Lotus Temple
North India Region
The Lotus Temple, completed in 1986 in New Delhi, India, is a Baháʼí House of Worship famous for its distinctive lotus flower shape composed of 27 marble-clad petals arranged in clusters of three, forming nine sides. Designed by Iranian architect Fariborz Sahba, the temple symbolizes purity and spirituality, reflecting the lotus's cultural significance in India. The structure features nine doors leading to a central hall that can accommodate up to 1,300 seated visitors or 2,500 standing, with a height of over 34 meters. The temple's white marble is sourced from Greece's Penteli mountain, the same used in the Parthenon, and it is surrounded by nine pools and extensive gardens spanning 26 acres. Open to people of all religions without discrimination, the Lotus Temple encourages silent prayer, meditation, and reading of sacred texts from various faiths, while prohibiting sermons or fundraising. It integrates sustainable technology, including solar panels supplying part of its electricity, making it the first temple in Delhi to use solar power. Its design and spiritual openness have made it a prominent architectural and cultural landmark, attracting millions of visitors annually.
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Tip: The best time to visit the Lotus Temple is during the cooler months of the year, avoiding the peak summer heat in Delhi. Early mornings or late afternoons offer pleasant lighting for photography and a quieter experience. Visitors are encouraged to respect the temple's peaceful atmosphere by maintaining silence and refraining from using musical instruments inside. Tickets are not required, but arriving early can help avoid crowds. The temple is conveniently accessible via the nearby Kalkaji Mandir metro station. While there are no entrance fees, donations supporting the temple's upkeep are welcome. Visitors should wear modest clothing and remove their shoes before entering the prayer hall.
Interesting facts
- •The Lotus Temple's design is inspired by the lotus flower, a symbol of purity and spirituality in Indian culture.
- •It consists of 27 free-standing marble-clad petals arranged in clusters of three, forming nine sides.
- •The temple can hold up to 2,500 people and has a central hall height of over 34 meters.
- •Its white marble was sourced from Penteli mountain in Greece, the same marble used in the Parthenon.
- •The temple uses solar panels to generate part of its electricity, making it Delhi's first solar-powered temple.
- •The foundation stone was laid by Rúhíyyih Khánum in 1977, and it was dedicated in 1986 with attendees from over 100 countries.
- •The temple is open to all people regardless of religion, race, or gender, reflecting the Baháʼí principle of unity.
History
The Lotus Temple's foundation stone was laid on October 19, 1977, by Rúhíyyih Khánum, and it was dedicated on December 24, 1986, with a gathering of 8,000 Baháʼís from 107 countries.
Designed by Fariborz Sahba, the project was completed with structural engineering by Flint and Neill and construction by Larsen & Toubro's ECC Construction Group.
The land purchase was largely funded by Ardishír Rustampúr, whose will dedicated his life savings to the temple's construction.
The temple opened to the public on January 1, 1987, with over 10,000 visitors on the first day.
Since then, it has become a symbol of unity and spiritual harmony, winning numerous architectural awards and becoming a major New Delhi landmark.
Place Guide
Central Prayer Hall1986
The heart of the Lotus Temple, this spacious hall is surrounded by nine entrances and can seat 1,300 people. It is designed for silent prayer and meditation without ritualistic ceremonies, featuring no altars or pulpits, in line with Baháʼí principles.
Lotus Petals1986
The 27 marble-clad petals are arranged in clusters of three to form nine sides, symbolizing purity and spiritual awakening. These petals are free-standing and contribute to the temple's iconic lotus flower shape.
Surrounding Gardens and Pools
The temple is surrounded by nine reflecting pools and expansive gardens spread over 26 acres, enhancing the serene atmosphere and symbolizing the lotus's natural habitat.
Solar Power Installation
The Lotus Temple incorporates solar panels that supply approximately 120 kW of its 500 kW electricity usage, making it the first temple in Delhi to use solar energy, reflecting a commitment to sustainability.
Contact
Phone: 011 2644 4029
