India is home to two magnificent Akshardham temples — one in New Delhi and the other in Gandhinagar. Both are managed by Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) and are dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan.
These temples are not just places of worship. They are vast cultural campuses showcasing India’s spiritual heritage through grand architecture, exhibitions, boat rides, gardens, and musical fountain shows. Visitors usually spend 3–5 hours exploring each complex.
Both temples follow similar rules, including being closed every Monday, strict security checks, and modest dress requirements. Entry to the Mandir is free, while exhibitions and water shows require tickets.
Below is a complete visitor guide covering timings, programs, travel tips, and important rules for both Akshardham temples.
Daily Timings – Swaminarayan Akshardham, New Delhi
(Located near Yamuna Bank)
Swaminarayan Akshardham Delhi
| Activity / Program | Timing |
| Weekly Holiday | Closed Every Monday |
| First Entry (Complex) | 10:00 AM |
| Last Entry (Complex) | 6:30 PM |
| Mandir Darshan | 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Aarti | 10:30 AM & 6:00 PM |
| Exhibition Tickets | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Musical Fountain Show | After sunset (approx. 7:15 PM – 7:45 PM) |
Entry Fees (Delhi)
- Mandir & Complex Entry: Free
- Exhibition Combo: Adults ₹255 | Seniors ₹205 | Children ₹155
(Hall of Values, IMAX film, Cultural Boat Ride) - Water Show: Approx. ₹95 (Adults)
Daily Timings – Swaminarayan Akshardham, Gandhinagar (Gujarat)
Swaminarayan Akshardham Gandhinagar
| Activity / Program | Timing |
| Weekly Holiday | Closed Every Monday |
| Temple Opening | 9:30 AM |
| Mandir Darshan | 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM |
| Exhibitions | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (ticket closes 5:30 PM) |
| Abhishek Mandapam | 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Sat-Chit-Anand Water Show | After sunset (approx. 7:00 PM – 7:30 PM) |
Entry Fees (Gandhinagar)
- Mandir & Garden Entry: Free
- Exhibitions: Adults ~₹60 | Children ~₹40
- Water Show: Approx. ₹100 (Adults)
Best Time to Visit Akshardham
Best Season
October to March is most comfortable, especially in Delhi where summers are harsh.
Best Day
Tuesday to Thursday (lighter crowds compared to weekends).
Best Time of Day
Arrive by 10:00 AM to cover exhibitions peacefully, then stay for the evening water show.
Avoid public holidays and weekends if you want shorter queues.
How to Reach Akshardham
Delhi Akshardham
- Metro: Akshardham Metro Station (Blue Line)
- Road: Easily accessible via taxis and buses
- Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport
Gandhinagar Akshardham
- Road: Well connected from Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar
- Nearest Railway: Gandhinagar Capital / Ahmedabad Junction
- Nearest Airport: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport
Dress Code & Visitor Rules (Both Temples)
Strict Security
- Mobile phones, cameras, smartwatches, headphones — not allowed
- Free cloakroom available at entrance
Dress Code (Enforced)
- Shoulders, chest, navel, and upper arms must be covered
- Lower clothing must be below knee length
- If needed, free sarongs are provided with refundable deposit
Food
Outside food is not allowed. Both campuses have Premvati Food Courts serving clean vegetarian meals and snacks.
Tips for Visitors
- Allocate at least 4 hours for full experience
- Book exhibition tickets immediately after entry
- Sit near center rows for best water show view
- Visit early to avoid long cloakroom queues
- Carry minimal belongings
FAQs
Q: Is entry free?
A: Yes, Mandir darshan and complex entry are free at both temples.
Q: Are exhibitions mandatory?
A: No. They are optional but highly recommended.
Q: Can children visit?
A: Yes, both campuses are family-friendly.
Q: Are Mondays open?
A: No. Both temples are closed every Monday.
