Lotus Temple Delhi Guide – Must-Know Info Before You Visit

A complete guide to Delhi’s iconic Bahá’í House of Worship

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, a curious traveller, or simply someone who appreciates stunning architecture, the Lotus Temple in Delhi offers an experience that is as visually captivating as it is emotionally grounding. Often listed among the most serene and striking attractions in the capital, the temple is much more than a beautiful structure — it’s a symbol of peace, unity, and inclusivity.

If you’re planning a visit, this in-depth guide will answer all your questions, from entry fees, timings, how to reach, history, and etiquette to insider tips that will help you make the most of your time.

What is the Lotus Temple?

The Lotus Temple, also known as the Bahá’í House of Worship, is one of only seven Bahá’í temples in the world, and the only one in Asia. Shaped like a fully blooming white lotus flower, it serves as a place of meditation and prayer open to people of all religions and backgrounds.

Key Facts:

Completed in: 1986
Architect: Fariborz Sahba (Iranian architect)
Height: 34.3 meters (112.5 ft)
Petals: 27 free-standing marble petals arranged in clusters of three
Capacity: Up to 2,500 people in the prayer hall
Material used: White marble from Greece

Where is the Lotus Temple Located?

Location: Bahapur, Kalkaji, South Delhi
Nearest Metro Station: Kalkaji Mandir (Violet Line and Magenta Line)
Google Maps: Click here to view location

From the metro station, it’s a 5–10 minute walk to the temple’s main gate, through landscaped gardens and information displays. Read also: 10 Must-Visit Temples in Delhi

Visiting Hours & Best Time to Visit

Opening Hours:

Summer (April to September): 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Winter (October to March): 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Closed on: Mondays
Entry closes: 30 minutes before closing time

Best Time to Visit:

Morning (before 11 AM) or late afternoon (after 4 PM) for pleasant temperatures and thinner crowds
Avoid weekends and national holidays if you prefer quiet
Early winter (October to December) offers ideal weather for walking the gardens

Is There an Entry Fee?

No, entry to the Lotus Temple is completely free.

As part of the Bahá’í belief in equality and accessibility, the temple is open to all — regardless of faith, nationality, or social background.

What Happens Inside the Temple?

Inside the main prayer hall, there are no rituals, idols, or sermons. Instead, visitors are invited to:

Sit silently and meditate or reflect
Read or listen to spiritual texts from various religions
Enjoy the peaceful energy and architectural marvel of the space

There are occasional readings, including excerpts from the Bahá’í scriptures as well as Hindu, Christian, Islamic, and Buddhist texts — showcasing the unity of all faiths.

Architectural Significance of the Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple is an iconic piece of modern architecture, often compared to landmarks like the Sydney Opera House for its fluid, organic design. The structure is inspired by the lotus flower, which holds sacred symbolism across many Indian religions — representing purity, peace, and spiritual awakening.

Key Features:

27 petals arranged in three layers
Nine entrances symbolizing openness to all
Reflection pools around the temple, enhancing its beauty and serenity
The marble panels reflect natural light to create a glowing effect inside

Lotus Temple Complex: What Else to See

Besides the main temple, the surrounding grounds are equally worth your time.

1. Gardens and Walkways

Ideal for meditation, photography, or a relaxed stroll
Maintained by volunteers; lush and manicured year-round

2. Information Center / Visitor Gallery

Located near the entrance
Features films, exhibits, and photographs detailing the Bahá’í faith, history of the temple, and its global outreach

3. Bookshop

Offers books on the Bahá’í faith, spirituality, and unity
Multilingual options available

Photography Tips

Allowed in gardens and exterior areas
Prohibited inside the prayer hall
Tripods, drones, and commercial shoots require prior permission
Golden hour (morning or dusk) is ideal for soft lighting on the marble petals

Visitor Guidelines & Etiquette

Since the temple is a place of worship, all visitors are expected to observe respectful behavior.

Do:

Maintain silence inside the prayer hall
Dress modestly
Switch off your phone before entering
Ask questions to volunteers if curious — they’re friendly and knowledgeable

Don’t:

Eat or drink inside the temple
Click photos or videos inside the prayer hall
Engage in loud conversations or phone calls
Litter — the temple promotes environmental consciousness

How to Reach Lotus Temple

By Metro:

Kalkaji Mandir Station (Violet or Magenta Line)
Exit Gate 2 is closest to the temple entrance

By Bus:

DTC buses on Route 507, 522, and 534 pass nearby
Get off at Nehru Place or Kalkaji Mandir bus stops

Travel By Auto/Cab:

Uber/Ola can drop you directly at the main gate
Parking is available nearby for private vehicles

For a deeper understanding of navigating Delhi, see our Public Transportation Guide for Delhi.

Nearby Attractions to Combine with Lotus Temple

Your visit to the Lotus Temple can be combined with other major Delhi attractions nearby:

Place	Distance	Highlights
ISKCON Temple	1 km	Vaishnav temple with chanting sessions
Kalkaji Temple	700 m	One of Delhi’s oldest temples
Nehru Place Market	1.5 km	Electronics and budget fashion
Humayun’s Tomb	7 km	UNESCO World Heritage Site
Lodhi Garden	9 km	Peaceful garden with Mughal tombs

Why Visit the Lotus Temple?

Spiritual Neutrality: A sacred space for people of all beliefs
Architectural Wonder: Recognized internationally for its design
Cultural Learning: Gain insights into the Bahá’í faith and universal values
Urban Serenity: A quiet, green escape within bustling Delhi

It’s a place where you don’t need to “believe” in anything to simply “be” — and sometimes, that’s the most profound travel experience of all.

Final Thoughts: Let the Lotus Unfold

The Lotus Temple is not just an attraction — it’s a state of mind. In a city like Delhi, alive with sound and colour, the stillness of this marble flower can surprise you. For some, it’s an architectural stop. For others, it’s a soul check-in.

Whatever it means to you, one thing is certain — you’ll leave quieter than you arrived.

Planning a visit to Delhi and want to include spiritual, cultural, and heritage sites in a single itinerary? Reach out to our team for a custom city tour that blends temples, tombs, gardens, and authentic local experiences.

Explore more with Ease India Trip and design your day around what matters most — whether it’s faith, history, or finding a few moments of stillness.

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Lotus Temple Delhi: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting