Confirm Dates and Book Your Slot Online
The 'Summer Annuals' opening of Amrit Udyan is a special event, typically running from mid-August to mid-September. For 2026, the gardens are expected to be open to the public from August 16 to September 15. They are open from 10 am to 6 pm, with the last
entry at 5 pm, from Tuesday to Sunday. The gardens remain closed every Monday for maintenance. Entry is free, but booking your visit online in advance is mandatory; there are no on-the-spot ticket counters. You can reserve your hourly slot on the official Rashtrapati Bhavan website. Bookings for a specific day close at 10 am on the previous day, so it's wise to plan ahead, especially for weekends.
Choose the Right Attire for Humidity and Rain
Delhi's August weather is humid with a high chance of rain. The key to a comfortable visit is choosing the right clothes. Opt for lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying fabrics like cotton, mulmul, or linen. Avoid heavy materials like denim or thick synthetics that cling when wet and take a long time to dry. Loose-fitting clothes such as kurtas, long blouses, and comfortable trousers are ideal. Given the possibility of gloomy skies, wearing bright and vibrant colours can make your experience more cheerful. Also, remember that you are visiting a formal space, so modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is recommended.
Footwear: Prioritise Grip and Comfort
This is perhaps the most critical part of your preparation. The pathways in the 15-acre garden can become slippery and waterlogged. Choose your footwear wisely. Sturdy, non-slip sandals or water-friendly shoes are your best bet. Avoid leather shoes, high heels, or flip-flops that offer poor grip and can be hazardous on wet surfaces. Comfortable walking shoes that you don't mind getting a little wet are essential for exploring the vast gardens without discomfort. The goal is to keep your feet secure and comfortable for a few hours of walking.
What to Carry: Essentials Only
While you should pack light, a few items are essential. Umbrellas are permitted and highly recommended. A good quality, wind-resistant umbrella is better than a flimsy one. To protect your electronics, carry a small waterproof bag or pouch for your mobile phone. Mobile phones and purses are allowed, but larger backpacks, cameras, and video cameras are not. You cannot bring eatables inside, but drinking water, first-aid posts, and restrooms are available along the designated route. For parents, small handbags with water and milk bottles for babies are permitted.
Getting There and Navigating the Garden
The easiest way to reach Amrit Udyan is by metro. The Central Secretariat station (Yellow and Violet Lines) is the nearest, located about 2 km away. A free shuttle bus service runs every 30 minutes from Central Secretariat Metro Station to the entry gate (Gate No. 35) from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm. This helps you avoid traffic and parking hassles, which can be worse during the monsoon. Once inside, follow the designated pathways. Organizers have set up rain shelters along the route to provide protection during sudden downpours. Pay attention to signage to avoid any areas that might be temporarily closed due to waterlogging.
What's in Bloom During the Monsoon?
A monsoon visit offers a different floral spectacle compared to the spring opening. This season focuses on a variety of summer annuals and indigenous Indian flowers. Expect to see vibrant displays of Balsam (Gul-mehndi), Aparajita, Gomphrena, Celosia, and tuberose. The gardens also feature new attractions like the 'Babbling Brook', a landscaped water feature, and 'Bal Vatika' for children. The lush greenery, refreshed by the rains, provides a beautiful backdrop to these colourful blooms, creating a unique photographic and sensory experience you won't get at any other time of the year.
