Akshardham

The focal point of the complex is the Akshardham Mandir, which measures 108 feet high, 131 feet wide and 240 feet

long and features 97 carved pillars, 17 domes, 8 balconies, 220 stone beams and 264 sculpted figures.In accordance with Vedic architectural principles, no steel or iron has been used anywhere in the mandir.20 foot-long stone beams, each weighing five tons, have been used as load-bearing support throughout the mandir.
The mandir’s central chamber houses a seven-foot-tall, gold-leafed murti, or sacred image, of Swaminarayan, who is worshipped by followers as God. The murti rests upon a three-foot pedestal and weighs 1.2 tons. It is flanked by the murtis of the ideal devotee, Aksharbrahma Gunatitanand Swami and Aksharmukta Goplanand Swami, both in postures of loving devotion toward Swaminarayan. In each of the four corners of the mandir sits a life-sized marble murti of the lineages of gurus or successors of Swaminarayan revered by BAPS.
The first floor of the mandir is known as the Vibhuti Mandapam and features lotus-shaped displays describing the spiritual character of Swaminarayan, while the basement of the mandir, called the Prasadi Mandapam, houses a historical display of various sacred relics from Swaminarayan’s life.