World's Largest Hindu Temple Outside India Opens in New Jersey, USA

Oct 09, 2023, 09:58 IST

Riya Teotia

World's Largest Modern-Era Hindu Temple

New Jersey is now home to world's largest Hindu temple outside of India. The temple is known as BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham.

BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham

The Akshardham's design is deeply rooted in ancient Hindu scriptures and features elements from India's rich cultural heritage.

Inauguration of the Temple

The inauguration for the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, guided by BAPS spiritual leader Mahant Swami Maharaj, took place on Oct 8, with doors opening to visitors on Oct 18.

How Grand is the Temple?

The temple spans an impressive 255 feet in length, 345 feet in width, and 191 feet in height, covering an expansive 183 acres.

Location of the Temple

This monumental temple is situated approximately 60 miles (90 kilometres) south of Times Square in New York or around 180 miles (289 kilometres) north of Washington, DC, in the US.

Unique Feature at Temple Compound

Within its premises, there is a Brahma Kund, a traditional Indian stepwell filled with water sourced from more than 300 bodies of water worldwide, including the sacred rivers of India and all 50 states of the US.

Construction of the Temple

The construction of Akshardham has been a collective effort, with volunteers from across the United States receiving guidance from skilled artisans in India.

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