Akshardham Temple in
New Delhi, is dedicated to 18th century saint 'Swaminarayan'. The followers of this holy saint is believe that Swaminarayan was an incarnation of god and hence worship him with great devotion. Designed in typical Indian style of architecture, it is an architectural marvel of Delhi. Made out of red sand stone, there are hundreds of pillars, domes, windows, built with the help of 3 million man power in five years.
“ Big, Very big.” Michael Rana answered this when we asked her how she find Akshardham Temple. Most of the tourists are actually impressed by the huge size of this ruling mass.
This grand edifice sprawls over an area of over 100 acres, which consists of 234 ornately carved pillars, 9 ornate domes, 20 quadrangle shikhars, a Gajendra Pith (plinth of stone elephants) and 20,000 murtis and statues of India's great sadhus, devotees, acharyas and divine personalities. Constructed of pink sandstone from Rajasthan and white marble from Italy. The pink stone symbolizes Bhakti (Devotion) in eternal bloom while the white marble stands for absolute purity and eternal peace. The temple has been constructed without using a single iron rod. It's just the fine placement of these stones that provide strength to the building.
As one enters the grand monument, its huge pink sandstone domes seem sprouting above the banks of Yamuna River. Each wall, pillar, surface and dome is adorned with statuary fairies, peacocks, elephants, cows and vines. They aspire so lively that none can keep his eyes off this marvelous structures of beauty. With sprawling gardens and majestic fountains, one would never wish to leave the place and would love to rest here, forever.
Also pronounced as devotional Disneyland, there are a number of attractions within the temple like sound and light show, 3-d animated studio and exhibition halls. By spending a few rupees, you can have a vie of these paid attractions. One can follow the story of Bhagwat Geeta with walkie-talkie mannequins. Following the crowd, one would feel like experiencing a roller coater ride and would be electrified with devotion with which people visit this place and worship here.
During the weekends, there is a mad rush to have a glimpse of Swaminarayan. There are images and idols of various Hindu Gods and Goddesses that have been kept inside the temple. Brilliant walkways lead to the large halls, where these idols have been placed interestingly.
India Gate : This monument speaks a history which needs to be seen and not read. The monument was made in memories of soldiers who laid down their lifes in the second world war.
Nothing much you would be left with no words to say
.
"It was an awesome experience. I was quite overwhelmed by the phenomenal edifice which spans over a huge area of Delhi” adds Michael Rana.
Getting There
By Air : Delhi is accessible from all the parts of the world by air.
By Rail : Delhi can be reached easily by railways from any part of India, as it is well-connected with all the important railway tracks of India.
By Road : Delhi has well-defined Road routes services. So, for the people, who are residing in the nearby places from Delhi can reach Delhi easily by bus or any other means of road transport.
Your Stay : Hotels in Delhi
Excursion : Agra ,
Jaipur,
Mathura &Vrindavan
Many thanks to Michael Rana, who shared his experience with us.
