Baps Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Delhi

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is one of the most prominent features of Delhi. Also popular as the Shri Swaminarayan Akshardham Mandir, it attracts both devotees and tourists with equal enthusiasm and attraction. The architecture of the temple is awe-inspiring and its sheer grandeur is worth experiencing. Any visitor to Delhi does not fail to make a stop at this beautiful temple.

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir was constructed in a span of five years by BAPS Pramukh Swami Maharaj. The temple was built in 2005 and stands proud on the banks of the Yamuna River. While constructing the Mandir, the principles of Vastu and Pancharatra Shastra have been kept in mind.

The main temple in the complex has been constructed from stone. The temple complex also hosts a variety of exhibitions on the ancient history of India and the life and principles of Swaminarayan. There is also a wonderful Musical Fountain located inside the premises of the temple. The entire temple complex features beautifully designed gardens.

Architecture

The walls of the temple depict several events and stories from the Hindu mythology. All around the main temple there are over 20,000 figurines of gods, goddesses and legendary characters from the Hindu scriptures. The temple features 9 domes, 234 pillars, 7 pinnacles and 90 arches. The main temple is about 141 ft. high, 370 ft. long and 316 ft. wide. The architecture of the temple is similar to ancient Hindu temples like Ankorvat, Jagannath Konark, Lingaraj and Meenakshi. The structure, design and architecture of these temples were observed closely before the Akshardham temple was designed.

The main elements used in the construction of the temple are the canarra marble from Italy and the pink sandstone native to Rajasthan. The basic design of the temple is based on the Sthapatya Shastra, an ancient Vedic transcript. The interesting fact about the Akshardham temple is that no steel or concrete supports have been used in its construction.

Inside the temple are featured idols of several gods and goddesses like Ram-Sita, Shiv-Parvati, Radha-Krishna, Lakshmi-Narayan, etc. The prime attraction is a huge statue of Swaminarayan which is about 11 feet high. This statue stands in the centre of the temple under the main dome. There are several figures other of other swamis and gurus of the tradition.

Attractions

The First Hall - Hall of Values

Visiting this hall takes about 50 minutes. The hall features shows respecting principles of non-violence, family harmony, honesty and spirituality. Visitors can get a learning experience from the robotic shows and films that are shown in this hall.

The Second Hall – Giant Screen Film

This hall features the life story of Swaminarayan as a teenage boy and how he understands and perceives the customs and traditions prevailing in India during the ancient times. This film lasts for 40 minutes and is quite inspiring.

The Third Hall – Cultural Boat Ride

In this hall visitors can get to learn about the history, legends and culture of India since the ancient times. It also gives visitors an insight into the contribution of India towards the advancement of mankind.

Musical Fountain

A lovely musical fountain stands in the temple complex representing the cycle of life as depicted in the Hindu scriptures.

Garden of India

This lush garden features over sixty acres of lawns and several statues made of bronze. The garden and the statues are designed to honour the heroes, warriors and respectable women and children that India has seen.

Lotus Garden

This garden is designed in the shape of a lotus representing the spirituality that was expressed by different saints, philosophers and heads throughout time.

Visitor Information

Location: BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, National Highway 24, Near Noida More, New Delhi, Delhi, 110092

Contact: T: (011) 2201 6688 / 2202 6688 | E-mail: [email protected] | Website: www.akshardham.com

Nearest Metro Station: The Akshardham Metro Station (5 minutes walking distance approx. 500 m.)

Days Closed: Mondays

Complex Entry: - Free

Timings

• First Entry: 9:30 AM
• Last Entry: 6:30 PM
• Exhibitions: 10:00AM - 5:30 PM

Admission

Complex Entry	Free
Mandir & Gardens	Free
Exhibition & Musical Fountain	Ticket
Abhishek Darshan	Free
Abhishek Puja	Ticket

Ticket Fee

For Exhibition

Adults (12 yrs. & above): Rs. 170

Senior Citizens (65 yrs. & above): Rs. 125

Children (4 to 11 yrs.): Rs. 100

Kids (Below 4 yrs.): Free

For Musical Fountain

Adults (12 yrs. & above): Rs. 30

Senior Citizens (65 yrs. & above): Rs. 30

Children (4 to 11 yrs.): Rs. 2

Kids (Below 4 yrs.): Free

Facilities

Parking	Rates vary according to vehicle type
Cloakroom	At owners’ risk (Free)
Photo Stalls	Printed Photographs (Charged)
Wheelchairs	Available with refundable Deposit of Rs. 100
Food Court	Restaurant serving vegetarian food
Books & Gift Centre	Gift Items, Books, Mementoes, etc.

Dress Code

• Casual/formal - Must cover shoulders and knees
• Shawls provided at a refundable deposit of Rs. 100

Security and Safety

Not Allowed

• Electronic Items
• Mobile phones should be switched off
• Any type of bags
• Food / Drinks
• Children toys
• Inebriated Products
• Personal Belongings
• Shoes should be removed before entering temple

Allowed

• Belts
• Ladies clutch purses
• Wallets
• Jewellery
• Photo ID documents like passport
• Baby Food

Strictly Prohibited

• Use of Inebriated Products
• Rude Behaviour
• Animals

Best Time to Visit

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is open all around the year. The best time to enjoy a visit to the temple is during the autumn and winter months when the temperature in Delhi is cool and pleasant.