Explore The Serenity Of Lotus Temple, New Delhi
Posted on Tuesday, June 25th, 2024 by Neha Sharma
The Lotus Temple in New Delhi, India, is a Baháʼí House of Worship that opened in December 1986. It is famous for its unique design that looks like a lotus flower. The temple welcomes everyone, no matter their religion or background. The building has 27 marble-covered “petals” grouped in threes to form nine sides. There are nine doors leading into a central hall over 34 meters tall and can hold 1,300 people. The Lotus Temple has won many awards for its architecture and featured in various newspapers and magazines.
| Aspect | Details |
| Name | Lotus Temple |
| Location | New Delhi, India |
| Year of Construction | Completed in 1986 |
| Architectural Style | Bahá’í House of Worship with contemporary architectural design |
| Design | Lotus-shaped structure with 27 freestanding marble-clad “petals” |
| Purpose | House of worship for the Bahá’í Faith, open to people of all religions |
| Significance | One of the most visited religious buildings in the world, known for its architectural beauty and serene ambiance |
| Notable Features | Central prayer hall, tranquil ponds, lush landscaped gardens, and the absence of religious symbols or rituals |
| Accessibility | Easily accessible by road from various parts of Delhi; nearest metro station is Nehru Place |
| Timings | Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm; closed on Mondays |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Rules | Silence and photography restrictions inside the prayer hall |
| Facilities | Visitor center, audio-visual presentations, bookshop, and restroom facilities available
|
Lotus Temple History
The Lotus Temple is in New Delhi, India. It was finished in December 1986. The temple is shaped like a big lotus flower.
The design of the temple was made by an architect named Fariborz Sahba. He wanted the temple to look like a lotus because the lotus is a symbol of peace and beauty in many cultures. The building has 27 big petals made of white marble. These petals are grouped in threes to form nine sides.
When it opened, people from all over the world came to see the temple. They loved its beautiful design. Over the years, the Lotus Temple has won many awards for its architecture and has become a famous place in New Delhi. Many visitors come to see it every day.
The Lotus Temple Architecture
The Lotus Temple in New Delhi looks like a giant lotus flower. It has 27 big white petals made of marble. These petals are grouped in sets of three, so there are nine groups or sides.
The temple has nine doors that open into a big central hall. This hall is very tall, over 34 meters high, and can hold 1,300 people. Inside, the hall is empty and quiet, with no pictures or statues, so people can pray or meditate in peace.
The design of the Lotus Temple was created by an architect named Fariborz Sahba. He chose the lotus shape because it symbolizes peace and beauty. The temple is surrounded by gardens and ponds, which makes it a calm and beautiful place to visit.
Lotus Temple Delhi Timings & Entry Fee
Winter Season – 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Summer Season – 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM
Prayer Timings – 10 am, 12 pm, 3 pm and 5 pm
Entry Fee – Free
10 Interesting Facts About Lotus Temple
- Lotus Design: The temple is shaped like a lotus flower, symbolizing purity and beauty in many cultures.
- Open to All: Unlike traditional temples, Lotus Temple welcomes people of all religions to pray or meditate.
- Architectural Awards: It has won numerous awards for its unique design & serene atmosphere.
- Eco-friendly: The temple is environmentally friendly, using natural light & ventilation to reduce energy consumption.
- Marble Petals: It is made of 27 free-standing marble-clad petals arranged to form the lotus structure.
- Capacity: The central hall of Lotus Temple can accommodate up to 1,300 people during prayer sessions.
- Nine Entrances: There are nine doors leading into the central hall, representing the unity of different faiths.
- Gardens and Ponds: Around the temple there are gardens and peaceful ponds, adding to its peaceful ambiance.
- Baháʼí Faith: The temple is a Baháʼí House of Worship, dedicated to the oneness of humanity & worship of one God.
- Community Service: Besides prayer, the temple promotes community service & social harmony among its visitors.
Best Time to Visit Lotus Temple
The best time to visit the Lotus Temple is during the cooler months, from October to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and not too hot. It’s best to visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun. The temple is open every day except Monday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Try to visit on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds.
Things to Do Near Lotus Temple
Near the Lotus Temple, there are several interesting places you can visit:
- Kalkaji Mandir: This is a famous Hindu temple located very close to the Lotus Temple. It is dedicated to the goddess Kali and is a popular spot for devotees.
- Nehru Place: This is a busy commercial area known for its shops and markets, especially for electronics and computer goods. You can shop or just explore the lively streets.
- ISKCON Temple: This is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It has a peaceful atmosphere, and you can also enjoy the vegetarian food at their restaurant.
- Tughlaqabad Fort: This is an old, historic fort with ruins that you can explore. It offers a glimpse into India’s history and has nice views of the surrounding area.
- Greater Kailash Market (GK Market): This is a popular shopping area with many stores, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a great place to shop, eat, and relax.
All these places are close to the Lotus Temple and can be visited easily in a day.
How to Reach Lotus Temple
- By Bus – You can reach the Lotus Temple by taking a bus to the Kalkaji Mandir bus stop. From there, it’s a short walk to the temple. Many buses ply through this route as it’s a well-connected area.
- By Flight – If you’re coming from another city or country, you can take a flight to Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use app-based cab services to reach the Lotus Temple. It’s about a 45-minute drive, depending on traffic.
- By Train – If you prefer to travel by train, you can reach New Delhi Railway Station, which is one of the major railway stations in the city. From there, you can take a taxi or use the Delhi Metro. The nearest metro station to the Lotus Temple is the Kalkaji Mandir Metro Station on the Violet Line. From the metro station, it’s a short walk to the temple.
Nearby Attractions in the Lotus Temple
- Humayun’s Tomb – A majestic tomb known for its beautiful Mughal architecture and gardens. Humayun’s Tomb was built in memory of Emperor Humayun.
- Qutub Minar – A tall tower made of red sandstone and marble. Qutub Minar is famous for its intricate carvings and historical significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- India Gate – A war memorial dedicated to Indian soldiers who died in World War I. India Gate is surrounded by large lawns perfect for picnics and evening walks.
- Akshardham Temple – Akshardham Temple is a beautiful temple complex showcasing traditional Indian architecture, with exhibitions, boat rides, and gardens.
- Gurudwara Bangla Sahib – A serene Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is known for its golden dome and sacred pond, offering free meals (langar) to visitors.
- National Crafts Museum – The National Crafts Museum displays India’s rich cultural heritage through traditional crafts, textiles, and artifacts.
- Purana Qila (Old Fort) – Purana Qila has impressive walls and gates, featuring historical structures and a lake for boating.
Visitor Guidelines and Pro Tips
Sure, here are some simple guidelines and tips for visiting the Lotus Temple:
- Opening Hours: The Lotus Temple is open every day except Monday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It’s best to visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
- Entry: Entry to the temple is free, & visitors of all religions are welcome. Maintain silence inside the prayer hall to respect others who are praying or meditating.
- Dress Code: Dress modestly when visiting the temple. Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothing out of respect for the sacred atmosphere.
- Photography: Photography inside the temple is not allowed. Respect this rule to maintain a peaceful environment.
- Shoes: Remove your shoes before entering the temple premises. There are shoe racks provided to keep them safe.
- Silence and Respect: Maintain silence and avoid loud conversations or using your phone inside the temple. This helps in preserving the tranquil atmosphere.
- Security Check: Be prepared for a security check at the entrance. Cooperate with security personnel for a smooth entry into the temple.
- Visiting Time: Plan your visit for about 30 minutes to 1 hour to explore the temple and its surroundings peacefully.
Following these guidelines will ensure a pleasant and respectful visit to the Lotus Temple, allowing you to appreciate its beauty and significance.
Other Activities To Do in Delhi
Delhi, India’s vibrant capital, offers a wealth of attractions for visitors. From historic landmarks like Humayun’s Tomb and Qutub Minar to cultural sites such as India Gate and Akshardham Temple, there’s plenty to explore. The city has busy markets like Chandni Chowk and Dilli Haat, ideal for shopping & street food. For a serene retreat, visit Lotus Temple Delhi or relax in the gardens of Lodhi Garden. There are many places to visit in Delhi, cuisine, rich history, and modern attractions.
- Akshardham Swaminarayan Temple
- Jahanpanah
- Places To Visit In Delhi
- Purana Qila
- Red Fort
- Kalka Mandir
- Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
- Jama Masjid
- Jantar Mantar
- Qutub Minar
- Sarojini Nagar Market
Other Popular Temples in India
India is home to many popular temples that attract pilgrims & tourists alike. The Golden Temple in Amritsar is a spiritual center for Sikhs, known for its gold architecture & peaceful pond. The Vaishno Devi Temple in Jammu & Kashmir is visited by millions who trek uphill to seek blessings from Goddess Vaishno Devi. In South India, the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai is famous for its vibrant sculptures & towering gopurams (temple towers). The Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, is known for its annual Rath Yatra festival where idols of deities are taken on grand chariots. These temples in India reflect the country’s rich cultural & religious diversity, offering spiritual solace & architectural marvels to visitors.
Other Popular Attractions in India
India has many amazing places for tourists to visit. The Taj Mahal in Agra is famous for its beautiful white marble and romantic history. Jaipur, known as the Pink City, has forts like Amer Fort & colorful markets. Kerala has peaceful backwaters where you can take boat rides, while Goa is famous for its beaches & lively atmosphere. Delhi has historical sites like Red Fort & Jama Masjid, & Himachal Pradesh offers mountains & peaceful Tibetan monasteries. These places show how diverse & exciting tourism in India can be, with something special for everyone to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How to reach Louts Temple by metro?
A: You can reach Lotus Temple by taking the Delhi Metro. The nearest metro station is Kalkaji Mandir Metro Station on the Violet Line. From there, it is a short walk to the temple.
Q: What is the Lotus Temple Delhi ticket price?
A: There is no ticket for the Lotus Temple Delhi, the entry is FREE.
Q: Which is the Lotus Temple closing day?
A: Monday is the closing day of the Lotus temple.
Q: Which metro station is near to Lotus temple?
A: The nearest metro station to Lotus Temple is Kalkaji Mandir Metro Station on the Violet Line.
Q: Which god is worshipped in Louts Temple?
A: No specific god is worshipped at Lotus Temple. It is a Baha i House of Worship where people of all religions can pray and meditate according to their own beliefs.
Q: Why was Lotus Temple built?
A: Lotus Temple was built as a place for people of all religions to come together in prayer and meditation. Its unique lotus-like architecture symbolizes purity and peace.
Q: Is Lotus Temple a Monument?
A: Yes, Lotus Temple is considered a monument due to its distinctive architectural design & cultural significance as a Baha i House of Worship.
Q: Where is Louts Tempe?
A: Lotus Temple is located in New Delhi, India. It is specifically situated near Nehru Place in South Delhi.
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