Feel the love at these romantic spots in Delhi

India Gate, New Delhi (Photo: Unsplash/Shalender Kumar)

Delhi is often called Dil Walon ki Dilli (The City of Romantics). With couples at almost every monument and romantic cafes in every locality, one can feel love course through the veins of the city. From college students at the beginning of a romance, to a couple looking to keep the romance alive, Delhi offers many places to celebrate the unique forms of love. For them, the numerous gardens spread all over the city are definitely a boon on this occasion.

Lodhi Gardens (Photo: Pixabay/drakcode)

There are few things as romantic as a long walk in nature while talking about all things under the sun. Lodhi Gardens in central Delhi is one spot where couples can go to soak in the winter sun, have some snacks and walk amongst the regal tombs of the Lodhi Dynasty. The garden also has a small lake with ducks and a fountain that adds colours to the evening. The Garden of Five Senses near the Qutab Minar in the southern part of the city is another place to go and spend time away from the rush of the city with loved ones while taking in a view of the Delhi skyline from the khwabgah (which literally translates to ‘a place to dream in’). Other places that one can escape to include the Buddha Garden near Dhaula Kuan, the Japanese Garden in Rohini and the Sanjay Van near Vasant Kunj. These places give a chance for one to connect with themselves while being in a peaceful environment. 

Delhi offers a plethora of date options for couples who bond over history, art and culture. One can spend the entire afternoon exploring the Humayun’s Tomb, sitting in the gardens around the tomb, and visiting the nearby Sunder Nursery for a picnic. To top it off, the evening qawwali (religious singing) at Nizamuddin Dargah, which is also in the vicinity, will serenade you with the power of love. End the evening by bingeing on savoury kebabs around Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah. 

Hauz Khas Fort is the place to catch the winter sun (Photo: Unsplash/Ravi Kumar)

Hauz Khas Village is another place for all kinds of couples. The Fort is a must visit for history enthusiasts and people looking for aesthetic pictures for their social media handles. It also offers a panoramic view of the Hauz Khas lake. Love blossoms over a glass of wine at the Mia Bella Cafe at Hauz Khas where the sun melts amidst smiles on the rooftop dining area. To top it all off, take a walk along the Hauz Khas lake and you might spot some fireflies lighting up the night. 

The idea of a Purani Dilli or Old Delhi date arose after the movie Rockstar set unimaginably fun standards of a date. A place for foodies, Old Delhi has a way of enveloping you in its welcoming arms. Take a walk along Chandni Chowk, have chaat (savory potato snack) at Natraj Chat Bhandar, indulge in jalebis at every corner, have hot paranthas (flat unleavened bread) at Paranthe Wali Gali and try as much street food as you can handle. 

Have an artsy date at the various museums of the Red Fort while enjoying walks in the green grounds or explore historical corners such as the Nine Jain Haveli gates at Kinari Bazar. For a break from the chaos, climb up the terrace at Khari Baoli and look at the sun set over Old Delhi or spend some time at Fatehpuri Masjid, marvelling at the architecture. Old Delhi has enough to keep one occupied for the entire day. 

Champa Gali is one of the most Instagram worthy places in the city (Photo: Media India Photos)

Looking for a place for a quiet date night? Delhi has multiple options that suit every budget for couples to just have a serene meal at. Diggin at Chanakyapuri has an outdoor seating arrangement, complete with flower arrangements and lights, and is also light on the pocket. Majnu ka Tila has various dining options for college students, the most famous being Ama Cafe, whose cheesecakes are famous across Delhi. Champa Gali in Saket makes for the perfect Instagram worthy date. This lane dotted with small cafes is not just great for lighting, but also has cafes that tempt one with their aesthetic designs and delicious food. 

A little heavier on the pocket, Olive Bar and Kitchen gives a Mediterranean vibe with their decor and food, Sevilla by The Claridges has some of the best champagnes in the city and Spanish food, West View at ITC Maurya is one of the best romantic rooftop restaurants in the city and the rustic aura at Music and Mountains in Greater Kailash warms cold winter nights. Most of the restaurants have opened for dine in, but book in advance as these places are bustling with love on Valentine’s Day. So, this Valentine’s Day, explore the city and curate the perfect day to celebrate your love!