Heritage walk at Mehrauli Park

Dilliwali, that’s me. Lover of the centuries of history peeping out of every nook and cranny. My city keeps springing little surprises on me — a 14th century mosque in my neighbourhood, a stepwell behind my local market, a clutch of 12th century tombs showing off their smooth black domes from my office window. So when I got a chance to explore — over a two-hour heritage walk — the vast Mehrauli Archaeological Park that had only been a signboard to me, I jumped at the idea, dragging along my camera-obsessed buddy!

Turns out that this monthly walk is conducted by INTACH, the premier national organisation working on conservation in the country. What started out at as an initiative to raise awareness amongst Delhi’s citizens about the need for heritage conservation, has now has become a hugely popular event. Our guide (researchers at INTACH do these walks on a volunteer basis) Vijay Mishra took us through the range of time periods and styles of architecture, with the odd anecdote or urban legend thrown in for eye-opening revelations.

I loved the stately walls of Balban’s tomb, and the first ‘true arch’ of Indo-Islamic architecture. The quaint little Jamali Kamali tomb, where a lush turquoise and jade tiled ceiling watches over the twin graves of men whom informal history variously refers to as lovers, Sufi master and disciple, or brothers. Little Mughal pleasure palaces set amidst the meadow-like landscaping of the Metcalfe Estate. The windy terraces of Quli Khan’s tomb, and the steep, steep steps of Rajon ki Baoli.

The loping silence of centuries-old places. The snap and crackle of foliage. And the awe-filled gasp. Just some of the things to hear, and not just see, at this incredible walk through the past!

The next walk through Mehrauli Archaeological Park is on Jan 11 at 8.30 am. Rs. 30 per person, to be paid at the venue, after the walk. Registration is mandatory. Email intachdelhi@rediffmail.com for registration and details.