Kalkaji Mandir Delhi Complete Guide: Darshan Timings, Aarti, History & Nearby Places

Do you know there’s a shrine in the heart of Delhi that is believed to have existed since the Satyuga? It is none other than the Shri Kalka Ji Temple. 

Kalkaji Mandir Delhi is an ancient and respected Hindu temple in South Delhi, dedicated to the Goddess Kali, an avatar of Maa Durga. It is a highly significant pilgrimage site, also known as “Manokamana Siddha Peetha.” It is believed to be a 3000-year-old shrine of Maa Kali.

Let’s delve deeper into the details of Kalkaji Mandir Delhi, viewing the course of my experience.

An Outline of Kalkaji Mandir Delhi

Kalkaji Mandir is one of the most ancient and revered Hindu temples in Delhi, dedicated to Goddess Kali. It is constructed of white marble and brick; the temple features an elevation surrounded by a verandah with 36 arches. Legends state that the Pandavas and Kauravas worshipped here during the Mahabharata era.

Historical Significance of Kalka Ji Temple

Kalkaji Mandir in Delhi is believed to be a self-manifested form of shakti. Fables place their origins in the Satya Yuga, when Kali killed the demon Raktabija. However, folklore connects it to the Pandavas and the Shakti Peeth legend (Sati’s right foot fell here). Whereas, historians suggest the Marathas built parts around 1764 AD. It is considered a major pilgrimage site and tourist attraction in South Delhi, drawing devotees from all over India, seeking blessings from Maa Kali.

But what is the best way to get there? Let’s find out the routes to Kalkaji Mandir Delhi.

Routes to Shri Kalka Ji Temple

The Shri Kalka Ji Temple in South Delhi is most easily accessible via the Kalkaji Mandir Metro Station. It can be interchangeable through both the Violet and Magenta lines. However, the routes are comprehensively explained below:

By Metro

To reach Kalka Ji Mandir, the metro is considered the most recommended option. It is both affordable and accessible. The nearest metro stations to Kalkaji Mandir Delhi are: 

• Okhla NSIC Metro Station (Magenta Line): approximately 0.34 km.

• Kalkaji Mandir Metro Station (Violet or Magenta Lines): around 0.5 to 0.8 km.

• Govind Puri Metro Station (Violet Line): about 0.89 km.

By Cars or Private Taxis

Situated in South Delhi, Kalka Ji Mandir offers excellent accessibility via major routes like the Outer Ring Road and Ma Anandmayee Marg. Driving from central Delhi typically takes 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic. 

Key Road Routes:

• From South or East Delhi: Use the Outer Ring Road towards Nehru Place. The temple is located directly opposite the Nehru Place Business Centre.

• From Central or North Delhi: Take Lala Lajpat Rai Road or Mathura Road (NH-2) heading south, then transition onto Ma Anandmayee Marg to reach the temple complex. 

• From West Delhi: The recommended route is via Dwarka Road and the Outer Ring Road, though this route often experiences heavy traffic.

By Buses

The temple is a major stop for Delhi Transport Corporation (charging ₹ 10 to ₹ 25 for AC buses and ₹ 5 to ₹ 15 for non-AC buses), with Kalkaji Mandir or Kalkaji Mandir Metro Station being the major stops. 

The common bus route numbers are 411, 412, 433, 534, and 480. 

• 411: Travels between North and South Delhi passing through Red Fort, Delhi Gate, Supreme Court, Nizamuddin, Ashram, and Kalkaji.
• 412: Connects East Delhi (Yamuna Vihar) with South Delhi (Nehru Place).
• 433: Connects the central railway station to South Delhi border points.
• 534: A long route connecting East Delhi (Anand Vihar) to South Delhi (Mehrauli), with stops including Akshardham, Nizamuddin, Ashram, Kalkaji, and Saket.
• 480: Operates between central Delhi (near Connaught Place) and the Alaknanda or Kalkaji area in South Delhi.

Aarti and Darshan Timings of Kalka Mandir Delhi

Kalkaji Mandir in Delhi is a prominent temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. It generally opens from 4:00 AM to 11:30 PM. 

Aarti Timing
Kalkaji Mandir timing for offering morning aarti: 5:00 AM to 6:00 AM	Kalkaji Mandir timing for offering evening aarti: 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM

The other aartis are as follows:

• Bhog Aarti: 12:00 PM.
• Shayan Aarti (Night): 10:30 PM.

Darshan Timing
In the morning: 4:00 AM to 11:30 AM.	In the evening: 12:00 PM to 11:30 PM.

• Prasad or Bhog Timing

  Kalkaji Mandir timing for prasad or bhog is 11:45 AM to 12:15 PM.

In addition to the Kalkaji Mandir Delhi, be sure to consider visiting the spots that surround it.

Top 5 Key Attractions Near Kalka Ji Mandir Delhi

Top attractions near Kalkaji Mandir in Delhi include the iconic Lotus Temple, spiritual ISKCON Temple, historic Tughlaqabad Fort, scenic Astha Kunj Park, and vibrant Nehru Place market. All of these are located within a few kilometers. 

Let us look into the comprehensive synopsis:

1. Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple, officially known as the Bahá’í House of Worship, is a spectacular architectural landmark in New Delhi. It serves as a space for people of all backgrounds to meditate and pray in silence. 

Here’s all you need to know:

• Location: Lotus Temple Rd, Bahapur, Kalkaji, New Delhi, Delhi 110019

  Lotus Temple

• Nearest Metro Station: Kalkaji Mandir metro station (Violet Line)

• Distance from Kalkaji Mandir: Approximately 600 meters to 1 km from Kalkaji temple, which accounts for a 10 to 15-minute walk.

• Timings: 
  • Winter (October to March): 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
  • Summer (April to September): 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM

• Entry Fee (If Any): Free for all visitors.

• Google Reviews: ⭐ 4.5/ 5

2. ISKCON Temple Delhi- Sri Sri Radha Parthasarathi Mandir

The ISKCON Temple, also known as the Sri Sri Radha Parthasarathi Mandir, is a renowned spiritual and cultural center located in the East of Kailash area of New Delhi. The temple houses the world’s largest printed religious book, the ‘Astounding Bhagavad Gita,’ which weighs 800 kg.

Here are the key takeaways:

• Location: Iskcon Temple Rd, Sant Nagar, East of Kailash, New Delhi, Delhi 110065

  ISKCON Temple – Glory of India

• Nearest Metro Station: Nehru Place Metro Station (Violet Line) and the Kailash Colony Metro Station are the nearest metro stations.

• Distance from Kalkaji Mandir: Approximately 3 km. The journey takes about 15 to 20 minutes by auto-rickshaw.

• Timings: 4:30 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM daily.

  The aarti timings are:

  • Mangala Aarti: 4:30 AM
  • Darshan Aarti: 7:15 AM
  • Guru Puja: 7:30 AM
  • Raj Bhoga Aarti: 12:30 PM
  • Tulsi Aarti: 6:30 PM (Winter timings may vary slightly)
  • Sandhya Aarti: 7:00 PM
  • Shayana Aarti: 8:30 PM 

• Entry Fee (If Any): Free for all visitors. 

• Google Reviews: ⭐ 4.7/ 5

3. Astha Kunj Park

Astha Kunj Park is a sprawling 200-acre city sanctuary in South East Delhi. It is considered a spiritual retreat due to its location between three major religious landmarks: the Lotus Temple, ISKCON Temple, and Kalkaji Mandir.

Below is the need-to-know information:

• Location: H733+6M3, Sant Nagar, East of Kailash, New Delhi, Delhi 110065

  Aastha Kunj Park

• Nearest Metro Station: 
  • Kalkaji Metro Station (Violet or Magenta line)
  • Nehru Place (Violet line)

• Distance from Kalkaji Mandir: Approximately 0.9 km, accounting for roughly a 9 to 11 minute walk.

• Timings: Daily from 4:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

• Entry Fee (If Any): It is free to enter, has no charge.

• Google Reviews: ⭐ 4.3/ 5

4. Tughlaqabad Fort

Known as the “Cursed Fort,” Tughlaqabad fort remains one of Delhi’s most incredible architectural marvels, featuring massive stone fortifications that stretch across 6.5 kilometres.  

Here are the relevant details:

• Location: G766+9W9, Tughlaqabad Fort, Tughlakabad, New Delhi, Delhi 110044

  Tughlaqabad Fort Delhi

• Nearest Metro Station: 
  • Tughlaqabad Metro Station (Violet Line)
  • Govind Puri Metro Station (Violet Line)
  • Saket Metro Station (Yellow Line)

• Distance from Kalkaji Mandir: Approximately 6.6 km via Guru Ravidas Marg, which typically takes 20 to 30 minutes by car.

• Timings: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

• Entry Fee (If Any): 
  • Indian Citizens: ₹ 20 (Online) or ₹ 25 (Cash).
  • Foreign Nationals: ₹ 250 (Online) or ₹ 300 (Cash).
  • Children (under 15): Free entry.

• Google Reviews: ⭐ 4.2/ 5

5. Nehru Place Market

Nehru Place Market in South Delhi is India’s largest IT and electronics hub, renowned for a vast array of computers, accessories, and repair services. 

Here’s everything for you to refer to:

• Location: G7X2+8M9, Nehru Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110019

  Nehru Place Market

• Nearest Metro Station: Nehru Place Metro Station (Violet and Magenta Line) and Kalkaji Mandir Metro Station. 

• Distance from Kalkaji Mandir Delhi: approximately 1 to 1.3 km from Kalkaji Mandir.

• Timings: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The majority of the tech shops are closed on Sundays.

• Entry Fee (If Any): No entry fee.

• Google Reviews: ⭐ 4.4/ 5

Famous Dining Spots Near Kalkaji Delhi

Top dining spots near Kalkaji Mandir Delhi offer a mix of fine dining, cozy cafes, and iconic North Indian cuisine. Renowned places include Veruan, FatJar Cafe and Market, Gastronomica Kitchen and Bar, Moti Mahal Deluxe 2, and Naivedyam.

Here’s everything for you to refer to:

1. Veruan (Shree Maheshwaram Restaurant)

Veruan (Shree Maheshwaram Restaurant) is a popular South Indian restaurant located in the Kailash Colony Market in South Delhi, 2.4 km to 3 km from Kalkaji Mandir. It is well-regarded for its authentic coastal and Goan flavours.

Here’s a comprehensive overview:

• Location: HS-14, Kailash Colony Market, Greater Kailash-1, New Delhi 110048

  Shree Maheshwaram Restaurant {South Indian, Coastal, Chinese}

• Distance from Kalkaji Mandir: Approximately 2.4 km to 3 km, taking about 10 minutes by taxi or car.

• Famous Food Items : 
  • Munru Masala Dosa 
  • Malabar Paratha 
  • Appam with Chicken Stew
  • Unlimited Breakfast Buffet

• Average Price: 
  • Dining for Two: Approximately ₹1,300
  • Breakfast Buffet: ₹299 per person

• Google Reviews: ⭐ 4.5/ 5

2. FatJar Cafe & Market 

Fatjar Cafe and Market is a contemporary Mediterranean and Italian eatery located in South Delhi. It combines a casual cafe experience with a gourmet marketplace. This is highly regarded for its fresh, high-quality ingredients and handmade pasta.

Here is a detailed summary for you to refer to:

• Location: A 7, Kailash Colony, Block A, Greater Kailash, New Delhi, Delhi 110048

  FatJar Cafe & Market

• Distance from Kalkaji Mandir: Approximately 2.1 km by car (approximately 9 minutes drive). 

• Famous Food Items : 
  • Pepperoni Pizza
  • Pesto Spaghetti
  • Fusilli Alfredo
  • Truffle Fries
  • Potato Salad
  • Sticky Date Pudding

• Average Price: Approximately ₹2,800 for two people.

• Google Reviews: ⭐ 4.3/ 5

3. Gastronomica Kitchen & Bar

It is a trendy rooftop restaurant and lounge located in the M Block Market of Greater Kailash 1, New Delhi. Established in 2015, it is well-known for its diverse fusion of world cuisines and vibrant atmosphere with live music.

Here’s a thorough analysis:

• Location: Second Floor, M-55, above Citibank ATM, Greater Kailash-1, M Block, Greater Kailash I, Greater Kailash, New Delhi, Delhi 110048

  Gastronomica

• Distance from Kalkaji Mandir: Approximately 3.3 km (roughly a 14-minute drive).

• Famous Food Items : 
  • Ratatouille Cigars 
  • Dal Gastronomica 
  • Butter Chicken Cornetto
  • Chicken Thai Basil 
  • Mushroom Galouti Kebabs 
  • Dahi and Akhrot ke Kebab 
  • Quinoa Bhel

• Average Price: Approximately ₹ 2000 to ₹ 2100 for two people (including alcohol).

• Google Reviews: ⭐ 4.1/ 5

4. Moti Mahal Deluxe 2

It is a well-regarded outpost of the legendary chain known for its classic North Indian and Mughlai flavors. It offers a cozy yet upscale atmosphere suitable for family dinners and group gatherings.

Here’s a detailed synopsis:

• Location: M-20, Market, Block M, Greater Kailash II, Greater Kailash, New Delhi, Delhi 110048

  Moti Mahal Delux – Greater Kailash 2

• Distance from Kalkaji Mandir: Approximately 4.8 km (about a 15-minute drive)

• Famous Food Items : 
  • The Original 1920 Butter Chicken
  • Dal Makhani
  • Tandoori Chicken
  • Afghani Chicken
  • Paneer Lababdar 
  • Murgh Biryani
  • Gajar Halwa

• Average Price: Approximately ₹ 1700 to ₹ 1800 for two people.

• Google Reviews: ⭐ 4.0/ 5

5. Naivedyam

It is a well-regarded South Indian restaurant known for its authentic vegetarian cuisine and traditional, temple-like ambience. It features a conventional South Indian aesthetic with harmonized devotional music. 

Here’s a detailed overview:

• Location: F-12, Main Rd, Block F, Kalkaji, New Delhi, Delhi 110019

  Naivedyam

• Distance from Kalkaji Mandir: Approximately 1.6 km (roughly 6 minute drive).

• Famous Food Items : 
  • Mysore Masala Dosa
  • Shahi Dosa 
  • Benne Masala Dosa
  • Maharaja Thali
  • Paneer Uttapam 
  • Vada 
  • Rasam

• Average Price: Approximately ₹ 1000 for two people.

• Google Reviews: ⭐ 4.3/ 5

Gallery of Glimpses of Kalika Mandir Delhi

Experience the divine aura of the Shri Kalkaji Mandir, one of Delhi’s oldest and most revered spiritual landmarks, through the images attached below.

Dos and Don’ts to Consider in Kalkaji Temple

Visiting the ancient Kalkaji Temple in Delhi requires adhering to modesty and patience due to the high headcount. Here’s a list of dos and don’ts to strictly adhere to in Kalkaji Temple.

Here are some extra tips for your convenience:

• Avoid the 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM peak, as crowds are heaviest then.

• Be aware of the pickpockets in crowded areas.

• The morning Aarti starts with a milk bath, while the evening Aarti is known as the “Tantrik Aarti”.

Conclusion

This blog provides a complete guide and everything you need to know before visiting Kalkaji Mandir Delhi. Being one of the siddha shakti peethas, the Kalka Ji temple attracts thousands of devotees throughout the year. It is often referred to as the “Manokamna Siddha Peetha.” 

Seek the blessings of Maa Kalka, meditate in the altar of the Lotus temple, cherish the architecture of Tughlaqabad, and shop your heart out in the lanes of Nehru Place Market, all within a range of 8 km from Kalka Ji temple.