If you are looking for a sanitized garden with manicured lawns, Bonta Park Delhi (officially Kamla Nehru Ridge) isn’t for you. But if you want a rugged slice of history and dense forest right next to North Campus, this is the city’s best-kept secret.
I have walked these trails extensively. Unlike commercial parks, Bonta Park offers a raw connection to Delhi’s past, housing 19th-century ruins and heavy foliage. Whether you are a DU student needing a break or a runner tackling the gradients of the Ridge, this guide covers the reality of visiting in 2026—including the safety tips most blogs ignore.
Why Visit Bonta Park (Kamla Nehru Ridge)?
Bonta Park (Kamla Nehru Ridge) is best known for its blend of British-era history and biodiversity. Unlike the manicured lawns of Lodhi Garden, this park offers a rugged, forest-like experience with a 3.5 km paved running track that winds past the 1857 Flagstaff Tower and the Ashokan Pillar, making it ideal for history enthusiasts and serious runners.
A Bit of History: More Than Just a Park
Bonta Park has been part of Delhi for many years and holds significant historical value. The park houses the 19th-century Flagstaff Tower and the Ashokan Pillar, making it a key site of the 1857 Sepoy Mutiny. It is located near Ridge Forest, which is part of the Aravalli Hills. This makes it home to many birds and animals. Unlike other parks, Bonta Park is not commercialized, keeping it green, natural, and historically rich.
Bonta Park Nearest Metro & How to Reach
Getting here is easiest via the Yellow Line.
- Nearest Metro Station: Vishwavidyalaya Metro Station (Yellow Line)
- Distance from Metro: Around 1.5 km from the station. You can either take an auto-rickshaw or enjoy a short walk to the park.
- From Vishwavidyalaya to Bonta Park: Take a cycle-rickshaw or walk towards the Delhi University North Campus area.
Field Note: If you’re coming from Central Delhi, the Yellow Line Metro is the fastest and easiest way to reach Bonta Park.
Bonta Park Timings & Best Time to Visit (2026 Update)
Unlike typical parks that remain open all day, Bonta Park follows a split schedule. It closes during the isolated afternoon hours and reopens in the evening.
- Morning Slot: 5:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Afternoon Break: (Closed from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM)
- Evening Slot: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Why Visit in the Morning?
The morning slot is the most popular time to visit. During these hours, the park comes alive with locals living nearby and students from Delhi University hostels who come here for jogging, yoga, and fresh air. It is the safest and most energetic time to experience the park.
Field Note: If you want a peaceful walk, arrive by 5:30 AM before the student crowd fills up the running tracks!
Bonta Park Delhi Ticket Price
My favorite feature of the park is that entry is completely free! You can enjoy the beauty of nature without any charges.
- Bonta Park Ticket Price: ₹0 (Free Entry)
- Parking: Limited parking is available nearby.
Watch: Exploring Bonta Park, Khooni Jheel & Flagstaff Tower
Things to Do in Bonta Park Delhi
1. Morning Walks & Jogging
The park has a well-known 3.5 km paved loop, making it ideal for joggers and morning walkers who want to stay fit in a natural environment.
2. Explore Historical Monuments
Don’t miss the Flagstaff Tower (a British shelter during the 1857 revolt) and Chauburji, a 14th-century monument located inside the park.
3. Visit the Mysterious “Khooni Jheel”
A short walk inside leads to Khooni Jheel, a water body with a “haunted” reputation. It is a massive attraction for those interested in local legends and history. I recommend wearing sturdy shoes if you plan to visit Khooni Jheel; the path leading down to the water is unpaved and can get muddy during monsoon.
4. Bird Watching & Wildlife Spotting
Due to its proximity to the Ridge Forest, Bonta Park is home to various birds and small animals. If you love nature, bring binoculars and enjoy bird watching.
5. Photography
The scenic beauty of Bonta Park offers fantastic photography opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Bonta Park Gate No. 1: Entry Point Information
There are multiple entry points to Bonta Park, but Gate No. 1 is the most commonly used entrance. It is located on University Road, directly opposite the Vice Chancellor’s Office, and is easily accessible from Delhi University.
Field Note: Enter from Gate No. 1 if you’re looking for the easiest access to the main walking trails.
Is Bonta Park Delhi Good for Couples? (My Personal Experience)
I have visited this place roughly 7 to 8 times between 2023 and 2024 with my female partner. It is true that the park offers a lot of privacy and is a good spot to spend time together, but you need to be very careful.
The Dark Reality: During one of my visits, I experienced a disturbing incident where some individuals tried to secretly record videos/pictures of couples. They approach you, claim they have footage, and then try to blackmail you or ask for “benefits” to delete the pictures. This is a known scam here.
While it is a beautiful place for privacy, never go into the deep jungle areas alone with your partner. Stick to the areas where other people are visible. If you are in a group of friends just exploring nature, it is highly recommended, but for couples seeking total isolation, it can be risky.
Safety & Things to Keep in Mind
- Strictly Day Visits Only: Personally, I would say avoid spending your time at night in this park. I have heard many bad reports about incidents happening after dark. It is not safe.
- Beware of Monkeys: During my last visit, I saw a group of Rhesus Macaques aggressively approach a visitor holding a packet of chips near the Flagstaff Tower. Keep all food inside a zipped bag and do not feed them.
- Carry a water bottle and some light snacks (hidden in a bag), as there are no food stalls inside.
- Respect nature—avoid littering and disturbing wildlife.
Must Read: 5 Best Couples Places In Delhi 2026 Know Romantic Places In Delhi
FAQs About Bonta Park Delhi (2026)
Q1: What is the best time to visit Bonta Park?
A: The best time to visit is early morning (5:00 AM – 8:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM – 6:30 PM).
Q2: Is Bonta Park haunted?
A: Locals believe the Khooni Jheel inside the park is haunted due to its tragic history during the 1857 revolt, though many visit it simply for its natural beauty.
Q3: Which metro station is nearest to Bonta Park?
A: Vishwavidyalaya Metro Station (Yellow Line) is the closest, located about 1.5 km away.
Q4: Is Bonta Park safe for solo visitors?
A: Yes, it is safe during the day on the main paths, but avoid visiting alone after sunset or venturing deep into the forest alone.
Q5: Can we bring food inside Bonta Park?
A: You can bring snacks, but it’s advised to avoid littering and be very careful of monkeys who may snatch food.
Read: Visiting Places Near Delhi in 2026 Best Tourist Places
Final Verdict: Is Bonta Park Worth the Visit?
Bonta Park (Kamla Nehru Ridge) is a hidden gem, but it requires street smarts to enjoy safely. It offers a free, history-rich escape that you won’t find anywhere else in Delhi. It is perfect for morning cardio and history walks, but due to the isolation and monkey population, it demands caution.
My Recommendation: Skip the noise of Central Delhi parks. Pack water, leave the food at home, and reach Gate No. 1 at 6:00 AM to watch the sunrise over the Flagstaff Tower. It is an experience that stays with you.
Field Note: Pair your visit with a breakfast stop at the nearby Hudson Lane cafes after your walk for the perfect North Campus morning.
References & External Links