Know Before You Go: Timings and Booking
The Summer Annuals edition of Amrit Udyan is open to the public from August 16 to September 15, 2026. Entry is free, but booking a slot in advance is mandatory. There is no on-the-spot registration available. You must book your tickets online through
the official Rashtrapati Bhavan website. Booking for any given day closes at 10 AM the day before, so plan ahead, especially for weekends. The gardens are open from 10 AM to 6 PM, with the last entry at 5 PM. Remember, Amrit Udyan remains closed every Monday for maintenance. Entry and exit for all visitors is through Gate No. 35, near North Avenue Road.
Dress Smart for Humidity and Rain
Monsoon weather is synonymous with humidity. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, rayon, or georgette to stay comfortable. These materials dry quickly if you get caught in a drizzle and won't cling to your skin. It's best to avoid heavy fabrics like denim, which take a long time to dry and can feel heavy when damp. Given the possibility of muddy paths, choose shorter-length bottoms like capris or kurtas that end above the ankle to avoid getting your hemlines soaked. Bright, vibrant colours or prints are a great choice for a gloomy day and are also effective at hiding any stray splash marks.
Choosing the Right Footwear
You will be doing a lot of walking across the 15-acre garden, so comfortable footwear is non-negotiable. During monsoon, this means prioritising shoes that can handle wet and potentially slippery surfaces. Open-toed sandals with good grip, floaters, or rubber-soled footwear are ideal choices. They are easy to clean and dry quickly. It's best to leave sneakers, canvas shoes, and leather footwear at home, as they absorb water, become heavy, and can be ruined by mud. The right shoes will not only keep your feet comfortable but also prevent slips on wet pathways.
What to Carry (and What to Leave Behind)
A compact, sturdy umbrella is a must-have. While rain shelters are available along the route, an umbrella provides personal protection from sudden showers. You are allowed to carry your mobile phone (for photography), a wallet, and a purse. However, larger items like backpacks, cameras, and video cameras are not permitted inside. Eatables are also prohibited, but facilities for drinking water are provided. If visiting with an infant, you can carry a small handbag with a water or milk bottle. Pack light to make your walk through the extensive gardens more enjoyable.
Getting There and Navigating the Gardens
The nearest metro station is Central Secretariat, which is on the Yellow and Violet lines. To make the journey easier for visitors, a shuttle bus service runs every 30 minutes from the metro station to the entrance at Gate No. 35. Once inside, you'll find facilities like first-aid posts and restrooms available for public convenience. This year's main attractions include a focus on indigenous and local flowering plants like Gul-Mehndi and Aparajita. You can also explore newer sections like the Babbling Brook Garden, a peaceful area designed around flowing water.
Embrace the Monsoon Atmosphere
A monsoon visit offers a unique perspective of Amrit Udyan. The rain washes the foliage clean, making the greens look extra lush and the colourful flowers pop against the grey skies. The fragrance of wet earth and blooming flowers creates a special ambience that you won't find in other seasons. With fewer crowds than the peak spring season, you can enjoy a more serene and personal experience. Be prepared to take your time, walk slowly, and appreciate the beauty of nature refreshed by the rain. The thoughtful arrangements, including sheltered spots, ensure that a little rain doesn't have to spoil your visit.
