Delhi, the heart of India, is known for its rich mix of history, culture, and spirituality. Among the forts, markets, and monuments, the city is also home to some of the largest temples in India. These temples are not only centers of worship but also showcases of art, architecture, and tradition.
From modern marvels like Akshardham to centuries-old shrines like Kalkaji and Gauri Shankar, each temple has a story that connects the past with the present. If you’re planning to explore Delhi, here’s a guide to the largest temples in Delhi that deserve a place on your itinerary.
Here are the Top 8 Largest Temple in Delhi
1. Akshardham Temple
The Akshardham Temple, inaugurated in 2005, is the largest temple complex in Delhi and one of the grandest in the world. Spread over more than 100 acres, it’s famous for its detailed carvings, sprawling gardens, cultural boat rides, and a breathtaking musical fountain show.
The central monument is made entirely of pink sandstone and white marble, housing intricately carved statues of deities, sages, and animals. Recognized by the Guinness World Records as the world’s largest comprehensive Hindu temple, Akshardham is more than a place of worship—it’s an experience that blends spirituality, history, and architecture. Evening visits are highly recommended for the spectacular fountain show.
2. ISKCON Temple (Sri Sri Radha Parthasarathi Mandir)
The ISKCON Temple, located near Nehru Place, is another large and popular spiritual landmark in Delhi. Built in 1998, the temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha. The architecture combines traditional design with modern construction, offering a peaceful environment for worshippers and visitors alike. Inside, the temple hosts vibrant aarti ceremonies, chanting of Hare Krishna, and educational exhibitions based on the Bhagavad Gita.
The Govinda’s restaurant inside the temple complex is a favorite among visitors, offering pure vegetarian meals. For anyone interested in Vaishnavite traditions and devotional music, ISKCON Temple is a must-visit.
3. Lotus Temple
Although it is not a Hindu temple, the Lotus Temple is one of the largest and most iconic places of worship in Delhi. Built in 1986, this Bahá’í House of Worship is shaped like a lotus flower with 27 marble-clad petals. It can hold up to 2,500 people at a time, making it one of the most spacious temples in the city.
The temple is open to people of all religions and is dedicated to meditation, prayer, and silence. Its unique design and peaceful environment make it one of Delhi’s top attractions. Visitors are requested to maintain silence inside, making it an excellent place for reflection and calm.
4. Chhatarpur Temple (Shree Adya Katyayani Shakti Peeth)
Spread across nearly 70 acres in South Delhi, the Chhatarpur Temple is one of the largest temple complexes in India. Dedicated to Goddess Katyayani, the temple was built in 1974 and features a mix of North and South Indian architectural styles. Constructed mostly in white marble, the complex includes several smaller temples dedicated to different deities.
The temple is especially popular during the Navratri festival, when thousands of devotees gather here to seek blessings. The highlight is the massive idol of Goddess Katyayani, which draws visitors from across the country.
5. Hanuman Mandir (Connaught Place and Jhandewalan)
Hanuman temples in Delhi are not only significant in size but also in their historical and cultural importance. The Hanuman Mandir in Connaught Place is considered to be one of the five temples built during the Mahabharata era.
Its massive Hanuman idol is visible from a distance and has become a recognizable landmark. Similarly, the Jhandewalan Hanuman Temple, with its towering orange idol of Lord Hanuman, is among the largest in Delhi and attracts devotees from across the city. Tuesdays and Saturdays see the biggest crowds, as these days are considered auspicious for Hanuman worship.
6. Kalkaji Temple
The Kalkaji Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kali, is one of the oldest and largest temples in Delhi. Situated near the Lotus Temple, it is believed to have existed since ancient times, with records of worship dating back centuries. The temple is especially significant during the Navratri festival, when thousands of devotees line up to seek blessings from the Goddess.
The temple’s architecture is simple but powerful, symbolizing devotion and tradition. Because of its proximity to Lotus Temple, many visitors combine the two in a single trip, making it both a spiritual and cultural experience.
7. Birla Mandir (Laxminarayan Temple)
The Laxminarayan Temple, popularly known as Birla Mandir, was built in 1939 by the Birla family and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi. Dedicated to Goddess Laxmi and Lord Narayan, the temple is located in central Delhi and covers a vast area with gardens and shrines.
Built in the Nagara style of architecture, the temple is known for its tall shikhara and detailed carvings. It was one of the first large modern Hindu temples in Delhi, and remains a popular stop for tourists and devotees. Its central location makes it easy to include in a city sightseeing tour.
8. Gauri Shankar Temple
Located in Chandni Chowk, the Gauri Shankar Temple is one of the most important Shiva temples in Delhi. Though smaller in area compared to Akshardham or Chhatarpur, it is considered one of the significant temples of Old Delhi.
The temple is believed to be around 800 years old and houses a lingam covered with silver, along with idols of Goddess Parvati and Lord anesha. Its historical significance, combined with its location in the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk, makes it a fascinating stop for those exploring Old Delhi’s mix of culture, food, and heritage.
Also read: Largest Hindu Temples in India: A Guided Tour of Spiritual Giants
Conclusion
Delhi’s temples are more than just places of prayer—they are living museums of architecture, history, and tradition. From the sprawling grandeur of Akshardham and Chhatarpur to the cultural icons like Lotus Temple and ISKCON, these temples reflect the city’s diversity and devotion.
Whether you are a pilgrim seeking blessings, a traveler curious about Indian culture, or simply someone who appreciates art and architecture, visiting the largest temples in Delhi will leave you with a sense of awe and peace. Next time you’re in the capital, step beyond the monuments and markets—experience the temples that keep Delhi spiritually alive.