Private Delhi Temples Tour: Lotus Temple, Akshardham & More

Summary

Guided Spiritual Sites Tour in Old & New Delhi

You’ll get an up-close look at Delhi’s most important spiritual sites—Hindu, Jain, Sikh, and Baha’i—all with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story behind each stop. If you want real insight into India’s faiths (and some hidden gems), this tour makes it easy—and comfortable—to see them all in one day.

What’s the experience like?

The city was already humming when we set out at 9 AM—Delhi mornings have this mix of cool air and distant horns. Our driver pulled up right on time, and our guide introduced himself with a big smile. First stop: Swaminarayan Akshardham. Even from the parking lot, you can spot the temple’s domes peeking above the trees. Up close, it’s wild how detailed every inch is—carvings of elephants, dancers, even tiny birds tucked into corners. The place is huge; our guide said it’s actually in the Guinness Book for being the largest Hindu temple complex. There’s a faint scent of incense everywhere and you’ll hear soft bells from inside as people start their prayers.

Next up was the Lotus Temple. It looks almost unreal—like a giant white flower opening up in the middle of busy roads. We had to take off our shoes before going in (the marble floor felt cool underfoot). Inside, it’s quiet enough to hear your own breath; no photos allowed, which honestly made it feel more peaceful. Our guide explained that anyone can pray here, no matter their religion.

Lunch break came just as we were starting to feel hungry—there are plenty of small cafés nearby if you want something quick or just a chai. Afterward, we headed to Laxminarayan Temple (locals call it Birla Mandir). The gardens are surprisingly calm for central Delhi; I saw kids chasing pigeons while older folks sat chatting under neem trees. The temple itself is dedicated to Vishnu and Lakshmi and was opened by Gandhi back in 1939.

Chandni Chowk was next—a total sensory overload with honking rickshaws and street vendors calling out deals on everything from bangles to samosas. Sri Digambar Jain Temple stands right across from Red Fort; it’s easy to miss unless you’re looking for its red sandstone walls. Inside, there’s a bird hospital upstairs (our guide insisted we peek in), which I never would’ve found on my own.

We wrapped up at Gurudwara Bangla Sahib just as golden hour hit—the water tank glowed orange in the late afternoon sun. Volunteers handed out sweet prasad near the entrance; I tried some and it tasted like warm semolina pudding. After a quick look around the prayer hall (heads covered!), we headed back to the car for drop-off around 5 PM.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Delhi Temples and Spiritual Sites

• Start from hotel at 9 AM
• Visit Swaminarayan Akshardham temple
• Visit Lotus Temple
• Lunch break
• Visit Laxminarayan Temple
• Visit Sri Digambar Temple
• Visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
• Return to hotel by 5 PM

Top questions

Is there a dress code for visiting these temples?

Modest clothing is best—cover shoulders and knees where possible. You’ll need to remove your shoes at most sites too.

Can I take photos inside all the temples?

No photos are allowed inside Lotus Temple or some prayer halls; your guide will let you know where it’s okay.

Is lunch included?

No, lunch isn’t included but your guide can recommend good spots nearby for any budget or taste.

I have mobility issues—is this tour suitable?

The tour involves some walking and steps at certain temples; please let us know your needs so we can help plan accordingly.

What’s included

You’ll get private transportation with AC (and a friendly driver), all parking fees and tolls covered, plus an experienced local guide who’ll handle entry details and share stories along the way. Hotel pickup/drop-off and a fun rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk are also part of the day!