Laxmi Narayan Temple

Lakshmi Narayan Temple Jaipur, or the Birla Temple, as it is more popularly known as, is located at the base of Moti Dungari. Built on an elevated platform, this comparatively modern temple is built entirely of white marble and dominates the skyline of south Jaipur. The temple was commissioned and built by renowned Indian industrialists, the Birlas, in 1988. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, also called Narayan, and his companion, Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and good fortune. The temple is a work of art and has a marvellous display of exquisite carvings and sculptures covering many mythological themes. The eye is drawn to the images of Laxmi and Narayan, carved as they are, from one piece of marble. The top of the temple has three domes, each representing the three religions followed in India. This is designed to pay homage to secular India. The temple looks spectacular at night when it is lit up. Other than the main temple, the complex has a museum that exhibits the earlier belongings of the Birla family.

History of Laxmi Narayan Temple
The original name of the shrine is Laxmi Narayan Temple, yet it is more popular as Birla Temple being made by the Birlas. As the name suggests, Laxmi Narayan Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Narayan), the preserver and his wife Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth.
Birla Temple is a popular architectural wonder of Jaipur. Located below the Moti Dungri Hill, Birla Mandir is easily accessible from the city of Jaipur. One can take local buses, rickshaws or can hire taxis to reach the Birla Temple. In 1988, the striking temple was built by Birla Group of Industries, a well-known name in the corporate sector of India. Made in pure white marble, Birla Mandir appears startling, when it gets lighten up in the night. Birla Temple of Jaipur is renowned for its fine carvings and delicate work. With its fine artistic works and structural grandeur Birla Mandir presents as a stunning formation of modern time.

Architecture of Birla temple
Built with white marble, the architecture of this temple reflects a modern style with traces of the traditional features you would find in a temple. The walls and the pillars of this temple are adorned with intricate carvings depicting quotes from scriptures, mythological events, and symbols, figurines of gods and goddesses and Hindu symbols.

The temple celebrates the cultural and religious diversity of India so you will find figures of several saints from other religions, historians, and philosophers existing side by side with those from the Hindu religion. The teachings of Buddha, the work of legendary teachers like Socrates and Confucius are a great sight to look at. The temple is a mélange of all the philosophies and religious teachings passed down to mankind since ages.

Three domes in the temple which represent the different religions in India stand out prominently in the structure of this temple. These domes are also a symbol of secularism prevalent in India. The entrance to the temple is adorned by an image of Lord Ganesha, who is worshipped foremost in all Hindu religious festivals and proceedings.

The white marble of the temple is inlaid with a golden color and it gives the façade a magnificent look. Outside the main temple structure, there are stained glass windows that have been beautifully adorned with Hindu mythology scenes. Just outside the main temple, there is another small temple with the idol of Lord Shiva in white marble and gold. People come here to pay homage and to admire its beauty.

Best time to Visit
The best time to visit the temple would be in the months from October to March. During the festival of Janmashtami the view of the temple is simple breathtaking. Timings: Devotees can pay their respect at the temple between 8:00 am to 7:00 pm daily.