Swaminarayan Akshardham is a temple complex and cultural center located in the city of Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state of Gujarat, and it attracts visitors from all over the world. Here is a detailed guide on Swaminarayan Akshardham, covering all the essential details that tourists need to know.
History of Swaminarayan Akshardham
Swaminarayan Akshardham was inaugurated in 1992 and was built in honor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, the founder of the Swaminarayan sect of Hinduism. The temple complex was built using traditional Indian architectural techniques and features intricate carvings, sculptures, and artwork. The temple is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan and is an important center of the Swaminarayan sect.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Swaminarayan Akshardham is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and the temperature is mild. The temple is open throughout the year, but it can get extremely crowded during important events and festivals.
Temple architecture and attractions
Swaminarayan Akshardham is a stunning temple complex that is a perfect blend of modern architecture and traditional Indian design. The temple complex has several attractions that are worth visiting, including:
- Main Temple: The main temple is the centerpiece of the complex and is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan. The temple is built using pink sandstone and features intricate carvings and sculptures.
- Exhibition Hall: The exhibition hall is an interactive museum that showcases the history and philosophy of the Swaminarayan sect. The museum features multimedia exhibits, dioramas, and displays that bring the history of the sect to life.
- Musical Fountain: The musical fountain is a stunning display of water, light, and sound that is a must-see for visitors. The fountain is located in the center of the complex and features a stunning display of lights and water jets.
- Garden of India: The Garden of India is a beautifully landscaped garden that features several sculptures and monuments dedicated to the great leaders of India.
Activities
Apart from visiting the various attractions within the temple complex, visitors can also enjoy several activities in and around Swaminarayan Akshardham. Some of the popular activities include:
- Light and Sound Show: The light and sound show is a spectacular display of lights, music, and narration that tells the story of the Swaminarayan sect. The show is held every evening and is a must-see for visitors.
- Cultural Programs: The temple complex hosts several cultural programs and events throughout the year, including dance performances, music concerts, and theater shows.
- Food: The temple complex has several food stalls and restaurants that serve delicious vegetarian food.
Entry fee and timings
The entry fee for Swaminarayan Akshardham is INR 170 for adults and INR 100 for children. The temple complex is open from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm every day.
Accommodation
There are several accommodation options available near Swaminarayan Akshardham, including hotels and guest houses. Visitors can also choose to stay in the city of Gandhinagar or the nearby city of Ahmedabad, which offer a wide range of accommodation options.
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