What is BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham Mandir Delhi? History, Architecture, Location & Distance of Akshardham Mandir

The Akshardham Mandir, also known as the Swaminarayan Akshardham, is a grand spiritual and cultural complex located in New Delhi, India. The mandir was inaugurated on November 6, 2005, by Pramukh Swami Maharaj in the presence of the then-President of India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. It stands as a remarkable feat of architecture and a significant religious site dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the millennia-old Hindu traditions. 

Akshardham Mandir is a spiritual haven and a cultural landmark that represents the richness of India’s ancient art, architecture and spirituality. It was created by the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), an organization dedicated to promoting the teachings and values of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

The word “Akshardham” means “the divine abode of God” in Sanskrit. The central deity of the mandir is Bhagwan Swaminarayan, a revered spiritual leader and deity in the Swaminarayan tradition. The mandir aims to inspire visitors to explore and embrace the spiritual values of compassion, humility and devotion. Through its intricate architecture, serene ambiance and various spiritual and educational exhibits, Akshardham Mandir provides a space for reflection, worship and the promotion of timeless Hindu values.

The temple complex also serves as a place of worship and meditation, providing a serene and peaceful environment for spiritual reflection. Daily rituals, aartis and spiritual discourses conducted at the mandir foster a sense of devotion and community among the devotees. The exhibitions, including the Hall of Values and the giant screen film on Neelkanth Varni, further educate visitors about the spiritual ideals and historical significance of Hindu traditions.

Through its dedication to promoting spiritual values and cultural awareness, Akshardham Mandir stands as a timeless symbol of divine inspiration and moral guidance, inviting all to explore and deepen their spiritual journey.

The idea for the temple was conceived by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS). Inspired by the teachings of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, Pramukh Swami Maharaj envisioned a grand temple that would capture India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

The construction of Akshardham Temple began in November 2000 on a 90 acre site along the Yamuna River in New Delhi. The project was a colossal endeavor, involving the collaboration of thousands of artisans, volunteers and devotees. These artisans used traditional craftsmanship to carve intricate designs into pink sandstone from Rajasthan and white marble from Carrara, Italy.

After five years of tireless work, the temple was completed and inaugurated on November 6, 2005. The inauguration ceremony was a grand event attended by numerous dignitaries, including the then-President of India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. The completion of Akshardham Temple marked the realization of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s vision—a place that would serve as a center for spirituality, culture and education and also inspire visitors from around the world.

Today, Akshardham Temple stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the timeless values of Hinduism, attracting millions of visitors who come to admire its architectural splendor and experience its spiritual ambiance.

The Akshardham Mandir in Delhi is a breathtaking example of traditional Hindu temple architecture, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and exquisite design. The temple’s architecture draws inspiration from ancient Indian styles, particularly the Nagaradi, Dravidian and Vesara traditions, creating a harmonious blend that reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Main Temple Structure

The central structure of Akshardham Mandir is built from pink sandstone and white marble. Standing 141 feet high, 316 feet wide and 356 feet long, the temple is adorned with over 20,000 sculptures and carvings of Hindu deities, mythological figures and motifs depicting flora and fauna. The main shrine houses the murti (sacred image) of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, along with the idols of his spiritual successors, Gunatitanand Swami and Gopalanand Swami.

Architectural Elements

• Domes and Pillars: The temple features a central dome rising 72 feet high, symbolizing spiritual ascent. It is supported by 234 intricately carved pillars, each depicting scenes from Hindu scriptures and mythology.
• Carvings and Sculptures: Every inch of the temple’s surface is covered with detailed carvings that include depictions of gods, goddesses, dancers, musicians, and animals. These carvings showcase the skill and dedication of thousands of artisans.
• Yagnapurush Kund: Adjacent to the main temple is the Yagnapurush Kund, the largest stepwell in the world. It combines architectural beauty with spiritual symbolism, featuring 2,870 steps and 108 small shrines dedicated to various deities.

Sustainability and Engineering

The construction of Akshardham Mandir incorporated sustainable practices, including rainwater harvesting systems and solar energy panels. The temple’s foundation is reinforced to withstand seismic activity, ensuring its longevity and resilience. The Akshardham Mandir is not just an architectural marvel but also a spiritual beacon, embodying the timeless traditions and values of Hindu culture.

The Akshardham Mandir is located on NH 24, Pramukh Swami Maharaj Marg, Pandav Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi, 110092. It is situated 31 Kms from Delhi, 11 Kms from New Delhi, 18.2 Kms from Noida and 39 Kms from Gurgaon.

• Location: NH 24, Pramukh Swami Maharaj Marg, Pandav Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi, 110092
• Nearest Metro Station: Akshardham Metro Station (Blue Line)