Once upon a time... there was a Hauz Khas, a royal water tank for our Siri.

Popularly known as Hauz Khas, the 'hauz' (water tank) 'khas' (Royal) is situated in present day Hauz Khas village, a short walk from Green Park Main Market, South Delhi, a treasure trove you’ll be glad to have stumbled upon. It must be something in the air here that inspires such creativity, for this area, a designer village now, was in the 13th century an important place of learning, a leading Islamic school known worldwide for theological studies, known as "Firoz Shahi".

Since its inception in the 13th century, the area where the lake now rests was excavated by Alaudin Khilji to meet the water supply of the new city of Delhi- “Siri”. We covered another of Khilji’s architectural wonders in our last blog, ‘the Qutub’, a prominent face in the present day city of New Delhi.

There is a bohemian air around the village, where you can find anything and everything, from designer apparel, shoes, carpets and jewels and (I do love!) gorgeous swimsuits to antique pictures, furniture, telephones…well just about anything antique, to fabulous restaurants tucked in, that overlook the lake.

The lake is tucked away at the end of the village, although a short 7 minute walk from the parking area, you often get distracted by the shops and end up forgetting the reason you’re here. Well, we made it this time, and were surprised to find this area so carefully nestled amongst the village as if the villagers here are trying to protect a bit from their precious history.

Also, a den for lovers, it can get a bit distracting if you’re here to gawk at the lake.

The Archeological Survey of India (ASI) is working on restoring the monument, it`ll be a lovely spot when they complete it; till then enjoy your walk around the lake around the area.

Complete your visit, with a meal at the Deer Park. The peacocks, birds and deer transport you to the saner, wiser city Delhi was. We’re keeping our fingers crossed!

What to wear: A comfortable pair of shoes, carry water and sunscreen.

How to get there: Park at the Hauz Khas Village, MCD Authorized parking, take a sharp left towards the boutiques and you’re at the village…carry on straight down on that road and after a short walk, on your left you find a medieval gate leading you to the madrasa and tomb. Explore, and you’ll find the lakeJ   Use google maps for directions.

Cost: the lake and the surrounding sites are free of cost, a lunch could cost between (INR) 300 to 3000 depending upon your choice of restaurant. We recommend Nivedyam for some delightful south indian cuisine and The Living Room (TLR) http://www.tlrcafe.com/, use their terrace if you’re dropping in late evening. Pind Balluchi is recommended if you waiting to catch a glimpse of some wildlife.

Special thanks to the team at Khazana and Werdie, an antique shop towards the end of the village. Take your time browsing through the treasure they’ve collected.