BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
460 Rockbridge Rd. NW, Lilburn GA

BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha is the religious organization responsible for the incredibly elaborate marble and sandstone temple.  It is currently under construction.  But, it is also already open for visitors, prayer services, special occasions, and events.

While it is quite a distance from the city of Atlanta, it is well worth wandering outside the city to see this beautifully elaborate structure.  Aproximately 1,500 craftsman were involved in the building, construction and carvings.  34,000 carved pieces can be found on and around the temple and over 11,000 tons of sandstone, limestone and marble make up the facade and interior pillars.  The prayer room is open to visitors from 9:00am-6:00pm and there are 5 prayer times throughout the day.  Everyone is welcome to visit and attend prayer.  The payer room is an awesome display of craftsmanship.  White lights highlight the carvings and pillars.  A gentle blue glow greets you as you enter the serene room.  Ornate wooden doors enclose the deities between prayers. If you visit between noon and 4:00pm the wooden doors will be closed.  So, if you wish to see the deities you must visit for one of the prayer times 9am-noon or 4pm-6pm.  Friendly volunteers offer information to guide you through your visit.

And, while you are there, be sure to check out the giftshop.  It has a generous array of books, incense and baked goods.  The assortment of baked goods range from sweet to savory to spicy.  We tried the crispy chickpea chips with masala spices(Papdi Gathia Masala).  At the same time crisp and light, almost melting in your mouth as your teeth crunch into them.  I’ve never tasted anything more unique or delightful.