The initiative is a project of the Aga Khan Development Network

Sundar Nursery is in fact an archaeological site – there are scattered remains of Mughal period structures including three protected monuments, together with pavilions, tombs, grave platforms, wells, and a mosque platform. The much used historic road linking Humayun’s Tomb to Purana Qila would originally have passed through the site. The presence of the serais of Azimganj and Arab Serai in the close neighbourhood mark its proximity to the old alignment of the Grand Trunk Road linking Lahore and Agra.

Restoring Sundar Nursery's Historic Grandeur

Three of the nine Mughal era structures that stand within Sundar Nursery are considered to be of national significance viz. Sundarwala Burj, Sundarwala Mahal and the Lakkarwala Burj. As per the 2016 revision by UNESCO these three monuments too are a part of Humayun’s Tomb World Heritage Site – making it one of the densest ensemble of 16th century Tomb gardens in India.
Conservation works on these monuments has been carried out through a craft-based approach strengthening the age-old building skills, master craftsmen work alongside architects and engineers to match the work of their forefathers using traditional tools, techniques and materials.
Substantial conservation works have included restoration of original intricate plaster and ornamental patterns at the Sundarwala and Lakkarwala Burj, major structural repairs to Sundarwala Mahal and the Garden Pavilion. In 2010, following a Ground Penetrating radar Survey carried out in Sundar Nursery, a 17th century Mughal water tank was discovered. This Lotus Pond, south of the Sundarwala Mahal, has a unique multi- foliate design which has now been restored to its original function and provided a picturesque garden setting.