Nestled upon the bank of the river Yamuna in New Delhi, the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple stands as a quintessential example of India’s rich cultural heritage, architectural ingenuity, and timeless spirituality. This huge complex that blossomed through blessings was inaugurated by the president of India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, on November 6, 2005, before becoming a major tourist spot and testament to devotees, providing an intense journey through the ancient Indian traditions and values.
Historical Background
The temple was conceptualized and actualized under the direction of His Divine Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS). The genesis of the stupendously colossal cultural masterpiece began with construction in 5 years, wielded with the energy of 11,000 strong artisans and thousands of BAPS volunteers. Yet this legendary temple has been designed to be one of the Earthquake Designated Structures, thereby giving a clear testimony to its survival spirit for the next thousand years.
Architectural Grandeur
The architecture of the temple is a result of a harmonious synthesis between the elements of ancient design and modern engineering. Executed without the usage of steel, the construction notably depends on intricately carved pink sandstone and white marble to abide by traditional Indian “Vaastu Shastra” guidelines. With 234 intricate pillars and over 20K gods and goddesses beaming at her, the central aisled monument looms 1412 feet high, 3162 feet wide, and a little more than 3702 feet long, crowned with 11 domes of mandapams, towering 72 feet high. Round the monument, with the outer parikrama, runs a double-storied red sandstone wall adorned with over 155 smaller domes and 1.160 pillars. Above the revolving eight-pillared mandap bust some 148 large elephants supporting the entire structure, crowned by the 11-foot “Panchdhatu statue” of Swaminarayan.
Key Attractions
Akshardham Mandir: At the heart of the complex lies the Akshardham Mandir, a traditional temple dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan. The mandir showcases the beauty and spirituality of India’s ancient art, culture, and architecture, with intricate carvings depicting various deities, flora, and fauna.
Exhibitions:
- Hall of Values (Sahajanand Darshan): This hall presents enduring human values through films and robotic shows, highlighting ideals such as nonviolence, honesty, family harmony, and spirituality.
- Giant Screen Film (Neelkanth Darshan): Visitors can embark on a cinematic journey through India, following the incredible story of an eleven-year-old yogi named Neelkanth. The film brings to life the culture and spirituality of India’s customs, art, architecture, and festivals.
- Cultural Boat Ride (Sanskruti Vihar): This 12-minute boat ride offers a voyage through 10,000 years of India’s glorious heritage, showcasing ancient discoveries, the world’s first university of Takshashila, the caves of Ajanta-Ellora, and India’s contributions to humanity.
Musical Fountain – Circle of Life (Yagnapurush Kund): Held in the evenings at sunset, this spectacular musical fountain show depicts the cycle of birth, life, and death as described in Indian philosophy. The show combines water, light, and sound to create a mesmerizing experience.
Garden of India (Bharat Upvan): Spanning sixty acres, these lush lawns and gardens are adorned with exquisite bronze statues honoring India’s child heroes, valorous warriors, national patriots, and great women personalities who inspire values and character.
Lotus Garden (Yogi Hriday Kamal): A lotus-shaped garden that echoes spirituality as expressed by philosophers, scientists, and leaders throughout history. The serene environment provides a space for reflection and contemplation.
Visitor Information
- Location: N.H. 24, Akshardham Setu, New Delhi, INDIA – 110092
- Contact: Phone: (011) 2201 6688, 2202 6688 | Email: info@akshardham.com
- Nearest Metro Station: Akshardham Metro Station (approximately 200 meters or a 7-minute walk)
- Days Closed: Mondays
- Timings:
- Complex Entry: First Entry at 9:30 AM; Last Entry at 6:30 PM
- Exhibitions: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Admission:
- Complex Entry: Free; No Ticket Required
- Exhibition & Musical Fountain: Ticketed
- Ticket Fees:
- Exhibition Only:
- Adults (12 years & above): Rs. 170
- Senior Citizens (65 years & above): Rs. 125
- Children (4 to 11 years): Rs. 100
- Children (Below 4 years): Free
- Musical Fountain Only:
- Adults (12 years & above): Rs. 30
- Senior Citizens (65 years & above): Rs.50
- Exhibition Only:
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