South Delhi’s one of the most affluent neighborhoods Hauz Khas is a popular hangout spot for the Delhiites. From shopping, dining, and drinking, this medieval-era neighborhood is thronged with ample choices for everyone. If you want to experience the true essence of Delhi being extremely modern and yet grounded to its traditions and history, then you must visit Hauz Khas Village or Delhi’s own HKV.
Like the bones of a fallen giant, the ancient and medieval-era ruins poke through the streets of Delhi. However, Hauz Khas Village is one such place in Delhi, where you can see the juxtaposition of modernity and old-world charm, living together. Its eccentric nightlife, upscale fashion boutiques, high-end restaurants, and art galleries emerging from the Islamic remnants, shows how Delhi is gaining a cosmopolitan identity from the ruins of bygone era.
Since there is a lot to explore and it can be a little bit overwhelming, here we present to you a curated list of all the places you should visit.
History
Before we share about its top tourist attractions and happening places, let’s dive down to know about its history.
It is spread across a tangle of medieval ruins, and thus offers insights to its history that dates back to several centuries ago. It was named after a 13th century water reservoir, which was built by Ala-Ud-Din Khalji. The water reservoir once covered 250 hectares of area and collected enough water during monsoon and supplied water to Siri fort in the dry season.
The Khalji dynasty played a great role in developing the area. The lake is surrounded by a mosque, a tomb, and a seminary. Overlooking the reservoir are the ruins of a madrasa, which was built by Firoz Shah in the 14th century. There is a Chor Minar in the Hauz Khas Village, which was used to display the severed heads of the thieves.
Ways To Reach Hauz Khas
Hauz Khas is well-connected with the other parts of Delhi and NCR. Buses ply regularly to Hauz Khas, which is the nearest bus station at Aurobindo Marg. The nearest metro stations are Hauz Khas and Green Park on the yellow line. Cabs and auto rickshaws are also available from various locations of the city.
Places to Visit
Hauz Khas Fort
Hauz Khas fort was built by Ala-Ud-Din Khalji in the 14th century. It houses a mosque, a madrasa, the water tank, and a tomb. The fort has several octagonal and square-shaped chattris over the tomb. It has a garden and the passageway leads to the inner chambers, where you will find stone walls and metal doors still intact. There are old inscriptions on the southern entrance. The aesthetic ruins and the green surroundings make it a must-visit place in Hauz Khas.
Deer Park
Those looking for a green place to breathe in fresh air can visit Deer Park. This green space in Hauz Khas Village Complex consists of a deer park, a duck park, an art market, a fountain, rabbit fields, a lake, and a heritage monument area. The park is ideal for jogging, walking, picnicking, and weekend outings. Moreover, it houses a large number of deer population inside it. Located in the heart of an otherwise concrete jungle, the Deer Park offers the much needed respite from the urban chaos.
Firoz Shah Tughlaq Tomb
The tomb of Firoz Shah Tughlaq in the middle of a madrasa he commissioned, overlooking the water reservoir, is another prime attraction here. Unlike other Islamic tombs, this tomb is very austere in appearance. Visitors enter the tomb through a courtyard in the south leading to the doorway. The ceiling of the dome depicts a circular gold medallion with Quranic inscriptions in Naksh characters. There are four graves inside the tomb, but there are no inscriptions on it. It is believed that the central grave is that of Firoz Shah’s.
Hauz Khas Tank
The tank was built by Ala-Ud-Din Khalji of the Khalji dynasty. The water reservoir was built to supply water to the newly built fort at Siri. It was later re-excavated by Firoz Shah Tughlaq to clear the clogged inlet channels. However, the original tank was twice its size today and was spread over an area of 50 hectares. Although the tank went through several reconstructions, and renovations, and even fell into despair multiple times. The recent efforts were made by the Delhi Development Authority to improve the water and its surrounding areas.
Art Gallery
An art aficionado? You are going to love this Art Gallery. Being one of the most popular places to visit in Hauz Khas, Delhi Art Gallery organizes stunning exhibits, workshops, movie screenings, and more. It was established in 1993 to represent the theme, style, and art practices undertaken since the 20th century onwards. There are some arts and paintings of some of the most celebrated artists from Bengal School of Art, Progressive Artists Group, European artists, etc. Their extensive collection also includes contemporary paintings, and artworks of famous artists like M.F. Hussain, J.P. Ganguly, Laxma Goud, Amrita Shergill, etc.
Top Things to Do
Enjoy Weekend Brunch
If you are looking for a place to catch up with your friends or looking for a brunch date, HKV has a wide range of cute cafes and restaurants. Eat your fill at one of the trendy cafes. Whether you are craving for a fluffy pancake with maple syrup or drooling over Tibetan momos, head over to HKV and enjoy the weekend relishing good food in the city’s trendiest place. Among them, Yeti Himalayan, Kunzum Travel Cafe, The Tea Room, etc. are more popular.
Shop Your Way
Hauz Khas market is dotted with umpteen number of fashion boutiques and designer shops, where you will find everything that is trending. From chic boutiques to antique shops, gift shops, and outlets for local artists and designs, Hauz Khas has it all. Whether you want to revamp your wardrobe or to design your home’s interior, there are shops for all your needs. You can shop from the funkiest foot wear to couture wear at Ogaan and Bodice, or the cute leather bags of Nappa Dori to vintage home decor items at Country Collection.
Party the Night Away
Hauz Khas is one of Delhi’s upscale neighborhoods, where you will find the city’s best bars, clubs, and pubs. It has an uncountable number of pubs, which make the place fun after dark. This medieval-era place is now a haven for party animals, which is visited by hundreds every single day. Among them, Hauz Khas Social is the most sought-after spot, which is known for its cool ambience and energetic vibe. These pubs and clubs are famous for live music, DJ nights, dance floors, range of cocktails, drinks, food, and rooftop seating arrangements.
Final Takeaway
In conclusion, Hauz Khas is a great place to explore all types of tourists. Its nightlife is especially vibrant and there are many historic places to see. If you’re looking for a shopping destination, don’t miss the designer boutiques here. Finally, if you’re a fan of art, be sure to check out its art gallery!
