No More Picnics At India Gate Now As New Rules Ban Food, Bags, And Pets; Visitors Upset

Last Updated:June 30, 2025, 12:21 IST

New rules at India Gate ban food, pets, and picnics, leaving visitors frustrated as no locker facilities are provided and families must take turns to visit

Security personnel at the entrance immediately stop visitors carrying prohibited items and inform them that no storage options are available. (Local18)

India Gate, Delhi’s iconic landmark and the city’s largest tourist attraction, continues to draw visitors from across India and around the world. However, recent changes to security and visitor regulations have altered the way families and groups can experience the historic site.

Visitors to India Gate are now required to leave bags, luggage, food, and pets outside the monument. This has led to a new practice where families split into groups, half exploring the site while the other half stays behind to guard their belongings. Once the first group returns, the others take their turn. This arrangement means families can no longer visit India Gate together, a change that has disappointed many.

India Gate: Restrictions On Bags, Food, And Pets

Under the new regulations, visitors are prohibited from bringing bags, sheets, food, or pets into the site. These rules effectively ban picnics at India Gate, a popular pastime for many visitors.

Additionally, the central government is reportedly considering further restrictions, including a possible ban on video filming within the area.

Absence Of Locker Facilities Adds To Visitor Woes

The ban on personal belongings was implemented without providing any locker facilities. Unlike other historic sites such as the Red Fort and Qutub Minar, India Gate currently offers no lockers, causing inconvenience for many tourists.

Security personnel at the entrance immediately stop visitors carrying prohibited items and inform them that no storage options are available.

Visitors Express Discontent And Call For Change

Tourists have voiced their frustration over the new rules. A visitor from Prayagraj, who was seen waiting outside with his bags, said he had to remain behind while his family toured inside due to the restrictions. “There are no lockers, so I must wait outside," he said.

Another tourist from Prayagraj, described the lack of lockers as a “major oversight," while a visitor from Banaras urged authorities to balance security concerns with the needs of ordinary people, many of whom travel long distances to see the monument.

Authorities Cite Preservation Efforts

Security officials, speaking off-camera, explained that the measures are part of ongoing efforts to preserve and beautify India Gate. According to them, the new grass and landscaping had suffered damage from visitors who spread sheets, ate food, and spent extended time on the lawns.

The bans on bags, sheets, and food aim to protect the site’s appearance. Officials also indicated that they are working towards providing locker facilities to ease visitor concerns.

Location :

Delhi, India, India

First Published:

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