Forest pockets in Delhi perfect for a day out in nature

Believe it or not, Delhi is home to several green oases that provide a refreshing escape from the city's hustle and bustle. If you find yourself in Delhi in November, know that now is the perfect time to be out and about. It’s easy to get tired of the concrete jungle all around us. The blaring horns and millions of people around making all kinds of noises, a person becomes desperate for a respite from all these. That’s when these forest pockets come to the rescue. They offer a delightful change of scenery and a quick day trip to recharge in the lap of nature while staying within the city's limits.

Located near Qutub Minar, Sanjay Van is one of Delhi's best and largest forested areas. This lush forest is a hub for nature lovers, joggers, and birdwatchers. There are several trails that go through patches of dense vegetation. Are you also thinking about long walks and maybe a picnic?

Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary is a unique blend of rocky terrain and rich biodiversity. In a typical Aravalli fashion, Asola Bhatti may seem overwhelming at first but once you get past the rocky outcrops, you will see that the sanctuary is perfect for those seeking adventure, with opportunities for a lot of hiking and birdwatching.

The Northern Ridge Forest is a must-visit. This historical and forested area forms part of the Aravalli Range, and offers a beautiful chance to learn about history and nature. The Ridge Road, which runs through this forest, is one of the most scenic roads in Delhi.

Not exactly in Delhi, Aravalli Biodiversity Park is on the Delhi-Gurugram (Gurgaon) border. This nature park is one of the seven biodiversity parks in Delhi. Visit this nature park to see a variety of native plants and animals, and explore the pretty walking trails.

Najafgarh Drain Bird Sanctuary is situated along the Najafgarh Drain and is home to a number of migratory and resident bird species. Winter is the best time to explore this sanctuary.

A short drive from Delhi, located on the outskirts of Delhi, is Mangar Bani, a sacred grove for the local communities. This forest is revered by the local communities. The forest is a perfect place to check out woodland birds.

Nestled in South Delhi, Jahanpanah City Forest is a lesser-known green escape. This green oasis is an unexpected quiet spot that is surrounded by busy roads and metro routes. It’s very easy to miss this forest patch. If you do find this place, check out the network of walking trails that this forest patch has to offer.

Again, though not exactly in Delhi, Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary is a big part of the Delhi-NCR wildlife scene. The park is a haven for birdwatchers, and you can fully enjoy the well-maintained trails and bird-hides for close encounters with feathered residents.