Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi is one of India’s most magnificent spiritual and cultural complexes. Recognized by the Guinness World Records as the World’s Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple, this architectural marvel was inaugurated on November 6, 2005, and was built by 11,000 artisans and volunteers under the guidance of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha . The 141-foot high main monument, constructed entirely without structural steel using traditional architectural interlocking systems, features 234 ornately carved pillars, 9 domes, and over 20,000 statues of sadhus and acharyas .

The temple complex spans over 100 acres and is dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, along with shrines for Sita-Rama, Radha-Krishna, Shiva-Parvati, and Lakshmi-Narayana . It stands as a humble tribute to the values of devotion, peace, and harmony that define India’s spiritual heritage. The name “Akshardham” translates to the “divine abode of God,” reflecting its purpose as an eternal place of worship and learning .
Akshardham Temple 2026: Key Information Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple |
| Location | NH 24, Pramukh Swami Maharaj Marg, Pandav Nagar, New Delhi – 110092 |
| Nearest Metro | Akshardham Metro Station (Blue Line) |
| Entry Fee | Free for temple darshan |
| Exhibition Tickets | Adults: ₹255; Seniors (60+): ₹205; Children (4-11): ₹155 |
| Water Show Tickets | Adults: ₹95; Children: ₹65; Seniors: ₹95 |
| Complex Size | Over 100 acres |
| Built In | 2005 |
| Built By | BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha |
| Architectural Feature | Built without structural steel, using traditional interlocking systems |
| Weekly Holiday | Monday |
Akshardham Temple Timings 2026
The temple follows a consistent schedule throughout the year. Planning your visit according to these timings ensures you can experience all the attractions:
| Activity | Timings | Days |
|---|---|---|
| Temple Darshan | 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Tuesday to Sunday |
| Ticket Window | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Tuesday to Sunday |
| Exhibitions | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Tuesday to Sunday |
| Aarti (Morning) | 10:30 AM | Tuesday to Sunday |
| Aarti (Evening) | 6:00 PM | Tuesday to Sunday |
| Water Show (Sahaj Anand) | After sunset (around 7:15 PM – 7:30 PM) | Tuesday to Sunday |
| Last Entry to Complex | 6:30 PM | Tuesday to Sunday |
Important Notes:
- The temple is completely closed every Monday
- The best time to visit is during the cooler months from October to March
- Evening visits allow you to combine darshan with the spectacular water show
Accommodation Options Near Akshardham Temple
Important to Note: The Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple itself does not provide on-site accommodation or guest house facilities for pilgrims. All visitors must arrange their own stay at nearby hotels or guest houses.
The area around Akshardham is well-connected, and several hotels within a 2-5 kilometer radius offer convenient access to the temple. Here are the accommodation options available for 2026:
Hotels Near Akshardham Temple
| Hotel Name | Distance from Temple | Approximate Price Range | Key Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beacon Hotel Nirman Vihar | 2.6 km | Mid-range | Restaurant, free Wi-Fi, airport transfer, AC, 24-hour reception |
| Swastik Residency by Twamev | Near Akshardham | Budget | Free parking, free Wi-Fi, AC, housekeeping |
| Hotel Midtown | Near Akshardham | Budget | Free parking, free Wi-Fi, AC, laundry services |
Location Advantage
All these hotels are located in East Delhi, close to the Akshardham Setu and NH 24, making them easily accessible. The Akshardham Metro Station on the Blue Line is the primary transit point, with many hotels located within a short drive or auto-rickshaw ride from the station.
Tips for Booking Accommodation
- Book in Advance: During peak tourist season (October-March) and weekends, hotels fill up quickly
- Check Cancellation Policies: Many hotels offer free cancellation up to a certain date
- Look for Breakfast Inclusion: Starting your day with a meal before temple visit is convenient
- Proximity to Metro: Choose hotels near the Blue Line metro for easy access to other Delhi attractions
How to Book Akshardham Temple Tickets
Entry and Darshan – Free
- No ticket required for temple entry and darshan
- All visitors are welcome to the main mandir free of charge
Exhibition and Water Show Tickets – On-Site Only
| Ticket Type | Adult | Senior (60+) | Child (4-11) | Child (Below 4) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exhibitions (Sahajanand Darshan, Neelkanth Darshan, Sanskruti Vihar) | ₹255 | ₹205 | ₹155 | Free |
| Water Show (Sahaj Anand) | ₹95 | ₹95 | ₹65 | Free |
Important Booking Information:
- No online booking is available – all tickets must be purchased in person at the temple’s official ticket counters
- Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis
- The ticket window is open from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Arrive early during peak season to secure tickets, especially for the water show
Step-by-Step Ticket Booking Process
- Arrive at Akshardham Temple between 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM
- Proceed to the official ticket counters located within the temple complex
- Select your desired attractions – exhibitions, water show, or both
- Pay the applicable fee (cash or card, as accepted)
- Receive your entry pass – keep it safe for entry to exhibitions/show
- Plan your visit timeline – allocate 3-4 hours for a full experience
What to See and Do at Akshardham Temple
1. The Main Mandir
The 141-foot high central monument built of pink sandstone and white marble houses an 11-foot high gold-plated idol of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. The base features 148 life-sized stone elephants depicting stories from Hindu scriptures .
2. Sahajanand Darshan (Hall of Values)
A series of exhibits using audio-animatronics that portray values like non-violence, perseverance, prayer, morality, and family harmony .
3. Neelkanth Darshan (IMAX Film)
An 85-foot-wide screen film depicting the 12,000-kilometer journey of Neelkanth Varni (Swaminarayan) across India as a young boy .
4. Sanskruti Vihar (Cultural Boat Ride)
A 12-minute indoor boat ride through 10,000 years of Indian history, showcasing contributions of ancient Indian rishis to science, astronomy, and medicine .
5. Sahaj Anand Water Show
A spectacular evening presentation using water, light, fire, lasers, and underwater projections to narrate a story from the Kena Upanishad .
6. Yagnapurush Kund
India’s largest stepwell, measuring 300 x 300 feet with 2,870 steps. By day it’s a peaceful resting spot; by night it transforms into the arena for the water show .
How to Reach Akshardham Temple
| Transport Mode | Details |
|---|---|
| By Metro | Akshardham Metro Station (Blue Line) – the station is directly connected to the temple complex |
| By Road | Well-connected via NH 24; ample parking available for private vehicles |
| By Airport | Indira Gandhi International Airport – approximately 20 km away |
| By Railway | New Delhi Railway Station – approximately 10 km away |
| Local Transport | Buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis are readily available |
Important Visitor Instructions
Strict Security and Dress Code
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| No Electronics | Mobile phones, cameras, smartwatches, pen drives, headphones are strictly prohibited. Free lockers are available |
| Dress Code | Shoulders and knees must be covered. Sarongs provided free (refundable deposit) if attire is inappropriate |
| Bags | Only small ladies’ purses allowed. No backpacks or large luggage |
| Photography | Strictly prohibited inside. Professional photos can be purchased at the counter |
| Footwear | Must be removed before entering places of worship |
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Valid ID proof (required for some transactions)
- Modest attire covering shoulders and knees
What Not to Bring
- Mobile phones and any electronic devices
- Cameras
- Large bags or backpacks
- Shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothing
- Food and drinks (available inside the complex)
- Alcohol and tobacco products
Facilities at Akshardham Temple
| Facility | Availability |
|---|---|
| Cloakroom | Free lockers for electronics and bags |
| Wheelchair Access | Ramps and wheelchairs available at entrance |
| Food Court | Vegetarian meals and snacks available at reasonable prices |
| Parking | Ample parking for private vehicles |
| Restrooms | Clean facilities throughout the complex |
| Drinking Water | Available at multiple locations |
Nearby Attractions
| Attraction | Distance | Description |
|---|---|---|
| India Gate | Approx. 10 km | War memorial and iconic Delhi landmark |
| Lotus Temple | Approx. 8 km | Baháʼà House of Worship with lotus-shaped architecture |
| ISKCON Temple | Approx. 12 km | Hare Krishna temple complex |
| Pragati Maidan | Approx. 5 km | Major exhibition and convention center |
| Rajpath | Approx. 10 km | Ceremonial avenue leading to Rashtrapati Bhavan |
| Humayun’s Tomb | Approx. 12 km | UNESCO World Heritage Site |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Does Akshardham Temple have accommodation for pilgrims?
A: No, the temple does not have on-site accommodation. However, several hotels like Beacon Hotel Nirman Vihar (2.6 km), Swastik Residency, and Hotel Midtown are available nearby .
Q2: How can I book Akshardham Temple tickets online?
A: Currently, no online booking is available. All exhibition and water show tickets must be purchased in person at the temple’s official ticket counters .
Q3: Is entry to Akshardham Temple free?
A: Yes, entry to the temple and darshan is completely free. Tickets are required only for exhibitions and the water show .
Q4: What are the Akshardham Temple timings for 2026?
A: Temple darshan: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Tuesday-Sunday). Ticket window: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The temple is closed on Mondays .
Q5: What is the dress code for Akshardham Temple?
A: Modest attire is mandatory. Shoulders and knees must be covered. Sarongs are available free (refundable deposit) if needed .
Q6: Are mobile phones allowed inside the temple?
A: No, mobile phones, cameras, and electronic devices are strictly prohibited. Free lockers are available at the entrance .
Q7: What is the best time to visit Akshardham Temple?
A: The best time is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Evenings are ideal to enjoy both darshan and the water show .
Q8: How long does it take to explore Akshardham Temple?
A: A full visit including exhibitions and water show takes approximately 3-4 hours .
Q9: Is Akshardham Temple wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the complex provides ramps, wheelchairs, and accessible restrooms for visitors with mobility challenges .
Q10: What is the price of the water show ticket?
A: Water show tickets cost ₹95 for adults, ₹95 for seniors, ₹65 for children (4-11 years), and free for children below 4 years .
Q11: Can I get food at Akshardham Temple?
A: Yes, the complex has a food court offering vegetarian meals and snacks at reasonable prices .
Q12: How do I reach Akshardham Temple by metro?
A: The Akshardham Metro Station on the Blue Line is located right next to the temple complex .
Contact Information
| Purpose | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Website | https://akshardham.com/ |
| Phone | +91-11-4344 2344 |
| info@akshardham.com | |
| Address | NH 24, Pramukh Swami Maharaj Marg, Pandav Nagar, New Delhi – 110092 |
| Nearest Metro | Akshardham Metro Station (Blue Line) |