BAPS Swaminarayan Temple
The oasis of spirituality in Abu Dhabi welcomes people from all over the world to immerse themselves in holiness and global harmony. As a result, visit BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, a Hindu stone temple in Abu Dhabi, and experience the typical Indian temple vibes. Besides, this temple is undoubtedly the largest Hindu stone temple outside of India. Indian Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi, also marked his presence at the inauguration ceremony of the Shree Swaminarayan Temple. Moreover, this temple is the first of its kind in West Asia. The BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Abu Dhabi welcomes people of all religions, backgrounds, and ethnicities.
What To Expect At BAPS Swaminarayan Temple, Abu Dhabi ?
The BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Temple is a Hindu place of worship in Abu Dhabi. It consists of marble and sandstone shrines. Additionally, it has an amphitheatre, an exhibition hall, a library and book shop, a food court, a majlis, a sports centre, classrooms, gardens, and two community centres with a capacity to accommodate 5000 people. Moreover, it has 7 shrines in respect of the 7 emirates of the United Arab Emirates.
The seven shrines of the temple have idols of the famous deities in India. Namely, these 7 idols are present in the temple:
- Akshar & Purushottam
- Radha and Krishna
- Ram, Sita, and Hanuman
- Shiv, Parvati, Kartikeya and Ganesh
- Jagannathji, Subhadra and Baldevji
- Tirupati Balaji and Padmavati
- Ayyappa Swami.
Highlights Of The Temple
- As per the Hindu tradition of building temples, this temple is also built without using steel or iron in its construction.
- The green foundation of the building has 50% fly ash, earthen bricks and stones to promote sustainability and eco-friendly aspects.
- Over a thousand carvings of the deities tell their stories in the exterior bracket of the temple.
- The steps of the temple depict lessons from other cultures of the world.
- The pink sandstone is imported right from Rajasthan in India for the construction of the temple.
- Additionally, Ganga Aarti is performed every day at 7:30 PM on weekdays, and on weekends and holidays, it is performed at 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM.
Know Before You Go
Here is the brief of important information that you should know before you travel to the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple.
Timings
The temple is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and on Mondays it is closed. On special occasions, the opening and closing hours might differ, so check them before you go. Ganga Aarti takes place at 7:30 PM on weekdays (Tuesday to Friday), and at 6:45 PM & 7:30 PM on weekends and public holidays
What To Bring?
- You must carry a valid identity proof, such as an Emirates ID or a passport.
- Dress modestly and respectfully, and avoid tight, transparent, and offensive clothes.
- Pre-booked entry pass with QR code to visit BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha.
What Not To Bring?
- Do not carry large bags and luggage
- Outside food and drinks are not allowed
- Tobacco, paan, cigarettes, e‑cigarettes/vapes
- Do not bring your pets or animals along with you
- Sharp objects, weapons, and lighters are not allowed
- Do not carry large filming gear without permission
- Chargers & battery packs
- Remote‑controlled devices, including drones
- Musical instruments & amplifiers
- Food items/drinks (including water)
- Bottles, cans, thermal containers & beverages
- Explosives, fireworks, flares & laser lights
- Flags with handles exceeding 1 m
- Flammable liquids, fuel & gas & pressurised containers
- Umbrellas are not permitted inside
- Portable chairs or any kind of personal seating are not allowed
Facilities
- Free entry with registration.
- A separate shoe storage area.
- There are restrooms for the tourists.
- A food court with vegetarian meals is available.
- A garden, a sitting area, and reflection zones where you can relax.
Accessibilities
- The place is fully wheelchair accessible.
- Priority access to people with support needs.
- There are child-friendly zones within the complex, but they must be accompanied by an adult.
- BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha features clean walking paths, shaded areas, and plenty of seating to make it comfortable for you.
Rules You Should Follow
- Visitors must pre-register; anyone without a confirmed reservation will not be permitted inside BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha.
- In addition to the QR code or access pass for verification, you must have a legitimate photo ID that corresponds to your registration.
- There is a rigorous dress code that requires modest clothing that covers the knees, arms, and shoulders and is neither too tight nor too revealing.
- Before entering the inner sanctum and prayer rooms of the temple, all guests must take off their shoes.
- At the entry, security checks are carried out, which include going through x-ray machines and metal detectors.
- To preserve a tranquil spiritual atmosphere, silence and deference are expected within the temple.
- To maintain the complex’s safety, dignity, and efficient functioning, visitors are expected to abide by all staff directions at all times.
- It is completely forbidden to smoke, use alcohol, or engage in any noisy or disruptive conduct on the property.
Nearby Attractions
Abu Dhabi is a magnificent city with numerous attractions that you won’t want to miss when visiting for the BAPS Swaminarayan temple. Also, visit these popular places in Abu Dhabi:
- Qasr Al Watan Abu Dhabi Tickets
- Al Qana National Aquarium, Abu Dhabi
- Abu Dhabi Snow Park
- Yas Water World
- Abu Dhabi Ferrari World
- Al Ain Oasis
- Abu Dhabi Sea World
Tips for Visitors
- Before you enter the temple’s inner sanctum, take off your shoes and utilise the authorised shoe storage place.
- Keep in mind that outside food and drinks are prohibited, but drink plenty of water while you’re inside the property.
- It is strictly forbidden to take pictures inside temple shrines and is only allowed outside.
- Try to go during the week if you want a more sedate experience because weekends and holidays are usually packed.
- It is preferable to arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and heat if you are travelling with little children or older people.
- Moreover, you can spend some time exploring the complex’s intricate carvings, gardens, and symbolic waterways.
Best Time To Visit BAPS Swaminarayan Temple
Best Months: October to March.
These months offer cooler temperatures, making it much more comfortable to explore the temple grounds, gardens, and outdoor areas.
Daily Timing Recommendations
Morning
Opening Hours: The temple opens at 9:00 AM.
Early visits offer a peaceful atmosphere, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds, especially in the prayer areas.
Afternoon
Peak Hours: Around noon to 3:00 PM.
This is when most families and tour groups arrive, so crowds may increase, especially on weekends and holidays.
Evening
Closing Hours: The temple closes at 8:00 PM (closed on Mondays).
Evenings are cooler and more serene, and you may also witness the Ganga Aarti, which is a beautiful spiritual experience.
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