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Lotus Temple

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Lotus Temple (India)

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The Lotus Temple in New Delhi is a Bahá'í House of Worship completed in 1986, renowned globally for its striking flowerlike shape. Designed by Iranian-Canadian architect Fariborz Sahba, the structure is composed of 27 free-standing marble-clad "petals" arranged in clusters of three to form nine sides. These nine doors open onto a central hall with a capacity of 2,500 people, notable for its lack of religious icons or altars, aligning with the Bahá'í belief in the unity of all religions. The temple is surrounded by nine ponds that not only enhance its visual appeal but also play a vital role in the building's natural ventilation system. Since its inauguration, it has become one of the most visited religious buildings in the world and has received numerous architectural awards for its innovative design, engineering excellence, and commitment to environmental harmony.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C141724303536323028252015
Rain mm1622181533802172031211348

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The temple is freely open to visitors of all faiths, serving as a dedicated space for prayer and reflection. You can enter the remarkable interior of the lotus structure, where absolute silence is required.
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Typical hours
The complex is generally open from early in the morning until late afternoon. Keep in mind that it typically remains completely closed to all visitors on Mondays for regular maintenance work.
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Photography
Photography of the dramatic exterior architecture and the beautifully landscaped gardens is fully permitted. Inside the temple itself, however, all cameras are strictly forbidden to maintain a serene atmosphere.
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Time needed
You should plan to spend at least one to two hours for a comprehensive and relaxed visit. This allows enough time to stroll through the lush gardens, queue for entry, and experience the quiet interior.
Combine with
A visit can be excellently combined with the nearby Kalkaji Mandir or the impressive ISKCON Temple. Both religious sites offer a fascinating cultural contrast to the modern architectural design of the Lotus Temple.
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Getting there
The easiest way to arrive is via the Delhi Metro by getting off at the Kalkaji Mandir station. From there, it is only a short, well-signposted walk to reach the main entrance of this impressive complex.
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Insider tip
Deposit your shoes at the designated storage facility near the entrance before joining the queue. Be sure to wear socks on hot days, as the outdoor marble pathways can become blisteringly hot under the direct sun.

Geography

Coordinates
28.55350, 77.25880

Facts

  • Opened in December 1986
  • Consists of 27 marble petals
  • Height is approximately 34 meters
  • Capacity for 2,500 people
  • Surrounded by 9 blue ponds
  • Won over 10 architectural awards

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Notable places around

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Sights in the town Lotus Temple (17)

Siri Fort🏰 castle

This 14th-century fortress was built by Alauddin Khalji to protect the city from Mongol invasions.

Ghiyas-ud-Din Tughlaq's Tomb🏺 historical

This 14th-century red sandstone mausoleum with a white marble dome was built within a fortified complex.

Surajkund🏺 historical

This ancient reservoir built in the form of an amphitheater is known for its annual international crafts mela.

Rashtriya Dalit Prerna Sthal and Green Garden🏺 historical

This massive memorial park features statues of Dalit icons and fountains along the Yamuna riverbank.

Kalkaji Mandir⛪ religious

This ancient Hindu temple is dedicated to the goddess Kali and attracts thousands of devotees during Navratri.

Lotus Temple📍 landmark

Completed in 1986, this Baha'i House of Worship is famous for its flower-like architecture with 27 marble petals.

🕒 Tu-Su 09:00-17:00

Tughlakabad Fort📍 landmark

This massive 14th-century stone fortress features high sloping walls and circular bastions characteristic of Tughlaq architecture.

🕒 24/7

Okhla Bird Sanctuary🌿 nature

This wetland sanctuary on the Yamuna River serves as a vital habitat for numerous migratory and resident bird species.

Worlds of Wonder🎡 recreation

This expansive amusement park features a variety of thrill rides, roller coasters, and a large integrated water park.

Masjid Baitul Hadi⛪ religious

This modern mosque serves as a spiritual center and place of worship for the Ahmadiyya community.

Kalindi Kunj Park🎡 recreation

This public park is known for its manicured gardens and popular musical fountain shows held in the evenings.

Kiran Nadar Museum of Art🏛 museum

This private art museum showcases a significant collection of modern and contemporary works by Indian artists.

🕒 Tu-Su 10:30-18:30; PH closed

Adilabad Fort🛡️ fortress

This 14th-century hilltop fortress was built as an outpost connected to the main Tughlaqabad complex.

Trialogue Studio🎭 culture

This intimate studio space hosts experimental theatre, creative workshops, and independent artistic performances.

People Places Arts🎭 culture

This arts centre fosters the local creative scene through regular exhibitions, workshops, and community projects.

Theatre Kunzum 2🎭 culture

This modern performance venue is dedicated to contemporary theatre and literary events in a compact setting.

Prachin Bhairav Mandir⛪ religious

This ancient Hindu temple is dedicated to the Bhairava manifestation of Lord Shiva.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Which religion does the Lotus Temple belong to?
It is a Baháʼí House of Worship, open to all people regardless of their religious beliefs.
Is there an entry fee?
No, entry to the Lotus Temple and its gardens is free for all visitors.
Why must you remain silent inside?
The temple is meant for silent meditation and prayer, so absolute silence is mandatory inside.
Is the temple closed on Mondays?
Yes, like many public sites in Delhi, the Lotus Temple is closed to the public on Mondays.
Is photography allowed inside?
Photography is not permitted inside the prayer hall, but is allowed in the gardens and from outside.
Lotus Temple: where is it located?
Lotus Temple is located in India.
Lotus Temple: what is there to see?
Highlights include Siri Fort, Ghiyas-ud-Din Tughlaq's Tomb, Surajkund.
Lotus Temple: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.
Lotus Temple: why is it worth visiting?
The Lotus Temple in New Delhi is a Bahá'í House of Worship completed in 1986, renowned globally for its striking flowerlike shape.
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