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Akshardham Temple
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tourist-attraction
Swaminarayan Akshardham in Delhi is a massive temple complex opened in 2005, designed to showcase thousands of years of traditional Indian culture, spirituality, and architecture. The entire complex was constructed in just five years by the BAPS organization with the support of over 11,000 artisans and volunteers. The main monument is built entirely from Rajasthani pink sandstone and Italian Carrara marble, notably without the use of ferrous metals like steel or concrete in its structural support. The temple is adorned with over 20,000 intricately carved sculptures of deities, sages, and animals, including a central 3.4-meter-tall statue of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. The expansive site also features thematic exhibitions, a boat ride highlighting Indian history, and a large lotus-shaped garden. Akshardham serves as both a place of worship and a cultural center dedicated to the moral and spiritual values of the Hindu tradition.
- Location: India
- Top sights: St. Mary's Church · Akshardham · Indraprastha Park
- Nearby: Faridabad (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 14 | 17 | 24 | 30 | 35 | 36 | 32 | 30 | 28 | 25 | 20 | 15 |
| Rain mm | 16 | 22 | 18 | 15 | 33 | 80 | 217 | 203 | 121 | 13 | 4 | 8 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
This magnificent temple complex is entirely open to the public, encompassing panoramic intricately carved mandirs and expansive cultural exhibition halls. Visitors must pass through strict security, and modest attire covering both shoulders and knees is strictly enforced.
Typical hours
The complex generally welcomes visitors from mid-morning until the late evening, but it is reliably closed to the public every single Monday for maintenance. Arriving early is strongly suggested to entirely avoid the massive crowds that gather later in the day.
Photography
Strict regulations dictate that all electronic devices, including smartphones, cameras, and large bags, are entirely prohibited inside the entire complex. These items must be securely deposited at the free cloakroom near the entrance before going through security.
Time needed
Exploring the central monument alongside the various detailed exhibitions and the cultural boat ride thoroughly requires approximately four to six hours. If you passionately wish to stay for the spectacular evening water show, plan your visit for the latter half of the day.
Combine with
The temple's strategic location in eastern Delhi makes it highly convenient to pair with exploring the bustling local markets in the trans-Yamuna area. Many tourists also seamlessly continue towards the iconic Lotus Temple located further south in the sprawling city.
Getting there
The complex is exceptionally well-connected by the rapid Delhi Metro, with the Akshardham Metro Station on the Blue Line located just a short walk from the entry gates. Taxis and auto-rickshaws also safely provide direct and relatively easy drop-offs at the main entrance.
Insider tip
Wear slip-on shoes because you will genuinely need to constantly remove your footwear before entering the temple buildings and specific sacred internal areas. Carry a physical government-issued ID, as it is very often requested at the security counters for the cloakroom.
Geography
Facts
- Opened on November 6, 2005
- Consists of 234 ornate pillars
- Main statue is 3.4 meters high
- Over 11,000 artisans involved
- No ferrous metal used in construction
- Lotus-shaped garden layout
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Akshardham Temple (9)
Akshardham⛪ religious
Opened in 2005, this massive Hindu temple complex was constructed without steel using pink sandstone and white marble.
🌐 akshardham.com🕒 Tu-Su 09:30-18:30
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What items are prohibited inside the Akshardham complex?
Mobile phones, cameras, and electronic items are strictly prohibited. Free cloakroom facilities are available.
When does the water show take place?
The Sahaj Anand water show starts after sunset (around 7:00 PM) and lasts about 24 minutes.
Is there an entry fee for the temple?
Entry to the temple complex is free, but exhibitions and the water show require separate tickets.
How much time should I allocate for the visit?
Allocate at least 3 to 5 hours to see the temple, gardens, and various exhibitions.
Is the temple open every day?
No, the Akshardham temple is closed to the public every Monday.
Akshardham Temple: where is it located?
Akshardham Temple is located in India.
Akshardham Temple: what is there to see?
Highlights include St. Mary's Church, Akshardham, Indraprastha Park.
Akshardham Temple: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.
Akshardham Temple: why is it worth visiting?
Swaminarayan Akshardham in Delhi is a massive temple complex opened in 2005, designed to showcase thousands of years of traditional Indian culture, spirituality, and architecture.
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