History: The foundation of Akshardham Temple was laid by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual head of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS). Inspired by Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s principles, this temple was envisioned as a place that encapsulates the spiritual wisdom of ancient India while providing a serene space for introspection and worship. Officially inaugurated on 6th November 2005, the temple was completed within five years, a remarkable feat considering its vastness and complexity.
Architecture: The architectural magnificence of Akshardham Temple is a tribute to India’s traditional stone architecture, crafted without the use of steel or concrete. Spread across 100 acres, the temple complex is a meticulously planned symphony of pavilions, spires, courtyards, and gardens. The design draws inspiration from ancient Nagara-style temple architecture, blending elements from the grandeur of Khajuraho, the precision of Konark, and the grace of Rajasthan’s havelis.
The heart of Akshardham is its imposing Mandir (Temple), a structure carved entirely out of Rajasthani pink sandstone and Italian Carrara marble. With a height of 141 feet, a width of 316 feet, and a length of 356 feet, the temple rests upon intricately sculpted pillars and nine magnificent ‘shikharas’ (spires) / domes. The walls feature 20,000 statues of divine deities, sages and saints, showcasing India’s timeless spiritual heritage. At the core of the temple lies the idol of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, flanked by deities such as Shri Radha-Krishna, Shri Lakshmi-Narayan, Shri Sita-Ram and Shri Parvati-Shiva.
The temple complex boasts several pavilions that enrich the visitor’s understanding of Indian culture and spirituality. Sahaj Anand Water Show is an extraordinary multimedia water show narrating a fable from the Kena Upanishad, using water, lasers, fire, and sound effects to create a mesmerizing experience. Yagnapurush Kund is the world’s largest stepwell, with 2,870 steps leading to a vast ceremonial pool where the water show takes place. Sanskruti Vihar is a 12-minute boat ride through a simulated depiction of ancient India’s glorious history, showcasing contributions in science, art, and philosophy. Hall of Values (Sahajanand Darshan) is an interactive exhibition portraying the life teachings of Bhagwan Swaminarayan through animatronics, light displays, and 3D dioramas. Neelkanth Darshan (Giant Screen Film) is a visually stunning 85-foot screen displaying the journey of Neelkanth Varni, the young incarnation of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, as he traverses the Himalayas in search of spiritual enlightenment.
Akshardham is not merely a structure of stone but a sanctuary of nature’s beauty. The temple complex is adorned with serene gardens that enhance its tranquil atmosphere. Bharat Upavan is a lush garden featuring bronze sculptures of India’s great personalities, including sages, warriors, and freedom fighters, emphasizing the country’s diverse heritage. Yogi Hriday Kamal is a lotus-shaped garden, symbolizing spiritual enlightenment, engraved with profound quotes from world leaders, philosophers, and saints.
Activities: Akshardham Temple offers an immersive experience beyond mere darshan (viewing). Several activities are carried out to captivate visitors of all ages. Devotees can witness the grandeur of the temple and participate in the daily aarti (prayer ritual). A ritualistic water-offering ceremony is performed in Abhishek Mandapam where devotees can pour sanctified water over the deity of Neelkanth Varni while chanting Vedic mantras. Thematic exhibitions offer enlightening experiences that use cutting-edge technology to present India’s history and spiritual teachings. The temple premises offer quiet corners and prayer halls where visitors can meditate and absorb the serene environment.
Facilities: Akshardham is designed to accommodate thousands of visitors daily, offering several amenities for convenience. Premvati Food Court serves delicious satvik (pure vegetarian) food, offering authentic Indian flavors. A well-organized parking area for private vehicles and tourist buses is available. Strict security checks and well-maintained premises ensure a safe and pleasant visit. The temple provides wheelchairs and ramps for the elderly and differently-abled visitors. The AARSH Centre within the complex sells devotional books, music CDs, and handcrafted artifacts.
The best time to visit Akshardham Temple in New Delhi is from September to April when the weather is pleasant. Avoid peak afternoon hours for a comfortable experience. To reach, take the Delhi Metro’s Blue Line to Akshardham Station, just a short walk from the temple. Alternatively, cabs, auto-rickshaws, and DTC buses provide convenient access. The temple remains closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly for a fulfilling visit to this architectural and spiritual marvel.