BIRLA MANDIR

Birla Mandir, also known as the Laxmi Narayan Temple, is a modern Hindu temple in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Built by the Birla family in 1988, it is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi. The temple is renowned for its exquisite marble carvings and intricate sculptures. Perched on an elevated platform, it offers panoramic views of Jaipur. Birla Mandir is not just a religious site but also a testament to contemporary architectural beauty and craftsmanship.

Known originally as Laxmi Narayan Mandir, Birla Mandir is located at the base of Moti Dungri Temple, Jaipur. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site among the Hindu devotees. Made of sparkling white marble, the structure looks incredibly marvelous. Explore spiritual serenity at Birla Mandir in Jaipur Tourism, a magnificent temple adorned with intricate marble carvings and divine tranquility.

Visit the temple which is made of shining white marble and is dedicated to the Hindu God Vishnu, also known as Narayana and his consort, Goddess Lakshmi. Before you enter, look at the three domes on the top of the temple, which represent the three religions followed in India. Enjoy the spiritual serenity of the temple that will engulf you as you walk in. Take a look at the exquisite marble carvings as well as intricate sculptures, covering many mythological themes. Observe the images of Laxmi and Narayan, which have been carved from a single piece of marble. Visit in the evening to watch the temple looking enchanting, being illuminated by light. 

Apart from the main temple, the complex also has a museum which you can visit to take a look at the exhibits of the belongings of the Birla family.

History of Birla Mandir Jaipur -

In accordance with the popular historical belief, Birla Mandir at Jaipur in Rajasthan is built on the land that was handed over to the country’s reputed Birla family by the respected Maharaja of that time in exchange for just INR 1. The construction of the temple began back in the year 1977 by the B.M. Industrial Foundation. 

The structure was developed over a total time period of around eight years and the construction work finally ended in the year 1985. 

In reference to historical facts, Mahatma Gandhi was invited to inaugurate Birla Mandir. However, Gandhi stated that he would only accept the invitation if the temple would be open to devotees of all the castes of society. The temple’s consecration ceremony finally happened on February 22, 1985.

Since then, Birla Temple is open for visitors irrespective of the caste and creed they belong to.

Highlights

• Visit Birla Mandir also known as Laxmi Narayan Temple, to worship God Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi. 
• Take a look at the three domes on the top of the temple, each dome representing a religion of India
• Admire the exquisite marble carvings as well as intricate sculptures of the temple, covering many mythological themes. 
• Witness the shrine of Laxmi Narayan, which has been made from a single stone.
• Also, visit the museum located inside the temple complex, having displays of items belonging to the Birla family.

How To Reach

By Car: The temple is located 11.8 km from the city centre. You can take a hired car or a taxi to reach the temple in around 20 minutes via Elevated Ajmer Rd/Jaipur Rd

By Metro: The nearest metro station is Jhandewalan Metro Station, located only 3 km from Birla Mandir. You can take a rickshaw from the metro station to reach the temple.

By Train: The temple is located 6 km from the Jaipur Railway Station. You can take a rickshaw to reach the temple from the station

Best Time To Visit

Birla Temple in Jaipur looks spectacular and appealing throughout the year. Hence, the attraction can be visited on any day.

Best day in the week: The best day in the week to visit will be on any weekday, as the temple remains crowded during weekends. Also, avoid visiting on festival days if you do not want to face a crowd.

The best time of the day: The regular visiting hours are between 8.00 AM to 12.00 Noon and then from 4.00 PM to 8.00 PM every day. However, the best time of the day is during sunset, when the faint light of the setting sun falls on the white marble, making it look soulful. As the darkness sets in, the temple is beautifully illuminated and becomes even more enchanting. You will also be able to witness aarti and other rituals while visiting in the evening.

Other Essential Information

Restaurants near Birla Mandir -

1. Suvarna Mahal -Suvarna Mahal is located at a distance of about 0.2 kilometers from Birla Mandir. The restaurant boasts of a really beautiful royal interior and immensely courteous and accommodating staff. The place serves delicious Indian cuisine and attracts families and couples for fine dining.

2. Steam- Known popularly for its top-notch interior and global menu, Steam is located at a distance of 0.8 kilometers from Birla Mandir. The cozy environment, soothing music, outstanding service, and delicious food will make you fall in love with this beautiful restaurant in the Pink City. 

People visit this place for lunch, dinner, and even after-hours when they enjoy chatting over some good beer and wine. The major attractions of Steam are private dining options and full bar service. 

3. The Verandah-Counted among the top restaurants in Jaipur, The Verandah is located at a distance of about 0.8 kilometers from Birla Mandir. The restaurant specializes in Indian as well as international cuisines and is visited mainly for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

In addition to soulful and tempting non-vegetarian dishes, the place also has an extensive vegetarian and vegan-friendly menu. This restaurant also serves alcohol and boasts live music as well as extremely decent table service.

4. The Rajput Room- The Rajput Room is located at a distance of around 0.8 kilometers from Birla Mandir. The restaurant is famous for its vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. People usually flock to the place for brunch, lunch, and dinner and relish happily on Indian, Contemporary, and Asian cuisines. The restaurant also serves some great alcoholic drinks and offers full bar service.

5. Polo Bar- Popular among the locals and tourists for its wine bar, Polo Bar is an amazing place to unwind and spend some relaxing time at leisure. Located at a distance of around 0.8 kilometers from Birla Mandir, this retro bar serves international dishes and great alcoholic beverages. People usually visit this place for a lavish lunch or dinner. 

Facts about Birla Mandir Jaipur -

1. Birla Temple was formerly called Lakshmi Narayan Temple and is still recognized by the same name among the locals.

2. Birla Temple is entirely built of the stunning white marble.

3. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Vishnu and his wife Goddess Lakshmi. 4

4. The temple is counted among the finest structures in the country.

5. The temple showcases three domes and each of them signifies three different religions, which took birth in this world.

6. The entire area on which Birla Temple is built was handed over to the most reputed Birla family by the respected Maharaja at the cost of just INR 1.

Tips for Visiting Birla Mandir Jaipur -

1. Before entering the temple, you will need to remove your footwear and keep it in the allotted space.
2. You must dress appropriately while visiting the place of worship
3. You can take photographs inside the temple without the use of a flash.
4. There is a museum located inside the temple grounds which you must visit.
5. Maintain silence and be respectful of the sanctity of the temple.
6. Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated
7. Visit in the evening to experience an aarti
8. If you are visiting during festival times, be prepared for crowds.
9. As the temple remains crowded at times, safeguard your belongings.
10. Guides are not available inside the temple, however, you can take the help of the priests to see around.
11. There are many shops around the temple where you can buy souvenirs, religious items and small deity statues.