Splendours of Delhi: Sunder Nursery & Akshardham Temple

Delhi's cultural and natural richness are enticing. This is why, throughout the year, the capital city of India keeps buzzing with travellers and explorers. From historical monuments to plush markets to abundant green cover, the aesthetic beauty of the city draws people over and over again. Every trip to the city offers a new perspective and new revelations. Visit New Delhi** to revel in the natural and spiritual** splendour of Sunder Nursery and Akshardham Temple. 

Sunder Nursery

Sunder Nursery was established in the early 20th century to supply diverse plants and trees to different parts of New Delhi. The place also served as a testing ground for different plant species from different parts of India and the world. This was done to understand whether these species would survive the extreme climatic conditions of New Delhi or not. Today, the nursery houses fifteen heritage monuments, of which 6 are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Some of these sites are Sundarwala Burj, Sundarwala Mahal, and Lakkarwala Burj, protected by the government body, Archeological Survey of India. 

After nearly 10 years spent in nursery restoration by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, the nursery opened up as a heritage park in 2018.  Post restoration, the nursery and monuments have received a new lease of life, which attracts plenty of visitors regularly. Green and serene surroundings make it highly sought after. In the evenings, especially on weekends, families can be seen enjoying lavish feasts with their big basket spreads. Moreover, people also come here for walks and enjoy some quiet time, which is quite rare to find in New Delhi.  You can find nature, heritage, culture and gardens, everything here. A total delight! The nursery abuts Humayun's Tomb and is considered Delhi's finest heritage park in the southern part of Delhi. 

In 2018, Time Magazine included Sunder Nursery in its list of 100 greatest places in the world. You can find here around 300 tree species, lakes, venues for cultural performances, 80 species of birds, and much more. Once here, do not forget to bring your high-resolution cameras to capture exotic birds in their full glory. 

Akshardham Temple

Heading towards the eastern part of Delhi, there is Akshardham Temple, a popular Hindu temple, also known as Swaminarayan Akshardham. The complex of the temple displays an artistic melange of architecture, Indian spirituality, and culture. In Delhi, the temple is one of the prime attractions for locals as well as foreigners, where you can witness 234 beautifully carved pillars, 9 skilfully crafted domes, and 20,000 sculptures of Indian spiritual personalities.

The place is a must-visit for history buffs and art lovers who can enjoy a glimpse of the fine craftsmanship of India. Additionally, one can also get a peek into the rich spiritual heritage of India and surrounding rituals. Some other attractions here include the musical foundation and water show, a cultural boat ride, exhibitions, a vegetarian food court, and Narayan Sarovar (with the water of 151 holy Indian rivers and lakes). 

So, if you are bitten by a travel bug and looking to explore something extraordinarily unique in India, then head to New Delhi. Here, you can revel in historical and natural splendours, such as Sunder Nursery & Akshardham Temple, which will entice your senses and leave you in awe.