Hauz Khas Village

The name "Hauz Khas" is derived from the Persian words Hauz (water tank) and Khas (royal/special).

• 13th Century Origins: The centerpiece is a massive water reservoir built by Alauddin Khalji (r. 1296–1316) to supply water to the nearby Siri Fort. Originally known as Hauz-i-Alai, it spanned approximately 123 acres.
• 14th Century Revival: By the mid-14th century, the tank had silted up. Firoz Shah Tughlaq (r. 1351–1388) desilted the reservoir and constructed a significant complex on its southern and eastern banks, including a madrasa, a mosque, and his own tomb.

The Hauz Khas Complex is a protected site featuring remarkable Indo-Islamic architecture:

• Madrasa-e-Firoz Shahi: Established in 1352, it was once a world-renowned center for Islamic learning. The unique L-shaped structure overlooks the lake and features lecture halls and small student cells.
• Firoz Shah's Tomb: Located at the pivot of the L-shaped madrasa, this square, domed structure is the final resting place of the Sultan. Its interior features gold medallions and Quranic inscriptions.
• The Mosque: A small, open-to-sky mosque stands at the northern end of the madrasa, with a prayer hall supported by double pillars.
• Tughlaq Pavilions: Six domed pavilions in the complex garden likely served as graves for scholars and teachers.

HKV transformed from a quiet rural settlement to a chic urban hub in the late 20th century:

• 1980s: Designer Bina Ramani opened the first boutique, "Once Upon a Time," in a former cowshed, attracting Delhi's elite.
• 1990s–Present: Restaurants and bars like Bistro emerged, leading to full-scale gentrification. Today, it is a maze of narrow alleys filled with over 50 cafes, bars, and concept stores.

• Nightlife & Dining: Popular spots include Hauz Khas Social (known for its co-working space and nightlife), Mia Bella (rooftop views of the lake), Coast Café, and Raasta.
• Shopping: The village is famous for indie boutiques and streetwear stores like Street Style Store, Shop With Love, and high-end fashion at Ogaan. Unique finds include vintage Bollywood posters at All Arts.
• Art & Culture: Numerous galleries and studios, such as Rang Art Gallery, showcase contemporary Indian art.
• Nature: Adjacent to the complex is the 60-acre Deer Park, home to spotted deer, peacocks, and walking trails.

• Location: South Delhi, near Green Park and Safdarjung Development Area.
• Metro: Hauz Khas or Green Park stations (Yellow Line).
• Timings: The monument complex is generally open from 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM.
• Entry Fee: There's a small entry fee for the historic Hauz Khas Fort/Complex (around ₹20 for Indians, ₹250 for foreigners) for the ruins and heritage structures, but visiting the surrounding vibrant Hauz Khas Village (cafes, boutiques) and the adjacent Deer Park is generally free, though you pay for parking or anything you buy.