Lotus Temple | New Delhi

Information

Landmark: Lotus Temple
City: New Delhi
Country: India
Continent: Asia

Lotus Temple, New Delhi, India, Asia

The Lotus Temple is a Baháʼí House of Worship located in New Delhi, India. It is characterized by its flower-like shape and open structure.

Visual Characteristics

The structure consists of 27 free-standing marble-clad "petals" arranged in clusters of three, forming nine sides. The exterior is clad in white limestone. The central prayer hall has a height of approximately 34.3 meters (112.5 feet) and a diameter of 75 meters (246 feet). The architectural style is modern, with influences from parametric design.

Location & Access Logistics

The Lotus Temple is situated in Kalkaji, South Delhi. It is approximately 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) south of Connaught Place, the city center. The nearest metro station is Kalkaji Mandir (Violet Line and Magenta Line), located about 500 meters (0.3 miles) from the temple entrance. Parking is available on-site for vehicles, with designated areas for cars and buses. Entry to the temple complex is via pedestrian walkways.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Lotus Temple began in 1980 and was completed in 1986. It was designed by Iranian architect Fariborz Sahba. The original purpose was to serve as a place of worship open to all religions, reflecting the Baháʼí principle of the unity of God, the unity of religions, and the unity of humanity.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can enter the central prayer hall for silent meditation and prayer. The surrounding gardens and reflecting pools are accessible for walking. Photography is permitted in the gardens but not inside the prayer hall. Entry to the temple complex is free.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the complex. Shaded areas are provided by the structure itself and by trees in the gardens. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the complex. Food vendors are not located within the temple complex, but are available in the vicinity outside the main gates.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, the early morning (around sunrise) and late afternoon (before sunset) offer optimal lighting conditions on the white marble. The best months for weather are generally from October to March, when temperatures are cooler. The temple is open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM during summer months (April to September) and 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM during winter months (October to March). It is closed on Mondays.

Facts & Legends

The design of the Lotus Temple is inspired by the shape of the lotus flower, a symbol of purity and divinity in many cultures. The nine-sided structure is also significant, as nine is the number of perfection and completion in the Baháʼí Faith. The central dome is not a solid structure but an open space framed by steel ribs.