Mehrauli Archaeological Park is a legacy of the Delhi Sultanate of Medieval India, and with it the development of architecture. There are many monuments in this heritage park which run like landmarks. There were several reservoirs in the park, most of which have dried up. Join this walk to explore and enjoy colonial buildings, Islamic buildings and Mughal buildings in this physical timeline of Indian history and have a spectacular view of the Qutub Minar. The walk is known for its medieval step wells (baolis) amazing how water is preserved and provided to the village and community in an Indian style.

Mehrauli Archaeological Park History Overview

The Mehrauli Archaeological Park is a unique experience in itself. Once the vibrant city of Prithvi Raj Chauhan, the thriving capital of the Tomar and Chauhan families, southeast of the Qutb Minar complex was also the capital of the first Muslim rule in India. Spread over 100 acres, this park is steeped in history from the ruined tombs of the first slave family to the British period. This shows that this park was not hidden from the eyes of all the people who came to rule Delhi. Walking through the Mehrauli Archaeological Park is an adventure in itself, as you go back and forth in history. Also enjoy the common trees of Delhi.

Muhammad Qali Khan at Mehrauli Archeological Park

The second house in Mehrauli Archaeological Park was initially the tomb of Muhammad Qali Khan, the general of Emperor Akbar and brother of Adham Khan, the foster brother. Built in the 17th century, the Octonal Mughal mausoleum was purchased by Metcalfe and redesigned in the style of European dwellings, with extensive gardens and foliage to be used as a recreation area during the monsoon season.

He named it ‘Dilkosha’ (see also below the external link of the album which shows two pictures of Dilkosha as it was at the time of construction). It was spread over a vast area, now enclosed in a specially designed park called Mehrauli Archaeological Park ‘Qutb Archaeological Village’. The purpose of the site was stated to be to keep an eye on Emperor Bahadur Shah II, who had also set up his Zafar Mahal Palace in Mehrauli to spend the summer.

Boat House at Mehrauli Archeological Park

The complex was a pleasant place with many controlled streams of water, which led to the construction of a tank (now called Metcalfe’s Boathouse and Dovecote). This tank belonged to the Lodi family. It was refurbished by Metcalfe for use, boating and swimming. The staircase from the booth house leads to its charm. With a retinue of servants, the impeccably placed space was declared an ideal setting for honeymoon couples. He also made a “fossil” in the style of “Sido Mughal” or a folly with a canopy or dome and mihrab, and a few follies known as Garh Ganj (in the form of a spiral and square-footed zigzags).

All of the above can be seen in the archeological park (a special wall recently built), with strategic markings pointing in the direction of various cultural monuments. The village was built south of the Qutb Minar by the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage ( INTACH ).

Itikaf was built like a fortress in which the folly (also called the only landlocked lighthouse) was built in the Indo-Persian twelfth style. This was built in front of the newly built tomb of Qali Khan, which was surrounded by a vast garden. The main hall of the mausoleum was converted into a dining hall. The two wings were added as an adjunct, of which only one ruin is now visible. He also converted some of the old buildings around the tomb into guesthouses, staff quarters and stables. It is also recorded that Metcalfe, who was a fast person, spent a lot of time in this place during his 40 years of life in Delhi. He loved the retreat and had a set of study rooms and a place for his daughter Emily to live with him, while his wife and son were in the old town. Lived in the formal town house. From this point on, Thomas’ love is reflected in his own words:

The ruins of splendor that surround it for miles fill it with solid reflection, ”he wrote. “Palaces are crumbling to dust innumerable mausoleums, each of which aims to express the immortal fame of its old inhabitants in the future, and which is now unknown and unnoticed.” Can be seen

Enjoy a Heritage Walk at Lodhi Garden with Harry.

How to Reach: Mehrauli Archaeological Park by Bus click Nearest Metro Station is Qutub Minar

Get down at Qutub Minar metro station. situated on the yellow line cross the road and walk right for ten minutes or and take an auto on sharring to reach the park. There are no entry Ticket.

If coming by own at Mehrauli archaeological park park your car or bike at Parking inside Near Jamali Kamali Mosque.

Jahaz Mahal: at Mehrauli Archaeological Park

Jahaz Mahal is located in the last corner of Mehrauli Archaeological Park was built about 200 years later in the Lodi era and due to the reflection on the big lake it takes the shape of a ship and hence the name Jahaz Mahal. Jahaz-e-Mahal in Urdu means “ship” and “Mahal” means “palace”, “ship’s palace”), got its name because its reflection (illusion) in the surrounding water lake resembled that of a ship floating on a lake. It was conceived as a resort or inn during the Lodi dynasty (1452–1526).

A courtyard, originally a rectangular shape that now appears in a ‘U’ shape, is in the middle of the palace. The palace is adorned with impressive square chhatras or beautiful carvings in the corners and minarets in the center, various chambers and walls (pictured in the gallery). The domed pavilion above the main gate is decorated with blue tiles. There is also a small mosque inside the palace, as can be seen from a neighborhood mihrab on the west wall. The U-shaped ship’s castle was probably surrounded by a moat, The presence of a Qibla on the western wall of the Jahaz Palace indicates that this part of the building was actually a mosque.

One of the reasons for the construction of the Jahaj Palace was to provide transit accommodation in the form of sarai or (sarai) to a large number of pilgrims and merchants from Afghanistan, Arabia, Iran, Iraq, Morocco and Turkey, which many people used to travel. We do. Delhi had come to the court of Muslims. Another version is that it was built for Emperor Akbar Shah II and Bahadur Shah II and their families to stay away from the heat and dust of Delhi during the summer months. It was built between 1451 AD and 1526 AD, before the invasion of Babur and the beginning of Mughal rule in Delhi.

Jahaj Palace is also the site of the annual colorful festival of Flower Wallaon ki Sair (meaning procession of flowers) in October. A procession of flower-decorated feathers (feathers) begins at last corner of Mehrauli Archaeological Park at the overflow outlet of the lake, called “Jharna”, the first offering of flower feathers at Yogimaya temple. As a mark of reverence, the Hajj proceeds towards the palace and finally ends at the famous Dargah of Hazrat Qutbuddin This harmony reflects a broader Hindu-Muslim culture. Mehrauli Archaeological Park is an interesting amalgamation of history and mythology.

The three-day festival is held at the Haj Mahal, where extensive cultural programs are organized. Cultural groups from different states of India organize dances, drama programs and sangeet soiries (especially qawwali) in their colorful regional costumes and seek recognition in recognition of their talents. The kite flying festival continues with wrestling competitions, with fire dancers leading the procession with wings.

Hijron Ka Khanqah at Mehrauli Archeological Park

One such hidden gem in the history of Delhi is the Hijron Ka Khanqah, a way of connecting the transgender community with spirituality. Located near the tomb of Sufi saint Qutubuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki, this Khanqah is a special place for Kinnars. Even the people living nearby do not know much about it, as it remains a lesser-known monument at side of the Mehrauli Archaeological Park, were historically known as places of spiritual retreat for all kinds of devotees, including members of the royal and aristocracy, as well as common people. Sufis organized communities around Khanqahs, controlled by a spiritual teacher known as a sheikh, pir, or murshid. Adjacent to dargahs, mosques, and madrasas, these resting places for travelers were designed for religious purposes where people discussed spiritual matters, sought blessings from the saints, or participated in music and dance sessions.

The Hijron Ka Khanqah is an Islamic monument, also known as the “Sufi spiritual retreat for Hijras.” Eunuchs come here in groups or alone to pray and offer flowers. Most of them visit on Thursdays for prayers. The complex includes a mosque that is well maintained by the eunuchs themselves. Entering the memorial complex through a narrow gate, visitors can climb the marble steps to a large courtyard overlooking the white tombs. Adjacent to the tombs is a small platform, and the tombs are closed to the west by a walled mosque in the direction of prayer.

Among the many white-painted tombs of Hijaras or eunuchs, the main tomb dedicated to veneration is said to be that of a eunuch named Mian Sahib. The Hijron Ka Khanqah offers a quiet atmosphere, where some eunuchs of Delhi were buried during the Lodi dynasty. It is a monument that speaks of the inclusivity of the past, where people of all genders and backgrounds were welcome to seek spirituality and community.

Adham Khan’s Tomb

As you enter the Mehrauli Archeological Park in Delhi, your eyes will be drawn towards a magnificent structure that stands tall amidst the greenery. a timeless monument from the 16th century that stands in tribute to the valiant General of Emperor Akbar and his mother, the revered Maham Anga. This magnificent edifice is a living testament to the splendor and glory of the Mughal era,  The tomb is an architectural marvel, featuring an octagonal domed chamber surrounded by arched verandahs. This design is unique and not seen in any Mughal building of that period. It is said that Emperor Akbar himself commanded the construction of this tomb in 1566.

However, the tomb’s history is not without controversy. Adham Khan, the general for whom the tomb was built, was known for his arrogance and disregard for authority. He committed a grave offense by killing Ataga Khan, another high-ranking official in Akbar’s court. This act angered Akbar, who had Adham Khan thrown off the balcony of his palace. After Adham Khan’s death, his body was brought to this site and buried in this magnificent tomb. It is said that the staircase inside the tomb’s walls resembles a labyrinth, earning it the nickname “Bhool Bhulaiyya”.

Today, the Adham Khan Tomb is a popular attraction and a prominent landmark in the corner of Mehrauli Archeological Park. 

Jharna: at Mehrauli Archaeological Park

The Mughal royal family will return to Mehrauli to escape the heat in the summers. In the monsoon season They stay at in Zafar Mahal or other historical buildings. But when they got bored of their private residences, they come waterfalls as a garden of pleasure.
The Jharna, which literally means “waterfall”, is fed by a nearby Hauz e Shamshi pond .Right in the heart of Mehrauli lies a tank, Hauz-e-Shamsi. The waters of the Hauz were once said to have been channeled up to Tughalqabad (over 10Kms away).Sultan Ghiyasuddin Khan Firoz Jang a waterfall (jharna) from the overflows of the Hauz-e-Shamsi. Tracking the flow of the water.

At Mehrauli Archaeological Park Heritage Walk , you can see and enjoy the luxuries of the Mughals. You can take a tour of this historic site while escaping the hustle and bustle of Mehrauli Market Street. Despite not being in its original condition and running water without its name, you will still get a taste of the peaceful haven that once enjoyed the royal past. Here you can relax and have cup of masala tea. (Enjoy Old Delhi Heritage Walk)

Rajon ki baoli: at Mehrauli Archaeological Park

Baoli at Mehrauli Archaeological Park still stands intact among the ruins of other monuments,

Take A Peek into The Rajon Ki Baoli at the park. At Mehrauli Archaeological Park Heritage Walk, you follow the trail inside the park. You see a three-story structure appears on your left. The three-story structure is accessible by stairs and each floor has a unique architectural masterpiece. A hidden underground treasure in the wilderness of the Mehrauli Archaeological Park, this ‘boali’ displays rock formations made for water conservation. You feel Cool and calm in the scorching sun of Delhi.

Architects of the medieval times, were digging deeper and making boalis (ancient stepwells) to access groundwater sources. As time passed, architects would save the ‘well’ dug by themselves in a circle of stones. Since the water source was often deep, especially in dry region of Delhi, several deep steps were made towards the well for people to descend and draw water. Delhi has always faced water crisis. In the medieval Ages, Delhi Sultans started building and restoring boalis all over there sultanate to deal with the water crisis.

Over time, the use of the boalis evolved from mere water sources to recreational areas, for social gatherings and a shelter from the scorching tropical heat. The early medieval kings of India built canopies with arches around stairs where they could rest in the scorching sun, and they continued to be used by Muslim warriors from Central Asia after their conquests in India.

Rajon ki Baoli, also known as ‘Rajon-ki-Ben’, is an attractive ‘boali date back to’ or 1506 AD. Being three storeys completely below ground level. The cold rock formation is calm and serene in the scorching sun of Delhi. Commonly thought to be a stepwell to kings (‘raja’ meaning king), its name is actually derived from ‘rajbir’ or ‘ Masons ‘ – a term for architects. It is believed to have been built by Daulat Khan during the Lodi period, and the wall includes a mosque and a tomb.

Deep stairs lead to the water from the north, while the east and west sides are surrounded by high walls, with a platform for walking on the narrow side, and twelve pillars on each side that surround the arch. A rectangular building consisting of the shaft of a deep well accessible by a large staircase. An open space in the south wall acts as a passage and connects the well to the water tank. The alcoves in the walls used to light chirags [ camphor torches] suggest that it may have been the site of social, cultural gatherings at this public often at night.

The first impression you get is of a medieval courtyard, which is surrounded by a porch with many pillars, arches built in typical northern India at that time. Sit feel and experience for some time. watch the mystery of the building unfold its secrets. With each step you take, each level has more porches. Each successful underground surface is much cooler than the previous surface. Although the water is no longer as portable as it was before, the place is a rare like haven at Mehrauli archaeological park. Read Agarsen ki Baoli a Haunting Step well.

Jamali Kamali: at Mehrauli Archaeological Park

The tourist attractions of Delhi can never be considered complete without a visit to the Qutub, Mehrauli Archaeological Park heritage walk. The magic of its history, the intricate architecture and the greenery of the landscape leaves a spell. Among the many monuments found here, Jamali Kamali’s Tomb and Mosque present excellent examples of structural design and have an interesting story behind it.

History says that “Jamali” was a surname given to Shaikh Fazlullah, also known as Sheikh Jamali Kamboh or Jalal Khan, a famous Sufi saint who was a member of the Lodi dynasty and the Mughal dynasty from the reign of Sikandar Lodi. lived during The Mughal emperor Babur and his son Humayun.

The name “Jamali” is Urdu, although it is derived from “Jamal” which means “beauty”. Jamali was a popular poet who travelled extensively in Asia and the Middle East. He became a court poet during the reign of the Lodi dynasty and continued to receive patronage from the Mughal rulers Babur and his son Humayun. His poetry reflects the Persian mysticism of the time. Two of his most famous works are The Sun and Moon and The Spiritual Journey of the Mystics. His tomb is said to have been completed during the reign of Humayun.

Kamali was an unknown person who according to oral stories and traditions was a disciple of Jamali and her lover. It should be noted that although they were both men, as can be seen from the symbolic pen box on each of their graves, their graves are arranged in such a way that it indicates that they were lovers.

The tomb of Jamali Kamali is a decorated square structure with a flat roof, which is on the north side of the mosque. Inside the chamber, the flat ceiling is plastered and decorated. It is painted with bright red and turquoise blue with some inscriptions from holy Quran, and the walls are decorated with colourful tiles inscribed with Jamali’s poems. The decoration of the tomb is so beautifully described as “looking into a box of jewels “. There are two marble mausoleums in the Jamali Kamali Mosque and in the mausoleum of the mausoleum: one of Jamali, the great poet, and the other of Kamali. The name Kamali may be due to the fact that it harmonizes well with Jamali.

After his death in 1535, Jamali was buried with Kamali in his grave. Jamali belonged to a merchant family and was a very popular poet who was famous for his famous works like ‘Mirror of Meaning’, ‘Sun and Moon’ and ‘Spiritual Journey of Mystic Journey’. That these two men Jamali and Kamali loved each other very much.

The large courtyards around these two structures give you multiple angles to click nice pictures. The garden near the tomb, with its spruce trees and lush greenery, is a good resting place. When viewed from the boundary wall of the tomb, you get a view of the magnificent Qutub Minar. At the Mehrauli Archaeological Park, a stroll along the winding landscape of lush green is nothing short of refreshing!

Mehrauli Archaeological Park: Timing: 10:00 am – 06:00 pm Best time to visit : 02:00 pm – 04:00 pm Walk with Best Delhi Tour Guide.

Mehrauli Archaeological Park Nearby Places not to miss

Ahimsa Shthal:

Just across the Mehrauli Archaeological Park , you can walk to Ahimsa Shthal on a hill top,  a non-violence place nearby. Standing on the hilltop here, one can see the greenery all around and the entire Delhi Sultanate. And in front of you like Qutub Minar greeting you and making a sound of passed time.

Ahimsa Sthal is a Jain temple located near Mehrauli Archaeological Park, Delhi. The main deity of the temple is Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara (human spiritual guide). There is a grand statue of Tirthankara Mahavira.

13 feet 6-inch-high idol of Lord Mahavir in Padma Sana (lotus position) adorns the temple. The idol of Lord Mahavir was carved out of granite rock at Karkala and it weighs around 30 tons. The Lotus Podium is 2 feet 8 inches high and weighs around 17 tons. This idol is installed on the top of a small hill. There are two wild lions on either side of the idol which enhances the impression of the structure.

The stone carvings and architecture around the idol are excellent. It is surrounded by a vast area, consisting of a series of short poems preaching the darshan of Lord Mahavira on a path of stones decorated with various boards. Ahimsa means peace and is named after Mahavira who preached and followed it. It is the perfect environment for the photographer to enjoy and meditate. Time to visit : Daily 8 Am to 8 Pm

Mehrauli Archeological Heritage Walk a Guided Tour with Best Delhi Tour Guide.

Ashoka Mission

A Cambodian monk Dharmavar Mahatra traveled to the lands of Burma (Myanmar) and Thailand before settling in Delhi.

In recognition of the man’s historical life, India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru gifted him a small plot of land on the outskirts of near today Mehraul Archeological Park. After the widespread turmoil of Partition, this small Buddhist mission became a peaceful haven in the midst of peaceful times.

Bhante Dharmavara (Buddhist monk) completed his 110-year long life in California, influencing countless lives from laymen to kings. His peaceful legacy lives on in the greenery of the Ashoka Mission.
An important Buddhist institution in Delhi, the Ashoka Mission was founded by the prominent Cambodian monk Ven. Dharamvar Mahatra in 1948 with the invaluable support of Prime Minister Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru and other public figures and scholars.

Ashoka Mission included HH Dalai Lama, HH Panchen Lama, Prince Noroum Singhnouk of Cambodia, HH Singharaja of Laos, Fuji Guruji of Japan, HH Gamboza Hambu Lama of Mongolia, former President of India KR. As such high dignitaries had the honor of meeting Narayanan. Serious efforts. U Nu, the former Prime Minister of Myanmar, planted a Bodhi tree in the mission complex in 1953.

Wayne Dharmavar Mahatra left for America in 1975. The Ashoka Mission was formally reorganized with the Ven. Lama Lobjang as President. New activities were started for its revival.

The Ashoka Mission campus is spread over 12.5 acres in the heart of the capital city of India. One of the older structures is used as a temple. It regularly celebrates Buddha Purnima and other functions and religious rituals. It has been organizing meditation camps and seclusion from time to time (including by foreign monks).

In addition to running a meditation center and its other activities, the Ashoka Mission is currently focusing on providing a strong foundation for its research wing, the Center for Studies in Transnational Buddhism and Civilizations. It is engaged in research on education in ancient Asia, a branch of which is the World Buddhist Society, the current conference. Prior to this conference, Sri Nalanda, held from 28 to 30 April 2003, was the first international conference organized by the Mission. The mission is also engaged in two other projects, namely, Himalayan Research Center for High Altitude Disease, and Lifeline for Ashoka Mission Healthcare Centre, New Delhi-Ladakh.

Dargah Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki: Near Mehrauli Archaeological Park

Mehrauli Archeological Park is truly a divine destination for those who seek spiritual enlightenment and the path to the divine. Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki’s Dargah, nestled within the park, is a sacred site that holds a special place in the hearts of many. This revered Sufi saint of the Delhi Sultanate era has been an inspiration to countless devotees who come from far and wide to seek his blessings.

Legend has it that the city of Delhi once spanned from the grand Masjid-e-Jahanuma (Jama Masjid) to the holy shrine of Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki Rahmat Ullah in Mehrauli. The elders of Delhi often speak of how the angels themselves used to descend from the heavens to listen to the teachings of these great Sufi masters.

For those who visit the Dargah, they will find themselves in a blessed place where they can experience a deep sense of peace and tranquility. It is a place where the divine presence is palpable, and where one can connect with the higher realms. Devotees of all backgrounds and regions come here with great faith, seeking the blessings of this great saint. Truly, Mehrauli Archeological Park and Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki’s Dargah are a testament to the rich spiritual history and heritage of Delhi.

Read Dargah’s in Delhi of Sufit Saints.

Dargah of Ashik ul Allah at Mehrauli

As such, Delhi is like a beautiful garden of Sufis. . Beyond the dazzling feast of Mehrauli, right from Adham Khan (Bhool Bhullia), on the way to the blue lake, built in the silence of the forest Sanjay Van, occupies a beautiful dargah of Aashiq Allah. The stairs going up to the platform take you to other spiritual masters. There is an old well nearby water of the well has believed to be talisman in it. Who is considered to be blessed by spiritual souls. If you ever want to come to Mehrauli, you will keep it.

Mehrauli Walk: by Qutub Colonnade

On the Mehrauli Archaeological Park Heritage Walk, we were passing by the majestic Qutub Colonnade building, which is an impressive sight to behold. However, the history of this structure holds a dark and tragic tale of a beautiful bartender named Jessica Lal. As we walked along the path, our guide began to recount the story of the infamous party that took place inside the building. It was a star-studded event attended by politicians, celebrities, and other high-profile guests. Jessica Lal, a well-known model, was working as a celebrity barmaid at the party.

However, the night turned deadly when a prince of a political Sultan arrived, carrying a 2.2 bore pistol. Suddenly, two shots rang out, and chaos erupted in the crowd. In the confusion, Jessica Lal was shot dead. The Mehrauli Archaeological Park Heritage Walk is now not only a place of historical significance but also a symbol of the power of justice and the resilience of the human spirit.

Hope you enjoy this information about walk at Mehrauli Archeological Park