Akshardham Temple

Swaminarayan Akshardham opened in 2005, built of pink Rajasthani sandstone and Italian marble in traditional shilpa shastra methods with no steel or concrete in the main structure, its surfaces carved with deities, plants, animals and dancers by thousands of craftsmen working with volunteers. The central monument stands under a large dome on carved pillars, surrounded by an elephant plinth of over a hundred and forty stone elephants in narrative scenes. The grounds hold stepwell-shaped courtyards, gardens, an animatronic exhibition, a boat ride through Indian history and a musical fountain in the evening.

What you actually see

• The carved monument - stone construction without steel, covered in relief work.
• The elephant plinth - over a hundred and forty carved elephants in scenes.
• The stepwell courtyard - a large sunken court in traditional form.
• The evening fountain - the water and light show after dark.

When to go

October to March; the complex closes on Mondays. The musical fountain runs in the evening. Allow time for security, which is strict and slow.

Honest expectations

Phones, cameras and bags are prohibited entirely and must be left in lockers, which surprises most first-time visitors. Security queues are long. Exhibitions and the boat ride are ticketed separately.

Nearby

Central Delhi lies west; the Yamuna runs alongside.