Akshardham Temple Delhi Guide: Deity, Entry Fee & Attractions

Introduction

Akshardham Temple in Delhi, also called the Swaminarayan Akshardham, is one of India’s most breathtaking spiritual landmarks. Built by the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, this grand temple blends traditional Hindu architecture with modern engineering. It is not just a temple — it’s an immersive cultural experience with stunning stone carvings, peaceful gardens, and mesmerizing shows.

This guide (updated for 2025) will help you plan your visit: entry fees, timings, how to reach, water show schedule, best time to visit, dress code, nearby attractions, and pro travel tips.

Which God is Worshipped at Akshardham?

The main deity at Akshardham Temple is Bhagwan Swaminarayan, a revered spiritual leader and reformer. The temple also features shrines dedicated to Hindu deities like Radha-Krishna, Lakshmi-Narayan, Sita-Ram, and Shiv-Parvati.

The central monument, built without steel, is carved with 20,000 statues depicting divine figures, animals, and motifs.

Akshardham Temple Timings (2025)

• Opening Days: Tuesday to Sunday (Closed on Mondays)

• Temple Entry: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM

• Water Show (Sahaj Anand): After sunset (around 7:30 PM in summer, 7:00 PM in winter)

• Exhibitions: 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM

👉 Tip: Arrive early to explore exhibitions, gardens, and the main temple before the evening water show.

Akshardham Temple Entry Fee

• Temple Entry: Free

• Exhibition Tickets: ₹250 (adults), ₹200 (seniors), ₹150 (children 4–11 years), free for children below 4 years

• Water Show Tickets: ₹90 (adults), ₹60 (children), free for children below 4 years

💡 Tickets can be purchased at the temple counters. Online booking is not available.

Best Time to Visit Akshardham

• Season: October to March (pleasant weather)

• Day: Weekdays are less crowded than weekends

• Time: Evening visit recommended — temple lights + water show are magical

Avoid peak afternoons in summer, as Delhi heat can be uncomfortable.

Dress Code & Guidelines

• Wear modest clothing (shoulders & knees covered).

• Photography is strictly not allowed inside the temple and exhibitions.

• Mobile phones, cameras, and large bags must be deposited at the security counter.

Top Attractions Inside Akshardham

1. Main Mandir – intricately carved pink sandstone & white marble structure.

2. Exhibitions – featuring audio-visuals and lifelike models on Indian culture & spirituality.

3. Sahaj Anand Water Show – a spectacular mix of water, light, and sound narrating ancient wisdom.

4. Yagnapurush Kund – world’s largest stepwell with musical fountains.

5. Garden of India (Bharat Upvan) – lush lawns with bronze statues of great Indian leaders.

6. Boat Ride (Sanskruti Vihar) – 12-minute journey through 10,000 years of India’s glorious history.

How to Reach Akshardham Temple

• By Metro: Nearest station — Akshardham Metro Station (Blue Line), just 5 minutes’ walk.

• By Bus: Several DTC buses stop nearby.

• By Car / Taxi: Parking available inside the complex.

• From Airport / Railway Station: 40–50 mins drive depending on traffic.

Food & Facilities

• Premvati Ahargruh: Temple’s vegetarian food court, serving affordable Indian meals & snacks.

• Drinking water & washrooms available.

• Cloakroom for depositing bags, mobiles, and cameras.

Pro Travel Tips

• Visit in the late afternoon and stay for the evening water show.

• Carry only essentials (wallet & ID) to avoid long security checks.

• Dress comfortably for walking; the complex is huge.

• Check official website for festival special timings.

Nearby Attractions to Visit

• Lotus Temple (Baháʼí House of Worship) – 15 mins drive

• India Gate & Rajpath – 20 mins drive

• Humayun’s Tomb – 25 mins drive

• Connaught Place – for shopping & dining

FAQs on Akshardham Temple Delhi

1. Is photography allowed inside Akshardham?
No, photography & videography are not permitted inside the temple or exhibitions.

2. Can foreigners visit Akshardham Temple?
Yes, it is open to all visitors regardless of nationality or faith.

3. Is Akshardham Temple wheelchair-friendly?
Yes, wheelchairs are available at the entrance.

4. How much time is needed to explore Akshardham?
Plan 4–5 hours for temple darshan, exhibitions, gardens & water show.

Conclusion

Akshardham Temple is not just a religious site but a celebration of Indian art, culture, and spirituality. Whether you’re a devotee, a tourist, or a student of architecture, the temple offers a soul-stirring experience. Plan your visit smartly with this updated 2025 guide — and don’t miss the evening water show that leaves every visitor spellbound.