Thinking of Gujarat for tourism, the first thing that comes to mind is the temples, hill stations, rivers, and wildlife sanctuaries. Among the numerous temples that highlight this vibrant state, the Akshardham Swaminarayan mandir in Gandhinagar stands out for its spiritual significance and as a major tourist destination.
What makes Akshardham temple such a favorite attraction? How has it remained a popular place for over 20 years? Known for its stunning architecture, engaging exhibitions, kid-friendly rides, attractive light and sound shows, delightful food court, and rich historical significance, the Swaminarayan Akshardham mandir offers a comprehensive experience for visitors.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through Gandhinagar Akshardham Swaminarayan Temple in Gujarat, including its timings, ticket prices, places to visit, location, why it is famous, nearby tourist destinations, nearby hotels to stay, and how to reach. Let’s start.
Important Information:
| Location | J Road, Sector 20, Gandhinagar, Gujarat 382020 |
| Timings | 10:00 am to 8:00 pm; closed on Mondays |
| Entry closes at 6:30 pm | |
| Aarti Timings | 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. |
| Ticket Prices | Free |
| Exhibition Fee | Rs. 60 for adults (12 years and above); Rs. 40 for children (4 to 11 years); free for children below 4 years |
| Exhibition Tickets Timings | 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. |
| Year of Establishment | 1992 |
| Commissioned by | Pramukh Swami Maharaj |
| Constructed by | Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) |
| Architectural style | Based on the principles of Maharishi Vastu Architecture and influenced by ancient architectural styles from across India |
| Photography | Not allowed |
| Mobiles and Electronics | Not allowed |
| Contact Information | 999-899-9700 |
History of Akshardham Temple in Gujarat:
The Akshardham Temple in Gandhinagar was inaugurated on November 2, 1992, marking the beginning of its journey as a spiritual and cultural landmark.
The temple was built under the guidance and inspiration of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.
Constructed from beautifully crafted pink sandstone, the temple acts as a proof to traditional Indian architecture and craftsmanship.
It is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan and its shrine is home to the god’s golden idol, attracting devotees and tourists alike.
Over the years, the Akshardham temple has become not just a place of worship but also a hub for cultural and educational activities, promoting values of peace, harmony, and spirituality.
Architecture of Gandhinagar Akshardham Temple:
Rajasthani pink sandstone weighing 6,000 metric tons was used to carefully shape the Akshardham Temple.
The temple’s showpiece is a massive 1.2-ton statue of Swaminarayan, standing seven feet tall and resting upon a three-foot platform in the central hall.
Swaminarayan is represented in a sitting position, his right hand uplifted in the Abhay Mudra sign of fearlessness and protection, surrounded by statues of his devoted followers, Aksharbrahma Gunatitanand Swami and Aksharmukta Gopalanand Swami.
The temple, which stands 108 feet tall, 131 feet wide, and 240 feet long, demonstrates the extraordinary skill of its artisans, with statues of Swaminarayan’s followers shining the corners.
The absence of steel in the temple’s construction, supported instead by seven carved pillars and 210 single-piece stone beams, adds to its architectural magnificence.
Things to See:
Akshardham Temple in Gandhinagar offers a variety of attractions, including the glorious temple itself, exciting exhibition, and a fantastic water show. The complex also has a number of kid-friendly attractions and a cafeteria providing a variety of foods, making it an ideal destination for both families and tourists.
Exhibition Show at Akshardham Temple:
The exhibition show at Akshardham Temple is displayed in five large halls, each with its own unique style.
Combining art, science, culture, and spirituality, the exhibitions are a source of information and inspiration.
The exhibitions are both artistically fascinating and scientifically impressive, transporting visitors to ancient India.
The exhibitions provide a balanced fusion of ancient teachings and modern media, offering a powerful experience of Hindu heritage and universal values.
Through 3D models, light and sound shows, animatronic figures, scenic representations, and short videos, principles like love, ahimsa, fearlessness, and unity are beautifully displayed.
In the Halls of Values, visitors can explore the life of Bhagwan Swaminarayan through unique settings like glass corridors, rope bridges, mountains, and audio-visual shows.
The Mystic India exhibition offers a giant screen theater experience, following the journey of Neelkanth, while the Premanand Hall showcases dioramas of core Hindu values, and Sant Param Hitkari presents India’s first audio-animatronics show.
Tickets and Timings of Exhibitions:
Here’s the information on tickets and timings for the exhibitions at Swaminarayan Temple in Gandhinagar:
Tickets of Exhibition:
- Adults (Age 11+): Rs. 60
- Children (Age 3 – 11): Rs. 40
- Children (Below Age 3): Free
- Exhibition tickets include access to Neelkanth And Sahajanand, Mystic India, Premanand, and Sant Param Hitkari – all five exhibitions.
- Separate tickets for individual exhibitions are not available.
Timings of Exhibition:
- Open from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily.
- Ticket counters close at 5:30 p.m.
Time Needed for Each Exhibition:
- Neelkanth and Sahajanand Darshan (Hall of Value): 45 minutes.
- Mystic India: 45 minutes.
- Premanand Hall: 30 minutes.
- Sant Param Hitkari: 15 minutes.
Additional Information of Exhibition:
- Entry to exhibitions is on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Expect longer wait times on busy days.
- No food or drinks are allowed inside the exhibition halls.
- Restrooms are located at the exit of Exhibition Hall 5 for convenience.
Gandhinagar Akshardham Temple Water Show:
The Sat-Chit-Anand Water Show at Swaminarayan Akshardham in Gandhinagar provides a wonderful experience. Settle into the outdoor amphitheater and be taken to the timeless story of the Kathopanishad.
This 45-minute show features engaging aspects such as an 80ft wide x 60ft high water screen, multi-color lasers, video and light projections, fireballs, underwater fires, water jets, and a surround sound orchestra.
Produced by international expert Yves Pepin and BAPS volunteers, the show combines live actors with multimedia effects to bring Nachiketa’s fearless encounter with Yama, the God of Death, to life.
The story begins with a mystical introduction to India’s cultural and spiritual heritage, introducing Nachiketa – a courageous 9-year-old who faces challenges sent by his father to the realm of Yamaraj, the God of Death.
Nachiketa’s unwavering determination and fearless pursuit of knowledge impress Yamaraj, leading to a profound exchange where Nachiketa seeks the secrets of life, death, and eternal happiness, unveiling the path to true “Sat-Chit-Anand” – Truth-Consciousness-Bliss.
For inquiries, please contact us at watershow@akshardham.com. Each show lasts approximately 45 minutes.
Ticket Prices of Water Show:
- Adults (Age 11+): Rs. 100
- Children (Age 3 – 11): Rs. 70
- Children (Below Age 3): Free
Timings of Akshardham Water Show:
The first show starts after sunset, currently at 7:30 p.m. Multiple shows may be scheduled during weekends or public holidays.
Nearby Places to Visit:
- Sarita Udhyan
- Punit Van
- Adalaj Trimandir
- Indroda Nature Park
- Sant Sarovar Dam
- Dandi Kutir (Salt Mount) Museum
- Deer Park
Nearby Restaurants in Gandhinagar:
For a comfortable stay and delightful culinary experiences, check out the hotels near Akshardham Temple in Gandhinagar. These hotels offer a variety of cuisines to satisfy your taste buds and ensure a pleasant visit.
- Sankalp Restaurant
- Legends of Punjab
- Plush restaurant
- The Jungle Joy Restaurant
- Terracotta Multicuisine
- Savoury Restaurant
- President lounge
- Sky Hill Restaurant
- Khushboo Gujarat Ki Restaurant
- Kansar Garden Restaurant
- Green Apple Restaurant
- Pathikashram Nilaya
- Trupti Ice Cream Parlour
List of Akshardham Temples in the World:
The Akshardham temples are famous for their royal architecture and spiritual significance, with several located around the world:
- Akshardham Delhi, India
- Akshardham Robbinsville, USA
- Akshardham London, UK
- Akshardham New Jersey, USA
- Akshardham Kolkata, India
How to Reach:
By Air:
The nearest airport is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad approximately 18 kilometers away.
By Train:
Gandhinagar Railway Station is the nearest railway station at approximately 5 km away.
By Road:
Gandhinagar has excellent road connectivity. One can reach the Akshardham Temple by private car, taxi, or state transport buses.
Gandhinagar Akshardham Temple Google Map:
Please check the below Google Map to find the way to Akshardham temple in Gandhinagar.
Ready to Visit Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple?
Finally, Gandhinagar’s Akshardham Temple attracts visitors with its eternal attraction of spirituality, culture, and architectural magnificence. Explore its elegant halls, engage yourself in the insightful exhibitions, and enjoy the fascinating Sat-Chit-Anand Water Show. Are you prepared to get started on a trip where history and spirituality meet, and every corner vibrates with eternal wisdom? Akshardham is an a haven that offers a transformative experience that will live in your heart and mind long after you leave.
Image Credit: Akshardham.com
FAQs:
The temple is open from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
No, entry to the temple is free.
Photography is not allowed inside the temple premises.
Yes, there is a food court offering a variety of cuisines like dosa, pau bhaji, pani puri, puri sabji, etc.
It typically takes around 3-4 hours to explore the complex.
The best time to visit is during the cooler months from October to March.
Yes, you can visit nearby attractions like Indroda Nature Park and Sarita Udyan.