Discover Tranquility: Sunder Nursery Experience in New Delhi
Ancient monuments abound
Field Note Submitted by:
Margret Meshy
On a crisp winter morning, 11 of us—three families—ventured into Sunder Nursery, New Delhi. Amidst the whispers of ancient monuments and the gentle rustle of leaves, our laughter danced through the misty air, with Brownie, our eager dog, sniffing every leaf. The golden light filtering through the branches painted our surroundings with a warm glow. This visit was more than just a stroll; it was a shared experience, a collection of soft stories, and the pure joy of being together. As we wandered past quiet ponds and shaded alleys, moments of calm and delight filled our hearts, reminding us of the simple pleasures found in nature's embrace. Sunder Nursery offers a beautiful blend of history and tranquility, making it an ideal destination for families seeking respite from the city's hustle.
Observations
Ancient monuments abound
Ideal for families
Beautiful tree alleys
Peaceful pond views
Eagles stealing food from platters
Lush botanical gardens
A Mid-January Gathering
It was a mid-January morning, cold enough that our breath drew little puffs in front of our faces. Three families, eleven of us plus Brownie—our scruffy, excited dog—decided to celebrate being together, and to mark Shweta’s impending journey to Canada. We packed food, laughter, and a resolve to soak up every bit of warmth we could find in each other.
When we reached the spot, we spread out our picnic blanket and lied down to soak in the beautiful sunrays. We then took out the chilled fruit custard from the cooler, poured in the little bowls from our picnic tableware and enjoyed we started to explore the ginormous campus of the Sunder Nursery.
The Picnic Spread & Surprise Guests
At lunch time, we realised that our parents had been busy in the kitchens: lamb chops sizzled, chicken gravy simmered, rice fluffed, rotis rolled, mixed vegetables stirred, and fruit custard chilled. When we reached Sunder Nursery, we found a soft lawn beneath ancient trees, spread our picnic blanket, laid out plates—colors, smells, textures. Brownie circled, hopeful. During our lunch, a dramatic moment: three eagles circled above, eyeing our feast. To our astonishment, two of them swooped down and plucked pieces of meat off our plates! For a moment, we froze—strictly protective of food, but also charmed. We burst into laughter, imagining the eagles applauding our cooking skills.
Wandering Through Heritage & Greenery
Sunder Nursery is a 90-acre heritage park in New Delhi, abutting Humayun’s Tomb, with six UNESCO heritage monuments and many more restored tombs and gardens. After lunch, we explored: flower beds bursting in subtle winter bloom, tall trees casting long, leaning shadows, ponds reflecting sky, and leaf-strewn water. Brownie darted after fallen petals; the children played on the swings. We strolled past restored Mughal tombs (Sunder Burj, Lakkarwala Burj among them) that stand quietly among lawns and fountains.
We bought hot coffee from the food truck inside the Nursery, the warmth of the cup comforting in the morning chill. At the pond, standing still, we listened to distant birdcalls, watched water ripple, then drift into silence.
Emotional Undercurrents & Shared Moments
Shweta’s laughter rang louder than usual that day—she knows this moment is full of transitions. Every bite, every game, every snapshot we took felt tinged with “before.” Before she leaves home, before things shift, seeing her with Brownie, or passing a renovated monument, I feel pride, joyful sorrow, and belonging.
When the eagles came, I thought: who would believe this story? Shweta, Margret, and I, along with the kids, scrambled to shield plates, then froze as wings brushed meat, before bursting out laughing—wild, unplanned.
Details & Practical Info from Sunder Nursery
Location: On Mathura Road in Nizamuddin, New Delhi, adjacent to Humayun’s Tomb.
Area & Features: 90 acres abutting Humayun’s Tomb; contains six UNESCO World Heritage monuments; more than 300 species of trees and plants; micro-habitat / biodiversity zones; water bodies, ponds, expansive lawns.
Timings: Open every day from ~7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Last entry about 9:30 p.m.
Ticket Prices: Indian citizens ~ ₹50; children 5-12 yrs and senior citizens cheaper; foreign nationals ~ ₹200. Free for children under five and individuals with disabilities.
Amenities: Clean restrooms; food trucks/snack carts/café; play zones for kids; wheelchair-accessible in most of the park; pets allowed on leash; well-marked walkways; dedicated parking.
Closing the Day & Parting Ways
As the sun slid lower, the chill deepened. Shadows lengthened across sanded paths. We gathered up dishes, blankets, children, and Brownie. We paused by a tomb, watching golden light touch its dome. Photos were taken: Shweta in the frame, brown hair backlit, eyes bright.
We said our goodbyes, lingering in the cold until steps and voices finally carried us away. Each of us warmed inwardly—not by sun, but by shared food, shared laughter, shared eagle-thefts. Right after, we found a small shop where the lady was selling handmade things. While going through the things, I picked handmade hairclips for both Zoey and Aarti, and a pair of earrings for myself. The day felt simple, but perfect: a celebration of togetherness, hospitality, heritage, and momentary joy.
Relevant Reads
Our Taj Mahal trip
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