Akshardham Temple, New Delhi

Fact File

It is the spiritual center for prayer and learning. This Swaminarayan temple has been constructed by the Bochasanvasi Aksharpurushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS).

Overview

The newly constructed Akshardham temple in Delhi, is the second of its kind. Based on the same model as Akshardham temple at Ahmedabad in Gujarat, this temple is made of pink sandstone and white marble. The main temple, garden, exhibition halls, lawns, waterbody, musical fountains, ayurvedic bazar and not the least, the vegetarian restaurant offering mouthwatering dishes all are the part of this magnificent temple. Known for the architectural grandeur, it has a combination of Rajasthani, Gujrati, Mughal, Jain and Oriyan architecture making it a marvel. 234 beautifully carved pillars, nine domes, 20m quadrangled shikars, 20,000 murtis and many more make this temple a unique masterpiece. Visitors are spell bound to see the large statue of Swaminarayan and other disciples. The musical fountains and light show in the Yagnapurush Kund are also awe-inspiring. The Bharat Upavan in the temple complex must be visited as it exhibits some of the exquisite bronze sculptures of great Indian personalities.

Festivals

Ellora festival of classical dance and music is organised in the third week of March by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation. It acts as a platform for the artists to show their talents by the performances. Renowned artists from all over the world, participate in this grand festival. It is awe-inspiring to look the magnificent caves during the festival.

Getting There

By Air : Both national and international flights operate from Indira Gandhi International Airport, in Delhi.

By Bus : Delhi is well connected by road to all major destinations in North India

By Rail : There are three important Railway Stations in Delhi namely New Delhi Rly. Station, Old Delhi Rly. Station and Hazarat Nizamuddin Rly. Station and is connected to all the major towns and cities.

Attractions

India Gate

This most dignified monument was built in the memory of Indian soldiers who died in the First World War. Designed and built in 1931 by Lutyens, it stands at Rajpath. Marked by eternal flame, it has names of the soldiers inscribed on the wall of the gate. Looking this monument in the night is just fantastic.

Qutab Minar

To celebrate the Ghori's victory, this Minar was built by Qutbuddin Aibak in 1192. This 72.5m tall tower is the highest stone tower in India. Inside the complex one can see the marvelous Iron Pillar, the Quwwat-ul-Islam( first mosque built in India) and the Alai Darwaza built by Ala-ud-din Khilji.

Red Fort

Built by Shah Jehan, the fort has a lot of attractions, namely Mumtaz Mahal, Rang Mahal, Khas Mahal, Diwan-e -Khas, Diwan-e Am. The fort also houses three musuems which must be visited.

Chattarpur Mandir

The temple is situated in Mehrauli and is dedicated to the Goddess Durga. Spread on vast landscape of beautiful lawns and gardens, this temple is known for the South Indian architecture. Most auspicious time to visit this temple is during the navratras.

Location

The splendid Akshardham temple lies on the way to the Nizammudin bridge in the East Delhi This Swami Narayan temple is sprawling over a 100 acres of land, comprising of green lush lawns, water fountains and extensive pathways.

Best Time to Visit

IDelhi is too hot in summers and too cold in winters. So plan your holiday tour to Delhi, sometime in the month of February to April or August to November.