From Mahipalpur on New Delhi’s airport side, the Lotus Temple offers a change of pace: it is the Bahá’í House of Worship in Bahapur, Kalkaji, South Delhi, recognised for its petal-shaped design and surrounding pools. Plan your visit around its weekly opening schedule and prayer services.
- Location: Lotus Temple Road, Bahapur, Shambhu Dayal Bagh, Kalkaji, New Delhi, Delhi 110019
- Metro: Kalkaji Mandir and Okhla NSIC stations are each described as a five-minute walk from the temple
- Typical hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday; closed Monday
- Admission: The official visitor information does not state an admission charge
The architecture and grounds
The Lotus Temple’s distinctive form comes from 27 marble-clad, free-standing petals arranged in groups of three to create nine sides. Nine doors open onto a central hall, while nine pools surround the building.
Designed by Iranian architect Fariborz Sahba, the temple was dedicated in December 1986. Its formal name is the Bahá’í House of Worship; Lotus Temple is the name commonly used for the building, which stands in the Kalkaji area of South Delhi.
How do you get to the Lotus Temple?
Kalkaji Mandir and Okhla NSIC are the closest metro stations, each a five-minute walk from the temple. Kalkaji Mandir is served by the Violet and Magenta lines; Okhla NSIC is served by the Magenta line.
The temple is east of Nehru Place. A DDA parking facility opposite the main gate is available if you are arriving by car. For a group of 10 or more, you can request an appointment at least three days before visiting; appointments are not accepted for Saturdays, Sundays or public holidays and require confirmation.
For a route that connects several Delhi sights, use a one-day Delhi sightseeing itinerary from Mahipalpur to shape the order of your visits.
Visitor hours, entry and conduct
The temple’s visitor page and Delhi Tourism give different closing times, so check the official site before you go. Prayer services take place at 10 am, 12 pm, 3 pm and 5 pm and last 10–15 minutes.
Opening hours
- Tuesday to Sunday: 8:30–17:00
- Monday: closed
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
The prayer hall may close when overcrowded on Sundays or public holidays, or because of heavy rain. Shoes are not permitted inside the prayer hall; you can leave them in the shoe room. Modest clothing that covers shoulders and reaches the knees is suggested.
Photography is permitted except inside the prayer hall and Information Centre. Professional photographers need prior permission. Food and drinks are not allowed on the premises, and large baggage cannot be taken inside. Wheelchairs are available at the main gate on a first-come, first-served basis; washrooms and drinking-water facilities are also available.
Pairing the visit with nearby south Delhi
The Lotus Temple visit can be part of a broader south Delhi sightseeing plan. Qutub Minar Complex is another landmark in the area; from Hotel Pearl - Mahipalpur Delhi Airport, it is about 26 minutes by car. The Qutab Minar visit from Mahipalpur can help you plan that stop.
FAQs
Is there an entry fee for the Lotus Temple?
The official visitor information does not state an admission charge.
Is the Lotus Temple open on Mondays?
Open Tuesday to Sunday; closed Monday. No.
Can you take photographs inside the temple?
Photography is not permitted inside the prayer hall or Information Centre. Professional photographers need prior permission.