Hauz Khas Complex: A Blend of History and Urban Culture
Explore Hauz Khas Complex: A historical gem in Delhi blending 13th-century ruins with modern cafes, art, and culture in a vibrant urban village.
The Hauz Khas Complex, located in the heart of South Delhi, is a captivating blend of medieval history and contemporary urban life. The complex dates back to the Delhi Sultanate in the 13th century and was part of Siri, the second city of Delhi. The name Hauz Khas, derived from Persian, means 'Royal Tank,' referring to the large water reservoir that was central to the complex. The water tank was initially built by Alauddin Khilji to supply water to Siri Fort. During the reign of Firuz Shah Tughlaq (1351–88), the tank was desilted, and several buildings, including a Madrasa (Islamic school), a mosque, tombs, and pavilions, were constructed around it. The Madrasa was a leading center for Islamic learning and was considered the largest and best-equipped Islamic seminary in the world. The complex features notable structures such as the L-shaped Madrasa, Firuz Shah's tomb, a mosque with an open-air prayer hall, and pavilions with ancient inscriptions. The tomb of Firuz Shah is located at the intersection of the two arms of the L-shaped building. In the 1980s, Hauz Khas Village, known for its domed tombs, was developed into an upper-class residential and commercial area. Today, it is a relatively expensive area with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. The Hauz Khas Complex is open to visitors from 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM. Entry fees are ₹20 for Indians and ₹250 for foreign tourists. The best time to visit is between October and March to avoid the heat. Nearby attractions include Deer Park, India Gate, and Qutub Minar.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
- Explore the Deer Park adjacent to the complex for a peaceful nature walk.
- Check out the light and sound show in the evening to learn about the history of the fort.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
- Bargain while shopping in Hauz Khas Village for souvenirs, clothes, and accessories.
A brief summary to Hauz Khas Complex
- H53V+667, New Delhi, Hauz Khas Village, Deer Park, Hauz Khas, Delhi, 110016, IN
- +911123365358
- Monday 5:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 5:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 5:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 5:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 5:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 5:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 5:30 am-5 pm
Getting There
-
Metro
The nearest metro station to Hauz Khas Complex is Hauz Khas Metro Station, which is located on the Yellow Line and Magenta Line. From the metro station, you can take an auto-rickshaw or a taxi to reach the complex, which typically costs between ₹30-₹50. Alternatively, you can walk to the complex, which is approximately 2 km from the metro station.
-
Bus
Several bus routes connect to Hauz Khas Complex. The nearest bus stop is Green Park, from where you can take a short auto-rickshaw ride to the complex. Bus fares in Delhi start from ₹10 and increase based on distance.
-
Taxi/Ride-share
You can hire a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Ola) from anywhere in Delhi to reach Hauz Khas Complex. Taxi fares generally start at ₹25 for the first kilometer and then increase by ₹14-₹16 per kilometer. A ride from Delhi Secretariat to Hauz Khas Complex would cost between ₹100-₹200, depending on traffic.
-
Walking
If you are already in Hauz Khas Village, you can easily walk to the Hauz Khas Complex. The complex is located within the village and is accessible by foot. Follow the signs or ask locals for directions. Be aware that the area can be crowded, especially on weekends.
Attractions Nearby to Hauz Khas Complex
Landmarks nearby to Hauz Khas Complex
-
Tomb of Firoz Shah Tughlaq
-
Hauz - I- Alai
-
Barah Khamba
-
Biran Ka Gumbad, Delhi
-
Monument, Delhi
-
Victory Tower
-
Lodhi Era Tomb, Delhi
-
India Unfolds
-
Excavated Remains of Ancient Temple
-
South Extension Pedestrian Subway Art by DSA
-
Sheesh Mahal Guest House, South Extension, New Delhi
-
Extension sud, New Delhi
-
Imam Zamin's Tomb
-
Shaikh Yusuf Qattal's Tomb, New Delhi
-
Tomb of Bhura Khan