Delhi Has A New 108-Foot Statue At Akshardham Temple, A Must-Visit Spot

New Delhi: If you are planning a trip to Delhi, chances are your list already includes busy markets, historic forts and famous street food spots. But the city also has places where time seems to slow down, offering a different kind of travel experience. One such place is Akshardham, a vast cultural and spiritual complex that feels like a peaceful break from the city’s rush. Opened in 2005, it combines grand architecture, landscaped gardens and immersive exhibitions in one space. Recently, a new 108-foot statue has added another reason for travellers to visit. Together, these elements make Akshardham a must-visit stop for anyone exploring Delhi beyond its usual sights.

The towering 108-foot statue taking shape at Akshardham is of Neelkanth Varni, the youthful ascetic form of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. Known as the Swaminarayan tap murti, the statue shows Neelkanth Varni standing on one leg with his arms raised towards the sky in deep meditation.

According to the official Instagram handle of Akshardham, the 108-foot-tall Tapomurti of Shri Neelkanth Varni Maharaj was officially inaugurated on March 26, 2026. The post shared that the Vedic rituals for the statue were completed on the sacred grounds of Swaminarayan Akshardham, New Delhi, in the holy presence of Param Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj. The occasion was described as a deeply spiritual moment, marking the completion of the statue of the child-ascetic form of Bhagwan Shri Swaminarayan.

Following the inauguration, the statue is now part of the Akshardham complex and can be viewed by visitors. Entry to the Swaminarayan Akshardham complex remains free, making it accessible to all travellers. However, certain exhibitions and experiences inside Akshardham continue to require separate tickets, which can be purchased on-site.

Akshardham is generally open from Tuesday to Sunday and remains closed on Mondays. Visitors are advised to check the official Akshardham website or on-ground notices for the latest visiting hours and exhibition ticket details before planning their visit.

Who Is Neelkanth Varni?

Neelkanth Varni represents the early spiritual journey of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, marked by years of intense discipline and meditation. He travelled across India as a young ascetic, living a life of simplicity and tapasya. For travellers, understanding this story adds depth to what they are seeing. Even without knowing the details, many visitors feel a strong sense of calm around the statue, reflected in its still pose and quiet presence.

The height of the statue is deeply symbolic. In Indian spiritual traditions, the number 108 is associated with completeness, prayer and devotion. The posture of Neelkanth Varni standing on one leg highlights his spiritual discipline and focus. Unlike dramatic monuments that dominate the skyline, this statue feels gentle despite its size. It encourages visitors to slow down, observe quietly and take in the surroundings.

Akshardham has always been a place meant to be experienced slowly, and the new statue adds to that feeling. Many travellers plan enough time to explore the exhibitions, walk through the gardens and stay back for the evening light-and-water show. Visitors often find themselves moving at a relaxed pace, sitting quietly or simply watching others enjoy the space. The statue fits naturally into this calm atmosphere, making it appealing to families, solo travellers and first-time visitors alike.