On 13th December 2025, EASA embarked upon a heritage walk through Mehrauli Archaeological Park. It turned out to be a walk to remember, with

Mr Chandashekhar Tampi being the perfect person to unravel the many layers of Delhi’s storied history!

The park was full of unexpected surprises! From the ornate 16th-century Jamali-Kamali mosque and tomb (opened especially for us) to the stark severity of the 13th-century tomb of the powerful Sultan Balban, set amid an overgrown thicket, the contrasts were striking. Added to this were the follies and repurposed buildings of Sir Thomas Metcalfe, the British Resident at the Mughal court in the early 19th century, who transformed these medieval spaces into recreational retreats. One of the most striking examples is Quli Khan’s tomb, which was repurposed by Metcalfe replete with terraces, a boathouse, and even an outdoor dining area, looking out towards the Qutub Minar and surrounded by the manicured gardens of his Dilkusha!

We also visited Rajon Ki Baoli, a 16th-century step-well that once served as an essential water source for masons (raj mistris) and the surrounding settlements.

The walk was incredible, and it felt as though we travelled across centuries in just a few hours! We topped it all off with chai and masala pizza in Metcalfe’s old circular dining area for guests, which is now, fittingly, a modern-day café!

Clearly, Delhi is a city where centuries don’t just coexist- they continue to live side by side!

The walk concluded with Mrs Dolly Misri, President offered a small token of gratitude to Mr Tampi for leading such an engaging and interesting walk for EASA and SHoM members.

Thank you all for coming, and we hope to see you at our next one!