The Lotus Temple, one of the most visited buildings in the world, is an architectural masterpiece that welcomes over 10,000 visitors daily. Shaped like a magnificent lotus flower with 27 free-standing marble petals, this Bahai House of Worship in New Delhi is open to people of all faiths, backgrounds, and beliefs. Experience serene meditation and marvel at award-winning architecture. Our Delhi Full Day City Tour includes Lotus Temple along with other iconic Delhi attractions.
Experience Delhi's Architectural Wonder
Our Delhi City Tour covers Lotus Temple, Red Fort, Qutub Minar, India Gate and more with expert guide.
Book Delhi Tour - ₹2,500 →About Lotus Temple
The Lotus Temple, officially known as the Bahai House of Worship, is one of eight Bahai temples worldwide and serves as the Mother Temple of the Indian subcontinent. Completed in 1986, the temple has won numerous architectural awards and has become one of Delhi's most recognizable landmarks.
The Bahai Faith emphasizes the spiritual unity of all humankind, and the Lotus Temple embodies this principle by welcoming visitors of all religions to meditate, pray, or simply experience inner peace. No sermons are given, no rituals performed - the temple offers a space for silent reflection and spiritual contemplation.
Why the Lotus Shape?
The lotus flower holds deep significance in Indian culture, symbolizing purity, beauty, and divinity. It blooms in muddy waters yet remains pristine - representing spiritual enlightenment rising above worldly attachments. The choice of this design connects the Bahai temple to India's cultural heritage while maintaining universal appeal.
Architecture of Lotus Temple
Designed by Iranian-Canadian architect Fariborz Sahba, the Lotus Temple took over 10 years to design and construct (1976-1986). The structure consists of 27 free-standing marble-clad "petals" arranged in clusters of three to form nine sides - the number nine being sacred in Bahai Faith.
Architectural Features
- Petals: 27 marble-clad petals in three layers of nine
- Height: 34.27 meters (slightly over 112 feet)
- Diameter: 70 meters
- Capacity: 2,500 people in the main hall
- Material: White Pentelic marble from Greece (same used in Parthenon)
- Pools: Nine surrounding pools creating a "floating" effect
- Gardens: 26 acres of landscaped gardens
Engineering Marvel
The temple's construction required innovative engineering solutions. The concrete shell structure supports the marble cladding, with each petal precisely shaped using advanced geometric calculations. The building is designed to be naturally lit and ventilated - skylights between the petals flood the interior with natural light, while the design creates natural air circulation.
🪷 Experience Serenity at Lotus Temple
Our Delhi Full Day Tour includes:
- ✓ Lotus Temple visit with meditation time
- ✓ Red Fort & Qutub Minar UNESCO sites
- ✓ India Gate & Humayun's Tomb
- ✓ Professional English-speaking guide
- ✓ Comfortable AC car with hotel pickup
Entry Fees & Timings
Entry Fee
- All Visitors: FREE (No entry fee)
- Photography: FREE in gardens (not allowed inside temple)
- Guided Tours: FREE (available from information center)
Opening Hours
- Summer (April-September): 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Winter (October-March): 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Weekly Holiday: Closed on Mondays
- Last Entry: 30 minutes before closing
💡 Pro Tip: Visit early morning (9-10 AM) or late afternoon (4-5 PM) to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere!
Best Time to Visit Lotus Temple
Best Season
The ideal time to visit Lotus Temple is from October to March when Delhi weather is pleasant (10°C to 25°C). The cool winter months make walking through the gardens enjoyable.
Best Time of Day
- Early Morning (9:00-10:30 AM): Fewest crowds, peaceful meditation experience
- Late Afternoon (4:00-5:30 PM): Beautiful golden hour light, cooler temperatures
- Avoid: Late morning to early afternoon (peak crowd times)
How to Reach Lotus Temple
By Metro
- Kalkaji Mandir Metro Station: Violet Line, just 500 meters walk
- Nehru Place Metro Station: Violet Line, 1 km away
By Road
- From Connaught Place: 10 km (25-35 minutes)
- From New Delhi Railway Station: 12 km (30-40 minutes)
- From IGI Airport: 15 km (35-45 minutes)
What to Expect Inside
The Meditation Experience
Upon entering the main prayer hall, you'll be struck by the serene atmosphere. The vast white interior, natural lighting filtering through skylights, and complete silence create a profound sense of peace. Visitors sit on wooden benches and can meditate or reflect in silence for about 10-15 minutes.
Guidelines Inside the Temple
- Complete silence must be maintained
- Shoes must be removed (free shoe storage available)
- No photography or videography inside
- Mobile phones must be switched off or on silent
- Respectful attire recommended
Photography Tips
- Best Angles: From across the reflecting pools for the "floating lotus" effect
- Best Time: Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) for warm light
- ✓ Photography allowed freely in gardens
- ✗ No photography inside the main temple
- ✗ Drones prohibited
Nearby Attractions
- ISKCON Temple (2 km): Beautiful Krishna temple with evening aarti
- Humayun's Tomb (6 km): UNESCO World Heritage Site - included in our tour
- Qutub Minar (8 km): UNESCO site, tallest brick minaret
- India Gate (10 km): War memorial and evening destination
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entry fee for Lotus Temple?
No, entry to Lotus Temple is completely free for all visitors.
Can people of all religions visit Lotus Temple?
Yes! The Lotus Temple welcomes visitors of all faiths, beliefs, and backgrounds.
How much time is needed to visit Lotus Temple?
Allow 45 minutes to 1 hour, including time in the gardens and meditation inside.
Is photography allowed inside Lotus Temple?
No, photography is not permitted inside the main temple. However, you can freely photograph the exterior and gardens.
Why is Lotus Temple closed on Mondays?
Monday is the weekly maintenance day when the temple and grounds are cleaned.
🎯 Ready to Experience Lotus Temple?
Discover Delhi's architectural wonder with our expertly guided tour: