Holy Places of Delhi

Delhi, often regarded as a bustling and cacophonous metropolis due to its status as the second-most populated city in India, may surprise visitors with its peaceful religious sites. While the urban space is certainly teeming with people and vehicles, the city also boasts an array of temples, mosques, gurdwaras, and shrines that offer visitors a respite from the hubbub. Here, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten religious sites that are well worth a visit.

Jhandewalan Mandir

Jhandewalan Mandir is a popular Hindu temple located in the Jhandewalan area of Delhi, India. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Maa Aadi Shakti and is one of the oldest temples in Delhi. The temple complex is spread across multiple levels and features several shrines and idols of various deities. The temple attracts a large number of devotees, especially during Navratri, a Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil. The temple is also a popular tourist destination and is known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual atmosphere.

Lotus Temple

First on the list is the Lotus Temple, located in the southern suburbs of Delhi. This religious site, which belongs to the Bahai faith, is renowned for its stunning architecture modeled after the lotus flower. Composed of 27 marble ‘petals’ arranged in concentric clusters, the temple welcomes visitors of all backgrounds and genders. The lawns around the temple provide an idyllic setting for relaxation, and the temple is especially enchanting when illuminated at night.

Kalkaji Mandir

Just a stone’s throw away from the Lotus Temple lies the Kalkaji Mandir, a vast temple complex dedicated to the goddess Kali. The temple’s circular red brick architecture is a sight to behold, and devotees queue up peacefully to catch a glimpse of the goddess. For visitors seeking an authentic experience of Indian culture, Kalkaji Mandir is an excellent choice.

Chhattarpur Temple

Further afield, about four kilometers away from the Qutub Minar, lies the Chhattarpur Temple. This temple complex, one of the largest in the world, is dedicated to the goddess Durga in her form of Katyayani. Established by Baba Sant Nagapalji in 1974, the temple is an excellent example of south-Indian architectural style and attracts millions of visitors from around the globe. The best time to visit the temple is during Navaratri Festival, when worship and festivities are in full swing.

Kali Bari, Delhi

Established in the 1930s, Kali Bari in Delhi still witnesses huge crowds, especially during Kali Pujo or Diwali. It is mostly visited by the Bengali crowd in the city, but on the night of Kali Pujo, people from different corners of the city visit this temple.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

 

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, located in the heart of Connaught Place, is one of the most captivating gurdwaras in Delhi. Visitors can spend an entire morning soaking in the tunes of raagis who sing, recite and interpret the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of Sikh faith. Surrounded by a tranquil pool, the gurdwara bears a striking resemblance to its sister temple in Amritsar.

Gurdwara Sri Nanak Piao Sahib

Another beautiful gurdwara in Delhi is the Gurdwara Sri Nanak Piao Sahib. This gurdwara, which has greater historical significance than Bangla Sahib, is dedicated to the first Sikh guru, Sri Guru Nanak Devji. The guru used to camp in the garden where the gurdwara was built, and visitors can imagine him offering food and drink to the hungry and thirsty in the serene surroundings.

Akshardham Temple

Akshardham Temple is a Hindu temple complex located in Delhi, India. The temple was opened in 2005 and covers an area of 86,342 square feet. The temple features intricate carvings and designs that showcase the rich cultural heritage of India. The main attraction of the temple is the breathtaking musical fountain show, which is held in the evening. The temple attracts millions of visitors every year and is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Delhi.

Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India and is located in the heart of Old Delhi. It was commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and completed in 1656. The mosque is made of red sandstone and marble and can accommodate up to 25,000 worshippers at a time. It features a vast courtyard and three gateways, along with two towering minarets. The mosque is a popular destination for tourists and worshippers alike and is a testament to the rich history and culture of Delhi.

These are just a few of the many religious sites in Delhi that offer visitors a unique and peaceful experience. Whether you’re interested in exploring the Bahai faith or immersing yourself in Sikh culture, Delhi has something for everyone.