Lotus Temple

Lotus Temple, Delhi Overview

The Lotus Temple, better known as Baha’i House of Worship in Delhi, stands as one of its most striking and iconic landmarks. Completed in 1986, this landmark serves as a symbol of religious tolerance and peace within our diverse society. Crafted to resemble an open lotus flower with 27 petals arranged into clusters, its structure has a characteristic design. It remains an architectural marvel and peaceful sanctuary for people from various faiths alike.

At the centre of Delhi lies this temple dedicated to the Baha’i religion, which emphasizes human unity and is known for embracing oneness with humanity. Over the past decades, it has gained global renown for its beauty and spiritual significance, drawing millions of visitors each year. The Lotus Temple is revered worldwide due to its beauty and spiritual significance and attracts over one million visits annually.

Lotus Temple is known for

• Its breathtaking flower-like architecture
• Being open to people of all faiths for meditation and prayer
• The serene atmosphere surrounding the temple complex
• Gardens and well-maintained walkways provide peaceful surroundings

Timings

• Opens: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
• Prayer Timings: 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM, and 6:00 PM
• Last Entry: 6:30 PM

Entry Fee

• No entry fee

Tips

• Dress modestly and respectfully, as this is a place of worship.
• When entering a temple, large bags or electronic devices (cameras, phones) should not be brought with.
• Visit early in the day to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
• Respect the silence. The temple provides a peaceful space to pray and meditate.
• Take a walk around the gardens to enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Required Time

• 1 to 2 hours (approx.)

Restricted Items

• Pets, cameras, mobile phones, food, and large bags

More About Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple is a significant spiritual and architectural site, not only because of its beauty but also because of the universal message it delivers: peace and unity. While technically considered a Baha’i House of Worship, visitors from all religious traditions are welcome to participate in its prayers and meditation sessions at any time during the day. Visitors may experience its spiritual serenity through quiet reflection or attending one of many daily prayer sessions hosted at this beautiful structure.

The Baha’i belief inspired the temple’s lotus flower design in the unity of all peoples and religions. Twenty-seven white marble petals arranged in three rows give the appearance of blooming lotuses; nine smaller ponds enhance their visual beauty further.

Inside the temple, there are no statues or idols; rather, its focus lies on quiet reflection and meditation. The interior was specifically designed to foster an introspective and relaxing ambiance.

Gardens surrounding the Lotus Temple are well-kept and provide visitors with a peaceful stroll or place for rest by the water. In addition, this Temple Complex includes a visitor center that provides information on the Baha’i faith, teachings, and architecture of the Lotus Temple.

Architecture of Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple stands out as one of the world’s most striking and breathtaking architectural designs. Made out of white marble, its lotus-shaped structure resembles an open lotus while its petals have been carefully arranged into three groups that create nine sides of its design.

The Lotus Temple’s central prayer hall can hold approximately 2,500 people simultaneously. The room features natural lighting streaming through its petals to provide a soothing and peaceful ambiance. The design of the Lotus Temple draws upon Baha’i philosophy which emphasizes unity, peace, and the interdependence between all religions and cultures.

The Temple complex features beautifully landscaped gardens, reflecting pools, and walkways, which help foster a tranquil and soothing atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit Lotus Temple

Winter months (October to March) in Delhi provide the ideal conditions for exploring Lotus Temple and its grounds, with temperatures being cool enough for outdoor exploration and the enjoyment of walking through its gardens. When visiting Lotus Temple during these winter months (October to March), it’s best to take advantage of pleasant outdoor exploration conditions that enhance your experience further.

Visit early morning or late afternoon for optimal crowd avoidance and to experience its peaceful and tranquil ambiance. Although open all year, crowds tend to appear on weekends and holidays.

How to Reach Lotus Temple

Lotus Temple is centrally located in South Delhi, making it easily accessible by various modes of transportation.

• By Air: The Indira Gandhi International Airport is around 20 km from the Lotus Temple. A taxi or private car will take approximately 30 minutes to reach the temple.
• By Metro: The nearest metro station is Kalkaji Mandir Metro Station, which is about a 10-minute walk from the temple. You can also take the Violet Line of the metro to reach this station.
• By Bus: Several DTC buses pass through the Lotus Temple area. You can use local bus routes to reach the temple.
• By Auto/Taxi: You can also opt for an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach the temple from different parts of the city.

Tips for Visiting Lotus Temple

• Please observe quiet and respectful behavior while visiting a temple, as its purpose is for meditation and prayer.
• No photography is allowed within the temple, so be mindful to follow its rules.
• Dress modestly—cover your shoulders and knees before entering the temple.
• Plan your visit during the weekdays to avoid large crowds.
• If you’re visiting with family or children, take a stroll through the Gardens and soak up their serene atmosphere.