Akshardham Temple, Delhi
Inaugurated in 2005, the Akshardham temple in Delhi is known as one of the major Hindu temples in India. The structure of the temple is made from sculpted sandstone and took almost 7000 artisans to complete. The entire complex is decorated with sculpted pillars, sculptures depicting deities, sadhus and animals along with scenes from the Hindu mythology.
Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi epitomizes 10,000 years of Indian culture in all its breathtaking grandeur, beauty, wisdom an d bliss. It brilliantly showcases the essence of India’s ancient architecture, traditions and timeless spiritual messages. The Akshardham experience is an enlightening journey through India’s glorious art, values and contributions for the progress, happiness and harmony of mankind.
The Swaminarayan Akshardham complex was built in only five years through the blessings of HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) and the colossal devotional efforts of 11,000 artisans and thousands of BAPS volunteers. Heralded by the Guinness World Record as the World’s Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple, the complex was inaugurated on 6 November, 2005.
What to Experience
Akshardham Mandir
A traditional mandir (temple) dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan that reflects the beauty and spirituality of India’s ancient art, culture, and architecture
Nilkanth Varni Abhishek
A hallowed spiritual tradition in which prayers are offered for world peace and continual peace for oneself, family, and friends with the water of 151 holy rivers, lakes and ponds of India.
Exhibitions
Hall 1 – Hall of Values (50 mins)
Experience enduring human values through films and robotic shows that depict the ideals of nonviolence, honesty, family harmony, and spirituality.
Hall 2 – Giant Screen Film (40 mins)
Discover India through the incredible story of an eleven-year-old yogi named Nilkanth that brings to life the culture and spirituality of India’s customs, the majesty of its art and architecture, and the unforgettable sights, sounds, and power of its awe-inspiring festivals.
Hall 3 – Cultural Boat Ride (15 mins)
Sail through 10,000 years of India’s glorious heritage. Learn about the discoveries and inventions of the rishi-scientists of India, see the world’s first university of Takshashila, sail through the caves of Ajanta-Ellora and discover India’s contributions to humanity through the ages.
Musical Fountain – Circle of Life (Evenings at Sunset – 15 min.)
A spectacular musical fountain show that depicts the cycle of birth, life, and death as described in Indian philosophy.
Garden of India
Sixty acres of lush lawns, gardens and exquisite bronze statues, honouring India’s child heroes, valorous warriors, national patriots and great women personalities who inspire values and character.
Lotus Garden
A lotus-shaped garden echoing spirituality as expressed by philosophers, scientists, and leaders throughout history
Key Attractions:
Mandir: Made of pink stones and white marble, the main temple was built without the use of steel. Decorated with domes, carved pillars and 20,000 murtis (statues), it is simply divine.
Hall of Values (Sahajanand Pradarshan): The audio-animatronics show conveys the messages of wisdom and the true meaning of living life by practicing – ahimsa or non-violence, vegetarianism, morality and harmony. Each statue appears so real.
Giant Screen Film (Neelkanth Yatra): The film revolves around a child yogi, Neelkanth Varni. The screen is over six stories high.
Boat Ride (Sanskruti Vihar): One should not miss the boat ride when in Akshardham. This twelve-minute ride will be like a ride into 10,000 years of India’s heritage. From Vedic life to Takshashila and an era of ancient discoveries – you’ll get to experience it all.
Musical Fountains (Yagnapurush Kund): The musical fountain show is held in the evening and showcases the interdependency between God, nature and man. Its is an extraordinary experience!
Garden of India (Bharat Upvan): Manicured lawns and gardens with bronze statues add on to the charm of the entire complex. Yogihriday Kamal is a special lotus that reflects auspicious sentiments.
Abhishek Mandap: Water is poured on to the idol of Neelkanth Varni which is followed by chanting and prayers. Visitors are also allowed to perform the abhishek of the idol.
The Sahaj Anand Water Show: The breath-taking shows run for 24 minutes and depict through various intriguing media to show the story from the Kena Upanishad. Multi-colour lasers, underwater flames, video projections and water jets make the show captivating.
Address:
NH 24, Akshardham Setu, New Delhi 110092
Organiser:
Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS)
Timings:
Entry: 9.30 am to 6.30 pm
Exhibition: 10.30 am to 6.00 pm
Exhibition Tickets: 10 am to 5 pm
Musical Fountain: 7.45 pm
Entry Charges:
Complex Entry: Free
Exhibition: Rs. 170 (Adults), Rs. 125 (Senior Citizens), Rs. 100 (Child from 4-11 years), Free (Child Below 4 years)
Musical Fountain: Rs. 80 (Adults), Rs. 80 (Senior Citizens), Rs. 50 (Child from 4-11 years), Free (Child Below 4 years)
Closed on: Mondays
Photography, Mobile Phones and other Electronics: Not Allowed (Cloakroom Available)
Facilities:
Food Court: Tourists can enjoy pure, fresh vegetarian food and snacks at Premvati Food Court.
ATM: Can be spotted at Visitor’s Center.
Telephone Booth: Can be spotted at Visitors’ Center, Food Court and Exhibition exits.
Wheel Chairs: Available at the entrance before security clearance. Physically challenged, elderly and needy can avail it for free.
Restrooms: Throughout the campus.
Quick Tips:
No electronic items are allowed inside the temple complex. Do not carry mobile phones or cameras.
Extensive checking of all visitors is present at the entrance.
The temple is closed on Mondays.
Ample parking space is available.
Food items cannot be carried inside.
Dress up conservatively to respect the dignity of the place.
Read more:
Heritage Walk in Old Delhi
Pottery Village in Delhi
Metro Walk in New Delhi : Entry Fee, Timing, Address, Rides
Tibetan (Monastery) Market in Delhi
Khan Market in Delhi
The Iconic Dolls Museum in Delhi
Top 5 Shopping Malls in Delhi
Murthal: The Parantha Junction for Travellers
Five Most Amazing Gardens of Delhi
Top Five South Indian Restaurants in Delhi
Fun n Food Village in Delhi
Worlds of Wonder
Splash – The Water Park
Just Chill Water & Fun Park
Kalindi Kunj Water Park
Bibi-ka-Maqbara : The Mini Taj Mahal
Chidiya Ghar – National Zoological Park in Delhi
The Garden of Five Senses, New Delhi
Agrasen Ki Baoli: Secret Wonder of Delhi
Famous Temples in Delhi
About Akshardham Temple
Jhandewalan Mandir in Delhi
About Delhi
Delhi Metro Map
