Akshardham, a renowned Hindu temple and cultural complex in Delhi, India. Akshardham is a remarkable architectural masterpiece that combines traditional Indian craftsmanship with modern technology to showcase the rich cultural heritage of India. Here's a guide to help you plan your Akshardham tour:
Location: Akshardham is located in the eastern part of Delhi, near the Commonwealth Games Village. The full address is:
Swaminarayan Akshardham, NH 24, Akshardham Setu, New Delhi - 110092, India.
Opening Hours: The temple complex is generally open from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM, Tuesday to Sunday. It is closed on Mondays. However, it's essential to verify the opening hours before your visit, as they can occasionally change due to special events or circumstances.
Admission: While entry to the temple and its grounds is free, there are charges for specific attractions within the complex. These charges can vary based on the type of ticket you choose, such as the basic ticket or the all-inclusive ticket that covers various exhibitions and activities.
Main Attractions:
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Mandir (Temple): The main temple is a stunning piece of architecture built from intricately carved sandstone and marble. It features exquisite carvings of deities, flora, fauna, and scenes from Hindu scriptures.
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Exhibitions: Akshardham offers various exhibitions that showcase India's cultural, spiritual, and historical heritage. The Sahaj Anand Water Show is a multimedia water and light show depicting an ancient story from the Kena Upanishad.
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Yagnapurush Kund: This stepwell-style monument is the world's largest yagna kund (sacred fire pit). It's surrounded by 108 sculpted serpents and offers a serene and contemplative atmosphere.
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Garden of India (Bharat Upavan): This lush garden is adorned with sculptures that depict the great contributors to Indian culture, including writers, thinkers, warriors, and spiritual leaders.
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Boat Ride: Experience a boat ride that takes you through 10,000 years of Indian history, showcasing the country's contributions to art, science, and technology.
Visitor Tips:
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Dress modestly as a sign of respect for the religious and cultural setting.
- Photography might be restricted in some areas, so follow the rules.
- The complex has security checks, so be prepared for bag checks and metal detectors.
Accessibility: Akshardham is wheelchair accessible, and they offer special services for differently-abled visitors.
Before planning your visit, I recommend checking the official Akshardham website or contacting their information desk for the latest details on opening hours, ticket prices, and any COVID-19 related guidelines or restrictions that might be in place.
