Lotus Temple
Also known as Bahá'í House of Worship (New Delhi), Bahapur Lotus Temple
Lotus Temple, New Delhi, is a Baha'i House of Worship shaped like a blooming lotus, open to all faiths with no idols, among the world's most-visited buildings.
Photos of Lotus Temple
- Established
- Dedicated 24 December 1986; opened to public 1 January 1987
- Architecture
- Expressionist (27 free-standing marble-clad "petals" in 9-sided cluster, ~70 m diameter, ~34.27 m tall central hall)
- Address
- Bahapur, Kalkaji, New Delhi 110019
- Timings
- 09:00–18:00 (winter); 09:00–19:00 (summer). CLOSED on Mondays.
History of Lotus Temple
Architect Fariborz Sahba was commissioned in 1976. The foundation stone was laid by Rúhíyyih Khánum on 19 October 1977. Construction cost ~$10.56 million using white Pentelic marble (Greece). Dedicated on 24 December 1986 before 8,000 Bahá'ís from 107 countries. Opened to public on 1 January 1987, with over 10,000 visitors on day one. The lotus shape was chosen for its association with purity in Indian culture.
Festivals Celebrated at Lotus Temple
- Bahá'í holy days (Naw-Rúz, Ridván)
How to Reach Lotus Temple
Nearest Metro: Kalkaji Mandir (Violet/Magenta Line, ~1 km). Landmarks: near Nehru Place. Nearest airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport (~20 km).
Frequently Asked Questions about Lotus Temple
Where is Lotus Temple located?
- Lotus Temple is located at Bahapur, Kalkaji, New Delhi 110019, in New Delhi, Delhi, India.
What are the timings of Lotus Temple?
- Lotus Temple is generally open 09:00–18:00 (winter); 09:00–19:00 (summer). CLOSED on Mondays.. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Lotus Temple built?
- Lotus Temple was established Dedicated 24 December 1986; opened to public 1 January 1987. Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Lotus Temple?
- Lotus Temple is built in the Expressionist (27 free-standing marble-clad "petals" in 9-sided cluster, ~70 m diameter, ~34.27 m tall central hall) style.
Which festivals are celebrated at Lotus Temple?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Lotus Temple include Bahá'í holy days (Naw-Rúz, Ridván). These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Delhi and beyond.
How can I reach Lotus Temple?
- Nearest Metro: Kalkaji Mandir (Violet/Magenta Line, ~1 km). Landmarks: near Nehru Place. Nearest airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport (~20 km).
Why is Lotus Temple significant?
- Lotus Temple, New Delhi, is a Baha'i House of Worship shaped like a blooming lotus, open to all faiths with no idols, among the world's most-visited buildings.
Is there an entry fee at Lotus Temple?
- Entry to the main shrine of Lotus Temple is generally free for darshan. Special sevas, abhishekams and priority queues may carry a nominal fee — check with the temple office on arrival.
What is the dress code at Lotus Temple?
- Lotus Temple follows the traditional dress code observed at Delhi temples — modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Many shrines in the region also expect men to remove upper garments before entering the sanctum.