In the hustle and bustle of a fast developing city like Delhi, there is an oasis called Lodhi Gardens. A place where people come for various reasons, from being a hotspot for photography enthusiasts to being a regular host to tourists, joggers, yoga practitioners and couples looking for solitude.

Despite the large number of visitors it sees every day, Lodhi garden is a home to various species of birds. From Green Parakeet to Weaver bird, all manage to thrive in this little oasis.

However it wasn’t like this always, not so long ago it was a village surrounding tombs of Lodhi and Sayyid dynasties. In 1936, inhabitants of the villages were relocated elsewhere and the whole area was converted in to a park. Originally called Lady Willingdon Park, however after India gained independence, Lady Willingdon Park was rechristened as Lodhi Gardens.

Upon arrival, the tomb of Mohammed Shah is visible even before one enters the park. This is the oldest structure in the gardens. The architecture is characterized by the octagonal chamber, with stone chhajjas on the roof and guldastas on the corners.

In the middle of the garden is Bara Gumbad (Big Dome), this structure consists of a large rubble-construct dome, a three domed masjid (mosque) and a residence surrounding a central courtyard, where the remains of a water tank can be seen.

Across the Bara Gumbad is Sheesh Gumbad, which contains the remains of an unknown family.

Although it is disheartening to see that the monuments aren’t as well maintained as the garden itself. But still it is worth a visit, so if you are in Delhi, don’t forget to visit Lodi Garden.