Sundar Nursery 🇮🇳

Sundar Nursery, historically known as Azim Bagh, is a 90-acre heritage park complex situated alongside Humayun's Tomb in Delhi. Constructed during the 16th century by the Mughal Empire along the historic Grand Trunk Road, the site serves as a notable cultural and ecological landmark. Following an extensive restoration initiative that began in 2007, the property reopened to visitors in February 2018. Long-term expansion plans aim to integrate surrounding areas to form a larger park space covering 900 acres.

Originally established by the Mughals, the grounds were later utilized during the British colonial period to cultivate exotic and experimental flora. Over subsequent decades, the area fell into neglect before undergoing a major revitalisation led by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture in partnership with Indian government bodies, including the Archaeological Survey of India. The revival effort recreated classical Persian garden layouts featuring decorative fountains and flowing water channels, alongside replicating four distinct native micro-habitats representing ridge, alluvial, riverine, and marshland ecosystems.

The complex encompasses fifteen historic monuments, six of which hold UNESCO World Heritage status. Prominent among these are the Sunderwala Burj, the Sundarwala Mahal, and the Lakkarwala Burj. The Sunderwala Burj was restored using orange sandstone and white lime mortar, featuring recreated interior inscriptions. Meanwhile, the Lakkarwala Burj is set within a dedicated rose garden showcasing a variety of rose strains. The presence of the Sunder Burj tomb historically provided the site with its recognized name.

Recognized as the first arboretum in Delhi, the site preserves a diverse botanical collection featuring more than 300 tree varieties and over 280 native tree species. It contains unique specimens found nowhere else in the city, including a rare Pink Cedar, Chukka, and Carrotwood. Visitors can also explore a specialized Bonsai House containing cultivated trees that exceed 80 years of age, as well as expansive landscaped gardens.

Beyond its historic structures and plant collections, the grounds include a central lake and support vibrant local wildlife. Environmental mapping has identified 36 butterfly types and 80 bird species within the park boundaries, including notable sightings such as the Ultramarine Flycatcher. Combining restored architectural heritage with extensive green spaces, the nursery functions as a protected public park within the urban environment.