Everything You Need to Know About The Lotus Temple Delhi

March 11, 2025 pksblogs6192526@gmail.com

The Lotus Temple is a beautiful and peaceful place of worship located in New Delhi, India. It is shaped like a lotus flower, which is a symbol of purity, peace, and unity. Lotus Temple, also known as the Bahai Temple, Bahai Temple Delhi, Bahai Lotus Temple, Bahai Temple India and Lotus Temple mandir. The temple was designed by Fariborz Sahba, an architect from Iran and Canada, and was built by Larsen & Toubro, an Indian construction company. The construction started in 1980 and was completed in 1986, taking six years to finish. Since its opening on December 24, 1986, the temple has become one of the most visited religious sites in the world.

लोटस टेंपल (कमल मंदिर)

लोटस टेंपल, जिसे कमल मंदिर भी कहा जाता है, भारत की राजधानी नई दिल्ली में स्थित एक प्रसिद्ध धार्मिक स्थल है। यह मंदिर बहाई धर्म का पूजा स्थल है, लेकिन यहाँ सभी धर्मों के लोग शांति और ध्यान के लिए आ सकते हैं। इसकी अनोखी कमल के आकार की वास्तुकला इसे विश्वभर में प्रसिद्ध बनाती है। मंदिर में कोई मूर्ति या धार्मिक अनुष्ठान नहीं होते, बल्कि यहाँ मौन ध्यान को प्राथमिकता दी जाती है। पर्यटकों और श्रद्धालुओं के लिए यह निःशुल्क खुला रहता है और यह विश्व के सबसे अधिक देखे जाने वाले स्थलों में से एक है।

History of the Lotus Temple

Lotus Temple is one of the most famous religious sites in India. It was designed by a well-known Iranian-Canadian architect, Fariborz Sahba, and was completed in 1986. The temple is a Bahá’í House of Worship, which means it is open to people of all religions.

How Was the Temple Built?

The construction of the Lotus Temple took nearly ten years.
Many Bahá’í followers from around the world contributed money and support to help build it.
The temple’s design is inspired by the lotus flower, which is a symbol of purity, peace, and enlightenment in many religions and cultures.

Why is it Called the Lotus Temple?

The Lotus temple Mandir is shaped like a lotus flower because the lotus is a symbol of beauty, spirituality, and harmony. The structure has 27 white marble petals arranged in clusters of three to form nine sides, making it look like a blooming lotus.

लोटस टेंपल का इतिहास

लोटस टेंपल का निर्माण 1980 के दशक में हुआ और इसे 1986 में जनता के लिए खोला गया। इस मंदिर का डिज़ाइन ईरानी-कैनेडियन वास्तुकार फ़रीबुर्ज़ सहबा ने तैयार किया था। मंदिर का निर्माण बहाई समुदाय द्वारा कराया गया था, जो कि एक ऐसा धर्म है जो सभी धर्मों की एकता में विश्वास रखता है। मंदिर की संरचना में संगमरमर, सीमेंट और डोलोमाइट का उपयोग किया गया है, और इसकी 27 विशाल पंखुड़ियाँ एक खुले कमल के फूल की तरह दिखाई देती हैं। यह मंदिर एकता, शांति और धार्मिक सद्भाव का प्रतीक माना जाता है।

Structure and Design of the Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple is one of the most beautiful and unique buildings in the world, known for its peaceful environment and stunning architecture. Designed to resemble a blooming white lotus flower. The temple is constructed using 27 large marble petals, arranged in groups of three to form nine sides, with a smooth, curved structure that has no straight lines, mimicking the natural shape of a lotus. Made entirely of white marble from Greece, this material comes from the same mines that provided marble for the Taj Mahal, making it even more special. The temple has nine entrances, welcoming people from all religions and backgrounds, leading to a vast central prayer hall that can hold up to 2,500 people. Unlike traditional places of worship, the hall is simple and silent, with no idols, statues, or religious symbols, offering a serene space for meditation, prayer, and spiritual reflection.

Fariborz Sahba : The Architect Behind the Lotus Temple

Fariborz Sahba is an Iranian architect known for designing the Lotus Temple in India. He was born in 1948 and has designed many beautiful buildings. The Lotus Temple, built in New Delhi, is famous for its flower-like shape and is a place where people of all religions can pray. Fariborz Sahba has also worked on other big projects, including gardens and cultural centers.

The Bahá’í Faith and Its Significance

The Bahá’í Faith is a religion that teaches unity, peace, and equality. It believes that all religions come from the same God and that people should live together in harmony. The faith was founded in the 19th century by Bahá’u’lláh, who taught that all human beings are equal and that the world should unite as one.

Core Beliefs of the Bahá’í Faith

The Bahá’í Faith is based on three main principles:

The Unity of God – There is only one God, who is worshiped in different ways by different religions.
The Unity of Religion – All major religions (like Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and others) come from the same divine source.
The Unity of Humanity – All people, no matter their race, nationality, or background, are equal.

What Makes the Bahá’í Faith Special?

It teaches love, kindness, and justice for everyone.
It promotes education, gender equality, and peace in society.
It does not have priests or religious rituals—instead, followers pray and meditate in silence.

The 9 Bahá’í Temples Around the World – Symbols of Peace and Unity

The Bahá’í Temples, also known as Bahá’í Houses of Worship, are built in different parts of the world. These temples welcome people of all religions to pray and meditate in silence. Each temple is unique in design but follows the same principle—bringing humanity together as one.

Where Are the 9 Bahá’í Temples Located?

Lotus Temple – India (New Delhi)
- Completed in 1986, shaped like a lotus flower.
- One of the most visited religious sites in the world.
Bahá’í House of Worship – Chile (Santiago)
- Completed in 2016, has a glowing glass dome.
- Surrounded by mountains, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
Bahá’í House of Worship – Germany (Frankfurt, Langenhain)
- Built in 1964, the first Bahá’í Temple in Europe.
- Has 540 glass windows, allowing natural light inside.
Bahá’í House of Worship – USA (Wilmette, Illinois)
- Built in 1953, the first Bahá’í Temple in North America.
- Features beautiful gardens and lake views.
Bahá’í House of Worship – Uganda (Kampala)
- Built in 1961, the first Bahá’í Temple in Africa.
- Recognized for its large green dome and open surroundings.
Bahá’í House of Worship – Australia (Sydney, Ingleside)
- Built in 1961, surrounded by natural forests.
- Known for its white dome and peaceful environment.
Bahá’í House of Worship – Panama (Panama City)
- Built in 1972, the first Bahá’í Temple in Latin America.
- Designed to look like a flower bud.
Bahá’í House of Worship – Samoa (Apia)
- Built in 1984, the first Bahá’í Temple in a Pacific Island.
- Made with wood and concrete, blending with nature.
Bahá’í House of Worship – Cambodia (Battambang)
- Built in 2017, the first Bahá’í Temple in Southeast Asia.
- Small but beautifully designed with local materials.

Lotus Mahal and Lotus Temple – Two Icons Inspired by the Lotus Flower

Many people confuse the Lotus Temple with the Lotus Mahal, The Lotus Mahal and the Lotus Temple are two famous buildings in India, both inspired by the lotus flower, but they are not directly connected.

The Lotus Mahal, located in Hampi, Karnataka, is an ancient palace built during the Vijayanagara Empire. It was used by royal women and is known for its beautiful design, which combines Hindu and Islamic styles. The palace gets its name because its dome and arches look like a lotus flower.

The Lotus Temple, in New Delhi, is a modern place of worship built in 1986 for the Bahá’í Faith. It is shaped like a blooming lotus and is made of white marble. The temple is open to people of all religions and is a place for prayer and meditation.

Both structures are inspired by the lotus flower, but they have different purposes. The Lotus Mahal is a part of India’s royal history, while the Lotus Temple is a spiritual place that welcomes everyone. Despite their differences, both structures showcase India’s rich architectural heritage and attract visitors from around the world.

Kamaldham Mandir and Lotus Temple

Kamaldham Mandir and Lotus Temple are not the same. Kamaldham Mandir is a Hindu temple dedicated to various deities, often incorporating a lotus theme in its design. On the other hand, the Lotus Temple, located in New Delhi, is a Bahá’í House of Worship known for its lotus-shaped architecture and openness to people of all faiths. While both share the lotus symbol, their religious affiliations, purpose, and architecture are different.

Lotus Temple and Golden Lotus of Meenakshi Temple

The Lotus Temple in Delhi and the Golden Lotus of Meenakshi Temple in Madurai are not directly related but share a common lotus symbolism, representing purity, divinity, and enlightenment.

Lotus Temple (Delhi) – A Bahá’í House of Worship shaped like a lotus, symbolizing unity, peace, and spirituality, welcoming people of all faiths.
Golden Lotus (Meenakshi Temple, Madurai) – Found in the Potramarai Kulam (Golden Lotus Tank) inside the Meenakshi Temple, this sacred pond is historically believed to have divine powers, where Tamil scholars once gathered for literary discussions.

Everything You Need to Know About the Lotus Temple

Category	Details
Built In	November 13, 1986
Architect	Fariborz Sahba
Architecture Type	Expressionist architecture
Material Used	White marble
Height	34 metres
Number of Petals	27 lotus petals
Hall Capacity	Accommodates 2,500 people
Area	26 acres
Cost of Construction	$10 million
Status	Bahá’í House of Worship
Location	Lotus Temple Rd, Bahapur, Kalkaji, New Delhi – 110019
Nearest Metro Station	Kalkaji Mandir
Best Season to Visit	October to March
Entry Fee	Free
Photography	No charges, but special permission required
Prayer Timings	10 AM, 12 PM, 3 PM, 5 PM

Lotus Temple Delhi Photos

Interesting Facts About the Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple has won numerous architectural awards for its innovative design.
It is one of the most visited religious sites in the world, attracting over 10 million visitors annually.
The temple is illuminated beautifully at night, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle.
The silence inside the temple allows people to experience deep meditation.
The Bahá’í Faith promotes the belief in one God and unity among all religions.
It is ranked among the top tourist attractions in Delhi, alongside India Gate and Qutub Minar.

How to Reach the Lotus Temple Delhi

The Lotus Temple, also known as Lotus Mandir, is well-connected by metro, bus, and other transport options. Here’s how you can reach this iconic landmark easily:

1. By Metro (Fastest & Easiest Way)

Nearest Metro Station: Kalkaji Mandir Metro Station (Violet Line & Magenta Line) – Just a short walk from the temple.
Other nearby metro routes:
- Lal Quila to Lotus Temple: Take the Violet Line.
- Akshardham to Lotus Temple: Take the Blue Line, then switch to Violet Line.
- New Delhi Railway Station to Lotus Temple: Board the Yellow Line, switch to the Violet Line.
- Delhi Airport to Lotus Temple: Take the Airport Express Line, switch to the Magenta Line at Janakpuri West.

2. By Bus (Affordable Option)

Several DTC buses run from different parts of Delhi to Kalkaji Mandir and nearby areas.

3. By Auto/Cab (Convenient & Direct)

Tourists can book autos, taxis, or ride-sharing cabs (Uber, Ola) to reach directly.

4. Distance from Key Locations:

New Delhi Railway Station to Lotus Temple: ~12 km
Indira Gandhi International Airport to Lotus Temple: ~17 km
India Gate to Lotus Temple: ~9 km
Red Fort to Lotus Temple: ~12 km

Lotus Temple Timings and Entry Fee

The Lotus Temple in Delhi is open to visitors throughout the week, except on Mondays. Here are the complete details on its opening hours and entry rules.

Lotus Temple Delhi Timings

Summer (April to September): 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Winter (October to March): 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Closed on: Mondays

Lotus Temple Entry Fee

Free entry for all visitors
Donations are voluntary and not required for entry

Prayer Timings

Daily silent prayers: 10 AM, 12 PM, 3 PM, and 5 PM

Best Time to Visit the Lotus Temple

Early morning or late afternoon offers a peaceful experience.
Golden hour (sunrise or sunset) is perfect for photography.
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
Best season: October to March, with pleasant weather.
Avoid peak hours to enjoy a quiet and serene visit.

Lotus Temple Visitor Guidelines

If you are planning to visit the Lotus Temple in Delhi, here are some important guidelines to ensure a peaceful and respectful experience.

Rules for Visitors

Maintain Silence: The temple is a place for meditation and prayer, so silence is strictly required inside.
No Pets Allowed: Pets are not permitted within the temple premises.
Dress Modestly: Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees as a mark of respect.
Remove Shoes: Visitors must remove their shoes before entering the temple.
Photography Rules: Photography is allowed only outside the temple. Inside photography is strictly prohibited.
No Food or Drinks: Eating, drinking, and smoking are not allowed inside the temple premises.

Guided Tours

The temple also offers interactive sessions to educate visitors about the Bahá’í faith.
Audio guides are available for a small fee.
Tour Duration: 30-45 minutes

The guides explain the significance of the temple, the Bahá’í Faith, and how it promotes peace and unity. These tours provide a deep spiritual and historical understanding of the temple and its global importance.

Facilities at Lotus Temple

Visitors to the Lotus Temple can enjoy the following amenities for a comfortable experience:

Drinking Water: Clean drinking water is available.
Audio-Visual Room: Watch informative videos about the Bahá’í Faith and the temple.
Information Center: Learn about the temple’s history and the Bahá’í Faith through exhibits.
Clean Restrooms: Well-maintained washrooms for visitors.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Ideal for meditation and spiritual reflection.

The Lotus Temple provides a serene space for visitors to relax, learn, and experience inner peace.

Things to Do at the Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple offers meaningful activities for visitors:

Children’s Classes: Teach values like kindness, truthfulness, and unity.
Junior Youth Classes: Help young individuals (11-14 years) develop spiritual and intellectual abilities.
Devotional Meetings: Provide a peaceful space for collective prayers.
Study Circles: Offer insights into the Bahá’í Faith and spiritual teachings.

Environmental Sustainability of the Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple is an eco-friendly structure that follows sustainable practices:

Solar Power: The first temple in Delhi to use solar energy, reducing its carbon footprint.
Rainwater Harvesting: Collects and conserves rainwater for sustainable water management.
Natural Cooling System: Designed for natural ventilation, minimizing the need for artificial cooling.

Places to Visit Near Lotus Temple & Distance Guide

The Lotus Temple in New Delhi is one of the most visited landmarks in India. If you are planning a trip, you can also explore many famous attractions nearby. Here’s a guide to top places to visit near Lotus Temple Delhi and their distances:

1. India Gate

Distance: ~9 km
Travel Time: 20-25 minutes by car
Why Visit? A historic war memorial and one of Delhi’s most iconic landmarks.

2. Akshardham Temple

Distance: ~12 km
Travel Time: 25-30 minutes
Why Visit? A magnificent Hindu temple known for its intricate carvings, spiritual atmosphere, and breathtaking light and sound show.

3. Red Fort

Distance: ~12 km
Travel Time: 30-35 minutes
Why Visit? A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort is a symbol of India’s rich history and architectural beauty.

4. Qutub Minar

Distance: ~10 km
Travel Time: 25-30 minutes
Why Visit? One of the tallest minarets in the world and a famous historical site in Delhi.

5. Kalkaji Mandir

Distance: ~500 meters (walking distance)
Travel Time: 5-10 minutes
Why Visit? A popular Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, located right next to the Lotus Temple.

6. ISKCON Temple Delhi

Distance: ~1.5 km
Travel Time: 5-10 minutes
Why Visit? A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, offering spiritual teachings and a peaceful atmosphere.

7. Sarojini Market

Distance: ~10 km
Travel Time: 25-30 minutes
Why Visit? One of Delhi’s most famous shopping markets, known for trendy clothes and budget-friendly deals.

Hotels Near Lotus Temple

If you are visiting the Lotus Temple in New Delhi and need a place to stay, there are many good hotels nearby.

Budget Hotels:

Fab Hotel Anutham – Affordable and comfortable
OYO Rooms – Budget-friendly with basic facilities

Mid-Range Hotels:

The Suryaa New Delhi – Good service and modern rooms
Eros Hotel – Well-known with good amenities

Luxury Hotels:

Crowne Plaza Okhla – Premium hotel with top facilities
Vivanta by Taj – High-class stay with great services

Full Address of Lotus Temple, Delhi

Baha’i House of Worship (Lotus Temple)
Shambhu Dayal Bagh, Bahapur Village,
Kalkaji, New Delhi – 110019, India

Why You Should Visit the Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple is more than just a religious site; it is a symbol of peace and unity. Here’s why you should visit:

Architectural Beauty: Its stunning lotus-shaped design makes it one of the most remarkable structures in the world.
Peaceful Atmosphere: A perfect place for meditation and self-reflection, offering silence and tranquility.
Cultural Significance: Open to people of all religions, promoting unity and spiritual harmony.
Top Tourist Attraction: One of the most visited landmarks in Delhi, alongside India Gate and Qutub Minar.

Conclusion

The Lotus Temple is not just a beautiful building; it is a place of peace, unity, and spirituality. Designed by Fariborz Sahba, this Bahá’í House of Worship welcomes people from all religions to pray, meditate, and find inner peace.

Its unique lotus-shaped design makes it one of the most famous landmarks in Delhi. You can visit during the day to enjoy its peaceful atmosphere or come at night to see its stunning lights.

If you are looking for a place to relax, reflect, or admire amazing architecture, the Lotus Temple is a must-visit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

General Information

What is the Lotus Temple?
The Lotus Temple is a Bahá’í House of Worship located in Bahapur, Kalkaji, South Delhi, India. It is known for its distinctive lotus-like shape.
Who designed the Lotus Temple?
The temple was designed by Iranian-Canadian architect Fariborz Sahba.
What is the architectural style of the Lotus Temple?
The temple features an Expressionist architectural style, resembling a blooming lotus with 27 free-standing marble petals.
Is the Lotus Temple associated with a specific religion?
It is a Bahá’í House of Worship, but welcomes people of all religious backgrounds.

Visiting Information

Is there an entry fee for the Lotus Temple?
No, entry is free for all visitors.
What are the opening hours of the Lotus Temple?
- Summer (April – September): 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Winter (October – March): 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Closed on Mondays
What is the nearest metro station to the Lotus Temple?
The nearest metro station is Kalkaji Mandir, approximately 500 meters away.
Is there parking available at the Lotus Temple?
Yes, there is limited parking space near the temple premises.
Is the Lotus Temple accessible to differently-abled individuals?
Yes, the temple is designed to be accessible for visitors with disabilities.

Rules & Guidelines

Do visitors need to remove shoes before entering?
Yes, shoes must be removed before entering the prayer hall.
Is talking allowed inside the temple?
No, visitors must remain silent inside to maintain the spiritual atmosphere.
Can I take photographs inside the Lotus Temple?
No, photography inside is not allowed to preserve its sanctity. However, visitors can take photos outside in the gardens.
Are pets allowed inside the Lotus Temple?
No, pets are not allowed inside the temple premises.
Is there a dress code for visiting the Lotus Temple?
There is no strict dress code, but visitors are advised to wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees.
What are the things not allowed in the Lotus Temple?
- Talking loudly
- Photography inside the temple
- Eating or drinking
- Smoking or consuming alcohol
- Bringing pets

Temple Facilities & Activities

Are guided tours available at the Lotus Temple?
There are no official guided tours, but informational materials and volunteers provide insights about the temple and the Bahá’í Faith.
What activities can visitors participate in?
- Devotional Meetings – A peaceful space for prayers.
- Study Circles – Learning about the Bahá’í Faith.
- Youth Classes – Educational sessions for children and teenagers.
Are there washrooms near the Lotus Temple?
Yes, clean washrooms are available near the temple.

Architecture & Design

What materials were used to build the Lotus Temple?
The temple is made of white marble from Penteli Mountain, Greece, the same marble used in ancient structures like the Parthenon.
How many people can the Lotus Temple accommodate?
The central hall can accommodate up to 2,500 people at a time.
What is the height of the Lotus Temple?
The temple stands at 34.27 meters (112.5 feet) tall.
Are there any special events or services held at the Lotus Temple?
Yes, the temple hosts regular prayer sessions and special events on Bahá’í holy days.

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