Delhi is set to unveil its rich historical narrative through a series of guided heritage walks beginning on October 24. These walks will allow residents to discover the stories embedded in the city’s ancient tombs, dilapidated walls, and serene forest trails that often go unnoticed. The initiative is a collaboration between the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH).

The first walk will take place at Mehrauli Archaeological Park at 4 PM, where heritage experts will guide participants through the park’s significant structures. They will provide insights into the architecture and lesser-known anecdotes from Delhi’s extensive history, enhancing the experience of those who join.

Participation in these walks will incur a fee of Rs 500 plus GST, with a cap of 40 attendees per session to ensure an intimate and engaging environment for questions and discussions with the guides.

Locations and Themes of the Walks

The programme includes 12 walks across six distinct locations: Sanjay Van, Mehrauli Archaeological Park, Sultan Garhi, Tughlaqabad, Deer Park/Hauz Khas, and the Northern Ridge. Each site will host two walks during the six-month period, with two guided tours scheduled each month.

Mehrauli Archaeological Park, the starting point for this initiative, boasts monuments that date back centuries. Notable features include ancient tombs, mosques, and stepwells, such as the famous Rajon Ki Baoli. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of these historical sites beyond their visual appeal, as experts share their historical significance and architectural details.

INTACH’s Delhi Chapter will oversee the planning of the routes and themes for each walk, while the DDA will manage access, permissions, and logistical arrangements. This collaboration aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of Delhi’s heritage.

Registration Process and Details

Individuals interested in participating can register online through the DDA portal, allowing for convenient booking without the need to visit an office. For the inaugural walk, the details are as follows: it will take place on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 4 PM in Mehrauli Archaeological Park, with a maximum of 40 participants.

The decision to limit group size to 40 is intended to foster interaction between participants and guides, facilitating a more enriching experience. While the DDA has announced the first walk, it has yet to disclose the dates and timings for the remaining 11 walks.

This initiative follows a recent heritage walk at Sanjay Van, which was led by Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu. During that event, he launched an e-book focused on the Delhi Ridge and urged the DDA to prioritise the protection of the city’s ecology and historical sites, while also encouraging exploration.

Significance of the Heritage Walks

The heritage walks align with the broader conservation objectives outlined in the Master Plan for Delhi 2047, which stresses the importance of preserving historical sites amid urban development. Earlier this year, the DDA hosted a Heritage Week aimed at introducing students and young people to the city’s architectural and cultural legacy.

Officials believe that these new walks will motivate more individuals, particularly the youth, to engage with Delhi’s rich history and the green spaces that surround them. By fostering a connection to the past, the initiative aims to cultivate a sense of appreciation for the city’s heritage among its residents.

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