The Shanti Vana monument is a tribute to India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. It is the site where the country’s former leader was cremated. It is a peaceful area by the Yamuna River with a well-kept park decorated with plants and trees.
The site’s name means Forest of Peace in Hindi. Take a leisurely stroll around trees planted by dignitaries and heads of state on political visits. Enjoy a peaceful picnic in the calm and scenic surroundings. Despite its central location, the park feels miles away from the manic atmosphere of city life. Spend a solemn moment of reflection around the memorial to the former prime minister. Stop by at the Gandhi memorial, a 5-minute walk south. Arrive in spring to see the colourful flowers in full bloom. Keep watch for squirrels and exotic birds, such as parrots.
The former prime minister was born into a wealthy political family in 1889. While young, he was mentored by the legendary activist Mahatma Gandhi. Later, he was influential in gaining complete independence for India from the British Empire. He died at the age of 74 in 1964 and his remains were cremated at the Shanti Vana. Cremation spots like these are called samādhi, meaning that the soul becomes free of the limitations of the body in a transcendent state.
The Shanti Vana is located right next to the Geeta Colony Bridge of the Yamuna River in the centre of New Delhi. The site is southeast of Red Fort and just north of Raj Ghat, the final resting place of Gandhi. The monument is easy to reach because it has its own bus stop by the entrance. The nearest metro station is Chawri Bazar, a 2-mile (3.2-kilometre) journey west of the park. Of course you can also travel by low-cost rickshaws or taxis.
Shanti Vana is open daily, from very early in the morning until the evening. Entrance to the site is free.
