Indo Islamic Heritage

Hauz Khas Tank

Approach: Approximately 2.3 km northwest of Hauz Khas Metro Station and 1.4 km west of the bus stand. It can be accessed via the road connecting Aurobindo Marg to Khel Gaon Marg, opposite Aurobindo Place Market. Airport: IGI (Indira Gandhi International Airport) Railway Station: New Delhi Bus Station: Hauz Khas

The Hauz Khas tank was originally constructed during the reign of Sultan Alauddin Khalji (1296?1316) in the second city of Delhi. It was built to fulfill the water supply needs of the newly established fort at Siri. Initially, the reservoir was named Hauz-i-Alai after Alauddin Khalji. However, over time, the tank became silted and lost its functionality. It was later excavated and restored by Sultan Firoz Shah Tughlaq (1351?1388), who renamed it Hauz Khas. During his rule, Firoz Shah Tughlaq, who governed from his newly founded city of Firozabad (now known as Feroz Shah Kotla), constructed several architectural structures along the southern and eastern banks of the reservoir. Today, these structures form the Hauz Khas Monument Complex, which includes a madrasa (Islamic school), pavilions, domed tombs, and other historical buildings. The complex reflects the grandeur of medieval Delhi and stands as a significant landmark showcasing Indo-Islamic architecture. Local / Traditional Description Associated with the Built Heritage / Site There is no significant traditional or local information available regarding the site. Architectural Style The Hauz Khas Monument Complex is built in the Khilji architectural style, characterized by the use of robust construction materials, simple yet elegant designs, and functional structures that reflect the engineering excellence of the Khilji dynasty. Description of the Building / Structure / Site The historic tank visible today has been reconstructed and maintained by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA). In 1916, an archaeological excavation was conducted at the southeastern corner of the tank, leading to the discovery of the original flight of steps made of local grey stone. Remarkably, these steps remained intact beneath the soil. Originally, the tank measured approximately 700 meters in length, 600 meters in width, and 4 meters in depth. However, due to urban encroachment, the size of the reservoir has significantly reduced. Despite this, the tank and its surroundings have been well-preserved. In recent years, the Hauz Khas Lake and the adjacent park have been actively developed, making the site one of the most scenic and historically rich places in Delhi. Often referred to as the "Royal Lake," this location has become a popular destination for both tourists and locals. Building / Structure Material and Other Components The structures around Hauz Khas are primarily built using rubble masonry with plastered surfaces and local stone. The use of limestone and quartzite gives the buildings a distinctive, weathered appearance, while the durable construction methods have ensured the survival of these monuments for centuries.

Year of Built: 13th - 14th Century

Address: District Park, Safdarjung Enclave, Immediately to the west of Hauz Khas village.

Country: India

State: Delhi

District: South Delhi

Pincode: 110016

Longitude: 77 11 33

Latitude: 28 33 13