If you've ever tried to imagine what Angkor Wat might have looked like when it was first put up, look no further.

Inaugurated as recently as November 2005, every inch of this stunningly constructed complex is packed with carvings. No less than 15,000 artisans spent four years chipping away and the result is exquisite, if a little over the top.

The main temple is surrounded by a mammoth frieze depicting the elephant in mythology and folklore; the interior is a virtuoso display of religious art; and there are fountains and gardens too. And that's just the free part - there's a host of other exhibitions and film shows to keep you occupied for an entire afternoon, at least.

If the time, effort, money and sheer organisational skill that went into this were to go into sorting out the rest of New Delhi, it would become the world's number one city by next week.

Quite a way out to the east, over Nizamuddin bridge. Tuk-tuk drivers might be a bit reluctant to venture this far, so bargain hard, but it shouldn't be more than 100Rs from Connaught Place. Once inside, entry is free though the extra exhibitions cost 125 Rs a pop and the security is tight.

www.akshardham.com

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Baha'i temple set in acres of green gardens - the beautiful modern building whose architecture evokes images of the lotus flower. This is a peaceful haven amongst the traffic and chaos of India's capital, a truly stunning piece of modern design, and rightly thought of as a must-see place in Delhi.

South Delhi, near Ashram district and Isckon temple

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Also known as the Birla Temple, this large and comparatively modern complex was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi on condition that it would be open to all castes. Unexpectedly, with its stone grottoes, landscape gardens and slightly kitsch animal sculptures, it's also one of the best children's playgrounds in the city.

West Of Connaught Place, Mandir Marg
www.laxminarayan.blessingsonthenet.com

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