The name 'Hauz Khas' translates to 'Royal Tank' in Persian, referring to the large water reservoir built in the 13th century.
The site contains the tomb of Firoz Shah Tughlaq, who expanded the reservoir during his reign in the 1350s.
The park acts as a wildlife corridor, hosting spotted deer, peacocks, and various migratory bird species.
The medieval madrasa ruins overlook the tank and are constructed using typical Tughlaq-era sloping wall architecture.
The reservoir once supplied water to the entire Siri Fort area, the second city of Delhi.
Hauz Khas Village Park, also known as Deer Park, is a sprawling green lung integrated with the medieval ruins of the 14th-century Hauz Khas complex. The landscape features the historical 'Royal Tank' (Hauz-e-Alai), commissioned by Alauddin Khalji to provide water to the Siri Fort. Surrounding the reservoir are the remnants of a madrasa, a mosque, and the tomb of Firoz Shah Tughlaq. The park is home to a protected enclosure housing a large population of spotted deer. Wide walking paths circumnavigate the water body, connecting the forested areas with manicured lawns and duck ponds. The site is a significant archaeological zone under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India.
The arched ruins of the madrasa reflecting in the waters of the tank during golden hour.
Bring insect repellent, as the lake and dense tree cover can attract mosquitoes.
Stick to marked walking paths to avoid disturbing the resident wildlife and sensitive archaeological zones.
Carry your own water, as vending options inside the vast park area are limited.
Do not venture into the dense forest sections after sunset for safety reasons; avoid visiting during peak summer afternoons.
Avoid feeding the deer or other wildlife; remain quiet when near the tomb and mosque structures.
