Indian Temples

Brilliantly showcases the essence of India’s ancient architecture, traditions and timeless spiritual messages. The Akshardham experience is an enlightening journey through India’s glorious art, values and contributions for the progress, happiness and harmony of mankind.

The grand, ancient-styled Swaminarayan Akshardham complex was built in only five years through the blessings of HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) and the colossal devotional efforts of 11,000 artisans and BAPS volunteers. The complex was inaugurated on 6 November, 2005.

Akshardham means the eternal, divine abode of the supreme God, the abode of eternal values and virtues of Akshar as defined in the Vedas and Upanishads where divine bhakti, purity and peace forever pervades. For the first time ever in the world witness the heritage of India in all its facets, insights and beauty at the Swaminarayan Akshardham through its monument, exhibitions, verdant gardens and other attractions.

You will have to leave all your materialism before you enter the hallowed shrine. Put off shoes, leather purse, belts, cell phones and other accessories as a security measure with the temple authorities. Walk on the chaste pavement that reflects the sanctity of this eminent temple in its heart. Gaze anywhere..and you will be overwhelmed to see immense beauty sprawled all around you in exquisitely carved pillars, ornate domes, quadrangled shikhars, reincarnated in a pink and white attire. Enter the ‘Mandir’, standing with its head held high at 141 ft. Before you reach the sanctum sanctorum, spare out some time to appreciate the impressive pillars, hauling the colossal alcove on their shoulders. They are beautiful. You can even figure out consummate artistry – flora, fauna, dancers, musicians and Gods – crafted on their surfaces from top to bottom! Amazing, aren’t they? The Garbhagriha (Inner Sanctum) reminds one of the Gothic architecture, standing like a silent spectator of divine divinity, where you can even hear your heart beat!

Remember to behold the magnificent Mandovar, the ornate exterior wall of the Akshardham Temple. In the last 800 years this is the only and largest, intricately carved Mandovar in India, embellished with sculptured stone effigies of India’s great rishis, sadhus, devotees, acharyas and divine incarnations. Walk around the temple premises to reach the tranquil Narayan Sarovar. In the evenings, the lake glitters like a sparkling diamond amidst floating lotus leaves – as if pride nestling amidst purity and detachment. You will be amazed to know that the lake contains holy waters from 151 rivers and lakes sanctified by Bhagwan Swaminarayan, including Mansarovar in Tibet.