Swaminarayan Akshardham in Gandhinagar, Gujarat is a large Hindu temple complex inspired by Pramukh Swami,the former spiritual head of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. Located in the capital of Gujarat,the complex was built over 13 years and is a tribute to Swaminarayan and his life and teachings.
Architectural Relevance of This Shrine
The focal point of the complex is the Akshardham Mandir, which measures 108 feet high, 131 feet wide and 240 feet long and features 97 carved pillars, 17 domes, 8 balconies, 220 stone beams and 264 sculpted figures. In accordance with Vedic architectural principles, no steel or iron has been used anywhere in the mandir. 20 foot-long stone beams, each weighing five tons, have been used as load-bearing support throughout the mandir. The mandirs central chamber houses a seven-foot-tall, gold-leafed murti, or sacred image, of Swaminarayan, who is worshipped by followers of God. The murti rests upon a three-foot pedestal and weighs 1.2 tons.
It is flanked by the murtis of the ideal devotee, Aksharbrahma Gunatitanand Swami and Aksharmukta Goplanand Swami, both in postures of loving devotion toward Swaminarayan. In each of the four corners of the mandir sits a life-sized marble murti of the lineages of gurus or successors of Swaminarayan revered by BAPS. The first floor of the mandir is known as the Vibhuti Mandapam and features lotus-shaped displays describing the spiritual character of Swaminarayan, while the basement of the mandir, called the Prasadi Mandapam, houses a historical display of various sacred relics from Swaminarayans life.
Shrine’s Map Location and How to Go There
By Road
The nearest bus stop Gandhi Nagar
By Rail
The Nearest railway station is Gandhi Nagar Junction.
By Air
The Nearest airport is at Ahmedabad.
Shrine Timings
The Akshardham temple, Ahmedabad opening time is at 9:30 AM from Tuesday to Sunday. The last entry timings for Akshardham temple Ahmedabad is at 6:30 PM.
