When the clamor of Delhi’s concrete jungle becomes overwhelming, it’s a welcome relief to find that the city is home to several verdant sanctuaries offering a refreshing escape. If you happen to be in Delhi in November, the timing is perfect for embracing the outdoors.
Amid the urban sprawl, these forest pockets provide a delightful change of scenery, offering quick day trips for a revitalizing communion with nature without leaving the city’s boundaries.
Sanjay Van
Nestled in proximity to the iconic Qutub Minar, Sanjay Van stands as one of Delhi’s finest and most extensive forested areas. This lush haven attracts nature enthusiasts, joggers, and birdwatchers. Its crisscrossing trails wind through patches of dense foliage, making it an ideal spot for leisurely walks and even a picnic.
Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary
Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique fusion of rocky terrain and rich biodiversity. While it may initially appear daunting in typical Aravalli fashion, the sanctuary beckons adventure seekers with opportunities for hiking and birdwatching once you venture beyond the rocky outcrops.
Ridge Road
The Northern Ridge Forest is a historical and forested gem, forming a part of the Aravalli Range. It’s a captivating locale where history and nature intersect. The Ridge Road, meandering through this forested expanse, ranks among the most scenic routes in Delhi.
Aravalli Biodiversity Park
Located just beyond Delhi’s borders on the Delhi-Gurugram (Gurgaon) boundary, the Aravalli Biodiversity Park is one of the seven biodiversity parks in Delhi. Here, you can encounter a wide array of native flora and fauna while exploring picturesque walking trails.
Najafgarh Drain Bird Sanctuary
The Najafgarh Drain Bird Sanctuary lines the course of the Najafgarh Drain and provides a haven for numerous migratory and resident avian species. The sanctuary is at its prime during winter, making it the perfect season to explore this avian paradise.
Mangar Bani Forest
A short drive from Delhi, on the outskirts of the city, lies Mangar Bani, a sacred grove cherished by local communities. Revered for its spiritual significance, this forest is an excellent location to spot woodland birds while delving into the serenity of the surroundings.
Jahanpanah City Forest
Tucked away in South Delhi, the Jahanpanah City Forest remains a lesser-known sylvan hideaway. This unsuspecting green oasis is ensconced amidst busy roads and metro routes, making it a hidden gem. Explore the network of walking trails crisscrossing this forested patch, offering unexpected tranquility.
Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary
While not exactly within Delhi, the Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary plays a significant role in the Delhi-NCR wildlife scene. This sanctuary caters to avid birdwatchers and provides well-maintained trails and bird hides for intimate encounters with the feathered residents.
These urban forest retreats, each with its unique charm, beckon city dwellers and travelers alike to savor a day in the lap of nature, right in the heart of Delhi.