Two of the most important figures in the history of the Republic of India are memorialised in this peaceful park east of the city.
Have a quiet afternoon in the shaded parkland of the Shanti Vana, the name of which means “Forest of Peace”. Jawaharlal Nehru, who served as India’s first Prime Minister after the nation gained its independence, was cremated at Shanti Vana, and the park was established to commemorate him. Pay your respects to this great figure of India’s history, and then enjoy the sanctuary from New Delhi’s bustle that the park provides.
Jawaharlal Nehru was born in 1889. As a young man, he received the mentorship of Mahatma Gandhi, which later led Nehru to play an important role in the movement to gain India’s independence from British rule. As a result, he became India’s beloved first prime minister. When Nehru died in 1964, he was cremated in the Shanti Vana.
Start out by finding the memorial to former Prime Minister Nehru, which stands at the centre of the park. Many of the park’s trees are secret memorials to the former prime minister as well, since many were planted by foreign dignitaries as tokens of respect for Nehru. After visiting Nehru’s memorial, head a short distance to the south to find a memorial to his mentor, Gandhi. Then, spend the rest of your visit walking the well-shaded paths along the banks of the centrally located pond. Exotic birds like parrots are known to roost in the park’s trees, so keep an eye out during your visit.
To reach the Shanti Vana, head east toward the Yamuna River from the Old City part of New Delhi. The best way to reach the park is by bus, since a stop stands right near the park. Otherwise, take a rickshaw or a taxi to visit. Combine your visit with a stop at Red Fort, which lies to the northwest, and nearby Raj Ghat, where Gandhi’s ashes were scattered.
Visit the Shanti Vana any day of the week. Entry to the peaceful memorial site is free.
