sunder nursery

Sunder Nursery in Delhi is a serene haven nestled amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s like stepping into a lush green oasis with towering trees, colorful flowers, and charming old buildings. People visit to roam, take leisurely walks, enjoy picnics, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere. The nursery is not just about nature; it also holds historical treasures like ancient tombs and monuments, adding to its allure. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just seeking a tranquil escape from the city’s chaos, Sunder Nursery offers a delightful retreat where you can reconnect with nature and recharge your senses.

Introduction

Sunder Nursery, once referred to as Azim Bagh or Bagh-e-Azeem, stands as a historical park complex adjacent to Delhi’s iconic Humayun’s Tomb, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Originally established by the Mughals in the 16th century, it spans 90 acres along the Grand Trunk Road. With plans aimed at expansion, Sunder Nursery is set to become India’s largest park covering 900 acres. Today, it boasts fifteen heritage monuments, including six UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Sundarwala Burj, Sundarwala Mahal, and Lakkarwala Burj, all protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Restoring Stage of The Nursery

Initiated in 2007, the third phase of the project culminated in 2018, unveiling 90 acres of the park to the public on February 21st. Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu, alongside dignitaries like Aga Khan, witnessed the grand inauguration.

Once neglected and overgrown, the area underwent a massive transformation. Approximately 1,000 trucks of rubble were cleared, and the land was meticulously leveled. Classical Persian gardens emerged, adorned with fountains and water channels true to their heritage. Two architectural gems, the Lakkarwala Burj tomb, and the 16th-century Sunderwala Burj tomb, were meticulously restored to their former glory. The garden’s landscape mirrors Delhi’s original micro-habitat zones, recreating the diverse ecological landscape of the region.

Some Features of The Sunder Nursery

The entry ticket fee for Sunder Nursery is 200 rupees per person for international visitors, equivalent to approximately £1.94 or $2.43. This fee grants access to the park’s stunning landscapes, historic architecture, and serene ambiance, offering a memorable experience for all.

In addition to its historical significance, Sunder Nursery is a thriving ecosystem teeming with diverse wildlife. The nursery is home to over 280 native tree species, meticulously curated to showcase the region’s natural beauty. Visitors can wander through the Bonsai House, marveling at bonsais over 80 years old, or stroll along pathways adorned with rare and indigenous tree species, such as the Pink Cedar and Chukka, found exclusively within the nursery.

The enchanting gardens of Sunder Nursery further enhance its allure. The rose gardens, boasting a variety of roses like HT Roses and Tata Pink, offer a fragrant and picturesque setting for visitors to explore. Meanwhile, the Mughal Lotus Pond adds a touch of tranquility to the surroundings, inviting visitors to pause and admire its beauty. As they wander through the nursery, birdwatchers are treated to sightings of over 80 bird species and 36 butterfly varieties, adding to the sense of wonder and delight that permeates this serene oasis.

Key & Notable Features

Historical Monuments

The Sunder Nursery boasts six structures with UNESCO World Heritage status, including the Sunder Burj, Sundarwala Mahal, and Mirza Muazzafar Hussain’s Tomb, offering visitors a glimpse into Delhi’s rich history.

1. Unique Buildings: Sunder Nursery has special old buildings that are important. They’re not like regular buildings you see every day.
2. UNESCO World Heritage: Some of these buildings are so special that they have a special title called UNESCO World Heritage. It means they’re really important and valuable.
3. Ancient Tombs: Some of the buildings are tombs, which are special places where important people from a long time ago are buried.
4. Mirza Muazzafar Hussain’s Tomb: One of the tombs in Sunder Nursery belongs to someone named Mirza Muazzafar Hussain. It’s like his special resting place.
5. Sunder Burj: Another special building in the nursery is called Sunder Burj. It’s a tower that has its own unique story and significance.

Flourishing Wildlife

The nursery is a haven for diverse flora and fauna. With over 280 native tree species and a Bonsai House showcasing bonsais over 80 years old, it’s a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

1. Lots of trees and plants grow here, and some are very rare.
2. There’s a special house for tiny trees called bonsais, some are old!
3. You can see many different birds flying around, and sometimes even butterflies!
4. The nursery is like a home for animals and plants, where they can live and grow happily.
5. It’s a great place to learn about nature and see cool things you might not find anywhere else.

Rare Trees

As Delhi’s first arboretum, Sunder Nursery is home to unique trees like the Pink Cedar and Chukka, not found elsewhere in the city. Visitors can marvel at its collection of rare and indigenous tree species.

1. Unique Species: Sunder Nursery is home to some really special trees you won’t find anywhere else in Delhi.
2. Pink Cedar: Imagine a tree with pink wood! That’s the Pink Cedar, and there’s only one in Delhi, right here.
3. Chukka Tree: Another exclusive resident of the nursery, the Chukka tree adds to the unique charm of this green space.
4. Carrotwood Tree: You won’t see this tree’s seeds growing anywhere else in Delhi. It’s a real treat for nature enthusiasts.
5. Arboretum Wonders: As Delhi’s first arboretum, Sunder Nursery is like a treasure trove of rare and fascinating trees waiting to be discovered.

Enchanting Gardens

The rose gardens boast a variety of roses, including HT Roses, Tata Pink, and Iceberg, while the Mughal Lotus Pond adds to the charm. Birdwatchers can spot 80 bird species and 36 butterfly varieties in this serene oasis.

1. Colorful Flowers: Sunder Nursery’s gardens are filled with bright and beautiful flowers that add a splash of color to the surroundings.
2. Fragrant Roses: You can find many different types of roses in the gardens, and they smell nice!
3. Relaxing Atmosphere: The gardens have a peaceful vibe, making them the perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature.
4. Pretty Ponds: There are ponds with lotus flowers and other water plants that look pretty.
5. Butterfly Spotting: If you’re lucky, you might see butterflies fluttering around the gardens, which is always a treat!

Some Key Facilities At Sunder Nursery

At Sunder Nursery, visitors can enjoy various facilities to enhance their experience. There are clean and well-maintained restroom facilities available throughout the nursery, ensuring convenience for all guests. Additionally, for those looking to grab a bite to eat or enjoy a refreshing beverage, Sunder Nursery offers on-site cafes and snack bars serving a range of delicious options. There are on-site cafes and snack bars conveniently located within the nursery grounds, providing a variety of refreshments and light meals. Whether visitors are in the mood for a quick snack, a leisurely meal, or a refreshing beverage, they can find options to suit their preferences at Sunder Nursery.

Additionally, the cafes and snack bars offer a pleasant atmosphere where visitors can relax and refuel amidst the natural beauty of the nursery surroundings. Visitors can also take advantage of ample seating areas scattered throughout the nursery, providing opportunities to rest and soak in the serene surroundings. Furthermore, Sunder Nursery provides ample parking facilities for guests arriving by car, making it easy to access this peaceful oasis in the heart of Delhi.

Sunder Nursery is an excellent place to bring children for a day of exploration and enjoyment. With its expansive green spaces, diverse flora and fauna, and historical monuments, the nursery offers a stimulating environment for children to learn and play. Children can delight in spotting various bird species, butterflies, and colorful flowers as they wander through the gardens. Additionally, the nursery’s Bonsai House and rose gardens provide opportunities for discovery and appreciation of nature’s beauty. The serene atmosphere and ample seating areas also make it an ideal spot for families to picnic and relax together. Overall, Sunder Nursery offers a rich and engaging experience for children of all ages to enjoy.

How to Reach Sunder Nursery in Delhi?

To reach Sunder Nursery, visitors have several transportation options available. For those traveling by car, the nursery is conveniently located near the city center of Delhi, with accessible parking facilities on-site. Visitors can use GPS or mapping apps to navigate to the nursery’s address.

Alternatively, public transportation is readily available for those who prefer to travel by bus or metro. Several bus routes pass by or near Sunder Nursery, making it accessible from various parts of the city. Additionally, the nearest metro station to Sunder Nursery is JLN Stadium Metro Station, located approximately 1.5 kilometers away. From there, visitors can either walk or take a short auto-rickshaw ride to reach the nursery.

For those interested in eco-friendly transportation options, Sunder Nursery is also easily accessible by bicycle or on foot. The nursery is located within walking distance of nearby neighborhoods, allowing visitors to enjoy a stroll through the surrounding area before reaching their destination. Overall, whether traveling by car, public transportation, bicycle, or on foot, reaching Sunder Nursery is convenient and straightforward, ensuring that visitors can easily access this hidden oasis in the heart of Delhi.

Nearby Places 

Near Sunder Nursery, visitors can explore several other attractions and landmarks within proximity:

1. Humayun’s Tomb: Located opposite Sunder Nursery, Humayun’s Tomb is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of Mughal architecture.
2. Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah: A revered Sufi shrine located just a short distance from Sunder Nursery, known for its serene atmosphere and spiritual significance.
3. Lodhi Gardens: A beautiful park situated nearby, offering lush greenery, historical monuments, and a tranquil ambiance ideal for strolls and picnics.
4. India Habitat Centre: A cultural hub and multipurpose complex known for its art galleries, theaters, restaurants, and events, providing a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere for visitors to explore.
5. National Zoological Park: Located a short drive away, the zoo is home to a diverse array of animal species and offers educational experiences for visitors of all ages.

These attractions offer a variety of experiences, from cultural exploration to leisurely walks in nature, making them ideal destinations to complement a visit to Sunder Nursery.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sunder Nursery in Delhi stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. From its origins as a Mughal-era garden to its transformation into a modern urban park, Sunder Nursery encapsulates the spirit of preservation and rejuvenation. With its diverse flora, stunning architecture, and serene ambiance, it offers visitors a tranquil retreat amidst the bustling cityscape. As a vibrant green lung in the heart of Delhi, Sunder Nursery not only provides a haven for nature lovers but also serves as a platform for environmental education and sustainable practices. Its restoration and conservation efforts underscore the importance of safeguarding our natural and cultural heritage for future generations to enjoy.

Whether strolling through its lush gardens, admiring its historical monuments, or participating in its various cultural events, Sunder Nursery continues to enchant and inspire all who visit, ensuring its legacy as a cherished landmark for years to come.

FAQs 

1. Why is Sunder Nursery famous?

Sunder Nursery is famous for its historical monuments, botanical diversity, and UNESCO World Heritage status. It’s a tranquil oasis in Delhi, attracting visitors with its cultural significance and natural beauty.

2. Is Sunder Nursery better than Lodhi Garden?

Choosing between Sunder Nursery and Lodhi Garden depends on personal preferences. Sunder Nursery is known for its historical monuments and botanical diversity, while Lodhi Garden offers lush greenery and serene ambiance. Both offer unique experiences, and visitors may enjoy one over the other based on their interests in history, nature, and recreational activities. Ultimately, whether Sunder Nursery is “better” than Lodhi Garden depends on what each person is looking for in a green space.

3. What is not allowed in Sunder Nursery?

In Sunder Nursery, visitors are generally not allowed to engage in activities that may harm the environment or disturb the tranquility of the space. This includes littering, damaging plants or structures, and creating excessive noise or disturbances. Additionally, visitors are usually required to follow designated pathways and refrain from climbing on trees or monuments to ensure their safety and preservation.

4. Which metro station is near to Sunder Nursery?

The nearest metro station to Sunder Nursery is JLN Stadium Metro Station, located approximately 1.5 kilometers away. From there, visitors can either walk or take a short auto-rickshaw ride to reach the nursery.

5. Can we take food in Sunder Nursery?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to bring food to Sunder Nursery for picnics or snacks. However, it’s essential to be mindful of maintaining cleanliness and not littering. Many people enjoy having picnics or snacks amidst the lush greenery of the nursery, making it a pleasant experience for visitors.

Also Read:

Discovering the 10 Best Places to Visit in Delhi

Delhi Diaries: 5 Best Places to Visit in Delhi with Friends

References:

Sunder Nursery

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