The Laxmi Narayan Temple, commonly known as Birla Mandir after its industrial patron the Birla family, was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1939 as a temple open to all Hindus regardless of caste. The ornate white marble and red sandstone building is dedicated to Vishnu (Laxmi Narayan) and is one of New Delhi's most elaborately decorated temples. A series of shrines within the complex are devoted to different Hindu deities, and the gardens contain panels illustrating scenes from Hindu epics.
The temple is located just west of Connaught Place and makes a good counterpart to the political sights of Lutyens' Delhi. Visitors of all faiths are welcome. Photography is not permitted inside the main shrine.