Top Religious Attractions
The Golden Temple - Adherents of the Sikh religion need no introduction to their sacred pilgrimage seat. Sri Harmandir Sahib or the Golden Temple, named so due to the quintessential golden hue that the monument is bathed in, is laced by the equally sacred waters of the Amrit Sarovar or the Pond of Nectar. On a jewel-studded platform is the Adi Grantha or the sacred scripture of the Sikhs wherein are enshrined holy inscriptions by the ten Sikh gurus and various Hindu and Moslem saints.
Meenakshi Temple -Lord Shiva and his consort Meenakshi or the Fish-eyed one are the reigning deities here in this typical, yet classic representative of Dravidian temple architecture with its gopurams (large sclupted gateways) and mandapams (multi-pillared halls). Don't miss out a regal safari on elephants embellished in bright clothes and the regal umbrella.
Koark Sun Temple -The 13th Century Sun Temple or the Black Pagoda at Konark is one of the World Heritage Sites built in the shape of a magnanimous 24-wheeled chariot with 7 huge stallions - a classic vehicle for the Sun God to soar the heavens. The fascinating beach flanking it is ideal for holiday-makers.
Akshardham Temple -Flanking the banks of river Yamuna across is this 2 billion architectural grandeur - an initiative of the Bochasanvasi Aksharpurushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS). A fine blend of faith and technology, Akshardham Temple complex is replete with a majestic 11 ft statue of Lord Swaminarayan, 20,000 other statues, an IMAX theatre, artificial lakes and an elaborate musical fountain.
Lotus Temple -A piquant lotus-shaped insignia of the Bahai faith - the Lotus Temple - its quietitude a stark contrast to the bustling purlieu of Kalkaji where it stands. The Lotus Temple is the meditative refuge that draws people from across the globe irrespective of creed and community.
