BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Temple

Such a beautiful temple, I was surprised to see this in the middle of Liburn. It’s free to get in and the people there are very helpful and friendly. We took the audio tour and I recommend that, had to go into the gift shop to get the headset. It was only five dollars but shares a lot of history I didn’t know .
You may take photo below the stairs outside but not inside. And don’t touch the sculptures. It’s very pretty inside, a great place to take out of town visitors if they are up for a visit to Asia for a day ! The restaurant there is close on Mondays.

Came to Geaorgia last week for business meeting, my boyfriend and I came here to visit, it’s unfortunate that they don’t allow us to take a picture inside, it’s nice and peaceful and very beautiful. Get the audio guide tour for $ 5 and so much worth it!

well worth a visit.

I visited BAPS this weekend. loved it.
you can check my short post here

This amazing Swaminarayan (BAPS) temple, just 5 minutes from my home, is the most beautiful place I’ve ever seen. And if you thought the outside was majestic, the inside is even more beautiful and mesmerizing. Turkish limestone, Italian marble, and Indian pink sandstone adorn this beautiful temple complex. Every inch of this majestic temple has a story to tell. There are designed visitor hours and the people who work here are very welcoming. This was my second visit and it was as breathtaking as the first.

What a very short review I wrote back in 2011 that I had to update it with a better one now. I recently got to visit the gorgeous, elegant Hindu temple again. It’s that wonderful not to show visitors, especially those into Bollywood. We wanted to wear sarees, start striking a pose, and take pictures.
I’ve been going since it first opened in 2007. I got to see just land in Lilburn behind Walgreens, across the street from Publix turn it into one of the most gorgeous temples ever. Many volunteers made this possible.
A lot of people do not realize that you do *not* have to be Indian or even Hindu to enter. Just visit, with an open heart and mind. Yes, it’s gated but the guard will just ask for your name and let you through. Simple as that. You would think something so gorgeous, you would have to pay a fee. Every now and then, when the temple host a 5k, they will ask for a donation but you don’t have to give but I donate during that time.
Another thing, during Diwali (Hindu New Years), there’s a huge Diwali festival with fireworks. It’s jam packed with police officers directing traffic. Many visitors will park as far as Bryson Park to catch the charter bus to attend this festival. If you haven’t passed the temple at night, you will miss all the different colors that flashes, you’ll see the temple turn red to blue to purple to yellow, you name it. Just so gorgeous. Makes me want a DSLR just to capture these moments. My regular digi and phone don’t do justice.
You can go inside the Mandir! Yes, there’s more to the exterior beauty, you see the inner beauty. Before going in, you must take off your shoes. There are slotted shelves for you to store away your shoes. There’s even a sink to wash your hands. In the summertime, if you’re dress in skimpy outfits (really short shorts, cleavage, lots of skin), you will be asked to cover up. No worries, a blanket or cloth will be provided. Yes, I was one of those :/​
Do visit when sacred shrines are open! You get to see what really goes on, When you don’t, the shrines are closed and locked. You won’t see the prayers, especially with some of the men doing a certain prayer bow (looks almost like a form of exercise). There are donation boxes at each of the shrines if you want to donate. I’ve donated a few times to Rama & Shiva (popular & famous couple of Hinduism), Ganesh (elephant god), & Hanuman (monkey god), only cause I’ve seen them in Bollywood movies. Don’t judge.
The only downfall is that you cannot take pictures inside the temple. There is a point where you cannot step beyond to take pictures too. Even though I sadly wish I could, I respect and understand.
There’s a gift shop where you can visit. Indian snacks are also available for sale. If you are really hungry, go across the temple, still in the gated area, to Baps Shayona to grab some appetizers. I love their samosas and pistachio ice cream.
Another tidbit I learn about the temple is that it’s Gujarati. If you’re not into the Indian culture like I am, it probably doesn’t mean anything to you but to me, it did. There are also classes to learn how to speak and write Gujarati.
Yeh Mere India. I love this place. I feel so serene when I come here and always take visitors and never have anyone been disappointed.

Whaaaaa? This is randomly hidden in plain sight in the suburbs of Atlanta??? I never would have expected this in a million years, but I’m so glad that wise Unilocalers directed me here. I *adored* this place, from the reflecting pool out front filled with giant lotus flower decorations for Diwali to the incredibly breath-​taking interior. Plus, it’s free. I was disappointed that I couldn’t take any photos inside, but what a powerful place in which to reflect. Visitors were coming in to offer prayers, to celebrate, to sit on the floor and meditate, and to walk around and marvel at the beauty. I wish there were more of these around.

This place is beyond Beautiful! The detail of the craftsmanship is absolutely stunning, everything is handmade which makes it so much more interesting. I’ve been here a few times and I always forget to cover up :/​thank goodness I always have a sweater in my car. Everyone there is very nice and sweet and helpful especially on learning about the temple. Everytime I go I can feel a calmness come over me which makes me want to keep going. First time going to the Diwali festival this past weekend and from here on out I’m not going to miss another year, took my kids and they really enjoyed it.

Back in 2006 – 2007, I happened to pass by this place a few times when I was driving around the city of Lilburn. I would glance at it as I was driving whenever I would drive and go past it. I have always wondered what it was, because it just looked so lovely from my point of view.
This place is located on Rock Bridge Road in Lilburn, Georgia behind of a beautiful gate and well seen sign. They are also located next too a strip mall as well. Also, the parking space is pretty large in size. So, that just means that they do have ample parking for all those who come and visit there.
This place is truly amazing! I absolutely enjoyed it and loved it. When I came here with my family, we approached the gate and gave the guy working the gate our names. We asked if it was okay to visit and he politely replied «yes». As Christin K. has said «pictures cannot do this temple justice». She is absolutely right.
It is much more better, much more impressive, and much more gorgeous in person than it is in photographs. The outside is just absolutely remarkably gorgeous and serene. I also enjoyed the bronze elephants with squirting water coming out of their own trunks. Also, the pool out in the front is beautiful as well.
Upon entering they have beautiful landscaping in the front with beautiful shrubbery (greenery). When I went inside of the temple, I was requested to take off my shoes as part of their religious regulations and policy. From what I have read and heard, all of the completely intricate artistic details took years and years to do, carve, and to complete by hand.
If that is not impressive, I don’t know what is. Upon going inside, you are required to take off your shoes and place them on these wooden shelves before proceeding to go further inside. I believe that there was a service going on when and while I proceeded to go further inside. Also, the landscaping on the temple is also very beautiful as well.
I truly admired and enjoyed viewing all of the hand sculpted and hand carved intricate detailed artwork both on the outside and on the inside. The inside of the temple had all marble floors, steps, and walls. I felt as if I was in an Indian Hindu temple in India. I simply do love and enjoy this place a lot.
They will not allow photos to be taken inside and before actually setting foot and stepping onto the actual temple itself. Also, they have a wonderful little gift shop there, where items (food, drinks, gifts, and souvenirs) can be purchased. Also, the on the right side, just before leaving is their own Indian restaurant. I have never eaten there at all, so I don’t know what the food is like over there at all.
Overall, I simply enjoyed sightseeing this place. The beauty and this whole place itself is absolutely breathtaking. I enjoyed and loved every single moment that I was there. I will most definitely be coming back here to visit this place again. I also highly recommend coming here, if you have not already been here and seen this beautiful temple for yourself at all.

My daughter had taken a comparative religion class, and advised me to visit the Temple. Four years later, I took her advice, and as every other reviewer exclaims … «wow!»
A few tips to maximize your visit:
– Arrive early enough to experience the short, 11:15 a.m. service. Note that men and women sit separately, directly on the marble floor. (I noticed that several parishioners brought cushions.) If you can, leave a small donation.
–If you’re a first-​time visitor, your initial stop should be the gift shop, to rent the $ 5 recorded tour. (Someone in your party will be asked to leave their driver’s license at the desk.) The tour is automated; there are sensors by each of the stops.
–When you enter the Mandir, you will have to remove your shoes. There are slotted shelves for storage. Remember: no photography or recording devices inside! Oh… and modest attire, please. No shorts or tank tops.
– For those with physical limitations, there are steps to climb. (You may want to call first to see if there is an elevator, of which I didn’t take note.)
– Poke around the gift shop when you return the tour equipment. You’ll find books, Interesting herbs, soaps, food and art, all well-​priced. The incense that my daughter bought 4 years ago is still pungent. (A woman told me that she regularly drives here from Raleigh NC to purchase herbal supplements — which I actually ended up buying, too!)
– Before leaving, take a few minutes to sit quietly and reflect, at the meditation pool.
You’ll find that volunteers throughout the Temple are friendly, and encourage questions. Hindu culture embraces diversity. Regardless of your belief system, you will feel welcome.

WOW! What an amazing building worthy of a visit no matter what your race, religion or creed.
THE SCENE
My wife and I happened to be having dinner nearby when we decided to pay a visit to this temple. Although I’ve known of this place for years, I just never took the time. Actually, I didn’t know you were allowed to just come and look around, so I was relieved when the guard said «No problem» and only asked my first name before allowing us to enter.
Aside from the jaw dropping detail of the Temple construction, there’s also a peaceful pond I’m told is meant for personal reflection & meditation after your visit. The series of elephants spouting water from their raised trunks was elegant and beautiful. I honestly found myself lost in thought for a moment.
A volunteer helped guide us to the entrance where we took our shoes off, silenced our phones and walked quietly and respectfully up the wonderfully crafted marble staircase. No pictures are allowed inside, which is a real shame because I would love to show off the stunning detail of the interior architecture. However, I did find this photo of the Mandir (temple) online:

I’ve never seen anything like it up close and with the pale blue accent lighting it feels like you are inside an ice sculpted castle. The level of detail is jaw dropping.
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THE EXPERIENCE
Although we did not purchase the available audio tour or take part in the free group tour, another temple volunteer told me all about the thousands of tons of interlocking stones used in its construction. All were hand crafted in India & shipped here for assembly by over 900 volunteers. No metal support was used in the design. Even the ceiling (which is truly a thing of wonder) is all interlocking stone like a 3D puzzle. One section of the ceiling has 42 pieces with a drop down centerpiece that weighs about 6 tons (second heaviest element in the room). The centerpiece is twisted into place which pushes the other 42 pieces firmly against the support walls as it turns, locking them in place and creating virtually a suspended floating structure. There are a total of 86 decorative ceilings, each different from the next. You’ll have to see it for yourself to believe it. I couldn’t stop looking up! The heaviest piece is the central chandelier (keystone) @ 8 tons.
I’m a little afraid to describe all the different venues inside the temple because I am not versed enough to know exactly what each meant, but I do know several of them were sculptures of the different incarnations of God as believed by the Hindu religion. Many people were here to worship and pray, so silence is a must. We were careful to be respectful observers as families walked from section to section during their time of devotion.
NOTES: Moderate attire is required. All clothing must cover shoulders and knees (wraps provided). No food, drinks, smoking or gum chewing is allowed inside the complex.
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I normally end my reviews with a VERDICT, but today I have none. I will simply say this is a wonderful place to visit. They have service every day at 11:15 am and we would like to return just to observe and expand our understanding of this ancient belief. I’m Christian through and through and always will be, but there is an undeniable unity amongst the Hindu believers that fascinates me. There is also a gentleness and peace that draws both my admiration and respect. They embrace humanitarian services, community, family, education and health in ways that we all should.
Oh how I wish we all would strive to better understand and get along with one another, embracing the good in each of our cultures and beliefs while focusing less on the differences.

Gorgeous. Peaceful. Always serene when I come here. I wish it wasn’t a tourist destination however. Other than that, love this place. It’s pure bliss.

Yes, pictures can’t do any justice to this place. This place is more beautiful than in pictures and really wonderful inside and out. They won’t allow to take pictures inside, but anyone can go inside the temple and attend their services. If you are a new comer then it’s really blow your mind.

Pictures cannot do this temple justice. After snapping a few pictures, I decided to just soak it all in. You may have seen it from the corner of Rockbridge and Lawrenceville hwy, across from Publix and behind walgreen’s. I always wondered what this fantastic place was.
They are open for visitors from 9 to 6 every day. At the gate, they will ask for your name and let you right through. The parking is pretty big, so you shouldn’t have any trouble with that. The first time i visited it was during the week and it was super empty. The 2^nd time was during their conference and there was no more on site parking and you had to park at a park (he he) and catch a shuttle here. The exterior is amazing. the landscaping and gardening is meticulous and beautiful. We were directed to the entrance, where you take of your shoes. There is a small platter of fruit there but it looks like it’s been sitting there for a while. Also, if you are wearing shorts or a sleeveless shirt there are shawls and cover ups for you to wear for modesty’s sake. (yes, even if you are a guy wearing shorts is not acceptable).
I walked upstairs and admired all the hand-​carved work. It is really amazing and beautiful. It was like I was transported to another world. I would definitely recommend a visit no matter what your religious background. It’s pretty enlightening to experience, grateful to have it in the area. (plus it’s free)

A mandir is a Hindu place of worship, which also serves as a center for community social, educational, cultural and religious activities. This beautiful temple in Lilburn is a great place to escape the pressures of daily life and take some time to relax and reflect.
Entering the complex by car, check in with a security guard and leave your name. There’s plenty of parking in front of the impressive structure made from Turkish limestone, Italian marble and Indian pink sandstone. According to their site, over 34,000 individual pieces were hand carved in India and shipped to the US!
There is an audio guide available for $ 5 in the Gift and Book Shop, but informational signs are also there to explain the details of some of the carvings. Ornately carved wooden doors protect the inner sacred shrines. Those inner doors are open only 9:00 am — 10:30 am; 11:15 am — 12:00 pm; 4:00 pm — 6:00 pm.
Outside, on the ground level in front of the temple is a large reflecting pool, filled by a row of spouting elephants. Colorful flower plantings and marble benches line the opposite side of the pool.
There are many special events and ceremonies, in addition to weekly music classes and language/​culture classes for kids. Check the website for details. Note: Since this is a place of worship, when visiting, clothing must cover shoulders and knees. If you need one, wraps are provided. Also on the grounds is a vegetarian restaurant and sweets shop, BAPS Shayona. They have a small menu of snacks and light meals.

The Atlanta area is so fortunate to have such a beautiful temple in it’s residence. BAPS is a multi complex enclosed by golden gates on all sides, and it is free to enter. However, there are many signs of donation plans inside the temple. If you come at the location from a different direction, just drive around until you see an open gate with a security check-​point at the front. Well, it is not so much security, just where they keep a log of cars that enter and the names of the drivers.
Visitors are only allowed to photograph the the outside of the buildings up to certain points. So anyone that has taken photos of the inside has rudely snuck a camera inside of a religious building where prayer is going on.
Before entering the main hall, you are asked to remove your shoes and to maintain silence. When you are silent, you are able to hear some of the various ceremonies going on within the temple and behind gates.
The main attraction in the upper hall are the pillars and ceilings of carved marble that are emphasized with LED lighting. Also, the exterior of the buildings is a modern wonder, as well as the fountains and garden. We arrived as soon as they opened on a very cold day, so we were the only people there— which was peaceful. But, I can image how crowded BAPS usually gets.
I am just a tourist, able to enjoy what Atlanta has to offer. But, if you live here, there is no excuse for not visiting at least once.

My friend and I are from out of state, but were in town last weekend for a soccer tournament that was just down the street from this temple. As we drove back and forth between our hotel and soccer fields, we kept passing this incredible vision that rose like a mirage from the midst of its bleak and drab surroundings. I had to find out just what it was! So, of course I headed straight to Unilocal for guidance, right? My fellow Unilocalers did me a great service once again (they rarely fail me), by steering me towards the temple for a free tour.
It was breathtaking. It’s still hard to believe such a unique, elaborate, beautiful, and huge «building» and grounds exist right in this little suburb of Atlanta. All I can say is if you are nearby, go see this temple for yourself. Really. No, I mean really really.

A must see if you live in Atlanta or coming to visit !
Have visited four times now by myself and with a couple of family members this last visit showed it to a friend when we were driving around one day. He has been in over a hundred temples in China but has never seen anything quite like this.
A large fountain is in front with a gift shop, climb a few stairs and enter the building on the left. Shoes must come off go upstairs and plan on being surprised. Every ceiling (tile) is completely different, all columns are floor to ceiling and the detail is impressive, breathtaking really. Made of marble and is hand carved top to bottom.
I was told this is a copy of a temple that was built 2,000 yrs. ago.
No Cameras are allowed inside and stay as long as you like.

In my lifetime, I’ve been to several architectural wonders of the world: Pyramid of the Sun and Moon at Teotihuacan, Todaiji in Nara, the Mayan Pyramids – Chitzen Itza and Coba, and other smaller temples in Korea and Japan. I can say that the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Temple in Lilburn, Ga can match up to these ancient wonders.
Of course, this temple is not ancient like the ones I saw. It did have tons of help from modern technology. But you can’t ignore its vastness and extravagance. It is an awesome sight. And you don’t have to go to any of the ancient cities to see it. You can see it in Lilburn, Ga. In fact, it’s probably the largest Hindu Temple outside of India.
Skilled craftsmen in India hand carved all the intricate designs into the marble rocks. Then they were flown back here to be installed. When you look at the designs in the temple you can see the technical details for every little carving. So even with Hindu Temples, they outsource to India to do the design.
They have group tours and individual tours. If you’re Hindu, it’s a legit place of worship. If you’re not Hindu, just come and check out the modern marvel right here in the suburbs of Atlanta.
Our tour started out with a boring video. Then the tour guide led us around to various sections of the temple. Our tour guide was helpful and friendly. He explained a lot of details about the temple. I enjoyed the tour.

I am non-​Indian and highly recommend that people from all backgrounds should come and check out this beautiful place in Lilburn. Carved marble and beautiful grounds. People are very welcoming and they let you come inside to view the temple.