😲 Wait! Did you know this Green Space in Delhi?

Hey explorer,

We have been roaming all the adventurous and unexplored Indian beauties for a long time. Although our mouths were tasting all the local foods, we still felt empty for something we had been listening to since childhood.

Yes, the street food of Delhi. Most north Indian travel vlogs we saw so far included the mouth-watering Delhi street food. So, we thought, "Why not explore Delhi since we are already in north India?"

Unfortunately, we felt we were missing nature after staying for two days in Delhi and decided to explore Sanjay Van - the largest park in Delhi, for some fresh air.

"Why only Sanjay Van?" you ask.

Here's everything you must know.

Why Sanjay Van?

Remember that enthusiasm we once carried as a kid on our faces when we visited tall buildings for the first time? Or how about trains or planes became a reality that travel at the closest distance, which we only have heard or seen on phones?

But as we get familiar with city life, we also understand that the quality of our life is not the same as it once used to be when we lived among trees. And Delhi is no lesser than that. Although Delhi is the capital of India, it is one of the most polluted cities in the world in terms of air. 

The people here are either leaving the city or looking for green space. Here's where Sanjay Van gets into play, helping people retire their days happily in this park and making them feel "A home away from home."

Basic Information

History

Originally known as the 'City Forest,' Sanjay Van has a rich history with Delhi's development over the decades. The park spread over 700 acres while the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) developed the park in the late 1970s. 

The sole purpose for undertaking and developing is to provide the natives with a green space. Over the years, Sanjay Van has evolved into a vital green space, offering a blend of nature and history to those who explore its lush trails.

Geography

Sanjay Van's geography is diverse and captivating, with thick forests, open meadows, and scenic trails. The park's geography meets everyone's interests, from those seeking shaded walks under the canopy of trees to those wanting open spaces for picnics and recreational activities. 

Local Culture

Sanjay Van plays a role as a cultural hub within the city. The park is not just about being a park but more about the nature of people visiting this place. From morning till evening, you can find people doing activities like walking, yoga, or enjoying a picnic. It just adds a community feeling.

Language Used

Being the capital and one of the largest cities of India, Delhi people can understand both English and Hindi. While Hindi is the dominant language, speaking to old-aged locals might require you to know at least the fundamental daily phrases to bridge the communication gap. 

Climatic Conditions

The climatic conditions in Delhi can sometimes be unpredictable. The smog in the air can make the environment hot or cool, depending on the weather. The higher the smog is, the hotter the temperature becomes. Yet, the green trees around the park make it a year-round site. 

To-Do Information

Must-Do Things

Sanjay Van is so vast that you might end up sitting on one of those benches and return home when you go without preplan. To enjoy your complete ride here, check out these must-do things:

• Nature Walks

There are several walking trails across the vast woods of Sanjay Van. From shaded paths under canopy trees to open meadows bathing in sunlight, you can connect with nature, observe wildlife, and enjoy the healing benefits of the green surroundings just with a little walk. 

• Bird Watching

Sanjay Van is so big that the biodiversity here is more prosperous than in the whole area of Delhi. Grab a pair of binoculars and explore the park's birding hotspots. From colourful kingfishers to majestic eagles, you can find some of the unique birds here and boost your walking experience. 

• Meditation at Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Within the heart of Sanjay Van, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is an ancient temple that creates a calm atmosphere for meditation and introspection. The antique feelings and being surrounded by lush greenery add spirituality, boosting your overall experience here. 

Places to Visit Nearby

Sanjay Van might only take you a couple of hours to enjoy it, while the remaining time might get wasted when you have planned a trip for a day. So, doing a few other things that might boost your experience include:

• Qutub Minar

At a distance of 1.5 km, Qutub Minar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the constructions that shows Delhi's rich history. You learn about the stories of ancient structures and the history of India as you step closer to this beauty and the old constructions around you. 

• Mehrauli Archaeological Park

Located at 3.3 km, Mehrauli Archaeological Park is a treasure trove of historical remains that shows you the history of Delhi in real-time, which you once read in your history books. You will learn about the bygone eras of this city as you walk through the ruins of tombs, mosques, and step-wells. 

Must Buy Things

India is so vast that everything in the country showcases the culture and tradition of the nation. One such thing is the local items where you might want to take the below products home.

• Handcrafted Souvenirs

Local people often set up stalls of handcrafted souvenirs within Sanjay Van. These may include intricately designed jewellery, eco-friendly crafts, and traditional artefacts. Carry home one of these items that exhibits the culture and tradition of India. 

• Organic Products

Look for stalls with organic products that prove the natural essence of Sanjay Van. From locally sourced honey to herbal teas, these items give you a unique taste of the park's biodiversity. Take one jar of honey or a bag of herbal tea powder as a gift to your dearest. 

Travel Itinerary

Transportation

Getting to Sanjay Van is convenient, thanks to Delhi's well-connected transportation system. Here's a breakdown of transportation options you can opt for:

• Airways

The nearest airport to your destination is the Indira Gandhi International Airport, which can receive national and international flights. Then, you must hire a taxi or use local transportation to reach Sanjay Van. 

• Railway

Being one of the major cities of India, Delhi has railway connections with most parts of the country. The nearest railway station to Sanjay Van is Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station, at a distance of 15.3 km. You can then hire a taxi to reach the woods or use the nearest metro. 

The Delhi Metro is a reliable and efficient way to reach Sanjay Van. The nearest metro station is R.K. Puram metro station to the ghats, and from there, you can take a short cab ride to the park entrance. Yet, the prices can vary depending on the distance you travel. 

Accommodation

While Sanjay Van doesn't have on-site accommodation, there are several options in the nearby places to ensure a comfortable stay. From hotels that make you feel at home to expensive restaurants, accommodation in Delhi can meet your expectations. Some affordable hotels include:

AmigosIndia - ₹1,251 (excluding taxes)/night for 2 adults.

- It is a 4-star rating hotel.
- They provide a washing machine.
- They offer free parking and a lounge.

Heistel Delhi - ₹829 (excluding taxes)/night for 2 adults.

- It is a 3.8-star rating hotel.
- They provide parking.
- They have a caretaker and indoor games.

Golden Home Stay - ₹1,673 (excluding taxes)/night for 2 adults.

- It is a 3.5-star rating hotel.
- They provide parking.
- They offer dry-cleaning services.

Popular Food

One thing that sets Delhi apart from other places in India is the diversity of street food, and the surroundings of Sanjay Van are no exception. Try out these popular foods (and let us know your experience below):

• Chaat: Try the spicy and tangy flavours of Delhi's famous chaat, available at local street food stalls near Sanjay Van.

• Kebabs: Savor juicy kebabs, a North Indian speciality, prepared with a blend of aromatic spices.

Also, you can try other chat items, such as Pav Baji, Dahi Puri, Sev Puri, Pani Puri, and more. 

Local Food Hotels

The street food over here is something your taste buds have been longing for. Yet, the local flavour only comes from the local food stalls. So, here are a few local hotels you must try out to enjoy this popular food everyone has been talking about. 

Laxman Fast Food - Best for chaat items in local flavours. 
Meenakshi Devi Fast Food - Best for local cuisine.
Panditji Dhaba - Best for roti and other local food. 

Travel Expenses

Delhi is a tier-1 city. It means that things can become pretty expensive sometimes. Considering all the travel things such as transportation, accommodation, food, and other travel inclinations, you might end up spending ₹2,500 to ₹3,500 per day. So, we recommend you plan a travel budget before going to the destination.

Travel Tips

• Carry Water and Snacks: Sanjay Van is so vast that it requires you to walk longer distances to enjoy the beauty of this park. So, staying hydrated during your stay here is necessary, while snacks can become your energy boosters during longer walks or bird-watching sessions.

• Visit During Weekdays: If possible, try exploring on weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds. You can enjoy your walks through the parks in a quieter and peaceful atmosphere since weekdays remain uncrowded.

Safety Tips

• Stick to Designated Trails: While Sanjay Van is generally safe, you must stick to specified trails to avoid getting lost in the expansive forest.

• Emergency Contacts: Getting lost in this forest is more likely to happen if you are new to this unexplored place. So, carry a list of emergency contacts, like local authorities and your stay, to deal with unexpected circumstances. 

Conclusion

Delhi is one of the popular cities and the capital city of India. Although the city might attract you with its attractive constructions and other beautiful things, it is also a place with the worst air quality. While locals struggle to get fresh air, Sanjay Van becomes the only go-to place. Next time on your trip to Delhi, make it a point to visit this site. 

Thought to Inspire 🏃‍♂️

“One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.” – Henry Miller

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