"Hauz Khas Fort has always felt like a hidden gem to me, tucked away behind the lively chaos of Hauz Khas Village, yet offering a sudden and surreal calm as soon as I step inside. The crumbling stone walls, ancient domes, and narrow stairways whisper stories of centuries gone by, and I often find myself imagining the lives that once unfolded within them. The view from the top—overlooking the peaceful green waters of the reservoir and the surrounding Deer Park—is especially breathtaking during sunset, when everything is bathed in warm golden light. I love how the fort blends history with serenity; it's a place where I can just sit, reflect, and escape the city without ever really leaving it. Each visit feels personal and grounding, like the fort holds space for my thoughts alongside its history."

Ragini Bhattacharyya

"We visited Hauz Khas Complex in New Delhi in December 2024. It indeed serves as a wonderful reminder of Delhi’s rich history.

The complex traces its origins to the 13th century during the reign of Alauddin Khilji. The term ‘Hauz Khas’ translates to ‘Royal Tank’ in Persian, referring to the large water reservoir built to supply water to the city of Siri. Later, Firoz Shah Tughlaq restored the tank and added significant structures, including a madrasa (Islamic seminary), mosque, and his own tomb .

You can easily spend more than half a day exploring the different structures, and some areas make great spots for photos. The history is evident here in the madrasa and Firoz Shah’s tomb.

The serene Hauz Khas lake serves as a wonderful accompaniment to the complex. The complex is open everyday from 10:30am to 7pm.

Nearest metro station: Hauz Khas

Entry fees: 20 rupees for Indian Nationals and 250 rupees for foreign tourists"

Akshat Kumar

"Hauz Khas Complex, located in South Delhi, India, is a historic site renowned for its architectural significance and vibrant surroundings.​

History: The name "Hauz Khas" is derived from Persian, where 'Hauz' means "water tank" and 'Khas' denotes "royal," translating to "Royal Tank." This reservoir was originally constructed by Alauddin Khilji during his reign from 1296 to 1316 to supply water to the inhabitants of Siri, the second city of Delhi. Later, during Firuz Shah Tughlaq's rule (1351–1388), the tank was desilted, and several significant structures were added around it, including a madrasa (Islamic seminary), a mosque, and Firuz Shah's own tomb. These additions transformed the area into a prominent center for Islamic education and architecture. ​

Monuments and Structures: The complex houses several notable structures:​

Madrasa: An Islamic learning center established by Firuz Shah Tughlaq, showcasing Indo-Islamic architectural styles.​

Mosque: A place of worship adjacent to the madrasa, reflecting the architectural aesthetics of the Tughlaq dynasty.​

Firuz Shah's Tomb: The final resting place of Sultan Firuz Shah Tughlaq, centrally located within the complex.​

Pavilions and Cenotaphs: Scattered throughout the gardens, these structures add to the historical ambiance of the site.​

Chor Minar: Known as the "Tower of Thieves," historically believed to have displayed the heads of executed thieves as a deterrent during the Khilji dynasty. ​

Visiting Hours: The Hauz Khas Complex is open daily from 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM. It is advisable to visit during early morning or late afternoon hours to avoid the midday heat and to experience the site in pleasant lighting conditions. ​

Facilities: Adjacent to the complex is the Deer Park, a well-maintained green space home to spotted deer, peacocks, rabbits, and various bird species. The park offers walking trails, a rose garden, and a duck pond, providing a serene environment for relaxation. Additionally, the surrounding Hauz Khas Village has evolved into a hub for art galleries, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, blending historical charm with contemporary culture. ​

How to Reach from New Delhi Railway Station and Indira Gandhi International Airport:

From New Delhi Railway Station: Hauz Khas is approximately 12 kilometers away. You can take the Yellow Line of the Delhi Metro from New Delhi Station to Hauz Khas Metro Station. Alternatively, taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available.​

From Indira Gandhi International Airport: The complex is about 16 kilometers from the airport. Travelers can use app-based cab services or airport taxis for a direct journey. For a more economical option, take the Airport Express Line to New Delhi Metro Station, then transfer to the Yellow Line towards Hauz Khas. ​

Best Season to Visit: The ideal time to explore Hauz Khas Complex is during the cooler months, from October to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant, making it comfortable to walk around and fully appreciate the historical and cultural offerings of the area. ​

Hauz Khas Complex offers a unique blend of Delhi's rich historical heritage and its dynamic modern culture, making it a must-visit destination for both history enthusiasts and casual travelers."

Indranil Bhattacharjee