Experience the serene beauty of Delhi’s Lotus Temple, an architectural marvel and symbol of spiritual unity. This travel guide delivers everything you need for planning your visit—from entry timings and brief history to metro access, key facts, nearby attractions, and practical tips for a smooth journey.
History of the Lotus Temple
The Lotus Temple, completed in 1986, is a Baháʼí House of Worship renowned for its magnificent lotus flower-inspired architecture. Crafted from white marble, it features 27 petals that form nine sides, with a central hall accommodating up to 2,500 visitors. The temple openly welcomes people of all faiths to meditate, pray, or simply absorb its tranquil ambiance within lush gardens and reflective pools.
Opening Timings & Ticket Information
Visiting Lotus Temple is free for everyone. Timings vary seasonally, so plan accordingly.
| Month/Season | Opening Time | Closing Time | Closed On |
|---|---|---|---|
| October–March | 9:30 AM | 5:30 PM | Monday |
| April–September | 9:00 AM | 7:00 PM | Monday |
| Typical Visit Duration | 1–2 hours |
How to Reach: Nearest Metro Stations
Getting to Lotus Temple is easy and convenient via Delhi Metro and road transport. The closest metro station is within walking distance.
| Metro Station | Line | Distance to Temple | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kalkaji Mandir | Violet/Magenta | 500–550 m | 7 min |
| Nehru Place | Violet Line | 850 m | 10 min |
| Okhla NSIC | Magenta Line | 1.3 km | 15 min |
Taxi/Car Distance from Central Delhi Metro Stations
Here’s a handy table of approximate taxi distances from key metro stations in Central Delhi to Lotus Temple:
| Source Metro Station | Distance to Temple (km) | Travel Time (min) |
|---|---|---|
| Rajiv Chowk | 14.5 | 35 |
| New Delhi | 13.8 | 30 |
| Patel Chowk | 15.4 | 35 |
| Central Secretariat | 17.2 | 35 |
| JLN Stadium | 10.6 | 25 |
| Mandi House | 12.8 | 30 |
| Pragati Maidan | 9.4 | 20 |
| Barakhamba Road | 13.0 | 25 |
| Khan Market | 16.0 | 30 |
| ITO | 13.2 | 25 |
| Janpath | 15.2 | 30 |
| Lajpat Nagar | 4.5 | 12 |
| AIIMS | 8.1 | 20 |
| Hauz Khas | 9.7 | 22 |
| Saket | 12.3 | 28 |
Note: Times may vary due to traffic conditions.
Must-Know Facts
- The temple’s 27 marble petals symbolize unity and peace.
- Prayer sessions feature texts from diverse religions.
- Surrounded by nine ponds and sprawling gardens, it’s ideal for reflection and photography.
- No offerings, rituals, or religious icons are permitted inside.
- Capacity: Up to 2,500 people in central prayer hall.
Allowed & Disallowed Activities
Allowed:
- Silent prayer and meditation
- Photography (outside and in gardens)
- Guided tours and educational visits
- Casual walks in garden areas
Disallowed:
- Loud talking, singing or chanting
- Rituals, ceremonies, or offerings
- Eating/drinking inside
- Pets/animals (except service dogs)
- Commercial filming/photography (without permission)
- Smoking, alcohol, vaping
Nearest Attractions
After exploring the Lotus Temple, visit these nearby sites for a full Delhi experience:
| Attraction | Distance from Lotus Temple | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| ISKCON Temple | 1 km | Spiritual, vegetarian food |
| Kalkaji Mandir | 750 m | Ancient Hindu temple |
| Nehru Place Market | 1.5 km | Electronics, eateries |
| Tughlaqabad Fort | 5.8 km | Historic ruins, views |
| Humayun’s Tomb | 6.5 km | UNESCO site, Mughal architecture |
Tips for a Great Visit
- Visit on weekday mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds.
- Mondays are closed to visitors.
- Respect silence inside the temple.
- Carry a water bottle; food and drinks are not allowed inside.
- Dress modestly—covered shoulders/knees recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Lotus Temple’s entry fee?
Entry is absolutely free for all visitors.
Can I reach the temple via Delhi Metro?
Yes! The nearest station is Kalkaji Mandir Metro, just a short 7-minute walk away.
Can children or older adults visit easily?
The temple is wheelchair-accessible, and gardens are flat and easy to walk.
Are there any food stalls nearby?
Visit Nehru Place market for cafés and eateries; no food is sold inside temple grounds.
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