About this temple
Lakshmi Narayan Temple, commonly called Birla Mandir, is dedicated to Lakshmi, goddess of prosperity, and Narayana, a form of Vishnu. It stands on Mandir Marg west of Connaught Place.
History
Delhi Tourism dates the temple to 1939 and records its inauguration by Mahatma Gandhi, who stipulated that people of every caste must be admitted. This commitment to access across caste boundaries is a significant part of the temple’s modern history.
Legends & Religious Traditions
Modern founding tradition — admission across caste boundaries: The temple’s distinctive founding account centres on Mahatma Gandhi’s inauguration in 1939. Gandhi stipulated that people of every caste must be admitted. The account makes inclusive access a defining part of this Delhi shrine’s identity. This is a documented modern founding episode, not an ancient Puranic origin story or a miraculous appearance of the deity.
Founder, Patronage and Reconstruction
The temple was established under Birla-family patronage. Delhi Tourism’s current attraction page names J. K. Birla.
How to Reach
The nearest Metro station listed by Delhi Tourism is R. K. Ashram Marg. Continue by local transport or on foot to Mandir Marg near Gole Market.
Entry, Tickets and Booking
Free entry is listed by Delhi Tourism.
Photography and Electronic Devices
Delhi Tourism states that photography, mobile phones and cameras are not allowed inside the temple. Follow current instructions at the entrance.
Address and Location Details
Mandir Marg, near Gole Market, New Delhi, Delhi.
Verification Notes and Uncertainties
Delhi Tourism’s opening schedule and entry/device rules checked on 30 October 2026. Licensed photograph by Shivansh Mishra 017 uploaded. This twentieth-century foundation is described through its documented history; no separate legendary origin has been authenticated. Detailed current accessibility and festival arrangements have not been independently verified. Updated 30 October 2026: the modern founding account is now included in Legends & Religious Traditions, explicitly identified as documented history rather than ancient mythology. Delhi Tourism supports Gandhi’s all-caste admission condition. The newly supplied claims about Mughal arches and the purpose of a Buddhist shrine have not been independently corroborated and have not been added.