Swaminarayan Temple Gondal (Akshar Deri)

This ancient and royal temple is an important spiritual destination for devotees, drawing visitors from across India and beyond. The temple is also referred to by local names such as BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Gondal, and Akshar Vadi.

The temple complex is dedicated to several revered figures, including Gunatitanand Swami, Ghanshyam Maharaj, Yogiji Maharaj, and the Guru Parampara, making it a significant site for followers of the Swaminarayan tradition.

The temple’s architecture is distinctive and the serene atmosphere provides an ideal setting for prayer and reflection.

Devotees can participate in a variety of poojas and rituals, with daily aartis including Mangala Aarti at 6:00 AM, Shringar Aarti at 7:30 AM, Rajbhog Aarti at 11:15 AM, Sandhya Aarti at 7:00 PM, and Shayan Aarti at 8:15 PM.

Pradakshina (circumambulation) timings are thoughtfully arranged for men and women at different hours throughout the day, and other special rituals such as Mahapuja and Sakar-tula are also performed. Poojas are conducted in Gujarati and Sanskrit, enhancing the spiritual experience for visitors.

The temple is open for darshan in the morning from 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM (with a brief closure from 10:15–11:15 AM) and in the evening from 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM (closed briefly from 6:00–7:00 PM). Entry for darshan is free.

The best time to visit is during winter (November to February), in the morning hours, during evening aarti, or in the festival season. Major festivals celebrated here include Diwali & Annakut, Sharad Purnima, Swaminarayan Jayanti/Ram Navami, Hinrutsu/Chandan na Wagha, and Guru Purnima.

Visitors are requested to adhere to a modest dress code: men should wear attire covering shoulders and knees, while women are encouraged to wear traditional or modest outfits such as sarees or salwar kameez. Wraps are provided if needed. Reaching the temple is convenient.

Rajkot city is accessible by air, train, or road. From Rajkot, travel south on NH 27 for about 40–42 km to Gondal. The temple is approximately 2.5 km from Gondal Railway Station and 70 km from Rajkot International Airport.

Local auto-rickshaws or taxis are available from Gondal’s bus and railway stations. Ample free parking is available, and the temple is wheelchair accessible. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the main shrine and Akshar Deri, but permitted in designated outer areas.

After the main aartis, sanctified prasadam is distributed, and a canteen serves traditional vegetarian meals at subsidized rates. For accommodation, pilgrims can stay at the on-campus BAPS Swaminarayan Yatri Bhavan or nearby hotels such as Hotel Batin Palace, Riverside Palace, and Hotel Tulsi.

Nearby attractions include Naulakha Palace, Orchard Palace, and the Bhuvaneshwari Stud Farm, making it a well-rounded spiritual and cultural visit. For more information, visit the official website or contact the temple directly.