New Jersey proudly hosts the world's second-largest Hindu temple, the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, a marvel of intricate design and profound spiritual depth. This sanctuary, which opened its doors in October 2023 after years of dedicated effort by thousands of volunteers, stands as a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and devotion. Its stunning facade and elaborate marble carvings transport visitors to the Indian subcontinent, offering a unique blend of architectural grandeur and inner peace.
New Jersey Unveils Global Spiritual Landmark: The BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple
In a significant cultural and spiritual development, the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham temple, the world's second-largest Hindu place of worship, officially opened its doors to the public on October 18, 2023, following its inauguration on October 8. Located near Robbinsville, New Jersey, this monumental structure fulfills the long-held aspiration of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the fifth spiritual leader of the BAPS tradition, who envisioned a spiritual haven in the United States as early as the 1970s. Maharaj passed away seven years prior to the temple's completion.
The construction of this architectural masterpiece was a colossal undertaking, involving over 12,500 volunteers from around the globe who collectively dedicated 4.7 million hours to the project. The meticulous process included quarrying marble in Europe, shipping it to India for intricate chiseling and engraving, and then assembling it temporarily in India to ensure perfect alignment. Subsequently, the dismantled pieces were transported to the U.S. and reassembled to form the magnificent temple.
The BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham campus, sprawling across 183 acres, welcomes visitors through the Nilkanth Plaza, where a striking 49-foot-tall bronze statue of Nilkanth Varni in a tree pose symbolizes mental and physical tranquility. Behind the statue lies the expansive Brahm Kund pond, uniquely filled with river water from all 50 U.S. states, representing India's sacred rivers and lakes. The Welcome Center, adorned with exquisite 17th-century Indian art, leads to the heart of the complex: the mandir.
This spiritual and structural feat measures 133 feet in length, 87 feet in width, and 42 feet in height. Constructed from granite, limestone, marble, and white sandstone, the mandir exhibits the traditional Nagara style, a design dating back to the 5th century. It features 98 pillars, or stambhas, each intricately carved with depictions of devotees and followers of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, alongside messages of his foundational principles. The mandap, a 135-foot-wide pillared hall, boasts a main gate lavishly decorated with carvings of elephants, peacocks, devotees, and spiritual figures. The temple complex is further embellished with 40 spires, 34 grills, 66 peacock-style arches, 58 ornamental ceilings, 10 domes of varying sizes, 144 sacred Hindu figures, and 44 portrayals of Ganesh Murtis worshipping Ganesha, the Hindu god of beginnings. In total, the mandir comprises 13,499 hand-sculpted stone pieces.
Visitors planning to experience this marvel should note that the campus is open six days a week (closed on Tuesdays) from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Weekday tours require advance booking, while weekend and national holiday tours are not offered. A recommended tour duration of two and a half hours allows ample time to appreciate the temple's grandeur. As with many religious sites, a modest dress code is enforced: shoulders, knees, and chest must be covered, and low-cut, sleeveless, or backless tops are prohibited. Clothing with vulgar language or profane imagery is also not permitted. Only service dogs are allowed on the premises. Outside food and beverages are not permitted; however, the on-site vegetarian Shayona Café provides refreshment options. Smoking, vaping, alcohol consumption, commercial filming, and drone usage are strictly prohibited. Footwear must be removed before entering the mandir. A visit to the Akshardham Store offers an opportunity to purchase souvenirs, books, and organic health products.
The establishment of the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Jersey offers a unique opportunity for people of all backgrounds to immerse themselves in a rich spiritual and cultural experience. Its presence not only enriches the local community but also serves as a bridge between diverse cultures, fostering understanding and appreciation for Hindu traditions. The temple stands as a beacon of peace and architectural brilliance, demonstrating that profound grandeur and spiritual sanctity can be found closer to home than one might imagine.