Visiting the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir: The Largest Hindu Temple in the Western Hemisphere
- Jun 15
- 4 min read
Our visit to to the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
On February 23, 2024 we visited the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (MUN-deer, meaning temple) in Robbinsville, NJ. We had recently heard of this place and were intrigued by it. We are so glad we went. It was a beautiful day to spend in a wonderfully spiritual place.
Largest Hindu Temple in the Western Hemisphere
This Mandir is the largest Hindu temple in the western hemisphere and apparently the second largest one in the world, with a height of 213 feet. Construction began in 2015 and it cost about $96 million to build. The campus is more than 180 acres, includes 10,000 statues, and the largest elliptical dome ever built in stone. In case you were wondering, the largest Hindu temple is Angkor Wat in Cambodia. It was built in the 12th century and occupies more than 400 acres of land. It is said to be the largest religious monument in the world. Before our visit to the temple in Robbinsville we had Thailand on our list of places to visit. Now we think it might be fun to include Cambodia as part of that trip.
Golden Statue of Swaminarayan (swah-mee-nah-RAH-yun)
Swaminarayan, the subject of the statue pictured here, is worshipped at the temple in Robbinsville. He was a yogi who lived from 1781 to 1830 and his followers believe he was a manifestation of Krishna, one of the most widely revered deities in Hinduism. In 1792 at the age of 11 he set out on a seven-year pilgrimage across India through harsh weather conditions and difficult terrain with modest clothing. This golden statue is 49 feet tall, representing the 49 years of his life.
At the entrance to the temple grounds there are brief narratives you can read to learn the history of Swaminarayan's life and about the temple built in his honor. Soft devotional music played across the grounds, the kind of gentle chanting and hymns that are part of the daily worship rituals here. It set a tone before we even reached the temple itself, making the experience feel more solemn and contemplative than a typical tourist attraction.
Traditional Stepped Pond
After passing the statue you come to a very large, traditional stepped pond. The pond is filled with water from India's 108 holy rivers and the rivers of all 50 states in the U.S. It is meant to represent the importance of community. We took a brief video to give you an idea. But you really need to visit to get the full effect.
At the right end of the pond you walk through a gateway to the welcome center, where you will be greeted by a friendly volunteer who will ask if it is your first time visiting. Since we had not visited previously, he invited us to view an eight-minute introductory film in one of several small screening rooms. When the film ends, a door at the back of the screening room opens automatically, and you make your way back outside.
The Mandir
Approaching the temple you pass various intricately carved statues and the walkway is flanked by fountains, which were not operational during our February visit, likely because some areas of the campus were still being completed. In a vestibule at the temple entrance, we removed our shoes and picked up audio guides, which we'd recommend without hesitation. They provide considerably more context than the film alone and help you understand what you're seeing at each altar inside.
We were unable to photograph the inside of the temple as it is prohibited. Just imagine intricately carved white marble columns, statues, and domes. There are various altars with statues of Swaminarayan and other religious figures, some decorated with gold and vibrant colors. The floor is white marble too. Even though there were many visitors, it was very silent and peaceful. Even the small children were mostly silent. The temple seemed to inspire serenity.
On the exterior walls of the temple there were various plaques with information or inspirational messages and quotes. Then there was this beautiful arcade along the side of the welcome center. We were struck by the beauty of this place.
Returning to the Welcome Center
Once back inside the welcome center there is a vegetarian café. It is a grab-and-go setup, not really a cafeteria or waitered experience. There is also a gift shop and we were pleasantly surprised by the very reasonable prices. And there was a small grocery store where we bought a few snacks. The staff was very accommodating and friendly throughout the visit. In short, we recommend this place if you are looking for a unique experience.
We visited in February, which meant the campus was dormant and the fountains were off. The grounds are apparently much more lush and inviting in the warmer months. It's on my list to return on my own during the summer or early fall to see it in a different light.
Planning Your Visit
The Mandir is located at 112 North Main Street, Robbinsville Township, NJ. It is open every day except Tuesday from 9AM to 7:30PM. A daily Arti (AHR-tee) ceremony, a ritual of lights offered in honor of Swaminarayan, takes place at 11:30AM. A few things to know before you go: dress modestly, covering your shoulders, knees, and everything in between. You will remove your footwear at the temple entrance, so wear shoes that slip on and off easily. Photography is not permitted inside the temple. Audio guides are available and we strongly recommend them. Check the BAPS website before your visit for any updates to hours or special events.
Have you visited this inspiring place? Leave us a comment to let us know if you plan to visit or what you remember most from your own experience.