Bucketlist Travels logo

Travel bucket list idea:

Akshardham Temple

Last updated: 07 April, 2024

Five years in the making with a vast workforce, the huge Akshardham Temple complex was completed in 2005 by the Swaminarayan sect of Hinduism. Drawing on the venerable traditions of temple architecture, colossal amounts of carving were augmented by spacious parkland and gardens.

Yet it’s more than just a temple – a musical fountain, animatronic displays and a ‘Hall of Values’ aims to distil the wisdom and spirituality of India in a kind of cultural campus, all infused with Swaminarayan’s philosophy.

It was built according to ancient Hindu texts, which describe specific methods for constructing Hindu temples. 7,000 artisan sculptors and thousands of volunteers helped build the vast building, adorned with thousands of intricate carvings including sages, rishis, devotees and playful elephants.

Logistics

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

Akshardham stands on the eastern edge of New Delhi – there’s plenty of car parking available, but the roads in this area are often congested during morning and evening rush hour. You may find it faster and simpler to use the Delhi Metro and make for Akshardham station.

The temple complex is free to visit (though tickets are required for exhibitions and the water show); there are no guided tours. Dress modestly – in particular no shorts, short skirts or tank tops.

When to do it

It’s open all year Tuesday to Sunday. Closed Mondays.

Mornings and late afternoons are the most pleasant times with the latter being more practical for catching the musical fountain. May and June are ferociously hot and uncomfortable.

Who to go with: organised tours

4

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Private Spiritual Tour: Akshardham Temple, Lotus Temple & ISKCON in South Delhi

  • New Delhi

Private Spiritual Tour: Akshardham Temple, Lotus Temple & ISKCON in South Delhi

Viator

Book the tour offered by one of the most reputable local tour companies in India! As a family business since 1971, the company specializes in hosting international travelers from U.S., Europe, Australia, and everywhere else, and provide high quality service and cultural experience. After complimentary pickup at your accommodation in Delhi by a private vehicle, start your spiritual journey to South Delhi with your friendly, professional private guide and driver. You will visit some of the most popular and spiritual attractions in South Delhi including the immense Akshardham Temple, the renowned Bahai house of worship named Lotus Temple, the Hare Krishna’s ISKCON Temple, and Chattarpur Temple (also known as Shree Adya Katyayani Shaktipeeth Mandir). Enjoy the undivided attention from your guide who will provide insightful commentary throughout the day at each attraction and point out other landmarks en route.

Price ₹4,500

Min age 0

Rating 4.58 / 5 [24 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

Viator Logo
Website >

New Delhi: Akshardham Light and Water Show

  • New Delhi

New Delhi: Akshardham Light and Water Show

Viator

As the sun sets, please take your seat at this traditional step well and experience an eternal truth. Transport yourself to the courtyard of the gods and watch the innocence of children challenge the powers of the mighty!

Price $61

Min age 0

Rating 4.86 / 5 [22 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

Viator Logo
Website >

Mughal Heritage Tour Including Lodhi Garden, Humayun Tomb and Akshardham Temple

  • New Delhi

Mughal Heritage Tour Including Lodhi Garden, Humayun Tomb and Akshardham Temple

Viator

The tour gives a deep insight into Mughal rule, and the monumental history of Delhi. Experience faith in the historic Sai Baba Temple and learn about the saint who changed the life of many. Stroll through the Lodhi Garden and experience history at the Humayun Tomb. From there head to yet another monumental wonder, the Akshardham Temple.

Price $72

Min age 0

Rating 4.46 / 5 [15 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

Viator Logo
Website >

Akshardham Temple Evening Tour with Musical Fountain Show

  • New Delhi

Akshardham Temple Evening Tour with Musical Fountain Show

Viator

Explore the marvelous Akshardham Temple and witness the enormity of this exceptional monument under the guidance and knowledge of your expert guide. Visit the temple and appreciate its splendor, and as the sun sets, watch the amazing musical fountain show.

Price $47

Min age 0

Rating 4.57 / 5 [14 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

Viator Logo
Website >

Destination guides

2

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Delhi

  • India

Delhi

Destination guide

India’s intense sight- and monument-filled capital is a compelling blend of the modern Raj-influenced New Delhi, and the sights, sounds and smells of Old Delhi’s heaving and exotic lanes and bazaars.

India’s Golden Triangle

Destination guide

India’s cultural essence combined with its most iconic sights and greatest bucket list experiences, all distilled into one compact, diverse and vibrant region.

Round-ups

1

Round-ups that include this experience

100 World’s greatest historic buildings

Inspiration

The great civilisations of the past have left a legacy of constructions that still stand out and inspire. Built without the wonders of 20th-century technology, many are also monumental feats of engineering; others offer such grace and beauty, that they’ll literally take your breath away.