Hidden Places in Delhi for a Peaceful Getaway

Also referred to as Agar Sain Ki Baoli or Ugrasen ki Baoli, this attraction is a historical monument situated on the Halley Road in New Delhi. A mosaic of different assortment of stones and rocks, Agrasen ki Baoli is an ancient water reservoir which rises from the depths of the earth to stand atop 103 stone steps. Hidden amidst the business towers and residential apartments of central Delhi, this place is a quiet and serene experience perfect for photography lovers. The old brick walls of the structure take you back in history and as you go down the steps, a drop in temperature can be experienced.

Located in the Mehrauli area of South Delhi, Hijron ka Khanqah is the the Islamic monument for the burial of the Muslim transgenders. The name literally translates to ‘spiritual retreat for eunuchs’, and the cemetery is situated within the Archaeological Park in Mehrauli village. Dating back to the 15th century, the pre-Mughal monument boasts of serenity and tranquility and houses forty-nine graves of the eunuchs who died during the reign of Lodhi dynasty. The memorial is managed by the Hijras (eunuchs) of Turkman Gate since the 20th century who also visit the place on religious occasion and important events to feed the poor and help the needy.

Lying within the Archaeological Survey Park in Mehrauli is the two quaint and tranquil monuments standing beside each other. Built in the memory of Jamali, who was a great poet and Sufi saint; these monuments exhibits the pre-Mughal era. The mosque has a single central dome and is beautifully laced with stucco work all over. The mosque is adorned with five high arches and its west end bear inscriptions from the Holy Quran. Adjacent to the mosque lays the tomb, which is a flat structure embellished with red and blue paint and some verses from Jamali's composition. People flock here to enjoy some peaceful time surrounded by nature and their ancient heritage. Timings- 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Entry Fee- Free

Popularly known as Delhi’s ‘Little Tibet’ for its labyrinthian alleys, tiny swaying Tibet flags and tinker of the prayer bells, Majnu ka Tilla is a slice of Tibet tucked away in the heart of Delhi in the North Campus area of Delhi University. The name ‘Majnu ka Tilla’ is derived from the namesake gurudwara situated in the vicinity, however, today, the area has become a full flourishing Tibetan colony laced with pretty cafes serving traditional food and tiny stalls selling cultural souvenirs.

Sprawling over a large forest area near Vasant Kunj in South Delhi, Sanjay Van is a thickly wooded area that serves as the city’s green lungs. Stretching over 3 sq. km of area, the forest is home to several avifauna species and diverse varieties of trees. Because of the same, Sanjay Van is frequented by a lot of birdwatchers and also cyclists who come here to ride in and breathe fresh air in the morning.

Tucked in the Gali Qasim Jan in Ballimaran in Old Delhi, Ghalib ki Haveli was the residence of the celebrated 19th century Urdu poet Mirza Ghalib. The building has now been turned into a heritage monument and is home to several relics from the life and times of the poet. Boasting of incredible Mughal architecture, the highlight of the Haveli is a sculpture of Mirza Ghalib that was installed in 2010. Besides, you can also find several poems written by the poet that are displayed here.

Satpula or the ‘seven arched bridge’ is actually a dam that is situated at a distance of less than a km from the Khidki Masjid in Delhi. The water of the Yamuna river was tapped to provide irrigation and drinking water for the city folks. Surrounded by lush greenery and boasting of utter peace and quiet, Satpula is a popular getaway from the chaos and din of the city to spend some quality time alone or in company.