The Largest Hindu Temple In The Western World Just Opened In New Jersey

One of the world's largest Hindu temples and the largest in the Western Hemisphere, the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham is a sight to behold. After more than a decade of construction, the architectural marvel has been completed, but not without its share of controversy. Located in Robbinsville, New Jersey, not far from Princeton, the temple spans more than 100 acres.

It took more than four million hours for 12,500 volunteers to build the temple complex.

Volunteers, including skilled artisans, hand-carved more than two million cubic feet of stone. There have been accusations of labor violations, though the lawsuit has since been withdrawn.

The stone in the complex includes four distinct types of marble from Italy, along with limestone from Bulgaria.

Only the finest materials were used to create the Akshardham, or "abode of the divine."

The interior and exterior of this impressive structure feature intricate carvings of various deities, sacred symbols, and meaningful locations.

Every diorama serves as both an act of devotion and a portal to a different time and place. Visitors are immersed in history and culture from the minute they arrive.

Guests from all cultures and religions are welcome to explore this incredible space.

Religious leaders from around the globe and United Nations delegations have already visited. Visiting hours for the general public are 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily, except for Tuesdays.

Both group and family tours are available.

Guided and audio tours are options, and you can contact the temple for more information. Visitors are even welcome to attend certain ceremonies for a fuller understanding of the temple. The complex is wheelchair-accessible, and wheelchairs are made available to guests.

It is important to remember that this is a sacred space.

Guests should be respectful at all times and should be sure to follow all rules, including a modest dress code. Shoes must also be removed when entering the temple.

A blend of art, architecture, and spirituality, the complex offers more than a worship space.

There is a gift shop and full-service vegetarian restaurant in the complex.

There is no temple like this in North America, and it is one of a handful at this scale in the world.

If you live in the New Jersey area, this is right in your backyard, but it's worth traveling to from anywhere in the country! For more information, visit the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir website.