Buddha Temples In Delhi: Experience Buddhism

A picture of a peace pagoda located in the middle of the Indraprastha Park in Delhi on a sunny day

Delhi is one of the most significant cities in India, being the country’s capital, and historically rich with diverse cultures and religions. Within this lively dynamism, Buddhist temples serve as a silent oasis for anyone seeking to rejuvenate their soul or simply pray. Buddhism is a profound philosophy that emerged in India more than 2,500 years ago and has left a strong impact on the spiritual and cultural life of the city. Here is a list of ten amazing Buddha temples in Delhi which are significant in different ways and offer glimpses into the continued influence of Buddhism and its teachings.

9 Best Buddha Temples In Delhi

The Buddha temples in Delhi can be visited to seek refuge from the bustle of the city and reflect the tenets of Buddhism. These temples offer knowledge about both religion and the history of Buddhism.

1. Maha Bodhi Vihara

A picture of a Buddha temple in Delhi from the inside with a golden sculpture of Lord Buddha placed on a pedestial

Photo: Gpkp / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Maha Bodhi Vihara Temple situated in Mandir Marg offers tranquility among the hustle and bustle of New Delhi. This temple can be described as a unique example of the balance between traditional Buddhist motifs and postmodern architecture. The interior of the temple comprises wooden craftsmanship, a beautiful praying area, and calming Buddhist murals and statues to give a soothing ambience. The meditation halls are the most prominent area where people can practice meditation and other solitude activities. It is one of the most important Buddha temples in Delhi for practice and spiritual development.

Location: Mandir Marg, New Delhi
Best Time To Visit: Any time during daylight hours
Entry Fee: Free

Suggested Read: Ancient Temples In Delhi Where You Can Explore Some Significant Spiritual Landmarks

2. Myanmar Buddha Temple

A picture of sculptures of Lord Buddha in an isolated area, covered with clothes and garlands

Photo: Basile Morin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Myanmar Buddha temple is another temple which provides insights into Burmese Buddhism because of its structure and the environment that it creates. The outstanding features of the temple are ornate wooden architecture and a large statue of the Buddha in gold, which represents Burmese craftsmanship. Within this temple, there are splendid paintings that illustrate some Buddhist concepts and events, making the place holier and indeed very spiritual. In addition to being a temple, the Myanmar Buddha temple is also a social and learning facility for various community initiatives, cultural activities, religious ceremonies, and knowledge-sharing sessions.

Location: 27-1, Bagh Deewar, Mahatma Gandhi Park, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, 110006
Best Time To Visit: Morning and evening
Entry Fee: Free

3. Shanti Stupa

A picture of a Buddhist shrine in Delhi with a tall entry gate in the front having carvings all around

Photo: Ankush Kumar Sharma / Wikimedia Commons

The Shanti Stupa, found in the scenic location of Indraprastha Park, New Delhi, is one of the most famous Buddhist shrines that represent the concept of harmony. Constructed by the Japanese Buddhist organisation Nipponzan Myohoji, the stupa is an architectural masterpiece that employs both Japanese and Buddhist features. It has a big white dome representing a stupa with carvings and statues of the Lord Buddha contributing to the peaceful atmosphere for confession and reflections. Surrounding the stupa are beautiful gardens and pathways that add to the tranquil feel of the structure.

Location: Indraprastha Park, Ring Rd, Salim Garh Fort, Old Delhi, 110002
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
Entry Fee: Free

Suggested Read: A Guide To Explore The Tibetan Monastery Majnu Ka Tila

4. Tibetan Monastery

A picture of a praying region in a Buddha temple in Delhi with wall paintings and sculpture of Lord Buddha

Photo: ampersandyslexia / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Tibetan Monastery in Majnu Ka Tilla has become a booming spiritual and cultural hub in Delhi, often referred to as the Tibetan Colony. This monastery also reflects the way of life of the Tibetan Buddhists by way of the construction of the building that has traditional Tibetan designs and also the large gold statue of the Buddha inside this building. Tibetan cultural activities, meditation, prayers, and other important teachings related to Buddhism are the major activities that are carried out in this monastery, hence it attracts a lot of visitors who wish to learn about Buddhism and Tibetan culture. It is one of the most visited Buddha temples in Delhi for people wanting to quietly pray and meditate.

Location: Outer Ring Rd, New Aruna Colony, Majnu-ka-tilla, Timarpur, Delhi, 110054
Best Time To Visit: Morning and evening
Entry Fee: Free

5. Anoma Buddha Vihar

A picture of a Buddhist pagoda taken from a distance showing the nearby garden area and tall trees

Photo: Deepika jeinao / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Anoma Buddha Vihar, situated in the urban neighbourhood of Rohini, is a beautiful Buddhist shrine aimed at spiritual enlightenment. The temple is relatively serene and boasts a magnificent architectural structure of the building that houses the iconic statue of Buddha and beautifully carved walls with meditating zones. Anoma Buddha Vihar is used as a meditation hall for meditation sessions, Dharma discourses, and various social activities, thereby offering a respite from the concrete jungle. Since it is dedicated towards the propagation of Buddhism it serves as a great place for people who are spiritually inclined and who need fellowship.

Location: Back of Dada dev Mela ground, 657/18 Block G, Raj Nagar II Extension, Raj Nagar, Palam, New Delhi
Best Time To Visit: Morning and afternoon
Entry Fee: Free

Suggested Read: Discovering The Temples In South Delhi For A Spiritual Journey

6. Jagajyoti Buddha Vihar

A picture of a Buddhist prayer house's interior with a sculpture of Lord Buddha being worshipped

Photo: dknisely / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Buddhist temple called Jagajyothi Buddha Vihar lies in the region of New Delhi and is famous for its work and aim that focus on the principles of peace and compassion. There is a large statue of Buddha and a calm prayer area with paintings and inscriptions in the Buddhist style. Due to the serene atmosphere and functions conducted by the members of the temple, the temple rises as one of the most spiritual Buddha temples in Delhi for practice and community activities.

Location: Raja Dhirsain Marg, Sant Nagar, East of Kailash, New Delhi, Delhi 110065
Best Time To Visit: Morning
Entry Fee: Free

7. Lumbini Buddha Vihar

A Buddha temple in Delhi made in the shape of a tall white pagoda with a golden sculpture of Buddha

Photo: Harry Paudyal / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Lumbini Buddha Vihar is one of the popular Buddha temples in Delhi, inspired by the Lumbini Garden, the birthplace of Buddha in Nepal. This temple is recognised for its calm atmosphere and general Buddhist themes, exquisite sculpture statues of the Buddha and floor murals depicting various episodes of the Buddha’s life. The Vihar also has facilities for performing meditation sessions, Dharma talks, and other religious activities for the community. Its isolated location, coupled with the evident commitment to preserving Buddhist values, makes it an excellent location for spiritual study and contemplation.

Location: Gali No-9, Pandav Rd, Vishwas Nagar, Shahdara, Delhi, 110032
Best Time To Visit: Early morning and late afternoon
Entry Fee: Free

Suggested Read: South Indian Temples In Delhi For A Spiritual Experience

8. Triratna Buddha Vihar

 A picture of a prayer wheel in a Buddha temple with Buddhist texts carved on the wheel itself

Photo: flowcomm / Wikimedia Commons

Triratna Buddha Vihar is famous among the Triratna Buddhist Community and is situated in the capital of India, New Delhi. This modern temple emphasises inclusivity and the essence of the Three Jewels of Buddhism: the Triple Gem – the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha. The Vihar boasts of a large prayer hall decorated with stunning paintings and sculptures of Buddha in the centre. The temple also provides meditation sessions, retreats, and lectures on Buddhism for educational and community purposes.

Location: Block 13, Part 2, Trilokpuri, Delhi, 110091
Best Time To Visit: morning and evening
Entry Fee: Free

9. World Buddhist Centre

A picture of a tall Buddha statue in the sitting position around trees and greenery

Photo: Béria Lima de Rodríguez / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The World Buddhist Centre In the East of Kailash is quite famous for its peaceful atmosphere and gigantic Buddha statue. This temple is conveniently located in the city but offers a rather calm environment to practice meditation and other activities. It holds meditation sessions and teachings on Buddhism and has been beneficial to visitors as a place for self-development. Located in a quiet area and maintained specifically for Buddhist practices, the temple can be considered a place of interest for people who can visit it to escape the stressful city life and participate in spiritual activities.

Location: East of Kailash, New Delhi
Best Time To Visit: Morning and evening
Entry Fee: Free

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The Buddha temples in Delhi range from traditional to modern methods to depict the teachings of Buddhism in the contemporary world. If you are in search of a quiet place to pray or a traveller interested in the history and culture of worship in Delhi, these temples will offer a respite from the city’s bustle. So let’s learn everything about Buddhism on your next trip to Delhi, with TripXL.

Cover Photo: Madrishh / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Ideally, the best time is in the morning or in the evening when there are few people in the temples and the mood is rather spiritual. It also enables you to be part of morning or evening prayers and meditation that are conducted at these times.
It should be noted that most of the Buddha temples in Delhi do not charge an entry fee and may be visited for free. However, donations are usually accepted to help maintain the temple as well as fund local events and projects.
Indeed, a vast majority of the temples provide sessions and workshops where people can participate in meditating. It is advisable to check the temple timings in advance or directly approach the temple to get to know about the involvement details.
When visiting Buddha temples, it is expected that the visitors dress appropriately with their upper body, particularly their shoulders, being covered. This generally refers to not exposing one’s shoulders and knees, and not wearing anything with a distasteful logo or inscription.
Yes, cultural celebrations and artistic performances, workshops, and classes associated with Buddhist philosophies are held in Buddha temples. These events help people learn more about the Buddhist belief system and practice.

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