Delhi is a city where age-old heritage meets modern vibrancy, and it features some of the most incredible structures in the world. However, none are as easily recognisable or as world-renowned as the Lotus Temple. If you’re a traveller searching for spiritual rejuvenation, architectural design inspiration, or a simple getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Lotus Temple is an unavoidable stop. As a location operated under the Baháʼí faith, the Lotus Temple is much more than a place of worship; it is regarded as an expression of unity, peace, and inclusiveness. This extensive guide provides you with everything you need to know about its fascinating history, visitor information, attractions in proximity, and the transportation options to travel to the temple.
History of Lotus Temple:
The Baháʼí Lotus Temple, Delhi, or Baháʼí House of Worship, was designed to be a place of peace and unity. The Bahá’í faith, founded in Persia (modern-day Iran) in 1863, posits that humanity is one and welcomes those from all backgrounds. In this spirit, the Lotus Temple was constructed as an open place of worship, regardless of religion, caste, or creed12.
The project was granted in the middle of the 1970s, when Iranian architect Fariborz Sahba was chosen to design the temple. At 28 years old, Sahba went to India to explore and better understand India’s spiritual and cultural climate. He quickly discovered that to many religions in India, the lotus flower had deep symbolism as a symbol of purity and prosperity in Hinduism, of peace in Buddhism, of love in Jainism, and in Islam as immortality. He took this insight and coupled it with his contextual inspirations to create it in the form of a lotus flower, which would become a symbol of harmony for the world.
Construction and Architectural Phenomenon:
Rúhíyyih Khánum laid the foundation in October 1977, and construction on the temple started in 1980, as she was one of the critical Baháʼí figures in history. Flint and Neill, a British company, did the structural engineering along with Larsen & Toubro’s ECC Construction Group, which was responsible for building the temple. The significant financial contributions came from Ardishír Rustampúr of Hyderabad, Sindh (Pakistan), who gave almost all his life savings to the temple’s construction.
It was finished in December 1986 after a construction cost of around $10.56 million, and more than 8,000 Baháʼís from 107 different countries attended its dedication, signifying its international importance. On the first day of opening, which was January 1, 1987, there were over 10,000 visitors. Architecturally, the temple now has 27 marble petals, grouped in threes that form the nine sides, and is intended to be inclusive. The temple’s central hall is 34 meters tall, seats 2,500 people, and has a total of nine reflecting pools with a garden of 26 acres, all constructed from the same white marble from Mount Penteli in Greece.
Symbolism and Spiritual Significance:
The temple comes to reflect the lotus flower motif for which it was chosen. The lotus flower, like the temple, belongs to the Indian world, and the lotus flower represents purity from the mud, spiritual illumination, and the universality of divinity. The temple’s nine-sided circular shape can be found in other Baháʼí Houses of Worship, demonstrating the spirit of unity and the inclusivity of the faith.
The interior of the temple is stripped of idols, images, and any ceremonial symbols because in the Baháʼí faith, worship from the individual to God must be direct and never mediated by someone or something else. The readings can either be from Baháʼí scripture or other world religions, but ritual collectiveness, or readings that are not from the scripture, are not allowed.
Lotus Temple Timing:
The Lotus Temple is open to visitors six days a week, from Tuesday to Sunday. It remains closed on Mondays. Below are the detailed Lotus Temple timings:
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Mornings and evenings during the winter months (October to February) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Tips for a Sustainable Visit:
Do’s:
- Silence is mandatory inside the prayer hall.
- Facilities such as drinking water, an audio-visual room, and an information centre are available.
- Visitors are advised to check for updated timings during public holidays or special events, as they might affect operating hours.
- Additionally, to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the temple, it’s best to visit during non-peak hours, usually early mornings.
- Modest attire is recommended as a mark of respect.
Don’ts:
- Photography and videography inside the main prayer hall is not allowed.
- Do not leave in the middle of the prayers.
- Do not carry your mobile phones inside the temple.
- Do not carry any food or beverages inside the temple.
Lotus Temple Tickets:
The fact that entering the Lotus Temple is free for all guests and no requirement for any Lotus Temple tickets is among its most attractive attributes. The oneness and universal access tenets of the Bahá’í Faith are reflected in this inclusion. Donations, however, are accepted and go toward maintaining the temple.
How to Reach the Lotus Temple?
The Lotus Temple is located in the Kalkaji area of South Delhi and is easily accessible via multiple modes of transportation:
- By Metro: The nearest metro station is Kalkaji Mandir (Violet Line). From there, the temple is a short 5-10 minute walk. Metro travel in Delhi is highly recommended as it’s efficient and avoids the city’s traffic congestion.
- By Bus: Several DTC buses operate routes that pass near the temple. Local buses are an economical option, but they may require some patience due to their frequency and crowds.
- By Car or Taxi: You can drive or hire a car to the Lotus Temple. Parking facilities are available near the premises.
- By Auto-Rickshaw: Autos are a cost-effective and convenient option for short distances within Delhi. Ensure to negotiate or confirm the fare before starting your journey.
For international tourists, it’s worth noting that the Indira Gandhi International Airport is about 18 kilometres away, and you can easily reach the temple via metro or taxi.
Other Attractions Near Lotus Temple:
The Lotus Temple is an essential stop on any visit to Delhi, simply because it is not only a beautiful, peaceful experience, but it’s also an architectural marvel. But the beauty of the Lotus Temple is not just that you can visit this remarkable site, it is also that, because of its central location in South Delhi, the Lotus Temple’s surrounding area has a wide variety of historic, spiritual, cultural, and ecological sites. It offers something for everyone, and there are so many things of interest for people of all interests; history, spirituality, shopping, outdoor activities, etc. Below you will find the most fascinating destinations to visit close to the Lotus Temple, each with its own story and beauty.
ISKCON Temple:
Distance from Lotus Temple: 2 km
Location: Iskcon Temple Rd, Sant Nagar, East of Kailash, New Delhi
Timings: 4:30 AM-9:00 PM
The ISKCON Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha, is one of Delhi’s prominent places of worship. The temple is part of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness and was built in 1988 in the city. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture, location, and lively spiritual environment. At the ISKCON temple, you will see beautifully decorated idols of Lord Krishna, Radha, Lord Rama, and Sita.
The temple has a unique museum which brings to life the stories of the Ramayana and Mahabharata through well-designed displays and shows. Visitors and devotees can participate in daily aartis, be a part of well-delivered kirtans, and enjoy prasadam (food that has been blessed). ISKCON Temple is more than simply a temple; it is a centre that encourages culture, music, and community, and has attracted visitors from around the world.
Humayun Tomb:
Distance from Lotus Temple: 5 km
Location: Mathura Rd, Nizamuddin, Nizamuddin East, New Delhi
Timings: 6:00 AM- 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹30
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Humayun’s Tomb is an absolute gem of Mughal architecture. Built in the 16th century by Empress Bega Begum in honour of her husband, Emperor Humayun, the tomb sits on more than 50 hectares of magnificent Charbagh gardens. It offers the ideal aesthetic mix of Persian, Turkish, and Indian design features. The structure is made of red sandstone and white marble, and includes stunning incidental carvings and latticework.
The interesting nature came from the charm, peace, and tranquillity of the surrounding gardens, water channels, and pathways – perfect for history lovers, photographers, or anyone looking for a peaceful escape from the extraordinary. The tomb complex includes several additional Mughal-era monuments, which are an extra layer to your lovely historical experience.
Kalkaji Mandir
Distance from Lotus Temple: Walking distance
Location: Kalkaji, New Delhi
Timings: 4:00 AM-11:30 PM
Kalkaji Mandir is one of the oldest and most important Hindu temples in Delhi, dedicated to Goddess Kali. Legend has it that the temple has been around for a long time, harkening back to the days of the Mahabharata. The current building is of 18th-century origin and was later modified and expanded.
In particular, the temple erupts with vibrancy and devotion during the nine nights of the Navratri festival, when thousands of worshippers visit to perform their puja and rituals to honour and celebrate the goddess. The spiritual energy of the temple, the crowds, and its location near the Lotus Temple mean it is a good opportunity for anyone interested in the religious aspects of Delhi.
Lajpat Nagar Market
Distance from Lotus Temple: Approx. 4 km
Location: Lajpat Nagar II, Lajpat Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 110024
Timings: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Tuesday to Sunday); Closed on Mondays
Lajpat Nagar Market, or Central Market, is a popular, busy shopping destination in South Delhi that offers a vast selection of affordable clothing, accessories, home decor, and textiles. The market is named after Lala Lajpat Rai, a freedom fighter and well-known as the “Lion of Punjab”. The market consists of outdoor stalls and stores, selling everything from footwear and jewellery to bags and cosmetics, where haggling and bargaining are common. The market was created after the partition of India and Pakistan in the 1950s, as a place for Hindus and Sikhs moving from Pakistan to settle. In addition to shopping, Lajpat Nagar is also a paradise for foodies with many stalls of street food. The market can easily be accessed via the Lajpat Nagar Metro Station (Pink and Violet Lines).
Read More: Delhi Darshan Tour by Car
Planning Your Day Around The Lotus Temple:
If you would like to maximise your visit, you might consider starting your day at the Lotus Temple and exploring a variety of spiritual, historical, and cultural sites. From a serene environment in the Lotus Temple, to the spiritual energy of the ISKCON or the peace at Kalkaji Mandir, to the stunning Mughal gardens at Humayun’s Tomb, and your day in Lajpat Nagar Market for shopping and dining… the possibilities are endless.
The rich tapestry of attractions in and around Delhi, near the Lotus Temple, means every visitor will find something to treasure, whether it be history, spirituality, art, or nature. Each site, while unique in its own right, will introduce you to another aspect of the city and is sure to add to your journey across Delhi.
