Thurs/Fri, April 18-19, 2024 – A TRULY SPECTACULAR TEMPLE NEARBY

By admin

APRIL 18-19, 2024

 

The Second Largest

Hindu Temple

In The World Is Just

1.5 Hours From NYC

ISSUE # 1223

 JUSTINE GOLATA – SENIOR STAFF WRITER 

SECRET NEW YORK

Transport yourself to India at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Robinsville, NJ, the largest Hindu temple outside of Asia, exemplifying impeccable Indian design and architecture.

Did you know a mesmerizing 185-acre portal to India is just over an hour drive from NYC? BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Robinsville, NJ officially opened in 2023, after more than a decade of construction. The magnificent temple cost $96 million and took over 12,500 volunteers and 4.7 million man hours to build.

“Mandirs,” which translates to places for a still mind and inner peace in Sanskrit, are Hindu temples that were created to sustain the spiritual faith of India’s sages. The establishment of the Mandir in New Jersey intends to provide a sanctuary for arts, language, music, and spiritual learning, in addition to providing insight to onlookers of Indian heritage and culture. All visitors are welcome on the campus.

What is the history of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir?

From the looks of the massive temple, it’s not difficult to imagine the construction was quite a complex project. The stone marble was actually extracted in Europe before being shipped to artists in India. Once the stone carvings were complete, the pieces were mock assembled before being disassembled and sent to America. The temple’s stones traveled a total distance of 21,500 miles from extraction to final destination.

What can you do while visiting BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir?

The entire campus is protected by a 55-foot-tall Mandap for preservation and allows the Mandir to operate year-round. Guests will first notice the massive Mayur Dwar (main gate) embellished with 236 carved peacocks. Visitors are welcome to roam freely. However, audio guides and personal tour guides are available upon inquiry.

It’s recommended to catch a midday arti ceremony while on campus. The ancient Hindu offering takes places daily at 11:15 am. Tourists can partake in the Hindu ritual abhishek near the Mandir entrance, which entails pouring water over the murti (devotional images of Deities and gurus) as an offering and prayer.

What is the dress code for visiting BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir?

It’s important to note the dress code prior to your visit. Shoulders, back, chest, naval and upper arms must be covered. Bottoms must be below knee-length. Shoes must be removed when entering the Mandir buildings.

Can you take photos while at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir?

Photos and videography are permitted only on the ground level outside the Mandir and Haveli. Videos and photos are not allowed inside any buildings.

What are hours of operation?

Campus hours are from 9:00 am – 7:30 pm daily (except Tuesdays). No advanced booking is necessary for families or individuals visiting the Mandir.

Where is BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir New Jersey?

 112 N Main Street, Robbinsville, NJ

For more information, check out the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir website.

PHOTO OF THE DAY

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