Located just 32 km from Delhi, Gurgaon is a buzzing destination in its own right, with more shopping malls per mile than anywhere else in India and lots of amazing restaurants and bars. It also boasts several green spaces, where you can get your nature fix. Here’s how to get the most out of Gurgaon in a day.
What to see and do
If you want to start the day in a peaceful frame of mind, visit the Sai Ka Angan Temple, a Shirdi temple tucked away inside a residential colony in Gurgaon. This temple, situated in a tranquil outdoor setting, is a great place to spend a quiet hour.
But of course, if you’re surrounded by malls, you’re going to have to indulge in some retail therapy. I like Ambience Mall, on the National Highway, for its large variety of national and international brands. Even if you’re not a keen shopper, Ambience Mall is definitely worth a visit, as it also houses a multiplex cinema, a bowling alley and even an ice skating rink – the perfect way to escape the summer heat!
You know me – I’m always keen to get out into nature, if I can. After a morning of shopping, sightseeing and a relaxed lunch, I recommend heading to Aravalli Bio Diversity Park near the Guru Dronacharya Metro station. This land has been restored into a natural reserve, to help conserve many species of flora and fauna in danger of being lost to development. This 380-acre park is criss-crossed by walking tracks and many people come here for a stroll or to go jogging.
Once you’ve had your nature fix, I recommend visiting the Museum and Folk & Tribal Arts, to see the one-man collection of K.C. Aryan, who has dedicated his life to collecting and preserving artifacts. There are some fabulous pieces on display here, including colourful textiles and 10th century bronze statues.
These are only a few things to do in Gurgaon. Expedia’s guide to India will provide you with even more sightseeing ideas.
Places to eat
You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing somewhere for lunch. I suggest visiting Cyber Hub, the dining area at the tech park, Cyber City. There are three floors of cafés and restaurants lining this spacious food court, serving food from all around the world.
I visited Yum Yum Cha and had an excellent meal. You have to try their dim sum – I especially liked their crystal duck dumplings – and the fabulous ice cream mochi for dessert.
An alternative dining option, away from Cyber City, is Another Fine Day. Not only is the food excellent, offering healthy salads, sandwiches and mezze platters, but the café also has its own mini-library, where you can borrow a book to read whilst you eat. If you’re travelling solo in Gurgaon, you’ll feel right at home here.
When it comes to dinner, check out Prankster, in Gurgaon’s sector 29. This restaurant is decorated according to a retro-college theme, complete with jukeboxes and scooters converted into benches. It serves Indian and international dishes, including a chicken burger big enough for four people! It’s a great spot for an evening drink, too.
How to get to, and around, Gurgaon.
The cheapest way to reach Gurgaon is on the Yellow line of the Delhi metro, which also helps you to avoid any traffic. It’s also easily accessible by taxi. Uber fares from the centre of Delhi to Gurgaon are around 450 rupees.
Once you’ve arrived, you can get around using Rapid Metro Gurgaon, a sleeker and quicker version of the Delhi Metro, but taxis are also readily available.
