping for a coffee in a historic cafe or spending extra time photographing the intricate shadows of the ancient sundials. Whether you are a history buff or a photography enthusiast, this walking tour Delhi provides a comprehensive look at the architecture and heritage that define the capital. By the time you reach the final stop, you will understand why this area remains the most iconic landmark of the city, serving as a bridge between the Delhi of the Maharajas and the Delhi of today.

Highlights

The giant geometric astronomical instruments of Jantar Mantar

The ancient spiritual atmosphere of the Pracheen Hanuman Mandir

The iconic Georgian-style white colonnades of the Inner Circle

India's massive monumental flag in the heart of Central Park

The hauntingly beautiful architecture of the Agrasen ki Baoli stepwell

Tour Stops (6)

Jantar Mantar

Welcome to Jantar Mantar, an extraordinary collection of architectural astronomical instruments built by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur in 1724. These massive terracotta-red structures aren't just art; they are precision tools. The Samrat Yantra, or 'Supreme Instrument,' is a giant sundial that can measure time to an accuracy of two seconds. As you walk among these geometric shapes, imagine the scientists of the 18th century tracking the movements of the sun, moon, and planets without telescopes. This site reflects a time when Indian astronomy was at its peak, blending scientific rigor with monumental design. Notice how the shadows shift across the structures, a silent reminder of the cosmic order that governed the lives of the Rajput kings.

Pracheen Hanuman Mandir

A short walk brings you to the Pracheen Hanuman Mandir. While the current structure has seen many renovations, this site is believed to be one of the five ancient temples from the era of the Mahabharata, founded by the Pandavas. Look up at the temple spire to see a crescent moon—a rare feature for a Hindu temple, which some historians believe helped protect the structure during various periods of religious upheaval. The air here is often thick with the scent of incense and the sound of bells. It’s a powerful contrast to the scientific silence of Jantar Mantar, showcasing the deep-rooted spiritual traditions that continue to thrive in the heart of modern Delhi.

Khadi India

As you move toward the commercial circles, stop at the Khadi India flagship store. Khadi is more than just fabric; it was a symbol of India's struggle for independence. Championed by Mahatma Gandhi, this hand-spun and hand-woven cloth represented self-reliance and a boycott of foreign-made goods. This building serves as a modern guardian of that legacy. Even today, Khadi remains a staple of Indian identity, evolving from a revolutionary uniform into a sustainable fashion statement. The textures and colors found here offer a tactile connection to the history of the Indian freedom movement and the enduring philosophy of simplicity and indigenous industry.

Inner Circle

You are now standing in the Inner Circle of Connaught Place, often simply called CP. Designed by Robert Tor Russell and WH Nicholls, this area was named after the Duke of Connaught and completed in 1933. The architecture is distinctly Georgian, inspired by the Royal Crescent in Bath, England. The uniform white columns and circular layout were intended to create a grand commercial center for the elite of British India. Today, it is a bustling mix of high-end brands, historic cinemas, and local eateries. As you walk the curved corridors, notice the blend of international commerce and local character that makes this the definitive meeting point for Delhiites of all generations.

Central Park

At the very center of the concentric circles lies Central Park. This green oasis was rebuilt during the construction of the Delhi Metro and has become the city's literal and metaphorical heart. The most striking feature here is the monumental Indian National Flag, one of the largest in the country, flying high on a 207-foot flagpole. The park serves as a democratic space where students, shoppers, and travelers congregate. It offers a rare vantage point to appreciate the scale of Connaught Place’s circular design. From here, you can see how the city radiates outward, with the flag serving as a constant landmark against the Delhi skyline.

Agrasen ki Baoli

The final stop on this route is Agrasen ki Baoli, a stunning 14th-century stepwell tucked away in a quiet lane. Measuring 60 meters long and 15 meters wide, this structure features 108 steps descending into the earth across three levels. While its origins are attributed to the legendary King Agrasen, the current architecture reflects the Tughlaq and Lodi periods. Stepwells like this were vital for water storage and provided a cool sanctuary from the Indian heat. Today, its dramatic arches and deep shadows make it a favorite for photographers and filmmakers. As you descend the steps, the noise of the city fades away, replaced by a cool, haunting silence that feels centuries old.

Frequently Asked Questions

The core route is approximately 2.5 kilometers and typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. This includes time to explore the instruments at Jantar Mantar and descend the steps at Agrasen ki Baoli.