Offering Breathtaking Views Of Delhi Is Metcalfe's Folly In Mehrauli Archaeological Park

Entering the Mehrauli Archaeological Park is an overwhelming feeling. Not only is it unusually quiet and green for a hustling and bustling, traffic burdened city like ours, it’s a place whose ruins, mosques, monuments and structures give it a character so different from any other place. 

Walking in the insides of this beautiful place tucked in the bustling streets of Mehrauli, it is difficult not to be mesmerized by all the little things you see on your way to Metcalfe’s Folly. The ruins, the Jamali Kamali Mosque, the unknown tombs, the Dilkhusha or Metcalfe’s retreat, all add a certain charm to the walk till the Folly itself. 

The Simplistic Structure

Once you reach the folly which is a small canopy on top of green hillock, what strikes you is its sheer simplicity. Metcalfe’s Folly is no archaeological wonder but you will soon realize Charles Metcalfe, the creator’s intentions behind it; according to the information stone the building was meant to be viewed from the south of Quili Khan’s tomb, which Metcalfe often used as a retreat. 

A Bit of History

Built in the 1850’s, this ‘folly’ is the famous British government official, Charles Metcalfe’s brain child. The folly – essentially a new building meant to look old is not like anything else you’ll find there. There are no intricate carvings, the stone and rubble is seemingly simple and basic and yet, it doesn’t fail to put a distressed heart at peace. Today, workers and labourers from nearby sights have made this canopy their resting spot and several animals move around the structure freely, further adding to the sense of peace amidst nature. 

The Splendid View

Walking up to the canopy gives you the most spectacular view of all other structures that surround it. The Jamali Kamali looks like a monument straight out of heaven, the Qutub Minar stands tall in all its glory and even the most simple of ruins and tombs look like spectacular archaeological innovations when viewed from this hillock.

A Sense of Timelessness

One could sit at the insides of the Folly for hours, just looking at the spectacular view all around, being able to hear the sound of chirping birds instead of honking cars, or just enjoying a quiet dialogue with oneself. It’s a great place for introspection, for a simple heart to heart with a friend, or just for the feeling of getting away from all the madness. If only for a while, you will be able to leave your hectic life, your worries and cares behind.

Where | Metcalfe's Folly - Mehrauli Archeological Park, Mehrauli