Top 10 Famous Temples in Delhi

 

1. Akshardham Temple

Arguably Delhi’s most spectacular temple, Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple is a modern wonder, inaugurated in 2005. This sprawling complex is adorned with intricately carved pink sandstone and white marble, reflecting traditional Indian architectural brilliance. The centerpiece is a majestic monument dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, surrounded by grand courtyards, lush gardens, and captivating water shows.

Highlights:

• Guinness World Record as the World’s Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple.
• Sahaj Anand Water Show and Yagnapurush Kund, the largest stepwell in India.
• Cultural exhibitions, boat ride on Indian history, and thematic gardens.

Location: NH 24, near Noida Mor, East Delhi

 

2. Lotus Temple

Distinct for its iconic lotus-shaped design, Lotus Temple is a Baháʼí House of Worship known for its tranquil aura. Constructed in 1986, its 27 marble petals invite people of all faiths to meditate and connect with the divine in silence. This architectural marvel, surrounded by nine serene ponds, is also one of the most visited spiritual sites in the world.

Highlights:

• Open to followers of all religions.
• Immaculate gardens ideal for introspection.
• Symbol of unity, peace, and harmony.

Location: Kalkaji Mandir, South Delhi

 

3. ISKCON Temple (Sri Sri Radha Parthasarathi Mandir)

Dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha, ISKCON Temple in East of Kailash is a spiritual hub for lovers of music, dance, and devotion. Established in 1998, its ceremonial aartis, spiritual discourses, and multimedia shows on the Bhagavad Gita make it an uplifting experience for young and old alike.

Highlights:

• Robot show recounting the Bhagavad Gita.
• Govinda’s restaurant serving sattvic cuisine.
• Lively Janmashtami celebrations.

Location: East of Kailash, South Delhi

 

4. Birla Mandir (Laxminarayan Temple)

One of the city’s most distinguished temples, Birla Mandir is dedicated to Goddess Laxmi and Lord Vishnu. Built by the Birla family and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1939, this expansive temple welcomes all, regardless of caste or creed, and is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens.

Highlights:

• Rajasthani-style architecture with multi-story spires.
• Diverse shrines, fountains, and artistic carvings.
• Ideal for experiencing major Hindu festivals.

Location: Mandir Marg, Central Delhi

 

5. Chhatarpur Temple

Among the largest temple complexes in India, Chhatarpur Temple is devoted to Goddess Katyayani. Established in 1974 by Baba Sant Nagpal Ji, its grand campus seamlessly merges North and South Indian architectural styles and hosts multiple shrines and majestic deities.

Highlights:

• Enormous marble structures and impressive latticework.
• Vibrant Navratri festivities.
• Peaceful gardens and spiritual ambiance.

Location: Chhatarpur, South Delhi

 

6. Kalkaji Temple

Steeped in legend and history, Kalkaji Mandir is dedicated to Goddess Kali and is among Delhi’s oldest shrines. Revered as a Siddha Peeth, it’s believed to have been revered since ancient times, drawing massive crowds during Navratri for its vibrant rituals.

Highlights:

• Black stone idol of Goddess Kali.
• Bustling during Navratri with devotional music and rituals.
• Located near Lotus Temple, offering a spiritual circuit.

Location: Kalkaji, Near Nehru Place, South Delhi

 

7. Hanuman Temple, Connaught Place

One of the oldest Hanuman temple in India, this shrine harks back to the Mahabharata era. The present structure, famed for continuous Hanuman Chalisa recitations, stands proudly in Connaught Place with a unique crescent moon symbol atop its spire.

Highlights:

• Historic stories and daily Hanuman Chalisa prayers.
• The site of fervent celebration on Tuesdays and Hanuman Jayanti.
• Located in Central Delhi’s bustling heart.

Location: Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Connaught Place

 

8. Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir

Delhi’s oldest Jain temple, the Lal Mandir (Red Temple), stands across from Red Fort in Chandni Chowk. Built in 1658, it is revered for its red sandstone structure and the Jain Birds Hospital on its premises, which reflects Jain values of compassion toward all beings.

Highlights:

• Red sandstone architecture.
• Jain Birds Hospital for injured birds.
• Deep sense of serenity amid Old Delhi chaos.

Location: Chandni Chowk

 

9. Gauri Shankar Temple

Situated next to Lal Mandir in Chandni Chowk, Gauri Shankar Temple is famed for its 800-year-old Shiva Lingam. Built by a soldier who vowed to raise a temple after surviving war wounds, it is a testament to faith, resilience, and the unyielding power of devotion.

Highlights:

• Exquisite carvings of Parvati, Ganesha, and Kartik on the walls.
• Vibrant festivals, especially Shivratri.
• Living spiritual heritage in Old Delhi.

Location: Chandni Chowk

 

10. Yogmaya Temple

Tucked away in Mehrauli, Yogmaya Temple is dedicated to Goddess Yogmaya, Krishna’s sister, and is one of Delhi’s oldest living temples. Surviving invasions and centuries of upheaval, it stands as a symbol of continuity, hosting the storied Phool Walon Ki Sair festival, an emblem of communal harmony.

Highlights:

• 5,000-year-old history linked to the Mahabharata era.
• Celebrates the ancient Phool Walon Ki Sair festival.
• Atmosphere of cross-faith unity and spiritual antiquity.

Location: Mehrauli, South Delhi

 

Conclusion

From the awe-inspiring Akshardham to the tranquil Lotus Temple and culturally rich shrines like Chhatarpur and Yogmaya, Delhi’s temples are more than places of worship—they are storied sanctuaries where history, faith, and artistry intertwine. Whether you are a spiritual seeker or a student of history and architecture, exploring these temples offers a journey into the soul of the capital, revealing the many layers that make Delhi truly incredible.