The park is situated on a plateau that once formed part of the fortified medieval capital of the Tughlaq Dynasty.
It is one of the largest continuous green spaces in the National Capital Territory of Delhi.
The forest acts as an important recharge zone for the local groundwater table.
Unlike manicured gardens, the vegetation is largely left to grow in a natural, rugged state to support local biodiversity.
The park is home to a diverse array of bird life, making it a destination for local ornithologists.
Jahanpanah City Forest is a 435-acre protected urban woodland located in South Delhi, acting as a significant ecological lung for the city. The forest occupies a portion of the medieval city of Jahanpanah, established by Muhammad bin Tughlaq in the 14th century. It features a dense canopy of native trees including Kikar, Neem, and Vilayati Kikar. A primary walking path circuit spanning roughly 7 to 8 kilometers provides access through the protected zone. The area serves as a habitat for various bird species and small mammals, providing a wild, unmanicured landscape in contrast to formal city parks. Visitors can observe remnants of historical stone walls dating back to the Tughlaq era within the vegetation. It is maintained by the Delhi Development Authority as a reserve forest rather than a recreational garden.
The elevated sections of the trail that offer a view of the forest canopy against the backdrop of the South Delhi skyline.
Bring a bottle of water, as there are no shops or vendors inside the forest gates.
Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the unpaved and occasionally uneven earthen trails.
Stick to the established trails to avoid potential encounters with thick brush or uneven terrain.
Do not wander off the marked trails into the deep, dense sections of the forest where orientation can be difficult.
Maintain a quiet demeanor to avoid disturbing wildlife and carry out all trash to preserve the forest environment.
