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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Iskcon Temple Delhi You Shouldn’t Miss
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