Deer Park in Hauz Khas is where Delhi's dog parent community comes to breathe. A 60-acre protected urban forest dating back to the 13th century Sultanate period — with a designated off-leash area, shaded trails past Mughal-era ruins, resident deer and peacocks, and Hauz Khas Village cafes a 5-minute walk away. This is everything you need to know before you go.
Quick Facts
Entry fee: Free
Timings (Summer, April–October): 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Timings (Winter, November–March): 5:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Nearest metro: Green Park Station (Yellow Line) — approximately 1.5 km, 10-minute walk
Parking: Paid parking opposite the gate (limited on weekends)
Trail difficulty: Easy — flat paths, suitable for all dog sizes and ages
Best time with dogs: 6 AM – 9 AM weekdays
Off-leash area: Yes — designated section near Hauz Khas Village entrance
Is Deer Park Pet Friendly?
Yes — Deer Park Hauz Khas is pet friendly. Dogs are welcome throughout the park on leash, and there is a designated off-leash area near the Hauz Khas Village entrance where leash-free socialisation is the established morning practice. The park is free to enter, open every day, and one of the most active dog-parent meeting points in South Delhi.
The Off-Leash Area — What to Expect
The designated off-leash zone is near the Hauz Khas Village entrance to the park — the corner closest to the village. This is where the morning dog community gathers, primarily between 6 AM and 9 AM. On weekdays you will find 20-40 dogs at peak time. On Sunday mornings it can be significantly busier — the largest community gathering of the week, which is wonderful for sociable dogs but not ideal for dogs who are uncomfortable in large groups.
What to Do at Deer Park with Your Dog
Off-leash socialisation: The designated off-leash area near the HK Village entrance. Best 6–9 AM daily.
Walk the Mughal ruins: The park backs onto the Hauz Khas complex — 14th century Tughlaq-era tombs and ruins create an extraordinary walking backdrop. Dogs on leash, paths well maintained.
Sit by the lake: The Hauz Khas lake and fountain area offers a peaceful spot to sit with your dog after a walk. The historic fort is visible across the water.
Rose garden: Seasonal — at its best February to March. Walkable on leash, good photo opportunity with dogs.
Birdwatching with dogs: 200+ bird species recorded in and around the park. Peacocks roam freely. Kingfishers along the lake. Keep your dog close and quiet in the birding sections.
Post-walk: Hauz Khas Village cafes: Multiple pet-friendly outdoor cafes in Hauz Khas Village, 5 minutes from the park gate.
Restrictions — What You Must Know
• Do NOT let your dog near the deer enclosures, rabbit fields, or duck pond
• Feeding the resident animals (deer, rabbits, ducks, peacocks) is strictly prohibited
• Off-leash dogs are not permitted near the animal enclosures under any circumstances
• No loud music or noise that disturbs the wildlife
Pro Tips
🐾 The Green Park metro entrance side of the park is less crowded than the Hauz Khas Village side — good if your dog needs quieter space.
🐾 A long leash (3–5 metres) in the on-leash sections gives your dog significantly more freedom than a standard lead without being technically off-leash.
🐾 Weekday walk = fewer dogs, more space, more birds. Sunday walk = community, socialisation, busier.
🐾 Be cautious of stray dogs near the park boundary, particularly in the evening.
What to Carry
Getting There
By metro: Green Park Station (Yellow Line) — approximately 1.5 km from the main park gate. 10–15 minute walk through Green Park Extension.
By car: Main entrance near Hauz Khas Village on Africa Avenue (Outer Ring Road). Limited spots — arrive before 8 AM on weekends.
By auto/cab: Ask for "Deer Park, Hauz Khas Village entrance." The gate is on Hauz Khas Fort Road.
Address: Hauz Khas Village, New Delhi 110016. Google Maps: search "Deer Park Hauz Khas" — use the "Deer Park" pin, not the "Hauz Khas" general area pin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Deer Park Hauz Khas pet friendly?
Yes. Dogs are welcome throughout the park on leash, and there is a designated off-leash area near the Hauz Khas Village entrance. Free entry. No restrictions on dog size or breed.
Are dogs allowed in Hauz Khas Fort?
The Hauz Khas Fort and complex are managed separately by the Archaeological Survey of India. Dogs are generally not permitted inside the fort enclosure. However, the park trails that run alongside the fort and lake are open to dogs on leash.
Can I take my dog to Lodhi Garden?
Yes — Lodhi Garden allows dogs on leash throughout. It does not have a dedicated off-leash area like Deer Park, but its 90 acres of lawns and shaded paths make it one of the best dog-walking parks in central Delhi. See our guide: Dog Friendly Parks in Delhi NCR →
Does Deer Park Hauz Khas have deer?
Yes — spotted deer roam freely inside a protected enclosure within the park. The enclosure is fenced. Dogs must be kept away from the deer enclosure and must not be allowed to approach the fence.
What is the best time to visit Deer Park with a dog?
6 AM to 9 AM on weekdays is the sweet spot — the off-leash dog community is active, the park is cool, and crowds are minimal. Sunday mornings have the largest dog community gathering but are significantly busier. Avoid midday visits April through June.
Is Deer Park free?
Yes. Free entry for all visitors, including dogs. No booking required. No ticket needed.
What is the nearest metro to Deer Park?
Green Park Station on the Yellow Line, approximately 1.5 km from the main entrance. 10–15 minute walk.