Introduction to Shivaji Stadium in Connaught Place
Shivaji Stadium is a well-known landmark in Central Delhi, both for its sports significance and as a crucial metro stop on the Delhi Airport Express Line. Located just a short walk from the bustling commercial and cultural hub of Connaught Place (CP), this stadium serves athletes, daily commuters, and tourists alike. This detailed guide covers everything you need to know about Shivaji Stadium, from its facilities and transport access to nearby places and historical context.
Location & Overview
Address: Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110001
Landmark: Near Hanuman Mandir and Gole Market
Nearest Metro: Shivaji Stadium Metro Station (Airport Express Line)
Shivaji Stadium is centrally located in one of the most accessible parts of New Delhi. It sits at the edge of Connaught Place, offering quick access to major government buildings, tourist destinations, shopping centers, and corporate offices.
About the Stadium
Originally built as a hockey venue, Shivaji Stadium gained national attention during the 2010 Commonwealth Games, when it was revamped to serve as a training facility for hockey teams.
Key Features:
Built for: National-level and training matches in hockey
Renovated: 2008–2010, with artificial turf laid for international standards
Facilities: Seating for ~7,000 spectators, floodlights, changing rooms, and a fitness area
While not as heavily used today for major tournaments, the stadium occasionally hosts local sporting events, training sessions, and serves as a practice ground for athletes.
Metro Connectivity – Shivaji Stadium Metro Station
Located right next to the stadium, the Shivaji Stadium Metro Station is a crucial node on the Delhi Airport Express Line.
Metro Info:
Line: Airport Express Line (Orange Line)
Opened: 23 February 2011
First Train: ~5:03 AM
Last Train: ~11:35 PM
Travel Time to Airport: ~20 minutes to Terminal 3 (IGI Airport)
This metro station is also a transit point for travelers heading to or from Indira Gandhi International Airport and New Delhi Railway Station. It's equipped with modern amenities, including:
Escalators & elevators
Token vending machines
Baggage scanners (since it's an airport line)
Restrooms and drinking water
Punjab & Sind Bank ATM
Parking Facilities
Adjacent to the stadium and metro station is paid parking for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers.
Parking Details:
Type: Multilevel underground
Hours: 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Rates: ₹10–20/hour (approximate; may vary)
Additional Features: EV charging points and Yulu bike stations available nearby
This makes it a convenient park-and-ride point for metro commuters or visitors to Connaught Place.
Nearby Attractions & Landmarks
Shivaji Stadium’s central location places it within walking distance or a short drive from several key places in New Delhi:
Religious & Historical Sites:
Hanuman Mandir, CP – A famous and ancient temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman
Jantar Mantar – 18th-century astronomical observatory (~500 m away)
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib – Iconic Sikh temple (~1 km)
Sacred Heart Cathedral – Historic Roman Catholic church (~1 km)
🛍️ Shopping & Leisure:
Janpath Market – Popular for street shopping and handicrafts
PVR Rivoli & Regal Cinemas – Vintage movie theatres nearby
Palika Bazaar – Underground shopping arcade (~5 min walk)
Connaught Place (CP) Circle – Full of restaurants, cafes, lounges, and bookstores
Commercial & Administrative Proximity
VFS Global Office – Located inside the metro station for visa services
LIC Building, Statesman House, and NDMC Office – Prominent business centers
National Philatelic Museum – For stamp collectors and hobbyists
Tips for Visitors
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening, especially if visiting the stadium or nearby attractions in summer.
Use Metro: Avoid parking and traffic hassles by using the Airport Express Line.
Safety: The area is well-patrolled and considered safe, even during early and late hours.
Food Nearby: Check out eateries like Wenger’s Bakery, Saravana Bhavan, and Café Coffee Day in CP.
Events: Occasionally, the stadium is used for sports meets, school competitions, or fitness programs.
Directions
From New Delhi Railway Station:
By Metro: Take Airport Express from New Delhi Metro Station (1 stop)
By Auto/Cab: 8–10 minutes via Connaught Circus
From IGI Airport (Terminal 3):
By Metro: Direct on Airport Express (~20 mins)
By Car: ~30–35 minutes depending on traffic
Final Thoughts
Shivaji Stadium Connaught Place is more than just a sports venue—it's a hub that combines fitness, history, connectivity, and culture in one of Delhi’s busiest districts. Whether you're a tourist looking to explore Connaught Place, a commuter traveling to the airport, or an athlete heading for practice, this spot is worth knowing about.
