About Akshardham Temple Delhi
Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi is a vast Hindu temple and cultural complex on the banks of the Yamuna river. It is dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, and also honours the avatars, deities and great sages of Hinduism. Built by the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, it was recognised by Guinness World Records as the world's largest comprehensive Hindu temple. Its carved monument, beautiful gardens and exhibitions on Indian culture make it one of Delhi's most visited attractions.
The complex was inspired by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of BAPS, and was built with the help of thousands of artisans and volunteers. It opened in November 2005. Bhagwan Swaminarayan (1781–1830) was a spiritual teacher from Uttar Pradesh who travelled across India and settled in Gujarat, where he founded the Swaminarayan tradition, emphasising devotion, moral living and service. Today the complex welcomes millions of visitors every year from India and abroad.
The central mandir is built of pink sandstone and white marble without steel, with 234 ornately carved pillars, nine domes and about 20,000 carved figures. A golden murti of Bhagwan Swaminarayan sits beneath the central dome. The monument rests on the Gajendra Pith, a plinth of carved elephants. Exhibitions include animatronic displays, a large-screen film and a boat ride through Indian heritage, and an evening water show.
Akshardham Temple Delhi timings & aarti
Usually open Tuesday to Sunday, about 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (last entry earlier); closed on Mondays. Exhibition and water show timings differ. Times may vary; check locally before visiting.
| Aarti / ritual | Time |
|---|---|
| Morning Aarti | Around 10:00 AM |
| Evening Aarti | Around 6:00 PM |
Timings change on festivals, eclipses and special days. Please confirm locally before you travel.
How to reach Akshardham Temple Delhi
By air
Indira Gandhi International Airport, about 25 km away.
By train
Hazrat Nizamuddin station is about 7 km away; New Delhi station is about 10 km away.
By road
Akshardham metro station on the Blue Line is a short walk from the gate. The complex is beside NH-24 (National Highway 9).
Festivals at Akshardham Temple Delhi
- Diwali and AnnakutOct/Nov
- Swaminarayan Jayanti (with Ram Navami)Mar/Apr
- JanmashtamiAug/Sep
- Guru PurnimaJul
Visitor tips
- Dress code
- Clothing should cover shoulders and knees; wraps are available at the entrance if needed.
- Entry
- Entry to the complex and mandir is free; exhibitions, the water show and some attractions require tickets. Mobile phones, cameras, bags and electronic items are not allowed and must be deposited at the cloakroom.
- Leave your phone, camera and bags at your hotel or the cloakroom; security is strict.
- Remember it is closed on Mondays.
- Allow at least 3–4 hours to see the mandir and exhibitions.
- Book exhibition and water show tickets on arrival early in the day, as they can sell out.
Places to visit near Akshardham Temple Delhi
- Humayun's TombMughal garden tomb, about 8 km away
- India GateWar memorial and lawns, about 9 km away
- Lotus TempleBahai House of Worship, about 12 km away
- ISKCON Temple, East of KailashRadha-Krishna temple, about 12 km away
Frequently asked questions
What are the Akshardham Delhi timings?
It is usually open Tuesday to Sunday from about 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM and closed on Mondays. Check before visiting.
Is Akshardham Delhi entry free?
Yes, entry to the complex and mandir is free. Exhibitions and the water show are ticketed.
Can I take my phone into Akshardham?
No. Phones, cameras and electronic items must be deposited at the cloakroom before entry.
Which is the nearest metro to Akshardham?
Akshardham metro station on the Blue Line, a short walk from the entrance.
Is Akshardham closed on Monday?
Yes, the complex is closed to visitors on Mondays.
What is the aarti time at Akshardham Temple Delhi?
Morning Aarti: Around 10:00 AM; Evening Aarti: Around 6:00 PM. Times can change on festivals and special days, so please confirm locally before you go.
Is there a dress code at Akshardham Temple Delhi?
Clothing should cover shoulders and knees; wraps are available at the entrance if needed.
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