Akshardham Temple, Delhi
Fast Facts
Location : Near Nizammudin Bridge, Delhi
Built By : BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha
Built In the Year : 2005
Dedicated To : Lord Swaminarayan
Managed By : Swaminarayan Sect
Height : 141.3 ft
Width : 316 ft
Length : 356 ft
Opening Time : 9.00 a.m to 9.00 p.m all weekdays except Monday
Overview
One of wonders of modern world and India as well, Akshardham Temple - Delhi, portrays the Hindu mythology and India's rich culture. Constructed through the blessings of Pramukh Swami Maharaj of BAPS (Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha), the monument attracts thousands of tourists every year. Akshardham Temple stands along the bank of Yamuna river within the huge Akshardham temple complex, amidst 100 acres of lush lawns. The main monument of Akshardham Temple soars to a height of 141 ft and houses a beautiful statue of Lord Swaminarayan.
According to Vedas and Upanishads, Akshardham means the eternal, divine abode of the supreme power (God) and abode of eternal values and virtues of Akshar. Akshardham Temple complex portrays the 10,000 years of Indian culture through its beautiful monument, fantastic exhibitions, lush gardens and many other attractions. In addition to these, Akshardham complex showcases the essence of India's age-old excellent architecture, rich traditions and valuable spiritual messages. The complex was constructed with the sincere efforts of around 11,000 artisans and BAPS volunteer and was inaugurated on 6th November, 2005.
On the whole, a visit to Akshardham is an enlightening journey through India's famous art, high values and great contributions for the progress, happiness and harmony of mankind.
Architecture of the Temple
From architecture point of view, Akshardham Temple Complex, Delhi is an imitation of the Akshardham temple, Gandhi Nagar (Gujarat), India. Akshardham temple is made of white marble and red sandstone. It combines numerous contrasting architectural styles including Hindu temple architecture of Indian states like Rajasthan, Orissa, Gujarat. You will also find influences of Mughal and Jain Temple architecture in Akshardham Temple. Interestingly, the imposing monument is constructed without the use of steel and consists of 234 exquisitely carved pillars, 20 quadrangled shikhars, 9 ornate domes, a massive Gajendra Pith (plinth of stone elephants) and more than 20,000 statues.
Attractions of the Temple
Hall of Values : Hall of Values is the place where universal values for mankind is brought to life through audio-animatronics, 15 unique 3-D dioramas and walk-through dioramas and the life of Lord Swaminarayan. In the exhibits, the main theme covered include life for happiness, success and peace of mind. The exhibits also give the messages of ahimsa, prayer, endeavour, morality, vegetarianism and family harmony.
Giant Screen Film : A 85 ft x 65 ft screen, the Giant Screen Film presents the story of Neelkanth Varni’s, an 11-year-old child-yogi, pilgrimage of India in 18th century. The unique period film, Neelkanth Darshan has been filmed in 108 different locations across India with 30 huge settings and 45,000 cast in colourful costumes. Produced by an Indian organisation, Neelkanth Darshan is the first ever wide format film made in India. The international version of Neelkanth Darshan is named as Mystic India.
Garden of India : Garden of India or 'Bharat Upvan' presents a wonderful fusion of natural and cultural ambience through its nicely maintained lawns, lush gardens and magnificent bronze statues of great role models of India. Here, you will see the statues of great warriors, freedom fighters, national figures and noted women personalities.
Yogihriday Kamal : Yogihriday Kamal is a lotus of special auspicious sentiments and it has been built in the memory of Yogiji Maharaj, who dreamed of Akshardham. Here, every petal of Yogihriday Kamal stands for the auspicious sentiments of Yogiji Maharaj and inspires with messages of faith in God and human being.
Boat Ride : A 12-minute long enchanting boat-ride takes you way back to 10,000 years old India's glorious past. On this boat ride, you will know about the discoveries and inventions of the renowned rishi-scientists of India. Watch the world's first university of Takshashila and also sail through the magnificent caves of Ajanta- Ellora.
How to Reach
By Air : Delhi has one international and one domestic airport. Various airlines operate flights for Delhi from different part of India as well as world. Frequent shuttle services connect both these airports.
By Rail : New Delhi, Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin are three major rail heads of Delhi. Mail, Express and several other trains connect these railway stations with rest of the country. Metro railway station is latest addition in Delhi but it is operational only within the city.
By Road : National Highways, State Highways and several other good roads connect Delhi with neighbouring states and important places of the country. Regular state transport and private buses ply within the city and nearby states like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttaranchal etc.
Local Transport : Buses, Cars, Taxis, Auto-rickshaws are local modes of transport in Delhi. For reaching Akshardham Temple you can opt any mode of local transport.
Places Where You Can Stay
Accommodation is not at all a problem in Delhi, as the city is dotted with several hotels, tourist lodges, guest houses etc. From five star to four star and budget, Delhi offers variety of hotels according to your budget.
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