Sanjay Van is a sprawling city forest area near Vasant Kunj and Mehrauli in Delhi, India. It is spread over an area of 443 acres. It is one of the most thickly wooded areas of the city’s green lungs. The Sanjay Van Delhi entry fee is Rs—50 per person for boating fees. The entry fee is the official entry price in the Van. It includes the charges for boating as well. Sanjay Van is a part of South-Central Ridge, forming a part of ancient Aravallis in Delhi with historic ruins of the 12th Century. It has been notified as a reserved forest under Section 4 of the Indian Forest Act, 1927.
About Sanjay Van
Sanjay Van is a part of South-Central Ridge, forming a part of ancient Aravallis in Delhi with historic ruins of the 12th Century. t is a major lung space of Delhi and a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. It has been home to native as well as rare migratory species. The efforts to restore the waterbodies of the forest will go a long way in making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. It contains many different sections like medicinal plantations and different flora plants & trees. It also contains the oldest Delhi fort, known as Lal Kot.
Sanjay Van has several entry and exit points. However, the most easily accessible points are at the Qutub Institutional Area or at the Neela Hauz Bridge near Vasant Kunj. The dense forest with rich biodiversity is home to more than 200 species of birds, 70+ butterflies, and many mammals such as Nilgai, Jackals, Hare, Porcupines, snakes, and numerous insects.
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Places To Visit Near Sanjay Van
Here are some of the best places to visit near Sanjay Van:
1. The Qutub Minar
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The Qutb Minar, also spelt Qutub Minar and Qutab Minar, is a minaret and “victory tower” that forms part of the Qutb complex, which lies at the site of Delhi’s oldest fortified city, Lal Kot, founded by the Tomar Rajputs. The Qutb Minar is the tallest masonry tower in India, measuring 72.5 metres high, with projecting balconies for calling all Muadhdhin to prayer. An iron pillar in the courtyard gave the mosque a unique Indian aesthetic. While people were allowed to enter Qutub Minar in the yesteryears, the doors of the tower were closed to the general public after 1981, when 45 people lost their lives in a stampede.
Location: Mehrauli, South Delhi
Distance from Sanjay Van: Approximately 3 kilometres
2. Mehrauli Archaeological Park
Mehrauli Archaeological Park is an archaeological area spread over 200 acres in the Mehrauli neighbourhood of the South Delhi district of Delhi, India, adjacent to the Qutub Minar and the Qutb complex. Mehrauli is also a spiritual centre, home to Hindu and Muslim shrines. Sufi saint Hazrat Qutubuddin Bakhtiar Kaki (1173 -1235 AD) was buried in the city, and his dargah remains popular across religious lines. The park complex stays open throughout the day. Sunrise (6:00 AM) to sunset (6:00 PM) would be an appropriate time to visit.
Location: Mehrauli, South Delhi
Distance from Sanjay Van: Adjacent to Qutub Minar, approximately 3 kilometres from Sanjay Van
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3. The Lotus Temple
Image Credit: harmeet9000 for Wikimedia Commons
The Lotus Temple in New Delhi, India, is a Baháʼí House of Worship dedicated in December 1986. Notable for its lotus-like shape, it has become a prominent attraction in the city. The Lotus Temple in New Delhi belongs to the Bahai sect. Bahaism is recognised as a combination of the nine great religions of the world. The temple is built as a floating half-open lotus set amidst pools and gardens. This temple has no idols of any God. The temple also serves as a place of meditation and worship, welcoming all faiths and practitioners equally within its unique walls.
Location: Kalkaji, South Delhi
Distance from Sanjay Van: Approximately 12 kilometres
4. Humayun’s tomb
Image Credit: robaurrasoi for Wikimedia Commons
Humayun’s tomb is the tomb of the Mughal emperor, Mirza Nasir al-Din Muhammad, commonly known as Humayun, in Delhi, India. Humayun’s Tomb stands as a landmark in the development of Mughal architecture and also represents the earliest extant specimen of the Mughal scheme of the garden tomb, with causeways and channels. One can visit the splendid Humayun’s Tomb between Monday to Sunday from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Humayun’s Tomb entry ticket for Indian travellers is INR 35. For visitors from BIMSTEC and SAARC nations, the Humayun’s Tomb entry ticket price stays the same at INR 35 each. However, the Humayun’s Tomb ticket price is INR 550 if you are an international visitor. The entry is free for children under the age of 15.
Location: Nizamuddin East, South Delhi
Distance from Sanjay Van: Approximately 13 kilometres
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Red Fort
5. Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque
Image Credit: jpeter2 for Wikimedia Commons
Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque (built 1192 – 1316) Quwwat-ul-Islam was sponsored by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, founder of the Mamluk dynasty. The Quwwat-ul-Islam is best known for its tower of victory, celebrating the Islamic conquest of India. Originally built with red sandstone, grey quartz and white marble, the building is currently in ruins; and due to decades of negligence and abandonment in the maintenance, a few layers of plaster have given way to reveal Hindu carvings on the original stone. Winters, early Spring or Late Autumn, is the ideal time to visit this place due to the infamous Delhi heat. The summers can get scorching and sultry, and your visit can get unbearable and really uncomfortable.
Location: Mehrauli, South Delhi
Distance from Sanjay Van: Adjacent to Qutub Minar, approximately 3 kilometres from Sanjay Van
6. Akshardham Temple
Swaminarayan Akshardham is a Hindu temple and spiritual-cultural campus in Delhi, India. Swaminarayan Akshardham, popularly known as Akshardham or Akshardham Temple, is one of the most popular Hindu temples in India. The 141 feet high, 316 feet wide and 356 feet long beautifully built Akshardham Temple has been recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s largest Hindu temple campus. The inner sanctum or garbhagruh of the Akshardham mandir is home to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and his divine succession of gurus – Gunatitanand Swami, Bhagatji Maharaj, Shastriji Maharaj, Yogiji Maharaj, and Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
Location: East Delhi, specifically on NH 24
Distance from Sanjay Van: Approximately 25-26 kilometers (15-16 miles) from Sanjay Van.
Further Read: Places To Visit Near Akshardham
Prepare for your next journey to Lothian Cemetery, a serene oasis in Delhi’s heart. Whether you’re drawn by its historical significance or seeking a peaceful retreat, plan your trip to Delhi . Wander through the tranquil pathways lined with poignant tombstones, each telling a story of the past. Discover the timeless beauty and cultural heritage of Lothian Cemetery, where history meets serenity. Secure your accommodation today to fully immerse yourself in this cherished landmark’s peaceful and reflective atmosphere!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Sanjay Van
What are the key attractions of Sanjay Van?
Sanjay Van offers numerous trails for walking, jogging, and cycling amidst lush greenery. It is home to a variety of plant species and provides habitat to several bird species and small mammals. The forest also contains several ancient monuments and tombs, adding to its historical significance.
Are there any food or refreshment options inside Sanjay Van?
There may be small vendors or stalls selling snacks and beverages near the entrances or along some of the trails. However, it's a good idea to carry your own refreshments, especially if you plan to spend extended time exploring.
What is Delhi's cuisine like?
Delhi offers a diverse culinary experience with influences from Mughlai, Punjabi, and street food cultures. Popular dishes include butter chicken, chaat, kebabs, and parathas.
Where are the best shopping areas in Delhi?
- Traditional Markets: Chandni Chowk, Dilli Haat, and Lajpat Nagar.
- Malls: Select Citywalk, DLF Promenade, and Ambience Mall.
- Street Shopping: Sarojini Nagar, Janpath, and Karol Bagh.
What are some day trips or excursions from Delhi?
Popular day trips from Delhi include Agra (Taj Mahal), Jaipur (Pink City), and Rishikesh (for yoga and adventure activities), all accessible by road or train.
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