BAPS Hindu Temple Exploration

On this outing, we'll explore and photograph the architectural and cultural elements of the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham. Located in Robbinsville, NJ it is the largest Hindu temple in the U.S.

Akshardham includes design elements from ancient Indian culture including 10,000 statues and statuettes, carvings of ancient Indian musical instruments and dance forms and it houses the largest elliptical dome of traditional stone architecture ever constructed. The Brahma Kund, a traditional Indian stepwell, contains water from over 300 bodies of water from around the world, including the holy rivers of India and all 50 US states.

The unique Hindu temple design includes:

• 1 main shrine
• 12 sub-shrines
• 9 shikhars (spire-like structure)
• 9 pyramidal shikhars

After exploring the facility, those that wish, can stay for lunch at the onsite Shayona Cafe. With an open courtyard and its all-vegetarian cuisine, the fast food style Café is the perfect way to experience some traditional and authentic tastes of India.

Please note that a strict dress code operates within the complex. Specifically, tops must cover the shoulders, back, chest, navel, and upper arms. Leg-wear must be at least below knee-length. All footwear must be removed before entering any of the Mandir buildings. Shoe racks are provided within the complex.

Photos are allowed throughout the campus except in areas of worship such as the Akshardham and Mandir. The use of tripods or Drones is strictly prohibited.

Steady rain cancels event. Update will be posted in Meetup by 7:00 am the day of the event.

If you sign up for this event and your plans change, Please remember to update your RSVP in Meetup.