Every spring in New Delhi, during those brief glorious few weeks when the weather is perfect and the city erupts in bloom, the gardens of the President of India’s official residence, Rashtrapati Bhawan, are open to the public to visit, free of charge.
It is a rare chance to have a glimpse behind the otherwise firmly closed off palace built by Lutyens & Baker nearly 100 years ago, for the then colonial era Governor General.
The manicured gardens, formerly known as the Mughal Gardens and now known as Amrit Udyan, are open until the end of March, so if you haven’t yet visited, go go go!
You can register online or on the spot, and the day we visited everything was hassle-free and casual with easy security and friendly staff.
You have to choose a time slot, but again, the day we went everyone was very relaxed about timings and we were allowed in ahead of our allotted time.
Well worth a visit, both for the stunning flowers and for a quick glimpse into a world we otherwise never get to see,
I visited years ago, and seem to remember that photography was not allowed. Things have changed, thank goodness, so you can take as many photos and selfies as your heart desires 🙂
Here are just a few photos from my recent visit, in case you need any persuasion:
How lovely!
The gardens are gorgeous and the atmosphere is so relaxed – that’s what makes it such fun
Je ne crois pas avoir jamais vu les jardins de Rashtrapati Bhawan. Merci
Lors de ta prochaine visite…
Christine – We went last year and it was anything but relaxed – it was an absolute zoo. Maybe because it was a Sunday
Beverly Brar oh gosh! We went mid-week, in the evening, about 4-ish. I suspect Sunday was to blame!