Akshardham Temple: Magnificent complex a wonder of modern India

The Akshardham Temple in Delhi is the latest tourist attraction in India. Situated on the banks of Yamuna River, the temple was inaugurated on November 7, 2005.

The temple constructed under the patronage of the Bochasanvasi Aksharpurushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), spreads over an area of 100 acres. The mega Akshardham Temple complex has well maintained lawns, adorned with water fountains and carved pavilions. The temple is considered as one of the wonders of modern India.

Temple Structure: The 141 ft high, 275 ft wide and 315 ft long temple is visible from a long distance. The massive temple built of sandstone and marble is the blend of several architectural temple styles. The temple complex houses an 11 ft high, image of Swaminarayan at the centre of main building. The palace like temple is built of around 12,000 tons of pink sandstone and white marble brought from Rajasthan. It consists of 234 delicately carved and ornate pillars. The temple has 20 Shikhars (towers) and a beautiful Gajendra Pith (plinth of stone elephants). The temple houses 20,000 statues of Hindu deities and motifs. The temple is carved with the images of flora, fauna, dances, musicians and gods, which cover its surfaces from top to bottom.

Attractions of the Temple

Apart from the magnificent temple, the temple complex has two big exhibition halls, which depict India's cultural heritage and Indian moral values. The complex has an Imax cinema, a canteen and meditation gardens with fountains and bronze sculptures.

Yagnapurush Kund: The Yagnapurush Kund inside the temple complex is largest step well of India. The Kund has a series of steps that lead to a traditional 'Yagna kund.'

Bharat Upavan: The Bharat Upavan or 'Garden of India' has lush green lawns, trees and shrubs. The garden is dotted with several bronze structures, which depict the contributors to India's culture.

Yodi Hraday Kamal: The Yodi Hraday Kamal is the ingenious sunken garden, which looks like a lotus when viewed from above. It has large stones engraved with quotes of Shakespeare, Martin Luther King, Swami Vivekananda and Swaminarayan.

Attractions near Akshardham Temple
National Zoological Park: The National Zoological Park, located close to Purana Qila (Old Fort) is considered one of the best zoos in Asia. The zoo established in the 1959, is home to more than 2,000 animals and birds species, which are brought here from continents like Africa, America, Australia and various parts of Asia.

Humayun's Tomb: The tomb is situated just few kms away from the temple. It was built by Hamida Begum wife of Humayun, in 1556. The tomb situated on a huge platform amidst a lush garden, is an example of early Mughal architecture.

India Gate: Located on Rajpath, this 42 meter high arch, was designed by Edwin Lutyens. It was built in memory of Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the World War I. The names of the soldier are inscribed on its arches. The place surrounded by green lawns, fountains and water bodies is an ideal picnic spot.

Red Fort: Built during the reign of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, this massive fort is made of red sandstone. The fort has many beautiful palaces and a museum which houses weapons.

Jama Masjid: The mosque is situated on the other side of Red Fort. Built by Shah Jahan, Jama Masjid is one of the biggest mosques in India. The mosque made of red sandstone and white marble, is built in the Indo- Islamic architectural style.

Rashtrapati Bhawan: The President's building is located in central Delhi, close to the India Gate. The mansion is famous for its architectural splendor and historic importance.

Parliament House: The Parliament house is situated close to India Gate. It is the place where the political discussions are held. The magnificent buildings has wide pillared walkways and large halls.

Lotus Temple: The Lotus Temple or Bahai temple belongs to the Bahai community. Built in the shape of a lotus, the temple has no any idol.

How to Reach
Air: Delhi International airport is connected to major cities of the country. Flights from major cities of India as well as world are available to Delhi

Rail: New Delhi, Delhi, Nizamuddin railway stations have trains from all major towns and cities of the country.

Road: Delhi is well-connected by good network of roads with rest of the country. The buses are available to the temple from different places of Delhi and other nearby towns.

Local Transport: For local transport DTC and State operated buses are available. The rented cars, taxis, auto-rickshaws are also available.

Best Time to Visit: October to March.