In India’s multicultural capital with a rich past, tourists and locals alike find themselves smitten by the spirit of religious tolerance and architectural brilliance. Religious monuments and historical ruins stand cheek by jowl with urban sprawl, lending a kitschy charm and a heady feeling to the metropolis.

The Chattarpur temple complex in South Delhi is one such place where architectural splendour blends harmoniously with religious activity. Founded almost a decade back by Swami Nagpalji, this temple is primarily dedicated to Shakti—the female energy—and finds a place among every tourist’s itinerary. A mere 4-km drive from Qutub Minar through potholed roads and bovine nonchalance pays off as soon as you make your way past the entrance.

The white marble buildings offset with lush greenery transports you to a different realm altogether. The main shrine, with its vimanas and gopurams, carries architectural influences of temples in south India and is dedicated to Goddess Durga.

Surrounding it are temples of Shiva, Vishnu, Lakshmi and Ganesh. The shrines are flanked by trees, adorned with red threads—unfulfilled wishes tied in knots of hope—and as you make your way through them you come upon the 60 ft high statue of Lord Hanuman, made of red stone. When lit by the rays of the setting sun, this huge statue truly makes for an overwhelming sight.

Chattarpur temple is popular among both the devotees and the not-so-religious. The best part of this place is that once you are done with the shrine visits you can simply sit back and soak in the awe-inspiring architecture and the serene ambience.

On winter weekends the temple premises throng with families who come here to worship and also have a day out. However, during Navaratras, this becomes a near-impossible task with devotees taking full charge of the place.

Chattarpur temple is open all days from 5.30 am to 10 pm.