The Lotus Temple is the popular name for the Bahá’í House of Worship in New Delhi, located in Bahapur, Kalkaji, South Delhi. Its lotus-shaped architecture, gardens and quiet prayer hall make it a distinctive stop in the area; check its visiting pattern and entry arrangements before setting out.
- Location: Bahapur, Kalkaji, South Delhi.
- Usual visiting pattern: Tuesday to Sunday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm; closed Mondays.
- Entry: Admission is free.
- Prayer services: At 10 am, 12 pm, 3 pm and 5 pm, lasting 10–15 minutes.
What to expect at the Lotus Temple
The Lotus Temple’s white lotus form rises within a landscaped complex of gardens and pools. Architect Fariborz Sahba conceived the building after studying Indian architecture and religious symbols. The House of Worship was inaugurated in 1986, after construction began in 1980; the land was purchased in 1953.
The complex covers 26.5 acres. Its main House of Worship is accompanied by an ancillary block containing a library, conference hall and administrative building. The lotus design has three sets of nine petals and is surrounded by nine pools, which also help ventilate the building.
The House of Worship welcomes people of all racial, religious and national backgrounds to pray and meditate. The Information Centre, which opened to the public in 2003, presents information about the Bahá’í Faith through photo panels, written text and films.
How do you get from South Delhi to the Lotus Temple?
From Indus Biznotel, a hotel in South Delhi, the Lotus Temple is about 8 minutes by car or 38 minutes on foot.
The official site identifies Kalkaji Mandir and Okhla NSIC as the nearest metro stations: Kalkaji Mandir serves the Violet and Magenta lines, while Okhla NSIC serves the Magenta line. Both stations are described as a five-minute walk from the House of Worship.
If you’re planning to use the metro around Kailash Colony, the New Delhi metro near Kailash Colony guide covers nearby stations and connections. A DDA parking facility opposite the main gate is available if you’re arriving by car.
Visitor etiquette and entry arrangements
Modest dress is suggested: wear clothing that covers your shoulders and reaches your knees. Shoes aren’t allowed in the prayer hall, but you can leave them in the shoe room. Food and drinks are not allowed on the premises, large baggage cannot be taken inside, and the grounds are smoke-free.
Opening hours
- Tuesday to Sunday: 8:30–17:00
- Monday: closed
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
Photography is permitted outside the prayer hall and Information Centre. Photography inside either is not allowed, and professional photographers need prior permission. Wheelchairs are available at the main gate on a first-come, first-served basis. Washrooms and drinking-water facilities are on the premises.
Groups of 10 or more may request an appointment at least three days before visiting. Appointments require confirmation and aren’t accepted for Saturdays, Sundays or public holidays. During a prayer service, the prayer hall exit door remains closed until the service ends.
Planning time for the visit
Set aside time for the gardens and pools as well as the House of Worship. Prayer services take place at 10 am, 12 pm, 3 pm and 5 pm, and each lasts 10–15 minutes. The hall may close when overcrowded, including on Sundays or other public holidays, or because of heavy rain, so allow for a change in access.
For a wider day out, you can fit the temple into a one-day South Delhi route from Kailash Colony. Keep the temple’s own opening pattern in mind when setting the order of stops.
Opening hours are published as Tuesday to Sunday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, with the temple closed on Mondays. Hours and access arrangements can change, so check the official site before you go.
FAQs
Is admission to the Lotus Temple free?
Yes. Delhi Tourism lists admission as free.
Can you take photographs at the Lotus Temple?
Photography is permitted except inside the prayer hall and Information Centre. Professional photographers need prior permission.
Which metro stations serve the Lotus Temple?
Kalkaji Mandir is served by the Violet and Magenta lines, and Okhla NSIC by the Magenta line. Both are described as a five-minute walk from the House of Worship.