
Lotus Temple (Baha'i House of Worship)
An architectural marvel and a sanctuary of peace, the Lotus Temple welcomes all for silent prayer and contemplation, embodying unity and serenity.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and find peace

Lotus Temple (Baha'i House of Worship)
Best Time
Beat the crowds and find peace

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An architectural marvel and a sanctuary of peace, the Lotus Temple welcomes all for silent prayer and contemplation, embodying unity and serenity.
"A place of absolute rest and welcome after the busy cities."

Modest Attire Required
Cover shoulders and knees. Avoid revealing clothing to show respect. :dress:
Quiet Contemplation Zone
Silence is golden here. Keep voices low for prayer and meditation. :pray:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Lotus Flower Architecture
Main prayer hall
An iconic architectural marvel, its petal-like structure symbolizes purity and peace, drawing inspiration from nature.

The Central Prayer Hall
Inside the temple
A vast, serene space designed for silent prayer and meditation, open to all faiths. No sermons or rituals are performed here.

The Information Centre
Adjacent to the temple
Explore exhibits and resources detailing the Baháʼí faith, its principles, and the temple's unique construction.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Dress Code & Footwear
Peaceful Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visiting a Baháʼí temple and questions about dress
Modest Attire Required
Cover shoulders and knees. Avoid revealing clothing to show respect. :dress:
Quiet Contemplation Zone
Silence is golden here. Keep voices low for prayer and meditation. :pray:
Here to rant. Yes, that’s the queue of Lotus temple visitors. Experience in comments.
The symbol of bahai religion in delhi
Shoe Removal Policy
Shoes off before entering the prayer hall. Inquire about exceptions for medical needs. :athletic_shoe:
Free Entry
No admission fee! Donations are welcome but not required. :moneybag:
The Lotus Temple, New Delhi, India
Tips
from all over the internet
Modest Attire Required
Cover shoulders and knees. Avoid revealing clothing to show respect. :dress:
Quiet Contemplation Zone
Silence is golden here. Keep voices low for prayer and meditation. :pray:
Shoe Removal Policy
Shoes off before entering the prayer hall. Inquire about exceptions for medical needs. :athletic_shoe:
Free Entry
No admission fee! Donations are welcome but not required. :moneybag:
Photography Rules
Photography is restricted inside the prayer hall. Be mindful of others. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Lotus Temple for its stunning architecture and the profound sense of peace it offers, making it a welcome sanctuary from city life. While many appreciate the free entry and the opportunity for quiet contemplation, some find the crowds overwhelming and wish for more detailed guided information within the Information Centre.
"It is a center that provides information and education about the Bahá'í faith and the Bahá'í House of Worship, also known as the Lotus Temple.
The Information Centre was established to help visitors to the Lotus Temple understand the teachings and principles of the Bahá'í faith. It features exhibits, videos, and other resources that provide information about the history, beliefs, and practices of the Bahá'í community.
Visitors to the Information Centre can learn about the construction of the Lotus Temple and the architectural design of the building. They can also explore the teachings of the Bahá'í faith, which include the unity of all religions, the equality of men and women, the importance of education, and the need for world peace.
The Information Centre also provides resources for people who want to learn more about the Bahá'í faith and get involved with the Bahá'í community. It offers books, pamphlets, and other materials on the Bahá'í teachings and encourages visitors to participate in Bahá'í activities and events.
The Bahá'í House of Worship Information Centre is a valuable resource for people who want to learn more about the Bahá'í faith and the Lotus Temple. It is a place where visitors can come to gain a deeper understanding of the principles and teachings of the Bahá'í community and connect with like-minded individuals who share their values and beliefs."
mathskart By BPS Chauhan
"Very beautiful temple. Worth visiting. The absolute rest in this place is welcome after the busy cities"
Frank Handgraaf
"The House of Worship Information center.
The Bahá'í House of Worship was opened to the public in December 1986. Since then thousands visit the House of Worship every day. While the visitors enjoy the peace and the serene environment that lends itself well to meditation, many inquire as to the source that has inspired such a place of worship, where there are no images, where no sermons are given, no rituals performed, and scriptures of all major religions read or recited.
Over the years, the need for a place where such inquiries could be addressed became more pronounced and the idea of the Information Centre was conceived."
siddharth mishra
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lotus Temple is easily accessible via the Delhi Metro. Take the Violet Line to the Kalkaji Mandir station, which is a short walk from the temple. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are also readily available.
The closest metro station is Kalkaji Mandir on the Violet Line. Nehru Place station on the Violet and Magenta lines is also a viable option, though slightly further.
Yes, there is a paid parking facility available for cars and two-wheelers near the temple complex. However, it can get crowded, so using public transport is often recommended.
Absolutely. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Ola can drop you off at the entrance or designated drop-off points.
The temple complex is generally accessible, with ramps and elevators available. However, specific accessibility for the prayer hall might require prior inquiry due to the shoe removal policy.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Lotus Temple and its grounds is completely free of charge. It's a place open to all for worship and contemplation.
The Lotus Temple is typically open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM during the summer season (April to September) and 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM during the winter season (October to March). It remains closed on Mondays.
To avoid large crowds, it's best to visit early in the morning right after opening or later in the afternoon before closing. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
Visitors are required to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops.
Yes, all visitors must remove their shoes before entering the main prayer hall. Shoe covers are often provided, or you can go barefoot. Those with medical conditions should consult staff.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main prayer hall is for silent prayer and meditation. You can also visit the Information Centre to learn about the Baháʼí faith and the temple's history.
Photography is generally not permitted inside the main prayer hall to maintain the sanctity and peace of the space. Check for specific rules regarding exterior photography.
A typical visit can last from 1 to 2 hours, allowing time to explore the grounds, the prayer hall, and the Information Centre.
While there aren't formal guided tours, volunteers are often available to answer questions. The Information Centre provides extensive written and visual information.
It's a Baháʼí House of Worship, symbolizing unity and peace, open to all people regardless of their religion or background. Its design is inspired by the lotus flower.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food stalls or restaurants within the immediate prayer hall area. However, there might be a small cafeteria or refreshment area near the Information Centre, but it's best to check on-site.
It's advisable not to bring outside food and drinks into the prayer hall or the main temple area to maintain cleanliness and respect.
The areas around Kalkaji Mandir and Nehru Place offer a wide variety of dining options, from local street food to multi-cuisine restaurants.
Picnicking is generally not encouraged within the main temple complex to preserve the serene atmosphere. Stick to designated areas if available, or dine outside the premises.
The Baháʼí faith emphasizes healthy living, but there are no specific dietary restrictions imposed on visitors. Enjoy the local cuisine responsibly.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is strictly prohibited inside the main prayer hall. You can take photos of the exterior and the surrounding gardens, but be mindful of other visitors.
Tripods are generally not allowed inside the prayer hall. For exterior shots, it's best to check with security personnel on-site, as rules can vary.
The most iconic shots are from the main entrance, the surrounding gardens, and the reflecting pools. Early morning or late afternoon light offers beautiful photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited in and around the Lotus Temple complex due to security and privacy regulations.
Commercial photography or videography usually requires special permission from the temple authorities. Casual personal photography is generally allowed outside the prayer hall.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to manage crowds. The sheer beauty of the architecture and the tranquil environment can be a calming experience for children. It's a great chance to teach them about respect for different cultures and beliefs in a tangible way.
🧘 Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers
Take your time to wander through the gardens, sit by the reflecting pools, and absorb the tranquility. The Information Centre can provide context if you wish to deepen your understanding of the Baháʼí faith. It's a place where you can find peace and quiet reflection away from the usual tourist hustle.
📸 Photographers
Be aware that photography is strictly prohibited inside the prayer hall. Focus on capturing the grandeur of the structure from the outside, the symmetry of the gardens, and the reflections in the pools. Respect the rules and other visitors' experience while you capture the beauty of this architectural marvel.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Baháʼí Faith and the Lotus Temple
The Information Centre adjacent to the temple serves as a crucial educational hub. It provides visitors with insights into the history, teachings, and practices of the Baháʼí faith through exhibits, literature, and multimedia presentations. This center helps demystify the faith for those unfamiliar with it and offers a deeper understanding of the philosophy behind the temple's existence and design.
Visitors often remark on the profound sense of peace and tranquility they experience within the temple, a stark contrast to the bustling city outside. This serene atmosphere is deliberately cultivated to facilitate introspection and spiritual connection. The absence of rituals or sermons encourages personal reflection and silent communion, making it a unique spiritual sanctuary.
Architectural Marvel: Design and Construction
The construction of the temple was a complex engineering feat, utilizing white concrete and reinforced steel for its shell. The marble used for the exterior cladding was sourced from the Penteli mountain in Greece, the same quarry used for the Parthenon. The intricate design and the use of natural light filtering through the petals create an ethereal ambiance inside the prayer hall.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the architectural design is also functional, contributing to the temple's natural ventilation and acoustic properties. The surrounding gardens are meticulously landscaped, offering a peaceful environment for visitors to stroll and reflect. The interplay of light, water, and the pure white marble makes the Lotus Temple a globally recognized architectural masterpiece.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit