Birla Mandir

Built at the summit of Arera hills is the Lakshmi Narayan Temple, structured with grandiose scale and design. The temple is more commonly known as Birla Mandir. It's an awe-inspiring spectacle that showcases a panoramic view of the historic city of Bhopal. The temple was built in the honour of Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and her consort Vishnu (also known by the name Narayan), the preserver of the universe. Hence the name Lakshmi Narayan. Surrounded by greenery and an ancient charm, the temple is a shrine to Lord Shiva and Parvathi, providing solace and tranquillity to devotees.

Spread over 7.5 acres adorned with well-maintained lawns and gardens, fountains and sculptures the grand temple attracts thousands of devotees during the festivities of Janmashtami and Diwali. The Lakshmi Narayan Temple was erected by the famous industrial family - the Birla Group and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi.

The Birla Temple also houses the famous Birla Museum in its premises with collections dating back to the 12th-century boasting some sculptures from the era of Paramaras. A magnificent archway welcomes devotees at the entrance that leads to a picturesque of finely crafted Hindu sculptures. The sandy-yellowish colour of the temple and the contagious greenery of the gardens adds an antique appeal to its ambience.