Delhi Karavan

Delhi Karavan is a heritage walk group led by its lead heritage walk organiser, Asif Khan Dehlvi. Its focus is history, heritage and culture in unusual locations, and its programme goes well beyond the headline monuments. The group organises three kinds of event: walks, which it calls karavans; storytelling sessions, or baithaks, often held in historic settings; and food walks, known as daawats.

Its walks are listed by Delhi Tourism and each lasts about three hours, conducted in Hindi and English. The Mehrauli Archaeological Park walk takes in Metcalfe's house, the Jamali Kamali mosque, Balban's tomb and the Rajon ki Baoli stepwell. A separate walk through Mehrauli village visits Adham Khan's tomb, Gandhak ki Baoli, the dargah of Qutub Sahab, Zafar Mahal, the Hijron ki Khanqah, Jahaz Mahal, Hauz-e-Shamsi and a Mughal-era waterfall.

Other routes cover Feroz Shah Kotla, the ruined citadel with its palace remains, circular baoli, cells and an Ashokan pillar, and the Khirki area, with the Khirki Masjid, the tomb of Sheikh Yusuf Qattal and the medieval Satpula dam. These are places many visitors never reach, and hearing their stories from an expert guide is the best way to make sense of them.

Walks are priced per group rather than per person, with set rates for one person, two people and larger groups, so the cost per head falls as the group grows. Contact the organisers by phone to check current rates, dates, start times and meeting points. Wear comfortable shoes for uneven ground, bring water and a hat, and dress modestly for walks that include dargahs and mosques.

The walks suit history enthusiasts, photographers and repeat visitors who have already seen the Red Fort and Qutub Minar and want to dig deeper. They are also a good choice for small private groups of friends or family. The Mehrauli walks pair especially well with a first visit to the area, as they explain how the different layers of the old settlement fit together.

Combine a Mehrauli walk with a visit to the Qutub Minar, or follow the Khirki walk with lunch in Hauz Khas. Delhi Karavan's baithaks and daawats are worth looking out for if your visit coincides with one.