Swaminarayan Akshardham temple

Swaminarayan Akshardham is a unique complex that introduces Indian culture, heritage and values.

 The main temples architecture is absolutely amazing and something for everyone to admire as it is carved from stone with the most defined detail. The temple is surrounded by fantastic gardens and ponds.

 The exhibitions at Swaminarayan Akshardham are a must see. This is where foreigners can learn about Swaminarayan, what it is to be a spiritual leader, the history of India and the values of the society. This is done via a movie (on massive screens) and a light and sound show of robotic figures outlining Swaminarayan's life. There is also a boat ride through a display of 800 statues oulining India's heritage. 

It will easily take up the whole day!

What To see?

There are 6 parts to the whole experience:

1. The Main Temple: Awesome architecture that combines modern technology to re-build ancient temple designs. The elephant murals are a wonderful addition.

2. The Sculpture Garden: Bronze sculptures of important men and women from all ages and eras of India. These sculptures tell a vivid story and the green expanse surrounding them is a perfect backdrop for the same.

3. Animatronic Series: The tastefully done animatronics that tell the story of Swami Narayan is a wonderful thing and very good for children. 

4. IMAX movie: Brilliantly shot, this movie combines history with spectacular camerawork and a pleasant form of story telling. The huge screen is a technology marvel.

5. Dancing Fountains: Aesthetically beautiful, the show combines Indian ragas with a nice voice-over. The incredible setting with the temple complex all around makes this a unique experience.

6. The Boat Ride: At par with what one can see anywhere in Europe, this was for me the highlight of the place. With fantastic insights into Indian contributions and achievements, it showcases our heritage with brilliant displays. 

Besides this, a wonderful, clean kitchen that serves tasty vegetarian fare at affordable prices. A meal here followed by a vist to the visitor center for memorabilia is worth it. 

Tips: 


1. Do not carry mobiles, leather godds etc – keep them in your car or deposit them at the center.


2. Ideal time to start the trip – 1500 hrs onwards- that way you can see the fountain show and top it off with dinner at the cafeteria.