Are you looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of Delhi? Do you want to experience the beauty and mystery of nature in the heart of the city? If yes, then you need to explore Sanjay Van, a forested area that offers a natural and historical experience unlike any other.
Sanjay Van is one of the best-kept secrets of Delhi, a green oasis that hosts a variety of flora and fauna, preserves some ancient and medieval monuments, and hides some spooky and fascinating stories. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive and practical guide for travelers who want to visit Sanjay Van. We will cover the history, the attractions, the tips, and everything you need to know to plan your trip to this hidden gem.
History of Sanjay Van
Sanjay Van has a rich and intriguing history that dates back to the 10th century. It was once a part of the Delhi Ridge, a range of hills that formed the northern boundary of the city. The ridge was the site of many battles and invasions, and witnessed the rise and fall of several dynasties.
In the 12th century, the first city of Delhi, Qila Rai Pithora, was built by the Tomar and Chauhan kings on the ridge. The remains of the fort walls, known as Lal Kot, can still be seen in Sanjay Van. The fort was later captured by the Muslim invaders, who built their own structures and tombs in the area.
In the 14th century, the Sufi saint Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki established his khanqah, or spiritual retreat, near Sanjay Van. He was revered by both Hindus and Muslims, and attracted many followers and disciples. His tomb, along with the tombs of other Sufi saints, can also be found in Sanjay Van.
In the 20th century, Sanjay Van became a part of the urban development plan of Delhi, and was designated as a protected area. In 1979, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) initiated an afforestation project to plant more trees and create a green belt in the city. The project transformed Sanjay Van into a lush and dense forest, with over 200 species of plants and 90 species of birds.
Today, Sanjay Van is an ecological and cultural treasure, a place where you can witness the harmony and diversity of nature and history.
How to Reach Sanjay Van
Sanjay Van is located in the south of Delhi, between Vasant Kunj and Mehrauli. The address and location of Sanjay Van are: Sanjay Van Near Qutub Institutional Area New Delhi, Delhi 110016 India
The nearest landmarks and points of interest to Sanjay Van are:
- Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the tallest brick minaret in the world
- Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), a prestigious and renowned university
- Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi), a premier engineering and research institution
- Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), a leading media and journalism school
There are different transportation options to reach Sanjay Van, depending on your preference and budget. You can choose from:
Metro: The nearest metro station to Sanjay Van is Qutub Minar, which is on the Yellow Line. From there, you can take an auto-rickshaw or a cab to Sanjay Van, which is about 3 km away. The metro fare is Rs. 30, and the auto-rickshaw or cab fare is Rs. 50-100.
Bus: There are several buses that ply to Sanjay Van from different parts of the city. The bus numbers are 505, 507, 511, 520, 522, 534, and 548. The bus stop near Sanjay Van is Qutub Institutional Area. The bus fare is Rs. 10-20.
Taxi or Car: You can also hire a taxi or drive your own car to Sanjay Van. The distance from the city center is about 15 km, and the travel time is about 30-45 minutes. The taxi fare is Rs. 300-500, and the parking fee is Rs. 20.
The best time and season to visit Sanjay Van are:
Time: The ideal time to visit Sanjay Van is in the morning or evening, when the weather is pleasant and the light is beautiful. You can also avoid the crowds and enjoy the peace and quiet of the forest. The timings of Sanjay Van are from 5 am to 7 pm.
Season: The best season to visit Sanjay Van is in the winter, from October to March, when the temperature is moderate and the forest is green and vibrant. You can also spot many migratory birds and flowers in this season. The summer, from April to June, is very hot and dry, and the monsoon, from July to September, is very humid and wet.
Things to Do in Sanjay Van
Sanjay Van offers a variety of activities and attractions that cater to different tastes and interests. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or exploration, you will find something to enjoy in Sanjay Van. Here are some of the things you can do in Sanjay Van:
Nature hike:
One of the most popular and rewarding things to do in Sanjay Van is to take a nature hike through the forest trails. You can admire the diverse and colorful vegetation and wildlife, and breathe the fresh and clean air. You can also enjoy the scenic and serene views of the lake, the hills, and the sky. The nature hike is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, and can take anywhere from one to three hours, depending on your pace and preference.
Picnic by the lake:
Another relaxing and fun thing to do in Sanjay Van is to have a picnic by the calm and clear water of the lake. You can bring your own food and drinks, or buy some from the nearby stalls and vendors. You can also rent a boat or a paddle and explore the lake. The picnic by the lake is ideal for families, couples, and groups, and can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
Haunted stories:
If you are feeling adventurous and curious, you can also explore the spooky and mysterious side of Sanjay Van, and hear the tales of ghosts and spirits that are said to haunt the area. Some of the stories include the lady in white saree, who wanders around the tombs of the Sufi saints, the children who play near the lake, and the voices and noises that come from the forest at night. The haunted stories are not for the faint-hearted, and are best experienced with a guide or a friend.
Historical monuments:
If you are interested in history and culture, you can also visit the ancient and medieval structures that dot the landscape of Sanjay Van. Some of the monuments include the Qila Rai Pithora, the Lal Kot, and the tombs of the Sufi saints. You can learn about the history and significance of these monuments, and admire their architecture and design. The historical monuments are a testament to the rich and diverse heritage of Delhi, and are worth a visit.
Tips and Tricks for Visiting Sanjay Van
To make the most of your visit to Sanjay Van, here are some useful and practical tips and tricks that you should keep in mind:
- Wear comfortable and appropriate clothing and footwear, and carry water and snacks. The weather in Sanjay Van can be unpredictable, and the terrain can be rough and uneven. You should wear clothes that are light and breathable, and shoes that are sturdy and comfortable. You should also carry enough water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized.
- Be respectful and responsible towards the environment, and do not litter or harm the plants and animals. Sanjay Van is a precious and fragile ecosystem, and you should treat it with care and respect. You should not litter or leave any waste behind, and dispose of your garbage properly. You should also not pluck any flowers or fruits, or disturb any birds or animals. You should follow the principle of “leave no trace”, and leave Sanjay Van as you found it.
- Be cautious and alert, and avoid venturing into isolated or dark areas alone. Sanjay Van is a vast and dense forest, and you can easily get lost or encounter some dangers. You should always stay on the marked trails, and avoid going into the deep or remote parts of the forest. You should also not visit Sanjay Van after dark, or alone. You should always carry a phone, a flashlight, and a whistle, and inform someone about your whereabouts.
- Be open-minded and curious, and enjoy the unique and diverse experience that Sanjay Van offers. Sanjay Van is a place where you can discover and learn new things, and have fun and memorable moments. You should not be afraid or bored, but rather be curious and adventurous. You should also be respectful and friendly towards the locals and other visitors, and share your stories and experiences. You should make the most of your visit to Sanjay Van, and enjoy every moment.
Sanjay Van is a hidden gem in Delhi that you need to explore. It is a place where you can experience the beauty and mystery of nature and history, and have a relaxing and fun time.
Whether you are looking for a nature hike, a picnic by the lake, a haunted story, or a historical monument, you will find something to suit your taste and interest in Sanjay Van.
