About Akshardham Temple in Delhi

About Akshardham Temple:

Akshardham Temple is a magnificent Hindu temple located in Delhi, the capital of India. It is one of the largest and most renowned Hindu temples in the world. The word “Akshardham” refers to “God’s heavenly home”. It is praised as an eternal haven of adoration, chastity, and tranquility. A dwelling of God, a Hindu temple, and a spiritual and cultural complex devoted to devotion, education, and peace make up Swaminarayan Akshardham. Its art and architecture echo the timeless Hindu spiritual messages, strong devotional traditions, and historic architecture. The mandir is a modest homage to Bhagwan Swaminarayan (1781–1830), the Hindu gods and goddesses known as avatars, devas, and great sages. On November 6, 2005, the traditionally designed complex was officially opened with HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s blessings and thanks to the tireless work of volunteers and professional craftspeople.

                         

The temple complex is divided into several sections, each offering a unique experience for visitors. It includes the main temple, exhibition halls, gardens, water shows, and a cultural boat ride. The main shrine of the temple houses the deity of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. It is beautifully adorned with intricate marble carvings and sculptures. Akshardham Temple is known for its captivating exhibitions that showcase the rich heritage, culture, and spirituality of India. The exhibitions use state-of-the-art technology, audio-visual presentations, and animatronics to depict various aspects of Indian history and traditions. The temple complex features meticulously maintained gardens, known as the Sahaj Anand Van. These gardens are adorned with lush greenery, fountains, and sculptures, providing a peaceful and serene environment for visitors.

The temple hosts a mesmerizing musical water show called the “Yagnapurush Kund.” The show combines water, sound, and light effects to narrate ancient Indian stories and teachings. Visitors can also enjoy a cultural boat ride, known as the “Sanskruti Vihar.” The boat ride takes passengers through India’s ancient history, showcasing its contributions to science, art, and spirituality.

The Mandir, the Exhibitions, and even the Gardens reflect spirituality in Akshardham. More than 200 murtis, which represent many of the spiritual giants over many centuries, may be seen in the Akshardham mandir. Each soul has the ability to be divine, which is Akshardham’s central spiritual tenet. Serving one’s family, country, neighbors, or all other living things on the planet can all help one progress toward divinity. Every prayer is a call to better oneself and draw nearer to God.

Akshardham is a spiritually enlightening place to visit. Each component has a spiritual meaning, whether it be in understanding the effectiveness of prayer, sensing the power of nonviolence, realizing the universality of Hinduism’s founding ideals, or simply appreciating the beauty of God’s habitation on Earth.

Information:

Location:

Akshardham Temple is located in the eastern part of Delhi, India, near the Noida Link Road and the Commonwealth Games Village. It is located along the Yamuna River’s banks. The temple is easily accessible by road, and there are ample parking facilities available for visitors.

Entry and Timings:

Entry: Free and open to all.

Timings: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm

Aarti: 10:30 am and 6:00 pm

Time to See: 45 minutes

How to Reach:

• Akshardham Metro Station

1. Leave the Station and Make a Right
2. Proceed 100 meters and make a right.
3. Travel 250 meters and enter Gate 1 of Akshardham.

• From Airport (1 hour and 30 minutes)

1. Reach the New Delhi Metro Station by taking the Orange Line.
2. Get off at the Metro Station in New Delhi
3. Use the Yellow Line to travel to HUDA City Centre.
4. Get off the bus at Rajiv Chowk Metro Station.
5. Head towards Noida City Centre on the Blue Line.
6. Arrive at Akshardham Metro Station and exit.

• New Delhi Railway Station (40 minutes)

1. Proceed to Ajmeri Gate Exit.
2. Proceed to New Delhi Metro Station.
3. Use the Yellow Line to travel to HUDA City Centre.
4. Get off the bus at Rajiv Chowk Metro Station.
5. Head towards Noida City Centre on the Blue Line.
6. Get off at the Akshardham Metro Station.

• Old Delhi Railway Station (45 minutes)

1. Stride 350 meters in the direction of Chandni Chowk Metro Station.
2. Use the Yellow Line to travel to HUDA City Centre.
3. Alight at the Metro Rajiv Chowk Station.
4. Head to Noida City Centre on the Blue Line.
5. Get off at the Akshardham Metro Station.

Explore:

Swagatam: Swagatam means- “the welcome”. A pilgrimage at Akshardham begins at the Ten Gates – signifying ten directions – and continues as visitors pass through the Gate of Devotion, the Visitor Center, and the Peacock Gate to arrive at the Charnarvind. Along the way, traditional Hindu symbols of positivity, devotion, beauty, and purity create a divine ambiance. Each visitor delves into the experience of Akshardham infused with the energy of this auspicious beginning.

• Entry: Free and open to all.
• Timings: 9:30 am – 6:30 pm
• Time to See: 30 minutes

Mandir: The Akshardham mandir is the centre of the Swaminarayan Akshardham complex. The mandir, which was dedicated on November 6, 2005, is an effort to give God a place of honor. His majesty and divinity—a timeless, lovely, and serene dwelling place for God here on Earth. The mandir’s design pays respect to conventional Hindu architecture in India. It is created with the intention of The shilpa shastras, ancient and middle-aged medieval Indian works on architectural science, and served as a design and construction manual for the mandir, directing everything from its characteristic carving style and proportions to its architecture. As a result, ferrous metal was not used in the construction of the mandir. The Akshardham mandir is made up of 20,000 statues of Indian Hinduism’s spiritual figures, 234 finely carved pillars, 9 elaborate domes, and 20 quadrangle spires. The Mandir is 356 feet long, 316 feet wide, and rises 141.3 feet into the sky.  Each intricately carved pillar, ceiling, and dome inside the mandir tells a devotional tale, grants a glimpse of a god, or depicts a moment from Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s life.

• Entry: Open to all for free.
• Timings: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
• Aarti: 10:30 am and 6:00 pm
• Time to See: 45 minutes

Abhishek Mandap: Visitors can perform abhisheka on the statue of Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s young, yogic form, Neelkanth Varni, at the abhisheka mandapa. This ceremonial bathing of the murti is an open practice in which anyone can participate. Most often, prayers for wish fulfillment are said along with an abhisheka. This Neelkanth Varni murti was dedicated in 2005 by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual head of the BAPS Swaminarayan Fellowship.

• Abhishek Donation: ₹ 50 per person.
• Timings: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
• Aarti Time: 6:30 pm
• Time to See: 10 to 25 minutes
• Ritual Duration: 10 to 15 minutes

Exhibitions: Visitors walk into a world of values that can help change their lives and the world. Universal values like love, ahimsa (non-violence), fearlessness, service, humility, compassion, spiritual consciousness, honesty, unity, and peace are displayed through a series of exhibits using animatronic figures, scenic representations, and short videos.

• Exhibitions Ticket:
• Adults (Age 12+): ₹ 250
• Seniors (Age 60+): ₹ 200
• Children (Age 4 – 11): ₹ 150
• Children (Below Age 4): Free

* Tickets include:

(1) Sahajanand Darshan

(2) Neelkanth Darshan &

(3) Sanskruti Darshan

* Not Available: Separate ticket for an individual exhibition

• Timings: 11:00 am to 8:00 pm

Ticket counters close at 6:00 pm

• Time to See:
• Sahajanand Darshan: 55 minutes
• Neelkanth Darshan: 45 minutes
• Sanskruti Darshan: 15 minutes

Note:

Exhibitions Entry: First Come, First Serve Basis

On Busy Days: Expect a Long Waiting Time

Not Allowed: Food or Drinks Inside Exhibition Halls

Personal Water Bottles: Deposit on Entry, Collect on Exit

Water Show: A story from the Kena Upanishad is brought to life in the spectacular 24-minute Sahaj Anand Water Show by combining a range of fascinating media. A compelling and motivating display is created using multicolor lasers, video projections, underwater flames, water jets, surround sound, lights, and live performers. Together with BAPS volunteers and Sadhus, international professionals donated their knowledge to create this unique show.

• Ticket Price:
• Children (Below Age 4): Free
• Children (Ages 4 – 11): ₹ 60
• Adults (Age 12+): ₹ 90
• Seniors (Ages 60+): ₹ 90
• Timings: Soon after sunset, the first show begins.

         During the weekends or on holidays, there may be many performances.

• Duration: 24 minutes

        Note: Show language – Hindi.

History

The history of Akshardham Temple is intertwined with the Swaminarayan Sampraday and its founder, Bhagwan Swaminarayan. The Swaminarayan Sampraday, also known as the BAPS (Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha), is a Hindu sect founded by Bhagwan Swaminarayan in the late 18th century. The sect emphasizes devotion, morality, and spirituality.

Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of BAPS during the 20th century, had the vision to create a grand temple complex in Delhi dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan. The aim was to showcase Indian culture, spirituality, and architecture. The construction of Akshardham Temple began in November 2000 under the guidance of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and the dedicated efforts of thousands of volunteers from BAPS. The complex of temples took about five years to complete.

On November 6, 2005, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who was the president of India at the time, gave Akshardham Temple its official opening. The inauguration ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, spiritual leaders, and thousands of devotees. Since its opening, Akshardham Temple has gained immense recognition and popularity worldwide. It has been acclaimed for its architectural beauty, cultural exhibitions, and spiritual ambiance. Every year, millions of people visit the temple.

                                         

Over the years, Akshardham Temple has undergone expansions and additions to enhance the visitor experience. It continues to host various cultural and educational activities, including exhibitions, performances, and spiritual discourses. Akshardham Temple serves as a symbol of Indian spirituality, cultural heritage, and architectural excellence. It aims to promote peace, harmony, and the values preached by Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

Akshardham Temple stands as a testament to the vision and devotion of the followers of Swaminarayan Sampraday and remains a significant landmark in Delhi, attracting visitors from all over the world to experience its grandeur and spiritual essence.

Architecture

The architecture of Akshardham Temple is a stunning blend of traditional Indian architectural styles and contemporary design elements. Here are some key features of the temple’s architecture:

Akshardham Temple draws inspiration from ancient Hindu temple architecture, particularly the Nagara style prevalent in North India. It incorporates elements like tall spires (shikharas), intricate carvings, and ornate domes. The temple is primarily constructed using pink sandstone, which is reminiscent of the architectural style seen in Rajasthan. The pink sandstone lends a vibrant and visually appealing look to the temple complex. The temple is adorned with thousands of intricately carved sculptures, depicting deities, celestial beings, animals, and mythological scenes. The carvings showcase remarkable craftsmanship and attention to detail.

                                 

Akshardham Temple features multiple gopurams (entrance gateways) and shikhars (spires) that are intricately carved and decorated with sculptures. These architectural elements add grandeur and visual appeal to the temple complex. The temple complex includes numerous mandapams (assembly halls) and pillars adorned with elaborate carvings. These mandapams serve as spaces for devotees to gather and engage in prayers and rituals.

The temple is built on a raised plinth, which gives it a majestic presence. The plinths and steps leading up to the temple complex are also intricately carved and decorated. Surrounding the main temple are expansive reflecting pools that add to the aesthetic appeal of the temple complex. These pools create a serene and tranquil ambiance, reflecting the temple’s grand architecture.

Akshardham Temple is set amidst well-maintained gardens and landscaped areas. The gardens feature lush greenery, flowers, water features, and sculptures, providing a picturesque and serene environment. While the architecture is rooted in tradition, Akshardham Temple seamlessly integrates modern technology into its design. This is evident in the multimedia shows, interactive exhibits, and light and sound effects used in the temple’s cultural displays.

The architecture of Akshardham Temple showcases the rich heritage and craftsmanship of India’s ancient temple traditions while embracing modern advancements. It stands as a magnificent example of religious and cultural architecture, captivating visitors with its beauty and spiritual aura.

Nearby Hotels:

There are several hotels near Akshardham Temple in Delhi, India, offering a range of accommodation options. Here are a few hotels located in close proximity to the temple:

1. Radisson Blu Kaushambi Delhi NCR: This upscale hotel is situated in Kaushambi, Ghaziabad, which is approximately 5 kilometers away from Akshardham Temple. It offers luxurious rooms, multiple dining options, a fitness center, and other amenities.
2. Park Inn by Radisson New Delhi IP Extension: Located in the IP Extension area of Delhi, this hotel is around 3 kilometers from Akshardham Temple. It features contemporary rooms, a rooftop restaurant, a fitness center, and conference facilities.
3. Lemon Tree Hotel, East Delhi Mall, Kaushambi: Situated in Kaushambi, Ghaziabad, this hotel is approximately 6 kilometers from Akshardham Temple. It offers comfortable rooms, an in-house restaurant, a fitness center, and other amenities.
4. Red Fox Hotel, East Delhi: Located in the Mayur Vihar area of Delhi, this hotel is about 7 kilometers away from Akshardham Temple. It provides modern and budget-friendly accommodation, an on-site restaurant, and other facilities.
5. Ginger Hotel, East Delhi: Situated in the Vivek Vihar area of Delhi, this hotel is around 7 kilometers from Akshardham Temple. It offers comfortable rooms, an in-house restaurant, and basic amenities for a budget-friendly stay.

Nearby Places:

There are several interesting places to visit near Akshardham Temple in Delhi. Here are some popular attractions in the vicinity:

1. Yamuna Riverfront: Akshardham Temple is situated on the banks of the Yamuna River. You can take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront and enjoy the scenic views.
2. Old Delhi: Located just a few kilometers away, Old Delhi is a vibrant and historic part of the city. Explore iconic attractions such as the Red Fort, Jama Masjid (one of India’s largest mosques), Chandni Chowk market, and bustling streets filled with shops and street food vendors.
3. Humayun’s Tomb: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a magnificent Mughal-era mausoleum and a must-visit attraction. It is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
4. India Gate: Located a short distance from Akshardham Temple, India Gate is a prominent war memorial and a popular landmark in Delhi. It commemorates the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in World War I and the Afghan Wars.
5. National Zoological Park: Situated near the Purana Qila (Old Fort), the National Zoological Park is a sprawling zoo that houses a diverse range of animal species. It is a great place for nature enthusiasts and families.
6. Lotus Temple: Known for its unique lotus-shaped architecture, the Lotus Temple is a Bahá’í House of Worship and a symbol of peace and unity. It is located in the southeastern part of Delhi and attracts visitors with its serene atmosphere.
7. National Museum: Located in the vicinity of Akshardham Temple, the National Museum showcases an extensive collection of artifacts, art, and archaeological treasures from various periods of Indian history.
8. Swaminarayan Akshardham Water Show: While not a separate attraction, the spectacular water show at Akshardham Temple is worth mentioning. It takes place in the evening and combines water, light, and sound effects to narrate ancient Indian stories.

These are just a few of the many attractions near Akshardham Temple. Delhi is a city with a rich cultural and historical heritage, offering a plethora of places to explore and experience.

FAQs

Q1: What are the visiting hours of Akshardham Temple?

A: The temple is open from Tuesday to Sunday. The visiting hours are generally from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM. However, it is advisable to check the official website or contact the temple authorities for the most up-to-date information on timings.

Q2: Is there an entry fee to visit Akshardham Temple?

A: No, there is no entry fee to visit the temple complex. However, there may be charges for specific attractions such as exhibitions, boat rides, or the water show. These charges can vary, and it is recommended to check the official website or inquire at the temple for detailed information.

Q3: Can we take photographs inside the temple complex?

A: No, photography, mobile phones, and other electronic devices are not allowed inside the temple complex. This restriction is in place for security reasons and to maintain the sanctity of the temple.

Q4: Can we bring food inside the temple complex?

A: No, outside food is not allowed inside the temple complex. However, there is a food court within the temple complex that serves vegetarian cuisine.

Q5: Are there any specific guidelines for visiting with children?

A: Children are welcome to visit Akshardham Temple. However, it is important to ensure their safety and adherence to the temple rules. Children must be accompanied by adults, and it is advisable to keep them under supervision at all times.

Q6: Is Akshardham Temple accessible for people with disabilities?

A: Yes, Akshardham Temple is designed to be accessible for people with disabilities. Wheelchair ramps, accessible washrooms, and other facilities are available within the temple complex to accommodate visitors with disabilities.