Akshardham Temple Delhi – Largest Hindu Temple in the World

Akshardham Temple, Delhi

About Akshardham Temple Delhi

The Akshardham Temple in Delhi, also known as Swaminarayan Akshardham, is a marvel of modern architecture and a testament to India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. This magnificent temple complex, situated on the banks of the Yamuna River, is a sight to behold and a destination that attracts millions of visitors worldwide each year.

History of Akshardham Temple Delhi

The Akshardham Temple was inaugurated on November 6, 2005, by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual head of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS). The temple was built in honor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan (1781-1830), the founder of the Swaminarayan sect of Hinduism. The temple construction took five years and involved the dedicated efforts of 11,000 artisans and BAPS volunteers.

The Architecture of Akshardham Delhi

Architecture of Akshardham Delhi

The architecture of Akshardham Temple is a fusion of several architectural styles from across India. The temple is constructed entirely from Rajasthani pink sandstone and Italian Carrara marble, and it does not contain any steel or concrete. The temple complex features a blend of architectural styles from across India, adorned with intricate carvings, statues, and sculptures.

Inside Akshardham Temple Delhi

Inside the Akshardham Temple, you will find the main deity, Bhagwan Swaminarayan, and other deities associated with the Swaminarayan sect. The inner sanctum is a sight to behold, with its gold-leafed idol and the surrounding area adorned with intricate carvings. The temple also houses an exhibition on the life and teachings of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

Other Structures at the Akshardham Delhi

The Akshardham Temple complex has several other structures, including the Yagnapurush Kund, a large stepwell and musical fountain, and the Bharat Upavan, a beautiful garden filled with bronze statues of India’s cultural icons.

Exhibition at Akshardham Temple

Exhibition at Akshardham Temple Delhi

The Akshardham Temple hosts several exhibitions, including the Hall of Values, which features life-sized robots, dioramas, and immersive sound and light show depicting the values of non-violence, perseverance, honesty, and family harmony taught by Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

Akshardham Musical Fountain & Timings

Akshardham Temple Delhi Musical Fountain

The Akshardham Musical Fountain, also known as the Yagnapurush Kund, is a sight. This mesmerizing show, which takes place in the evening, is a blend of water, lights, and sound, and it tells the story of the cycle of creation, sustenance, and destruction according to Hindu philosophy.

Timings of Akshardham Temple Delhi

The Akshardham Temple is open from Tuesday to Sunday. The temple timings are from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM. The musical fountain show starts at 7:30 PM. The temple remains closed on Mondays.

Entry Fee of Akshardham Temple Delhi

Service

Fee

Entry to the Temple Complex

Free

Exhibition Ticket (Adults)

INR 170

Exhibition Ticket (Children Age 4-11)

INR 100

Exhibition Ticket (Senior Citizens Age 60+)

INR 125

Musical Fountain Show

INR 30

How to reach Akshardham Temple

By Metro:

  • The Delhi Metro is the most convenient way to reach Akshardham Temple.
  • The nearest metro station is Akshardham Metro Station on the Blue Line.
  • After getting off at Akshardham Metro Station, the temple is just a short walk away.

By Bus:

  • Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses are another way to reach the temple.
  • Several DTC buses pass through routes that have stops near Akshardham Temple.
  • You can check the DTC bus route map or use a navigation app to find the most suitable bus route.

By Car/Taxi:

  • If you travel by car or hire a taxi, you can use a GPS or navigation app for directions. The temple is well-known and easy to locate.
  • There is ample parking space available at the temple complex.

By Auto-Rickshaw:

  • Auto-rickshaws are a standard mode of transport in Delhi.
  • You can hire an auto-rickshaw from any part of the city to reach Akshardham Temple.

From the Airport:

  • If you are coming from Indira Gandhi International Airport, you can take the Airport Express Metro to New Delhi Station.
  • Switch to the Blue Line from New Delhi Station and get off at Akshardham Metro Station.
  • Alternatively, you can hire a taxi from the airport directly to the temple.

From the Railway Station:

  • If you come from New Delhi Railway Station, you can take the Metro’s Yellow Line to Rajiv Chowk.
  • Switch to the Blue Line from Rajiv Chowk and get off at Akshardham Metro Station.
  • Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from the railway station directly to the temple.

Quick Facts about Akshardham Temple

Fact

Detail

Inauguration Date

November 6, 2005

Deity

Bhagwan Swaminarayan
Architectural Style

Fusion of several Indian styles

Materials Used

Rajasthani pink sandstone and Italian Carrara marble

Main Attractions

The main temple, exhibitions, musical fountain

Timings

9:30 AM to 6:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)

Entry Fee

Free (Charges apply for exhibitions and musical fountain)

Nearest Metro Station

Akshardham Metro Station

This is a brief overview of the Akshardham Temple in Delhi. To reach the desired word count, each section can be expanded with details, personal experiences, and anecdotes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Akshardham Temple in Delhi:

Q.1: Can you provide the location of the Akshardham Temple in Delhi?

A: The location of Akshardham Mandir is at NH 24, Akshardham Setu, New Delhi – 110092.

Q.2: Is photography allowed inside Akshardham Temple?

A: Photography and videography are strictly prohibited inside the Akshardham Temple complex.

Q.3: Is there a dress code for Akshardham Temple?

A: There is no specific dress code for the temple, but it is recommended to wear modest and respectful clothing.

Q.4: Are there facilities for food and drink inside the temple complex?

A: There are food courts and snack stalls inside the temple complex where visitors can purchase meals and refreshments.

Q.5: Is there parking available at Akshardham Temple?

A: Yes, a large parking area is available for visitors at the temple complex.

Q.6: Are there facilities for differently-abled visitors?

A: Yes, the temple complex is wheelchair accessible, and facilities are available for differently-abled visitors.

Q.7: Can I visit Akshardham Temple during public holidays?

A: Yes, the temple is open on most public holidays. However, it is closed on Mondays.

Q.8: Is there any special ceremony or event I should not miss at Akshardham Temple?

A: The musical fountain show, which takes place in the evening, is a must-see event at the Akshardham Temple.

Q.9: How much time should I allocate to visit Akshardham Temple?

A: It is recommended to spend at least half a day visiting the Akshardham Temple to fully experience the temple complex and its exhibitions.

Q.10: Are there any restrictions on carrying personal items into the temple complex?

A: Yes, large bags, luggage, and electronic items are not allowed inside the temple complex. There are facilities available to store these items securely.

Q.11: Is there a guide service available at Akshardham Temple?

A: Yes, guided tours are available at the temple. These tours provide detailed insights into the temple’s history, architecture, significance, and structures.

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