Delhi: A Valentine’s escape to National Rose Garden

Delhi: Love is in the air. Couples stroll hand in hand, whispering sweet nothings as they clutch delicate roses beneath the trees. The garden is alive with laughter, soft music from a distant speaker, and the gentle rustle of leaves in the cool February breeze. The National Rose Garden in Chanakyapuri is not just a floral paradise; it is where love, beauty, and serenity come together, making it a dream destination for Valentine’s Day

As you step into the garden, you are greeted by an intoxicating fragrance and a breathtaking kaleidoscope of colours. Roses in hues of deep crimson, soft pink, and golden yellow bloom in abundance, creating a picturesque setting. Unlike many rigidly structured botanical gardens, this one is designed to feel natural and inviting, with winding flowerbeds and meandering pathways perfect for a romantic walk, a quiet moment of reflection, or even a heartfelt proposal.

Best time to visit

The National Rose Garden reaches its peak beauty between December and February, but nothing compares to its magic in the month of love. “The roses planted here include heirloom varieties selected for their intoxicating perfumes and modern selections chosen for their resistance to disease and pests, as well as their beauty,” explains Babu Khan, former Head of the Horticulture Department at New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC). Rare varieties such as the elusive green and black roses add an element of wonder, making the experience even more special.

“With hundreds of varieties of roses and other flowers, the Rose Garden is an outstanding place to sit and relax. It’s perfect for a romantic stroll, a place where fun and flowers come together,” says Sharavan Chawla, Managing Director of Fun and Food Village. The garden has also become a favourite spot for newlyweds looking to capture lasting memories of their special day.

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A garden with a story

While romance may be at its heart, the National Rose Garden is also steeped in history and international significance. It plays host to two dedicated sections: the India-Africa Friendship Rose Garden and the BRICS Friendship Rose Garden, celebrating India’s ties with global allies.

The India-Africa Friendship Rose Garden, inaugurated by the late Sushma Swaraj ahead of the third India-Africa Summit in 2015, stands as a testament to the shared history and struggle for independence between the two regions. Located near a road named after Ghanaian leader Kwame Nkrumah, it is a place of cultural reverence. “Because the India-Africa Rose Garden is part of the National Rose Garden, many African diplomats and nationals based in Delhi visit frequently. They identify with it for obvious reasons,” says a guard at the entrance.

On May 25, Delhi’s African community gathers here to celebrate Africa Day, a day commemorating the foundation of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), now known as the African Union. It remains one of the most important symbols of Africa in Delhi.

Further highlighting its global connections, the garden also features the BRICS Friendship Rose Garden, dedicated to India’s relationship with Brazil, Russia, China, and South Africa. This section displays rare and unique roses sourced from BRICS nations, symbolising unity and cultural exchange.

More than just a couple’s paradise

Though undeniably romantic, the National Rose Garden is also an ideal destination for families and nature lovers. Spread across eight sprawling acres, it boasts nearly 6,000 indigenous and exotic roses. Beyond the floral displays, visitors can enjoy a serene lotus pond and a playground, making it a delightful spot for children as well.

While Delhi’s National Rose Garden is smaller than Chandigarh’s 30-acre rose garden, it is quickly becoming one of India’s most treasured floral destinations. With its unique blend of romance, nature, and cultural heritage, it is a must-visit for anyone seeking a moment of peace and beauty.

Another floral wonderland

If you are a true rose enthusiast, Amrit Udyan (formerly the Mughal Garden) is another spectacular destination. Home to 159 celebrated rose varieties, including Adora, Mrinalini, Taj Mahal, Eiffel Tower, Modern Art, Black Lady, Paradise, Blue Moon, and Lady X, this garden offers a different yet equally enchanting experience. It also features roses named after iconic figures such as Mother Teresa, Raja Ram Mohan Roy, John F Kennedy, Queen Elizabeth, and Christian Dior, as well as blooms dedicated to Arjun and Bhim from the Mahabharata.

So whether you are planning a dreamy Valentine’s Day date, looking to bask in the beauty of thousands of roses, or simply want to revel in the magic of nature, Delhi’s National Rose Garden and Amrit Udyan promise an unforgettable experience. Let love bloom in the most fragrant way possible.

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The writer is a Delhi-based senior journalist and author of two books ‘Gandhi’s Delhi: April 12, 1915-January 30, 1948 and Beyond’ and ‘Dilli Ka Pehla Pyar – Connaught Place’